Category: American Cattlemen Podcast

Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Gale McKinney, he’s the owner of the American Cattlemen and he sits down with Cody Quam with Marda Angus Farms.

Marda Angus Farms represents a multi-generational family cattle breeding operation in Lodi, Wisconsin, with a rich history spanning over seven decades. Founded when Dave Quam purchased his first Angus female for a 4-H project, the farm has evolved into a sophisticated breeding enterprise managed by Cody Quam, alongside his 94-year-old grandmother and father.

The farm recently expanded by acquiring Miller Farm Shorthorns while carefully preserving the heritage of both operations. Their breeding philosophy emphasizes producing balanced, high-quality cattle that deliver both substantial weight and premium carcass characteristics. This approach reflects a deep understanding of commercial producers’ needs, focusing on creating cattle that not only look attractive but also generate meaningful economic value.

The upcoming November 15th production sale showcases the farm’s genetic excellence, featuring a comprehensive offering of bred heifers, bred cows, fall pairs, open heifers, and Shorthorn heifers. The sale represents a carefully curated selection of their top genetic lines, including offspring from notable sires like BMW Nobility and College Congress.

Cody Quam’s breeding strategy prioritizes cow longevity, with examples like a 14-year-old cow still actively breeding, and a commitment to maintaining robust, efficient cattle. The farm partners with other respected cattle operations and participates in innovative breeding programs, including feed efficiency trials and advanced genetic selection.

A distinctive aspect of Marda Angus Farms is their commitment to industry development. They demonstrate this through initiatives like donating a portion of their sale proceeds to the Angus Foundation, supporting youth and research programs that have historically benefited their own family.

The sale is more than a commercial transaction; it’s a testament to the Quam family’s dedication to advancing cattle genetics, supporting agricultural innovation, and maintaining a proud family farming tradition that spans multiple generations.

For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.

American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By:

Rawhide Portable Corrals

Udder Tech, Inc.

Central Life Sciences

Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Gale Mckinney, he’s the owner of the American Cattlemen and he sits down with Kevin Keyes, owner of Keyes Angus. In this episode, they will dive into the Keyes Angus Dispersal Sale held on November 15th, 2025.

Following the loss of his wife to cancer a year ago, Kevin has made the decision to semi-retire and focus on what matters most: being a full-time grandfather to his grandchildren.

The episode delves into Kevin’s remarkable journey in the cattle industry, highlighting his unique approach to cattle breeding and ranch management. After relocating from Springfield to Brewster, Nebraska, Kevin transformed his ranching methods, shifting from traditional January calving to a more flexible April through June calving season. His innovative approach includes raising two-year-old bulls and managing cattle in expansive pastures that allow natural growth and development.

The centerpiece of the conversation is the upcoming Keyes Angus dispersal sale, scheduled for November 15th at Valentine Livestock Auction. This comprehensive sale offers a rare opportunity for cattle producers, featuring 185 registered Angus spring pairs, 40 registered and 40 commercial Angus bred heifers, 70 registered Angus 18-month-old bulls, and 25 registered Angus herd sires. Kevin’s commitment to quality is evident in his breeding philosophy, which prioritizes overall animal performance and characteristics over pure genetic metrics.

More than just a cattle sale, this episode is a testament to resilience, family, and the evolving nature of agricultural life. Kevin’s story reflects the deeply personal decisions that shape ranching careers, demonstrating that sometimes the most courageous choice is to pivot and embrace a new chapter of life.

Keyes Angus Website – HOME | keyes-angus

For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.

American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By:

Rawhide Portable Corrals

Udder Tech, Inc.

Central Life Sciences

Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Gale McKinney at the American Wagyu Conference, and he chats with Jim Skartvedt, co-owner of Renew Livestock Company.

Jim began his livestock journey at age seven when he bought his first ewe from his father. With a background in animal science and a master’s in ruminant nutrition and meat science from Iowa State University, he now lives in Azle, Texas, with his wife and five children. He operates Renew Livestock Company, managing cattle supplies for niche market meat companies, and runs a small cow-calf operation alongside his business ventures.

Jim discussed the unique characteristics of the Wagyu breed, highlighting its distinct phenotypic traits. Unlike traditional American cattle, Wagyu are flatter boned, have a unique structural design, and possess exceptional longevity, with cows potentially producing for 10-15 years.

A key focus was the breed’s genetic advantages. Wagyu cattle demonstrate remarkable vigor when crossbred, with calves showing exceptional early vitality. The breed naturally produces high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, potentially offering health benefits that challenge traditional perceptions of beef consumption.

The discussion emphasized the breed’s marbling potential, noting that Wagyu cattle continue to develop marbling linearly with age, unlike other breeds. Currently, the industry sees about 10% prime cattle, but Wagyu-influenced herds can achieve 70-80% prime grades, often harvesting at 18-24 months.
Jim also addressed the breed’s potential in beef-on-dairy programs, particularly when using the right Wagyu bull. While they might not consistently produce top-tier A5 grades, they consistently generate high-prime quality meat.

Looking forward, Jim sees opportunities in direct consumer marketing, smaller herds, and addressing labor challenges in agriculture. He believes the Wagyu breed offers potential for younger generations entering ranching, with possibilities for small-scale, direct-to-consumer beef production.

For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.

American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By:

Rawhide Portable Corrals

Udder Tech, Inc.

Central Life Sciences