Cattle Connect

Connect to the Cattlemen: Beefin' Up Shelby County Culinary Classrooms

Grassroots advocates are the lifeblood of the ACA, and our Connect to the Cattlemen series is here to highlight their efforts! From a countywide rodeo, to the culinary classroom, cattlemen in Shelby County have gotten creative on how to highlight cattle production and promote beef in the Birmingham Metro area! In this episode, host Michael Smith sits down with Shelby County Cattleman Rickey Colquitt to discuss how a steak tasting in the classroom has turned into an educational experience that reaches hundreds of future consumers. Discover how this hands-on approach is building a deeper understanding of the beef industry— and creating lifelong beef fans in the process!

Checking on the Checkoff: Sizzling Summer Programs

Beef promotion is a year-round priority for ACA staff, but between industry programs and grilling season, the summer months are particularly impactful! 
While leadership development events like the Young Cattlemen's Leadership Program Class XII sessions and the 19th Annual Alabama Junior Cattlemen's Association Round-Up focused on the future of agriculture, digital marketing strategies and in-person outreach at consumer and influencer events like the Auburn Football Family Dinner, Trash Pandas Ag Night, Birmingham Barons games and the historic MLB game at Bristol Speedway ensured a strong customer base for years to come. Listen in as co-hosts Josie Jones and Michael Smith recap the past several months of Alabama Beef Checkoff Program promotions from the state staff perspective. 

Meet Bailey Watson: ACA’s New Manager of Youth Programs & Marketing

Bailey Watson has joined the herd at the Alabama Cattlemen's Association as the new Manager of Youth Programs and Marketing. Bailey joined host Kayla Greer in studio to share her background growing up on cow‑calf operation in Virginia, her degrees in animal sciences (Virginia Tech) and agricultural communications (University of Tennessee), and her experience working with youth livestock programs.
Bailey describes her Alabama Beef Checkoff staff role leading the Alabama Junior Cattlemen’s Association and managing the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. campaign across Alabama. Tune in to meet Bailey! 

Exploring Alabama Agriculture's Economic Growth Potential ft. Dr. Mykel Taylor & Dr. Kelli Russell

Discover the core challenges and promising opportunities facing the state's agricultural industry, including insights on land loss, labor shortages, and the potential for growth through food processing and workforce training. Featuring expert perspectives and research conducted by Dr. Mykel Taylor and Dr. Kelli Russell from Auburn University's Department of Ag Economics & Rural Sociology, this episode reveals the interconnectedness of prosperous agriculture and rural communities. Learn how Alabama's agricultural sector is gearing up for future growth while tackling the crucial issues that shape its landscape. Explore the research findings at www.aces.edu. 

Winter Forage Strategies: Preparing Now for a Productive Feeding Season ft. Josh Elmore

As temperatures soar to record heat, planning for the colder months may seem premature, but this episode of Cattle Connect uncovers why now is the perfect time to strategize for winter success. Host Kayla Greer sits in studio with Regional Extension Agent Josh Elmore as he shares his expertise on choosing the right forages, managing grazing to maximize regrowth, and the importance of soil testing for optimal pasture performance. Josh also discusses the unique aspects of Alabama's diverse climate and soil that benefit cattle producers, offering practical advice for both seasoned and new farmers. Tune in to equip yourself with the tools and knowledge to enhance your winter forage strategy.

Securing Your Farm's Data: Cybersecurity Insights ft. Amanda Senn

Host Kayla Greer dives into a critical topic for today’s tech-savvy farmers: cybersecurity in agriculture. Joining her is Amanda Senn, Director of the Alabama Securities Commission, who shares expert insight on how digital threats are shaping the future of farming.
From mobile devices in the field to desktops in the office, your farm’s data is a valuable asset—and a potential target. Amanda unpacks the risks and delivers practical, actionable strategies to help you protect your personal information, farm records, and connected systems.
Whether you're managing smart equipment or storing sensitive data, this episode will help you stay a step ahead of cyber threats. Tune in and learn how to safeguard your farm’s future in a connected, fast-moving digital world.

Connect to the Cattlemen: Cattle Education, One Child At A Time Ft. Nikki Dyess

Alabama cattle producers are known for showing up and showing out when it comes to education about the beef industry! Host Josie Jones is joined in studio by Geneva County producer Nikki Dyess to discuss Geneva County's impressive October Beef Month win - The Heart of Beef Month award - and the youth education initiatives through local schools to enhance food literacy and appreciation for beef production among students that got them there. From exciting events like the Career Tech Chili Cook-Off to the unique Beef Banquet, these programs empower youth participation and build community connections year-round. Tune in to find out how these initiatives are inspiring the next generation of agricultural enthusiasts and how other county chapters can take advantage of community partnerships to extend similar opportunities. 

Unlocking the Secrets of Beef Market Logistics ft. Don Wambles

In this episode of the Cattle Connect podcast, the 'Marketing Your Farm' series continues by exploring the logistics of selling beef at local markets. Host Josie Jones is joined by guest, Don Wombles from the Department of Agriculture and the Farmers Market Authority, to share valuable insights into the rules and requirements for farmers looking to market their beef directly to consumers.
The conversation includes essential licenses and certifications needed, the importance of USDA-approved processing facilities, and tips for maintaining food safety. Learn how programs like the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program have revolutionized market dynamics in Alabama.
Whether you're a seasoned farmer or new to the market scene, this episode provides practical advice and encouragement to help you succeed in selling beef safely and profitably.

Cattle Producers, County Grants and Checkoff Plans Ft. Steven Smith

What do networking opportunities, forage research projects, carcass fabrication demonstrations, and youth livestock shows have in common? The Alabama Beef Checkoff Program! Hear from 2025 Alabama Beef Checkoff Council Chairman Steven Smith on this year’s priorities for Beef Checkoff programming, while host Josie Jones gives an overview of the history of Beef Checkoff Programs across the US and the important role they play in a sustainable beef industry. 

A Season of Change

New positions and new priorities take a foothold at the Alabama Cattlemen's Association as a season of change invites staff transitions and new hires! Host Kayla Greer sits down with ACA Executive Vice President Erin Beasley to talk about those changes and the inspiration behind them. Following, the newest face at the ACA, Michael Smith, introduces himself and shares his vision for his role at Manager of Industry Outreach.