Podcasts
Welcome to the American Cattlemen Podcast, hosted by Gale McKinney, where information, entertainment, and the cow/calf industry come together. Whether talking to a country western entertainer, cow/calf producer, or industry professional, ACP promises a different ride than other podcasts.
Welcome to American Cattlemen’s Producer Profiles where Gale brings the business and lifestyle of the Cow/Calf industry together. Whether it’s the most recent production sale to your local county fair Gale brings you interviews with the grassroot folks of the industry.
Our audience is United States cow/calf producers and worldwide industry professionals derived from our extensive social media following of over 500,000 unique industry professionals. Each episode of the American Cattlemen Podcast will be promoted through our digital outlets and the American Cattlemen magazine and newsletter.
Previous Episodes
Importance of Parasite Testing with Dr. M. Wayne Ayers
Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Dustin Hector, and he sits down with Dr. M. Wayne Ayers with Elanco Animal Health, about the Importance of Parasite Testing your herd. 
Dr. Ayers shares his extensive background spanning decades in veterinary medicine, encompassing experience in private practice, academia, and his current industry role. Dr. Ayers explains that testing helps producers identify which internal parasite species are present, determine the appropriate treatment strategies, and strike a balance between economic viability and animal health. The timing and type of testing, he notes, should be tailored to specific regional and seasonal conditions, such as climate, rainfall, and pasture type, since the parasite life cycle is tightly linked to environmental factors.
A key point raised is the use of composite fecal sampling, particularly from young calves, to obtain a representative herd-level assessment without the need for testing every individual animal. Sampling strategies and laboratory techniques, such as fecal egg counts and larval culture, are discussed as methods to identify parasite burdens and species composition. Dr. Ayers also emphasizes that as animals mature, their immune systems generally reduce susceptibility to heavy parasite loads, meaning routine deworming may not be necessary in older, well-conditioned cows. Instead, targeted deworming efforts should focus on younger animals and those with lower body condition scores, guided by evidence from periodic composite testing.
The discussion also addresses the critical issue of anthelmintic resistance, attributed in part to overreliance on existing dewormer molecules—many of which are decades-old—highlighting the necessity of stewardship to preserve their efficacy. Dr. Ayers advocates for data-driven management to optimize herd health while extending the usefulness of current parasite control tools. The podcast concludes with a mutual appreciation for the depth and complexity of parasite management and emphasizes an ongoing commitment to education, research, and responsible animal care for sustainable cattle production.
Importance of Parasite Testing with Dr. M. Wayne Ayers
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit: www.americancattlemen.com.
American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By:
Old Three Wagyu with H. Kerr Taylor and Emily Searle
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 H. Kerr Taylor and Emily Searle with Old Three Wagyu. 
Kerr Taylor’s profound appreciation for the world’s premier beef began during his junior year aboard the University of the Seven Seas and World Campus Afloat. This global journey, with over 20 international stops, led to a decisive culinary experience in Kobe, Japan. There, he sampled genuine, 100% Fullblood Kobe steak—an unparalleled epiphany of flavor, tenderness, and marbling. This singular taste transformed him into an enduring enthusiast.
Upon returning to the United States, however, he found authentic Kobe beef virtually inaccessible. This deficit created a long-term goal.
Years later, guided by his commitment to “investing in the irreplaceable™,” Kerr Taylor sought not just to import, but to replicate its caliber. This endeavor led him and his family to acquire 500 acres of fertile land near the historical birthplace of Texas, offering an optimal environment.
The next vital step was genetics. Inspired by the Kobe memory, he sourced some of the finest Wagyu genetics available globally. His goal was to honor Japanese quality while utilizing Texas’s superior resources.
Today, this initiative is a thriving enterprise. The ranch is home to a magnificent assemblage of Wagyu cattle—best-bred and recognized as some of America’s most content. Reared with meticulous animal welfare, the final product embodies the identical rich flavor, profound marbling, and delicate texture that first captivated him in Kobe, successfully repatriating that unparalleled delicacy. We hope you enjoy this episode of the American Cattlemen Podcast.
Old Three Wagyu
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit: www.americancattlemen.com.
American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By:
Marda Angus Farms with Cody Quam
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:
Keyes Angus Dispersal Sale with Kevin Keyes
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:
Renew Livestock Company with Jim Skartvedt
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:
The Premium Power Bull Sale
The Premium Power Bull Sale was started in 2021 by some Beefmaster Breeders who saw a need for an elite Beefmaster bull sale in the heart of the Florida cattle industry. 
It was a great pleasure to visit with Lauran Lyssy, with Lyssy Beefmasters, and Colson Cannon, with Cannon Cattle, about the Premium Power Bull Sale.
Not only do they sell the bulls in Florida, but they are also developed in the Florida climate from weaning through sale time. Their bulls are born and raised along the Gulf Coast and are ready to work in any environment. Their priority is to raise bulls for the commercial cattleman, with an emphasis on longevity, fertility, and natural muscling. The bulls are raised on a forage-based diet and undergo a feed efficiency test at the Southern Beef Performance Center in Williston, FL, at Etheridge Cattle Company. When their bulls come out of the efficiency test, they are turned into grass traps and developed as naturally as possible until sale time. The genetic base for Premium Power Bulls is among the longest-tested performance genetics in the breed, and they continue to performance-test their bulls for their customers. Bulls from their sale come with all their weights and measures, carcass ultrasound, and efficiency data, such as RFI and ADG. This year’s Premium Power Bull Sale is held on November 7th at 1 PM ET at the Cattleman’s Market of Okeechobee in Okeechobee, FL, and will be broadcast on DV Auctions, Inc.
The Premium Power Bull Sale
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit: www.americancattlemen.com.
American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By:
The American Wagyu Association Interns with Jacob Ellerbusch
Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Gale McKinney, He’s the Publisher of the American Cattlemen and he sits down with Jacob Ellerbusch, Intern at The American Wagyu Association. 
As a first-generation cattle industry participant, Jacob shares his unique journey into agriculture, which began at the age of four when he fell in love with cattle after encountering a massive, gentle bull at a ranch in Goliad, Texas.
Currently a junior at Tarleton State University studying animal science with a production concentration, Jacob is deeply committed to the agricultural sector. He purchased his first female cattle at 13 and his first full-blood female at 17, demonstrating his early entrepreneurial spirit in the industry. His college experience has been enriched by involvement in organizations like the farmhouse fraternity and student government association, where he has developed professional skills and networking capabilities.
Jacob’s future aspirations focus on reproductive technologies in agriculture. He is considering pursuing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree with a specialization as an embryologist. He sees significant potential in reproductive technologies, noting an expected 17% job growth in the field by 2030. His internship with the American Wagyu Association represents a key step in his professional development.
Throughout the interview, Jacob emphasizes the importance of technology in modern agriculture and offers advice to young people interested in the industry. His key recommendations include never giving up, taking advantage of internships, gaining hands-on experience, and most importantly, asking questions. He believes that engaging with experienced producers and showing genuine interest can open numerous opportunities.
I hope you enjoy the episode and Jacob’s passion, dedication, and optimistic outlook on the future of agricultural production, particularly in cattle breeding and reproductive technologies.
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit: www.americancattlemen.com.
American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By:
JJ Scheckel Angus
Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Gale McKinney, he’s the owner of the American Cattlemen and he chats with Josh Scheckel, co-owner of JJ Scheckel Angus. Married for over 20 years with seven children, Josh embodies a true family-oriented agricultural entrepreneur who started from scratch, building both an equipment business and a cattle operation without inheriting family land or livestock. 
His cattle philosophy centers on practicality and commercial viability. Josh emphasizes “meat and potatoes” breeding, focusing on problem-free, profitable traits that create functional cattle requiring minimal management. Having started as a commercial cattleman, he understands the importance of cows that breed back consistently, raise substantial calves, and maintain longevity with minimal intervention.
The upcoming JJ Scheckel Angus 2025 Black Friday Production Sale on November 28th will feature 30 bred heifers and a collection of aged-advantage bulls. The heifers, bred to drop calves between February and April, come from top-tier genetics including LD Capitalist, Connealy King Air, and Coleman Rock bloodlines. The 18-month-old bulls are carefully selected, grown slowly to ensure sound feet and immediate breeding readiness.
Sire groups include impressive lineages like Ellington Three Rivers, LD Capitalist, Coleman Bravo, and SAV Allegiance, with some bulls descending from world champion efficiency sires. Josh prides himself on transparency, reputation, and customer satisfaction, offering aggressive multi-bull discounts and free nationwide delivery.
The sale will be held at their farm in Bellevue, Iowa, managed by the American Angus Hall of Fame, with world champion auctioneer Matt Lauer. Potential buyers can participate through DV Auction and Superior Livestock platforms, with Josh emphasizing an open invitation for cattlemen to visit, view cattle, and enjoy an all-day lunch featuring Angus beef.
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit: www.americancattlemen.com.
American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By:
