In this Friday Happy Hour episode, Logan and Ea’Mon break down the latest USDA Cattle on Feed report — the first year-over-year increase in 18 months — and what it actually signals for producers. They dig into whether the numbers reflect real herd rebuilding or mostly drought-forced liquidation hitting feed yards across the country.

The conversation covers the pressure of ground beef pushing toward $7 per pound at retail, consumer sentiment, and whether high prices are sustainable in the face of diesel costs and broader economic strain. They also share what they’re seeing on the ground with regional drought conditions, from the Sandhills to Wyoming and eastern Colorado, and discuss how it’s affecting stocking rates, grazing plans, and early liquidation decisions.

On the marketing side, they talk about shifting more toward barn sales versus video, building valuable partnerships (including genetics), and practical moves they’re making with replacements and heifers. The episode wraps with an honest look at cow herd strategy — when to retain, sell, or position for potential expansion in this high-price environment, and why some experienced voices are calling for higher highs ahead.

If you’re trying to make sense of the current market signals while managing drought and planning your own herd, this one’s for you.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction & Friday Happy Hour Teaser
02:15 – USDA Cattle on Feed Report: First +2% Increase in 18 Months
04:00 – Drought-Forced Liquidation vs. Real Herd Rebuilding
07:00 – Ground Beef at $7/lb – Is It Sustainable?
11:35 – Drought Pressures & Regional Conditions on the Ground
19:45 – Super El Niño Outlook & Long-Term Market Implications
39:30 – Marketing Shifts: Barn Sales, Video Sales & Strategic Partnerships
45:15 – Cow Herd Strategy: Retain, Sell, or Expand?
54:50 – Key Takeaways & What We’re Watching Next