In this episode of “Talk Farm to Me,” host Dana DiPrima sits down with Michaela Mann, a Nebraska rancher and co-owner of D&D Beef. Together, they explore the diverse practices of raising and feeding cattle, debunk common myths surrounding cattle farming, and discuss the challenges faced by ranchers in the agricultural industry.

Michaela highlights that ranchers have different approaches to raising and feeding their cattle, which are influenced by location, climate, and available resources. Listeners better understand terms like "grass-fed," and "conventional," and how they relate to various ranching practices.

The episode also dives into the confusion surrounding industry buzzwords and certifications, emphasizing the need for consumers to dig deeper and separate fact from fiction. Michaela sheds light on the challenges she faces as a rancher, including the impact of climate and the long tail of the COVID pandemic on her business.

Episode Links:

The first link is to an article by nutritionist Diana Rodgers titled "Protein vs. Better Protein." In the article, Rodgers discusses sustainable farming practices and the nutritional benefits of high-quality protein sources, offering valuable insights for those interested in the connection between sustainable farming and human nutrition[^2].

https://sustainabledish.com/protein-better-protein/ 

The second link leads to information from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) about greenhouse gas emissions[^1]. It highlights that agriculture accounts for only 10% of total greenhouse gas emissions in 2021 and clarifies the various sources of emissions within the industry, including livestock.

https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/sources-greenhouse-gas-emissions#:~:text=Agriculture%20(10%25%20of%202021%20greenhouse,agricultural%20soils%2C%20and%20rice%20production) 

To stay connected with Michaela and learn more about her ranching practices, listeners are encouraged to follow her on Instagram @danddbeef. 

Related Episodes, Articles & Other Resources

Check out Talk Farm to Me’s Greatest Hits for other episodes that you don’t want to miss.

Check out the For Farmers blog with related articles about supporting farmers.

Talk Farm to Me is the number one place where you can get to know a farmer, understand their stories, learn some shocking facts about farming and the world of agriculture, and see how all of it intersects with your life, your food, your health, the health of your land, soil, local communities, economies and so much more. 

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Production & Music Credits

Dana DiPrima, host &...