Cattle Connect

Tackling the Tough Conversation ft. Kacy Atkinson

Estate planning— it's not a favorite topic, but it's one that is vitally important to the preservation of the family farm. While at #BamaBeefMeet, Cattle Connect host Kayla Greer spoke with Kacy Atkinson. Kacy is a Wyoming rancher and estate planning advocate who brought her knowledge and unique experience to our General Session panel titled "Planning for the Future of the Farm." Tune in as Kayla and Kacy tackle one of the hardest parts of estate planning— starting the conversation.

American Beef Industry Update & Insights From Capitol Hill ft. NCBA CEO Colin Woodall

National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) CEO Colin Woodall headlined the Cattlemen's Luncheon at the 82nd Annual ACA Convention & Trade Show in Birmingham. His charisma and in-depth knowledge of the American beef industry— as well as his insightful knowledge of D.C. politics—resonated with all who listened. Host Kayla Greer sat down with Colin after the luncheon to re-visit his discussion and capture his update from the countryside of the American beef industry.

The Busiest 105 Days in Montgomery ft. Rep. Joe Lovvorn

The 2025 Alabama Legislative Session has kicked off in downtown Montgomery, bringing with it a busy 105 days for both lawmakers and lobbyists. House Rules Chairman, Rep. Joe Lovvorn of Alabama House District 79 joins co-hosts Kayla Greer and Erin Beasley in the Cattle Connect studio to share about his agricultural background, his role as Rules Chairman, and what we can expect to see this session, from his unique perspective! Then, Erin and Kayla take a few moments to discuss the ACA's legislative priorities that have them busy at the State House this session.

Supporting Youth in Agriculture Through Family Fun ft. Linwood McClain

Supporting Alabama's youth in agriculture— that's the goal of the Southeastern Livestock Exposition (SLE), and your ticket to the show contributes to that mission. SLE President Linwood McClain joins host Kayla Greer in studio to reflect on the SLE's history, its unique mission and share details about this year's event. Learn more at www.SLERodeo.com. 

A Healthy Option ft. Russ Durrance

Health insurance is one of those things "you'd rather have and not need, than to need it and not have it." But unfortunately, affordable health coverage is a tough commodity to come by for many of Alabama's farmers and small business owners. That is why our friends at the Alabama Farmers Federation are working toward legislation that will allow them to offer affordable health plans to the hardworking men, women and children who produce our nation's food, fuel and fiber. Learn more at www.AHealthyOption.org. 

Sealing the Land Deal ft. Jonathan Goode

“There will always be a need for land because it’s under everything.”
Host Erin Beasley sits down with longtime land broker and host of The Land Show, Jonathan Goode, to chat about considerations and preparations to have on hand when it comes time to buy or sell your land. 

Alabama's CattleWomen— Linked by Beef ft. Shelby Easterling

Tune in as host Kayla Greer sits down in studio with Shelby Easterling, president of the Alabama CattleWomen's Association (ACWA). Kayla and Shelby chat about the ACWA's mission, highlight a few of Shelby's goals as president and— in true Cattle Connect fashion— shed a little light on the history of the organization. Learn more or join the ACWA at www.AlabamaCattleWomen.com. 

From Feedback to Convention

What began as feedback from membership meetings held in 2024 evolved into five educational opportunities at the 82nd Annual ACA Convention & Trade Show. From estate planning to life-saving tips in an emergency, and calf health to diversifying your farm's financials, the 2025 convention will feature a variety of educational sessions you don't want to miss. Learn more and register today at BamaBeef.org/Events. 

Birthdays & Milestones

In celebration of the ACA's 81st birthday, hosts Kayla Greer and Erin Beasley take to the history book to chat about some of the association's milestone moments and their little-known details! 
 
 

That's a Wrap! 2024, a Year in Review

As we prepare to send off 2024, tune in as hosts Kayla Greer, Erin Beasley, Josie Jones and Reid McGuire sit down for a month-by-month review of programs, key moments and successes for the Alabama Cattlemen's Association and the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program. Be sure to tune into Season 2 of the Cattle Connect podcast, kicking off January 3, 2025. Happy New Year!