Cattle Connect

Behind the ACA’s newest membership benefit with Watt Cattle Company’s WW Livestock is a story that goes deeper than a discount. On this episode of Cattle Connect, host Michael Smith talks with Tyler Watt of Sumter County about growing up in the cattle business and the challenges he faced as a beef producer. Tyler shares how faith, family, a little endurance, and entrepreneurship helped him rebuild and support other producers today. If you or a farmer or rancher you know is struggling with mental health challenges, remember that help is available and you are not alone. Find resources through A Healthy You, A Healthy Farm at https://agi.alabama.gov/hyhf/.

In this election-focused episode of Cattle Connect, hosts Kayla Greer and Erin Beasley interview Alabama BeefPAC-backed candidates Wes Allen (Lieutenant Governor), Katherine Robertson (Attorney General) and Corey Hill (Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries). They discuss their backgrounds, priorities for the office and the role of state leadership in protecting Alabama agriculture. Remember— the Primary Runoff Election is set for June 16. Be sure to get out and vote!

On this episode of Cattle Connect, hosts Kayla Greer and Erin Beasley preview the 2026 Regional Cattlemen’s Conferences — five local events across the state featuring region-specific education, networking, and a membership dinner. Learn the dates and locations, hear what the Beef Systems Extension team is bringing for the educational line-up, and find out how to register at BamaBeef.org/Events.

Host Michael Smith and guest Mitchell Alexander, chairman of the Young Cattlemen’s Leadership Program (YCLP) Council, discuss the YCLP, sharing how the program builds leadership, industry knowledge, and statewide networks for new and young cattle producers. The episode highlights YCLP alumni experiences, council work, the benefits of membership and networking, and introduces the incoming Class XIII, which kicks off next week in Montgomery!

In this episode of the Past Presidents Profile series, host Kayla Greer sits down with past Alabama Cattlemen's Association (ACA) president L.D. Fitzpatrick of Montgomery County. L.D. reflects on his 1996 presidency, longtime service as state treasurer, the unveiling of The MOOseum, and the transition in executive leadership. They discuss the importance of county-state partnerships, promoting beef, and the value of getting involved in association leadership. The conversation explores personal memories, practical advice for members considering leadership roles, and a closing message to be proud, active, and connected in Alabama’s beef industry.

As the South heats up, host Kayla Greer talks with Alabama State Forage Specialist Dr. Leanne Dillard about fescue toxicosis, its effects on cattle performance and practical mitigation strategies. The episode focuses on using cool-season annuals—especially red clover—to dilute toxins, improve intake and conception rates, recommended seeding windows and inclusion goals, grazing tactics, and available Extension and cost-share resources to help producers implement these practices.

At the 83rd Annual Convention & Trade Show, Lee County CattleWoman Holli Thompson was installed as the president of the Alabama CattleWomen’s Association. In this episode, Holli shares about her childhood involvement in youth livestock exhibition and her path to ACWA leadership.Holli also shares the ACWA’s mission—beef promotion, beef education, and beef legislation—her priorities for her term as president, and ways listeners can join or support the organization.

On this episode of Cattle Connect, hosts Kayla Greer and Erin Beasley are in studio with a recap of the recent membership gathering in Mobile. From the election of new officers to celebrating hardworking membership prize winners, the duo shares some of their favorite moments from the event—including a record-breaking Alabama BeefPAC Auction that raised more than $70,000 to support advocacy efforts. They also dive into a mid-session legislative update, walking through what’s happening at the Statehouse and why it matters for members. The conversation covers budget progress, the 30-day local notice bill, PSC and energy-related proposals, and where things currently stand with the Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) bill. Whether you attended convention in Mobile or just want to stay in the loop, Kayla and Erin break down the highlights and key updates you need to know.

In this episode of Cattle Connect, host Bailey Watson sits down with Gene Copenhaver, the newly elected 2026 President of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, at CattleCon in Nashville. As a fifth-generation cattleman and former agricultural banker, Gene shares the story of his family operation and the leadership journey that took him from grassroots involvement to national office. They discuss his priorities for the year ahead, where producers can expect to see him on the road, and how he plans to engage with cattlemen and women across the country — including at the ACA Convention & Trade Show in Mobile. Gene also offers advice for young producers, emphasizing the importance of community leadership, industry advocacy, and staying involved at the local level.

In this kickoff episode of the Past Presidents Profile series, host Kayla Greer sits down with former Alabama Cattlemen’s Association (ACA) president Richard Meadows of Houston County. Richard shares his roots at Meadows Creek Farm, how early involvement in 4‑H, Auburn University’s Department of Animal Sciences, and industry networking shaped his path to leadership, and how the association supported his family during a life‑changing medical crisis. The conversation explores Richard’s experiences guiding the ACA through a staff leadership transition, the importance of scholarships and youth programs, and the impact of the ACA’s advocacy.

Join the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association March 6–7 in Mobile for the 83rd Annual ACA Convention and Trade Show. This episode previews two days of education, networking, youth contests, and the largest beef industry trade show in the state of Alabama— all happening in Mobile. Attendees can expect top networking opportunities, association business and awards, and evening events like the Buckles & Bids and Cattlemen’s Heritage Banquet. Learn more and explore opportunities NOW to lock in your early bird pricing: https://cvent.me/AK74OL

Host Michael Smith sits down with producer and Alabama Beef Checkoff Council member Bill Walding, along with guest Bailey Watson, to discuss the Alabama Beef Checkoff—how it works, how funds are allocated across programs, and the goals of the 2026 marketing plan. This episode covers 2026 priorities and budget adjustments, consumer outreach efforts (including digital and e-commerce advertising), youth programs, producer-focused initiatives, and research investments—highlighting the long-term value of checkoff investments. To view the 2026 Alabama Beef Checkoff Marketing Plan, visit BamaBeef.org/Checkoff.

The Cattle Connect team walks through 2025 with a lively month-by-month recap — from a rare statewide snowstorm and industry conventions to youth field days, record scholarship giving, staff transitions, and an impactful D.C. advocacy trip. Staff share behind-the-scenes stories, practical takeaways, and plenty of laughs. Tune in to this season finale to catch the highlights and get excited for Season Three airing January 2, 2026.