Katrina Huffstuttler, immediate past president of the Livestock Publications Council and part of the Grant Company team, joins Montie Soules to explore the evolving landscape of agricultural communications. Drawing on her leadership in one of ag media’s most influential organizations, Katrina shares valuable insights on the challenges and opportunities facing PR professionals—from mastering social media’s fast pace to navigating artificial intelligence’s role in storytelling. This episode offers a unique inside look at how ag communicators are shaping the future of beef industry messaging and advocacy.

As the face of R.A. Brown Ranch’s growing social media presence, sixth-generation rancher Tucker Brown is reaching millions of viewers each month, sharing the realities of ranch life and advocating for the beef industry. In this episode, Tucker joins Montie Soules to discuss the power of connecting with the public, the responsibility of producers to engage with consumers, and how he balances advocacy with the ranch’s commitment to raising high-quality bulls for commercial cattlemen.

Join Montie Soules for this exclusive conversation with Jon DeClerk, the incoming executive vice president of the American Simmental Association. With a background spanning livestock judging, academia and consulting, Jon brings a deep industry perspective to his new role. He and Montie talk about the value of multi-breed genetic evaluation through International Genetic Solutions, the importance of accuracy and transparency in EPDs, and why collaboration across breeds matters more than ever as the nation's cow herd shrinks and beef demand rises.

In this episode of The Shorthorn Bull Pen, host Montie Soules visits with Brian Bertelsen, vice president of field operations for U.S. Premium Beef. Brian shares insight into USPB’s producer-owned model, its long-standing partnership with National Beef, and how the value-based grid system works to reward producers for high-performing cattle. Tune in to learn more about how USPB’s data-driven approach helps producers optimize genetics, nutrition and management to market fed cattle in today’s value-focused beef landscape.

Tom Schultz of Neogen joins us for an insightful conversation on DNA testing and genetic evaluations. This episode covers key differences between seedstock and commercial DNA testing, why DNA sample processing takes time, and how genetic research is helping select against major health issues like bovine congestive heart failure. Tune in for a deep dive into the science behind smarter, data-driven decisions for your herd!

Season 2 of the Shorthorn Bull Pen kicks off with Chandler Mulvaney, director of grassroots advocacy and spokesperson development for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Host Montie Soules talks with Chandler about the vital role of industry advocates, whether they come from multi-generation ranching families or are just starting in beef production.

They discuss why having “boots-on-the-ground” spokespersons is critical for the industry’s future and highlight the benefits of junior beef breed associations in preparing young leaders to be confident, effective communicators. Tune in for an insightful conversation on shaping the next generation of beef advocates!

Welcome to the final episode of Season 1 of The Shorthorn Bull Pen! To celebrate the season's success, we’re bringing back a fan favorite—our very first episode. In this special re-air, host Montie Soules sits down with Congressman Frank Lucas, a proud Shorthorn breeder and passionate advocate for rural America. Congressman Lucas shares his insights on representing agricultural communities in Washington, D.C., and the critical role of educating congressional leaders about modern agriculture practices. Let’s revisit this inspiring conversation that started it all!

In this episode of the Shorthorn Bull Pen, we sit down with Ryan Sproul, the community relations manager for Oklahoma Natural Gas. With a background advising politicians such as former U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe from Oklahoma, Ryan brings a wealth of experience from both the public and private sectors. Outside of his professional career, Ryan operates a cow-calf business, giving him a unique perspective on the challenges and rewards of ranching. Tune in to hear about his journey, his insights on bridging industries, and how his passion for agriculture influences his work.