The Bovine by Alberta Beef Producers

Send us a text When it comes to weather in Western Canada, unpredictability is the only constant! Kara Mastel sits down with veteran meteorologist David Spence to unpack Alberta’s wild 2025 weather—from early-season heat waves to record July rainfall. They explore shifting patterns that challenge old expectations, the “new normal” for drought and storms, and how AI is reshaping weather forecasting. Along the way, David shares insight on regional extremes, the delicate dance of rain and irrigation for agriculture, and what farmers might expect as summer winds down. Listen For: 3:45 Alberta’s weather in 2025—rain here, drought there 7:20 The “seasonal flip” that turned May hot and July wet 9:35 When drought stops being unusual and becomes the new normal 14:28 Will summer stretch into October? What fall could look like 21:24 How AI is reshaping the future of weather forecasting GUEST: David Spence, retired Chief Meteorologist for CTV LinkedIn | X | Website CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email. ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Send us a text Is your hayfield ready — or are you risking a nutrient disaster? In this episode of The Bovine podcast, host Kara Mastel dives into the delicate art and science of haying under tough conditions with expert ruminant nutritionist Brianna Sentes from Beef Smart. They unpack when to cut for maximum protein and digestibility, how weather forecasts can help (or mislead) your timing, why cutting height matters for regrowth, and how to protect hay from mold and nutrient loss. Listen For: 4:39 What Is NDF? And Why Should You Care? 7:30 Haying in a Drought: Cut or Wait? 11:08 Research Insights: How Cutting Height Affects Regrowth 14:23 Tricks to Speed Up Dry Down 25:10 Bale Size and Density: Surprising Impacts on Loss 26:23 How to Avoid Hay Heating and Nutrient Burnoff GUEST: Breanna Sentes, Beef Smart Website | LinkedIn CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email. ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Send us a text What does it take to lead a nation’s cattle industry through crisis, change, and global acclaim—without ever losing sight of the ranch? Kara Mastel is joined by Dennis Laycraft—newly inducted into the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame—to reflect on his remarkable 40-year career championing Canada’s beef industry. From a childhood in the Porcupine Hills to national leadership roles, Laycraft recounts his navigation through watershed moments like BSE, international trade wars, and a global pandemic. He shares stories of resilience, innovation, and unity that helped elevate Canadian beef to world-class status and positioned the industry for a strong, sustainable future. Listen For: 6:16 The Decade Canada Became an Export Powerhouse 8:43 BSE Hits: The Industry’s Darkest Hour 13:27 Canada’s Retail Rebellion and Barbecue Boom 17:55 The Young Leaders Movement Begins 27:46 McDonald’s, Cargill & The World’s First Sustainable Beef Claim 34:56 Pandemic Adaptation & Drive-In Cattle Sales 42:07 Today’s Market: Record Prices & Future Growth GUEST: Dennis Laycraft, CCA Vice President CCA | LinkedIn CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email. ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Send us a text Can beef diplomacy really change the global dinner plate? In this episode of The Bovine, host Kara Mastel sits down with Brodie Haugan, former Alberta Beef Producers Chair and current Canadian Cattle Association rep, fresh off a whirlwind trade mission to Vietnam and the Philippines. From navigating chaotic intersections without crosswalks to barbecuing ribeyes for top Southeast Asian chefs, Brodie shares the highs, surprises, and valuable lessons from promoting Canadian beef on the world stage. This conversation offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at how Alberta’s cattle industry is forging relationships abroad, expanding markets, and ensuring that when global leaders sit down to eat, Canadian beef has a seat at the table too. Listen For: 6:04 Why Southeast Asia? The Strategic Goal Behind the Trip 7:57 Demand: Cuts, Culture & Culinary Traditions 12:41 Boardrooms, Beef & Big Players: Connecting People 16:17 What They Asked: Supply, Not Sustainability 24:33 Efficiency Matters: Why Producer Presence Pays Off GUEST: Brodie Haugan. Co Chair Domestic Agriculture Policy and Regulations Committee, Canadian Email | CCA CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email. ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Send us a text How do you lead 60,000 cattle operations and still make time for TikTok? Tyler Fulton might have the answer. Kara Mastel sits down with the newly minted President of the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) to talk about his whirlwind entry into the role, what it’s like balancing a cow-calf operation while representing ranchers on the national stage, and why trade advocacy and producer engagement are more important than ever. From urgent trade talks in Washington to grassroots outreach via social media, Tyler shares how relationships — not just regulations — drive the beef industry forward. Listen For: 5:03 Taking the reins during a trade war 7:27 Why building trust matters more than logic in policy advocacy 9:10 Engaging producers through social media 13:09 Trade as the industry's existential challenge 16:20 Why now is both the most profitable and riskiest time for beef 22:59 U.S. remains irreplaceable, even with tariffs 24:54 Tyler’s advice to young producers: network and speak up GUEST: TYLER FULTON Website | LinkedIn | X Tyler, the current President of CCA, became involved with the organization through his work with the Manitoba Beef Producers. He advocates for cattle farmers and ranchers, emphasizing their role in sustainable food production and aiming to improve Business Risk Management programs in Canada. Tyler, along with his wife Dorelle and their children, operates Tyton Farm Ltd near Birtle, Manitoba, managing 600 cow-calf pairs and a small backgrounding lot. Their farm spans about 5,500 acres, integrating hay, corn, and grain production with their cattle operation. CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email. ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Send us a text What if the secret to better beef starts underground? Kara Mastel is joined by Dr. Jonathan Bennett, associate professor of Plant Ecology at the University of Saskatchewan, to unearth the science behind soil microbiomes and their powerful impact on forage productivity and beef sustainability. Recorded following the Beef Research Showcase at Lakeland College, the conversation dives into how microbes influence plant health, how cultivar selection affects microbe interactions, and why breeding plants for better microbial relationships could revolutionize pasture management. From drought resilience to salinity tolerance, Dr. Bennett sheds light on how invisible organisms may hold the key to future-proofing our beef industry—all without a microscope Listen For: 04:47 – The Soil Microbiome’s Role in Forage Yields 09:05 – Optimizing Plant-Microbe Interactions 16:25 – Can Microbes Help Saline Pastures? 29:37 – Heritability and Breeding for Microbial Compatibility 35:32 – Giving Power Back to the Producer GUEST: Dr. Jonathan Bennett Website Dr. Jonathan Bennett is an Associate Professor at the University of Saskatchewan, specializing in plant ecology with a focus on plant-soil interactions and invasive species management. He holds a PhD from the University of Alberta and has conducted postdoctoral research at the University of Tartu and the University of British Columbia-Okanagan. Dr. Bennett's research aims to enhance our understanding of ecological processes in grasslands, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices and ecosystem conservation. CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email. ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Send us a text Is your pasture really ready for the herd? Spring grazing may seem as simple as "green means go," but it’s far more nuanced than that. Kara Mastel welcomes David MacTaggart, Senior Agriculture Advisor with Strathcona County, to unpack the critical considerations for turning cattle out in spring. From the risks of early grazing and nitrate concerns to rotational grazing strategies and environmental stewardship, David shares practical, science-backed insights for producers. They also discuss how to tailor grazing plans to weather extremes like drought, assess forage nutritional quality, and balance herd health with land resilience. This episode equips producers—new and seasoned alike—with the knowledge to make smart, sustainable spring grazing decisions. Listen For: 03:24 — Why spring grazing matters 09:59 — Spring frost and nitrate concerns 14:06 — Why rotational grazing is especially important in spring 21:25 — Is bloat a worry with green pastures? GUEST: David MacTaggart, Agriculture Initiatives Specialist LinkedIn | X CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email. ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Send us a text What if everything you thought you knew about connecting with people was missing one key ingredient? Kara Mastel sits down with renowned human values expert David Allison, the founder of the Valuegraphics Project, to explore how understanding core human values—not just demographics—can revolutionize communication in agriculture and beyond. Fresh off his keynote at the Alberta Beef Industry Conference, David shares how values like financial security, personal growth, and happiness are the real drivers behind public support and behavior. With practical examples and a compelling look at how values-based storytelling can shape perception and build industry allies, this episode is a powerful playbook for beef producers—and anyone—looking to truly connect with audiences. Listen For: 01:27 – What Are Valuegraphics? 08:56 – Beef = Financial Stability? Let’s Talk Economics 17:43 – Talk About What Works: The Three-Value Rule 28:31 – Demographics Reinforce Stereotypes—Here’s the Fix GUEST: David Allison Website | LinkedIn David Allison is a human values expert, CEO of a global research firm, and 2X best-selling author. As the founder of the Valuegraphics Project, he created the first global inventory of core human values, transforming them into measurable data. David helps major brands like PayPal, Google, and the United Nations Foundation connect with people by honouring their values. His work is featured in college textbooks and prominent publications like Harvard Business Review and Forbes. His latest book, The Death of Demographics, has been praised as "convincing, insightful, and revolutionary." CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email. ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Send us a text What happens when climate change, glaciers, and agriculture collide in Western Canada? Dr. John Pomeroy, a world-renowned hydrologist and lead of the Global Water Futures program, explores how water systems are shifting in the face of climate change—and what it means for producers, ecosystems, and future planning. From snowpack and glacier melt to drought prediction, irrigation stress, and even COVID wastewater detection, this conversation dives into both the science and the stakes of water management on the Prairies and beyond. With surprising findings, promising innovations, and a candid look at what's coming down the pipeline, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who depends on water – everyone. Listen For: 03:23 – Building Canada’s First National Water Model 07:10 – The Future of Irrigation in Southern Alberta 18:58 – Smarter Crops, Smarter Irrigation: What Tech Can Do 22:41 – Balancing Agriculture and Natural Ecosystems GUEST: Dr. John Pomeroy Website | LinkedIn Dr. John Pomeroy is the Director of the Global Water Futures Programme and its follow-on, the Global Water Futures Observatories Project, at the University of Saskatchewan. He holds multipole prestigious titles, including Canada Research Chair in Water Resources and Climate Change, UNESCO Chair in Mountain Water Sustainability, and Distinguished Professor of Geography. Dr. Pomeroy is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, the American Geophysical Union, and the Royal Geographical Society. He has received numerous awards, including the Walter Langbein Lecture Award and the Miroslaw Romanowski Medal. This research focuses on snow hydrology, climate change impacts, and water quality, and he has authored over 400 research articles and several books. CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email. ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Send us a text How do you lead a billion-dollar industry while feeding cattle on the weekend? Meet Doug Roxburgh, the newly elected Chair of Alberta Beef Producers. From his humble beginnings as a first-generation cattle producer to his deep dive into the world of "cattle politics," Doug shares his passion for the beef industry, the challenges ahead, and his bold vision for Alberta's producers. Host Kara Mastel guides us through a wide-ranging conversation on everything from tariffs and trade to weather outlooks, business risk management, and the importance of strong communication. Whether you're deep in the industry or just beef-curious, this episode offers a rare inside look at leadership on the frontlines of Alberta agriculture. Listen For: 07:15 – Fixing the communication gap 15:04 – Wildlife and regional farming realities 20:48 – Navigating tariffs and global uncertainty 22:46 – Weather warnings and risk management tools 26:15 – Doug’s message to producers: Get involved and stay informed GUEST: Doug Roxburgh Doug Roxburgh is the Chair on the Board of Directors for Alberta Beef Producers. He resides near Rimbey, Alberta, with his wife, where they manage a first-generation cattle farm. They are involved in backgrounding their calves, marketing bulls and females, and raising commercial bread heifers. Doug also works as a senior nutrition consultant, assisting producers in creating year-round nutritional plans. CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email. ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Send us a text What’s been happening in the Alberta cattle industry? Kara Mastel gives us a front-row seat to Alberta Beef Producers' (ABP) 2024 Year in Review. Featuring key ABP staff—this discussion covers the pressing issues, research initiatives, and policy efforts shaping the future of beef production in Alberta. From risk management and conservation to disease preparedness and marketing, this episode dives deep into the work happening behind the scenes to support Alberta’s beef producers. Listen For: 04:19 – Investing in Research: Big Impact, Small Budget 12:51 – The Policies That Could Change Beef Production 27:39 – Living Labs: Research in Real-World Conditions 33:35 – The Power of Producer Involvement & Resolutions GUESTS: Brad Dubeau, General Manager Debra Murphy, Stakeholder Relations Manager Mark Lyseng, Government Relations and Policy Kaley Edge, VBP Coordinator and ABP Stewardship Lead Karin Schmid, Beef Production and Extension Lead CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email. ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Send us a text When it comes to choosing the right herd bull, should you prioritize size, milk production, or fertility? In this episode of The Bovine, Kara Mastel sits down with Dr. Carling Matejka, a veterinarian with Agri Health Services, to break down the science and strategy behind herd bull selection. Carling explains why optimization—not maximization—is the key to a profitable and sustainable herd, highlighting factors like mature cow body weight, expected progeny differences (EPDs), and scrotal circumference. Listen For: 04:26 EPDs 101: Predicting a Bull’s Genetic Potential 11:28 How Breed Associations Help with Bull Selection 17:18 Lessons from the Dairy Industry on Milk vs. Fertility 26:16 Why Breeding Soundness Exams Are Crucial 30:02 Expert Tips for Bull Sale Day GUEST: Carling Matejka, DVM Email | Website | LinkedIn CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email. ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Send us a text How do extreme temperature swings impact cattle health, and what can producers do to manage these challenges? In this episode Kara Mastel sits down with Dr. Brittany Smith, a consulting ruminant nutritionist, to discuss the effects of rapid temperature fluctuations on cattle well-being, feed intake, and immune function. They break down practical strategies to mitigate stress, from adjusting feeding plans and providing windbreaks to monitoring body condition scores and ensuring water availability. Dr. Smith also shares insights on how these fluctuations influence calf health, milk production, and long-term herd performance. Listen For: 2:08 The Physiological Impact of Cold Stress on Cattle 4:11 How Cold Weather Changes Cattle Behaviour & Feeding 14:24 A Simple Snow Trick to Assess Body Condition 26:16 Innovating Producer Strategies for Dealing with Extreme Cold CONNECT WITH GUEST: Dr Brittany Smith, Beef Smart Consulting Email | Website | X | Facebook CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email. ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Send us a text Are looming U.S. tariffs about to shake up the cattle industry? Kara Mastel sits down with Brenna Grant, Executive Director of Canfax Research Services, to explore the potential impacts of a proposed 25 per cent U.S. tariff on Canadian goods. They discuss the deep integration of the beef trade between the two countries, potential market shifts, and strategies producers can use to navigate uncertain times. From fluctuating exchange rates to exploring alternative markets like Japan and Korea, Brenna provides insightful analysis on what cattle producers can expect and how they can prepare. Listen For: 02:19 – The Deep Integration of the US-Canada Beef Trade 05:11 – Exchange Rates and Their Ripple Effect on Producers 10:40 – The Complex Web of US-Canada Beef Processing 14:34 – Canfax Resources to Support Producers GUEST: BRENNA GRANT Brenna Grant is the Executive Director of Canfax Research Services, where she monitors data from national statistics; oversees the development of new economic models to make annual outlooks and evaluate the impact of management decisions on cost of production. Brenna grew up in SW Saskatchewan on a cow/calf , yearling grasser operation where her family still operates. She holds a BA in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and a Masters in Applied Economics from Montana State University. Canfax CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email. ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Send us a text For this episode of The Bovine, Kara Mastel sits down with father-daughter duo, John and Maria Duynisveld, who own and operate Holdcana Farms, located near Wallace Bay, Nova Scotia. The Duynisveld's discuss the experience of receiving the 2024 Environmental Stewardship Award (TESA), and dive into more about their operation. Delegate Nominations Open Alberta Beef Producers’ (ABP) delegate nominations are open, with two-year positions available in all five zones. Visit ABP Daily to learn more. Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email. ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Send us a text For this episode of The Bovine, Kara Mastel sits down with Jenna Sarich, Stakeholder Engagement Technical Consultant with Public and Stakeholder Engagement (PSE). The duo discuss the ins and outs of PSE, results from a recent national sustainability survey, the importance of telling the story from the farm, and more. Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email. ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email