Sorting Pen: The California Cattleman Podcast

Consumer trust doesn't happen by accident. It’s built through the everyday decisions cattle producers make to care for their animals and produce high-quality beef. In this episode, we sit down with Josh White, Senior Executive Director of Producer Education & Sustainability for the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, to discuss the evolution of the Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program, how it helps communicate producers’ commitment to doing things the right way, and how its impact is measured among consumers. We also dive into the areas where producers have excelled, opportunities for continued improvement, and how BQA may adapt in the year...

At CCA's Feeder Meeting in San Diego, Overland Stock Yard Co-Manager Jason Glenn provided an update on the West Coast's supply of feeder cattle. On this episode Katie and Jason chat about the market,  cattle feeding in California, and more.

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In our last episode, part one of this two-part series we covered a lot of background on the CA Wolf Project: how it got started, the people behind it, and what the project is—and isn’t—focused on.

In this episode we pick that conversation back up. We sort through how the team is collecting research, who they’re collaborating with, what they’re seeing so far, what’s ahead, and how it all fits into the bigger picture. We’ll also take a closer look at the real challenges California ranchers are facing with wolves today.

T...

The California Wolf Project is an initiative within the University of California Berkeley’s Wildlife Program. In this episode, the leaders of the California Wolf Project and principal investigators Dr. Arthur Middleton and Dr. Justin Brashars explain how this project got started, the people behind it, and what the project is and isn’t focused on. 

This is the first episode of two on The California Wolf Project. Part two, dropping on May 18, will sort through how the team is collecting research, who they’re collaborating with, what they’re seeing so far, what’s ahead, and how it all...

On this episode of Sorting Pen, we’re joined by Dr. John Madigan. Best known for developing the Madigan Squeeze Procedure, Dr. Madigan walks us through this simple yet groundbreaking technique used to treat neonatal maladjustment syndrome (often called “dummy foal syndrome") and how it’s now being applied to calves as well. Hear why it works, how it can be used on the ranch, the research behind it, and much more in this conversation.

If you heard Dr. Madigan speak at our Convention last December, this episode builds on that conversation. And if you didn’t, it’s a g...

As he prepares to term out of serving in the California State Legislature, Assemblymember James Gallagher joins us for a real, wide-ranging conversation about his time in office and what’s next.

He shares his background in agriculture, what he’s learned about navigating Sacramento, and how he’s worked to elevate rural issues. We also discuss the passing of Congressman Doug LaMalfa and how that influenced his decision to run for Congress.

From rising costs and fuel prices to ongoing regulatory challenges, Gallagher talks through the issues facing farmers and ranchers today, along with the im...

It's hot! What's up with California’s weather being unusually warm this March? Meteorologist & Climatologist Brian Bledsoe joins us to explain why this spring is feeling more like summer so far, break down this winter’s rainfall, and discuss whether a potential El Niño or even a super El Niño could be on the horizon. We also dive into the weather and situation with the devastating wildfires ripping through Nebraska cattle country.

Episode Resources: 

Visit brianbledsoeweather.com to connect with Brian. 

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On March 5, initial findings from a new California study examining ways to improve produce safety—particularly on the Central Coast—were unveiled. The multi-year study was conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in partnership with the Western Center for Food Safety at the University of California, Davis, the California Department of Food and Agriculture, and agricultural stakeholders across the region.

Central Coast cattle ranchers are among those stakeholders. In this episode, we are joined by Jack Rice, owner of Western Resource Strategies LLC, to discuss why ranchers have a seat at the table, how this...

On this episode, we’re honored to sit down with current National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) President Gene Copenhaver and President-Elect Kim Brackett for a conversation to get to know them. They share insights from their leadership journeys, discuss the priorities shaping NCBA’s agenda, and reflect on what's ahead for them in their leadership roles with NCBA.

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National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) Executive Director of Government Affairs Sigrid Johanes is back on Sorting Pen. In this episode from CattleCon 2026 in Nashville, Sigrid shares about the years of work behind the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Also hear the latest on the threats of New World screwworm and the Asian Longhorned Tick. 

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In this episode of Sorting Pen, we’re sorting through CCA’s early 2026 legislative efforts as lawmakers return to Sacramento for the second year of a two-year session. CCA's Vice President of Government Affairs Kirk Wilbur joins to talk about what CCA is watching early on, and whether the lack of major new threats so far is encouraging—or just the calm before the storm. We also dive into CCA’s request for funding for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Wolf Program, Kirk's upcoming opportunity to testify on human-wildlife coexistence, and more.

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To open the first episode of 2026, host Katie Roberti is joined by CCA President Rick Roberti for a conversation on the ongoing gray wolf crisis, thoughts on his final year as president, and what lies ahead for CCA. Together, they also take time to honor and remember the leadership and lasting legacy of Congressman Doug LaMalfa.

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How do you turn an idea like legalizing livestock composting into law in California? In part two of this two-part series, we go behind the scenes with researchers Laura Snell and Dr. Kasey DeAtley to cover the bill itself, how it moved through the Legislature, and what it means for ranchers going forward. 

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This episode was recorded where the cowboys shop—D Bar M — in downtown Reno. Hear from the owner himself about this iconic western store before our 109th annual convention takes place in Reno next week!

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How do you turn an idea like legalizing livestock composting into law in California? In part one of this two-part series, we go behind the scenes with researchers Laura Snell and Dr. Kasey DeAtley to hear how research, planning, and persistence made it all possible.

Stay tuned for part two episode (dropping Dec. 8), where we’ll cover the bill itself, how it moved through the Legislature, and what it means for ranchers going forward. 

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As California's fall bull sale run winds down, Western Livestock Journal Western Region Representative Jared Patterson joins us to recap how this year's sales went the past few months. 

We chat about this year’s outstanding sale averages, what makes California seedstock producers shine, EPDs, and more. Jared also shares some favorite moments from the road and the best advice for anyone getting ready to buy their next bull.

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In this episode we welcome Tracy Sellers, senior content writer and media strategist for the UC Davis CLEAR Center, to Sorting Pen for the first time as she gives California ranching families and producers an inside look at the work being done to bridge science, media, and agriculture. Get to know her journey in agriculture, and now working at the CLEAR Center with Dr. Frank Mitloehner. Tracy also shares what a typical day looks like at the Center, highlights some of the priority projects she and her team are focused on, and reflects on some favorite pieces she’s pu...

To learn more about the conversations had during CCA's recent "fly-in" to Washington, D.C., on this episode we first talk with CCA Feeder Chair Mike Sulpizio of Superior Cattle Feeders, as the New World screwworm situation and the border closure was a top priority he took to on that trip.

After we hear from Mike, stay tuned for updates from the National Cattlemen's Beef Association's CEO Colin Woodall about the latest announcement from USDA on Sept. 22 that New World screwworm flies were found less than 70 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border. Colin shares about NCBA’s...

It has been fire years to the week since that fire ripped through the Plumas National Forest and destroyed communities, legacies, the Daley family’s cow herd, and tragically ended lives. 

Dave Daley, Butte County Rancher and past CCA president, talks with Katie about where we are at on wildfire solutions in California. We also talk about the recovery progress (and lack of) on the land from that burn five years later.

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Some increases in biodiversity on working landscapes are easier to handle than others. We asked Meghan Hertel, California Natural Resources Agency Deputy Secretary for Biodiversity and Habitat, to be our guest on this episode to talk about a positive, voluntary initiative that is trying to drive funding, support and increased awareness into the important role that ranchers and rangelands can play in conserving and achieving the 30x30 initiative – an effort to conserve 30% of lands and coastal waters by 2030.

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WSR Insurance Farm and Ranch Specialist Josh Morris joins Sorting Pen host Katie Roberti to break down the latest insurance updates impacting California agriculture. From the state’s evolving Sustainable Insurance Strategy to upcoming workers’ compensation rate increases, Josh shares what producers need to know now. Plus, hear what’s new at WSR Insurance and why it’s the perfect time to schedule your Pasture, Rangeland, and Forage (PRF) meetings.

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California Cattle Council Executive Director Justin Oldfield joins the podcast to discuss what the Council has focused on so far in 2025 and what’s on the horizon for the last half of this year. On this episode, learn about the commercials, billboards, and digital content the Council is advertising now and the strategic plan behind it all. Plus, hear more about some of the research the Council has funded. 

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Summer is going fast! We slow down on this episode to talk about the first six months of Rick Roberti's presidency. Rick shares about his experiences and issues discussed at CCA's Feeder Meeting in May and NCBA’s Summer Business meeting a few weeks ago in San Diego. He also provides an update on the gray wolf conflict and the concerns of New World screwworm getting closer to the U.S. Finally, hear why you need to be part of our Midyear Meeting and Cattle-PAC fundraiser happening August 14-15 in Paso Robles. Register, purchase tickets and get all the de...

We are releasing this episode early, to give you more information about the One Big Beautiful Bill that passed out of the Senate yesterday (as of publishing this episode on July 2). 

In this update, hear from California rancher and past CCA president Kevin Kester about the positive tax provisions in this bill for ranchers and farmers. Last week, Kevin was invited to the White House for an event highlighting the tax relief the “One Big Beautiful Bill” will provide for ranching and farming families across the country for future generations. Hear about Kevin's experience and the importance of th...

CCA's Vice President of Government Affairs Kirk Wilbur shares are the current legislative session so far. Hear about CCA's two sponsored bills and other bills the government affairs team is watching.

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On this episode we hear about the California Beef Council’s Pasture to Plate Beef Tour, which is an in-depth experience that immerses participants in the beef lifecycle production process and engages foodservice, retail, and nutrition professionals. CBC Director of Retail and Foodservice Marketing Christie Van Egmond and CBC Manager, of Producer Education and Engagement Makenzie Coveau explain the history of the tour and its success over the years. Grimmius Cattle Company’s Chief Operating Officer Austin Flores also shares why their ranch has participated as a stop in this tour for many years and the...

Early on Thursday morning, the One, Big Beautiful Bill progressed out of the House. Just hours later, Sorting Pen host Katie Roberti got to sit down with Ethan Lane, head of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association's office in Washington, D.C, to discuss what's in the bill, NCBA's success on it, and what's ahead for this legislation. 

On this episode, Katie and Ethan also discuss New World Screwworm and the border, tariffs, and NCBA’s years of work to get beef into the United Kingdom.

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It is our 100th episode of Sorting Pen! To celebrate, we are launching our first episode in a new series on this podcast focused on “Sorting Through Stories with California Ranching Legends.” Starting with this interview, a couple of times a year, Sorting Pen host Katie Roberti will sit down with some of the great cattlemen and women in the West to hear their ranching stories, lessons, and more.

Our first legend is Mr. Ellington Peek. 

Ellington sat in his favorite seat in the stands outside the auction ring at Shasta Livestock Auction as Ka...

On May 15, the California Fish and Game Wildlife Resources Committee will meet in Sacramento and consider changing a rule to restrict the ability to take any number of coyotes at any time. CCA's Vice President of Government Affairs Kirk Wilbur joins this episode to share how this conversation started back in January at a Fish and Game committee hearing, detail what has happened since that hearing, and outline why CCA needs you to be part of opposing any changes to how coyotes are managed in California at this meeting on May 15.

CCA will file detailed comments with...

Two board members from the Livestock Marketing Association join this Sorting Pen episode to share why they, LMA and their members are working hard to help create opportunities for their customers, ranchers and farmers, through their producer profitability initiative. 

Back on the show is LMA's Western Director Jake Parnell—who is also a California cattle producer and owner of Cattlemen’s Livestock Market in Galt.

Joe Goggins, vice president of LMA and owner of Public Auction Yards in Billings, Montana, is also a featured guest on this episode.

Learn more about this initiative for p...

In this episode, Steve Lambert, a rancher from Butte County, shares his journey and insights as one of CCA's Second Vice Presidents. Tune in to learn more about Steve’s dedication to serving agriculture at local, state, and national levels, and hear why he continues to stay involved in these organizations.

Katie and Steve also dive into the value of CCA, with a special focus on the important role seedstock producers play in the Association.

Listen until the end to discover how Steve went from resisting being on social media over a decade ago to La...

Representing California’s 34 Assembly District, we visited Assemblymember Tom Lackey in his office. On this episode, he shares with us about issues that are top of mind right now for California legislators. We also talk about how Asm. Lackey has partnered with CCA throughout his time in office. Hear about the bill he is helping CCA run this year, and why he believes ranchers are important voices to have in Sacramento.
 

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There are two issues that came up at this year's CattleCon that we highlight on this episode of Sorting Pen: trade & taxes. In this conversation hear from past CCA President Tony Toso, who is now chair of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association's (NCBA) International Trade Committee. 

Later in the episode we hear from NCBA’s Associate Director of Government Affairs Kelsea Kemp, who happens to hail from California. Listen as Kelsea shares about NCBA’s tax priorities and one specific act NCBA is lobbying on right now.  

This episode also provides IMPORTANT updates on The...

On this episode we have three experts joining us to talk about biosecurity. From UC Davis and University of California Ag and Natural Resources, we have Dr. Gaby Maier and Dr. Lais Costa sharing their expertise. We are also fortunate to have Dr. Julia Herman from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association share her national perspectives on the importance of biosecurity.

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What happened in Point Reyes? Why are 11 ranching families leaving early next year? There are many questions you may have about the news that came about a month ago. This story is complex. It can be difficult to track and understand the full picture. To answer some of our questions and share his knowledge of the conflict Kevin Lunny, a rancher who has been in the park his entire life, joins us on this episode. Kevin explains the background of the issue, details the ongoing challenges, and discusses the future opportunities to come for the 11 families who are leaving...

There are many questions following the tragic wildfires in Los Angeles. How did the wildfires in Los Angeles get to this point? Could more have been done prior to prevent this level of catastrophe? Where does CCA and the CCA Fire Subcommittee go from here in advocating for more action on prevention? 

Those questions and more are answered on this episode by Anthony Stornetta, a San Luis Obispo County cattle rancher, Deputy Fire Chief of Operations for Santa Barbara County Fire Department and the Chair of CCA’s Fire Subcommittee. Listen as Anthony gives his insights and kno...

Longtime Sierra Valley cattle rancher Rick Roberti has the reins as CCA President for the next two years. On this first episode of 2025, hear about his background, how he joined the officer team, why he is honored to serve in this leadership position and more. 

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CCA just wrapped up our 108th Annual Convention full of great speakers. On this episode hear from one of them, as National Cattlemen's Beef Association CEO Colin Woodall is our guest on this final episode of Sorting Pen Season 4.

Listen as Colin shares about the status of the Farm Bill, how NCBA feels about some of the nominations that have been made by the incoming Administration, why taxes are a priority for NCBA and much more as we look ahead to a new Congress starting on Jan 3.
 
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California Beef Council Director of Food & Nutrition Outreach Kori Dover and host, Katie Roberti share about CBC's engagement and efforts to promote beef at the California School Nutrition Conference in the middle of November. Learn what the conference entails, why it is important CBC invests in showing up at this conference annually, and how exhibiting at this event gives CBC the opportunity to share about beef with decision makers who are selecting what's served at schools throughout California.

Episode Resources:

To see the California Beef in Schools materials Kori shares about visit https...

Los Angeles County cattle rancher and CCA member Mike Williams is the current chair of the U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef, a national organization with a mission to advance, support and communicate continuous improvement of sustainability across the U.S. beef value chain. On this episode, Mike explains what the purpose of the Roundtable is, how he got involved, who makes up the leadership of the organization and more.

Episode resources:
Visit https://www.usrsb.org to learn more about the Roundtable and access the resources Mike shares about in this episode.