EmpowerU Podcast Episode Summary Title: Standing Still Is The Same As Moving Backwards... Featuring Jon DeClerck
Release Date: December 13, 2024
Hosts: Weston Hendrix, Augustus Sexton, Quinn Hartley
Guest: Jon DeClerck

Guest Background and Journey

Jon DeClerck joins the EmpowerU podcast as a distinguished guest, bringing a wealth of experience in the livestock industry. Based in College Station, Texas, Jon serves as a technical consultant for Purina Animal Nutrition, providing technical solutions across New Mexico, Texas, and Louisiana.

Key Points:

• Jon's early involvement in cattle showing sparked his passion for livestock judging.
• His academic journey includes studying at Blackhawk East Junior College, Texas A&M, and completing his Ph.D. at Texas Tech.
• Jon has a notable history of coaching successful national champion teams and teaching at Iowa State and Texas Tech before joining Purina.

Notable Quote:

"I want to make a big impact on the livestock industry." — Jon DeClerck [65:27]

Choosing Ruminant Nutrition

Jon discusses his decision to pursue a Ph.D. in ruminant nutrition, influenced heavily by mentors like Dr. Skaggs and Dr. Ryan Rathman. This field offered more industry opportunities compared to genetics, aligning with his goal to influence cattle production and youth development.

Key Points:

• Jon emphasizes the importance of mentorship in shaping his career path.
• The transition from genetics to nutrition was strategic, based on industry needs and future prospects.

Notable Quote:

"After you get into the judging and show cattle, it's a tremendous vehicle for student development." — Jon DeClerck [04:30]

Changes in the Feed Industry

Jon highlights significant transformations in the feed industry, particularly the impact of the biodiesel sector on fat sources, leading to increased costs and shifts towards soybean meal.

Key Points:

• Biodiesel Demand: High demand for fat sources due to biodiesel production has driven up prices.
• Crop Shifts: A projected loss of 30 million acres of corn in the next decade, shifting focus to soybeans as electric engines reduce ethanol needs.
• Regulatory Changes: The Veterinary Feed Directive has restricted the use of antibiotics and certain implants, necessitating alternative feeding strategies like probiotics and prebiotics.

Notable Quote:

"We're trying to figure out here moving forward because biodiesel looks like it's going to be so popular." — Jon DeClerck [08:44]

Trends in Cattle Carcass Weights

Jon explains the rising average slaughter weights from 1,100 pounds in 1990 to approximately 1,440 pounds today. Factors include sustainability challenges, urban sprawl reducing pasture land, and droughts leading to herd reductions.

Key Points:

• Sustainability: Despite a decrease in beef cow numbers, modern methods allow more beef production with fewer cows.
• Economic Influences: Fluctuating feed prices and inflation affect carcass weights and production strategies.
• Industry Response: Packers' demand for larger carcasses leads to changes in how cattle are fed and bred.

Notable Quote:

"Standing still is the same as moving backwards." — Jon DeClerck [65:27]

Feeding Strategies and Protein Digestion

Jon delves into the complexities of protein digestion in cattle, distinguishing between rumen-degraded and rumen-undegraded (bypass) protein. He outlines tailored feeding approaches for different cattle types, such as show heifers versus show steers.

Key Points:

• Rumen vs. Small Intestine: Understanding where protein is digested guides dietary formulations.
• Show Heifers: Focus on muscle development without excessive fat, utilizing more bypass protein.
• Feeding Balance: Adjusting protein sources based on specific cattle needs and show requirements.

Notable Quote:

"Protein can also be digested in the rumen. And the protein digested in the rumen is used by the bugs or the microbes." — Jon DeClerck [17:26]

Importance of Clean Water and Feeding Frequency

Clean water is paramount for cattle health and feed efficiency. Jon recommends feeding cattle twice a day to prevent metabolic issues and ensure steady rumen function.

Key Points:

• Water Quality: Poor water quality can reduce intake and overall cattle performance.
• Feeding Frequency: Multiple feedings a day mimic natural grazing patterns, reducing risks like bloat and improving digestion.

Notable Quote:

"Clean water is, I think, the most important nutrient." — Jon DeClerck [23:05]

Hay Preparation and Its Benefits

Jon advocates for chopped hay over round bales, citing improved palatability, increased saliva production, and better rumen health. Chopping hay enhances digestion and nutrient absorption, benefiting both show and production cattle.

Key Points:

• Palatability: Chopped hay is more appealing, encouraging higher intake.
• Rumen Health: Increased saliva from chewing chopped hay aids in buffering rumen pH and digestion.
• Scratch Factor: Physical stimulation from hay helps maintain rumen function.

Notable Quote:

"By chopping the hay we can kind of get a little bit more of a good mix all the way through and we'll actually get more usage out of the hay." — Jon DeClerck [28:22]

Melatonin Usage in Cattle

Jon discusses the application of melatonin in cattle feeding, weighing the pros and cons of feeding it versus using implants. He notes that melatonin can signal shorter days, promoting intake and potentially fostering a winter coat.

Key Points:

• Administration Methods: Both feeding and implants are viable, each with its own benefits.
• Dosage and Consistency: Effective use of melatonin requires precise dosing and regular administration.
• Case-by-Case Basis: The choice between feeding and implants depends on individual cattle behavior and feeding habits.

Notable Quote:

"Melatonin works. I think the data's pretty clear." — Jon DeClerck [30:00]

Joint Supplements and Their Effectiveness

Addressing joint health, Jon compares liquid joint supplements like hyaluronic acid to other feed supplements. He emphasizes the importance of dosage and concentration for efficacy, cautioning against diluted products.

Key Points:

• Pastern Issues: Influenced by both genetic factors and cattle behavior in shows.
• Supplement Quality: Effective joint supplements require proper dosing; over-diluted products may lack efficacy.
• Balanced Approach: Supplements should support overall cattle health without overemphasizing one trait.

Notable Quote:

"I've seen a cow in there, there was really tight pasturing. She was weaned off a big calf and was bred back." — Jon DeClerck [35:53]

Show Ring vs. Real World: Balance and Harmony

Jon explores the relationship between show standards and real-world cattle production. He argues that the cattle show industry remains relatively aligned with commercial viability, unlike other livestock sectors.

Key Points:

• Real-World Representation: Show judges often evaluate cattle based on traits that support commercial success.
• Balanced Standards: Current show standards promote both aesthetics and functionality, maintaining industry relevance.
• Avoiding Extremes: Emphasizing balance prevents over-specialization that could render show cattle non-viable commercially.

Notable Quote:

"I think the cattle show ring is probably not as close as it needs to be to the real world, but it is closer to the real world than what swine and sheep and goats are." — Jon DeClerck [37:20]

Transitioning from Collegiate to Professional Judging

Jon provides insights into evolving from collegiate livestock judging to professional roles. He highlights the importance of confidence, authenticity, and adaptability in the judging process.

Key Points:

• Confidence Building: Transitioning requires unwavering confidence in one's evaluations.
• Authenticity: Judges should embrace their unique styles rather than conforming to others.
• Adaptability: Staying informed with industry changes ensures judges remain relevant and effective.

Notable Quote:

"Everybody else is taken. There's no reason to try to be a version of somebody else." — Jon DeClerck [56:10]

Advice for Young Evaluators

Jon emphasizes the significance of accuracy over presentation, encouraging young judges to focus on thorough evaluations while developing their distinct presentation styles to stand out.

Key Points:

• Accuracy First: Precise and informed evaluations are paramount.
• Unique Presentation: Developing a personal style helps judges differentiate themselves.
• Constructive Feedback: Providing balanced critiques fosters a positive judging environment and encourages continuous improvement.

Notable Quote:

"You're going to get to judge cattle better because of the accuracy." — Jon DeClerck [47:54]

Personal Philosophy and Motivation

Jon shares his guiding principles, rooted in continuous self-improvement and making a meaningful impact on the livestock industry. He draws inspiration from his faith and the belief that personal growth should surpass competition with others.

Key Points:

• Continuous Improvement: Striving to be better than one's former self drives personal and professional growth.
• Faith-Based Values: Biblical principles underpin his approach to challenges and interpersonal relations.
• Industry Impact: Aiming to leave a lasting mark on the livestock sector fuels his daily endeavors.

Notable Quote:

"Romans 12:21... Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." — Jon DeClerck [61:37]
"True nobility is being better than your former self." — Jon DeClerck [63:41]

Conclusion

The episode with Jon DeClerck offers an in-depth exploration of the livestock industry from a seasoned expert's perspective. Jon's extensive background, coupled with his strategic insights into nutrition, feeding practices, and judging philosophies, provides valuable knowledge for listeners aiming to excel in various facets of the livestock sector. His emphasis on continuous improvement, balanced judgment, and personal integrity serves as a motivational foundation for both aspiring and established industry professionals.

Notable Quotes Collection:

1. Jon DeClerck [04:30]:

   "I believe very strongly the livestock judging and showing cattle is a tremendous vehicle for student development."

2. Jon DeClerck [08:44]:

   "We're trying to figure out here moving forward because biodiesel looks like it's going to be so popular."

3. Jon DeClerck [17:26]:

   "Protein can also be digested in the rumen. And the protein digested in the rumen is used by the bugs or the microbes."

4. Jon DeClerck [23:05]:

   "Clean water is, I think, the most important nutrient."

5. Jon DeClerck [28:22]:

   "By chopping the hay we can kind of get a little bit more of a good mix all the way through and we'll actually get more usage out of the hay."

6. Jon DeClerck [30:00]:

   "Melatonin works. I think the data's pretty clear."

7. Jon DeClerck [35:53]:

   "We can all probably point to maybe a judge or two that does have a very definitive type."

8. Jon DeClerck [56:10]:

   "Everybody else is taken. There's no reason to try to be a version of somebody else."

9. Jon DeClerck [61:37]:

   "Romans 12:21... Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."

10. Jon DeClerck [63:41]:

    "True nobility is being better than your former self."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the core discussions, insights, and philosophies shared by Jon DeClerck during the EmpowerU podcast episode. It serves as an informative guide for those interested in advancing their knowledge and practices within the livestock industry.