Cattle Connect

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!

Scholarship season is here, so what better time to revisit the past and hear from a previous Alabama Cattlemen's Foundation (ACF) Scholarship recipient? Listen as host Josie Jones visits with Alabama District 31 Senator Josh Carnley as he shares his journey from growing up on a Coffee County farm to receiving an ACF scholarship, building an agricultural career, and serving in the state senate. Learn how his impact on the next generation has extended far beyond three unique career fields through his passion for mentoring and the importance of exposing all youth to agriculture.

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.

The gavel has fallen on the final day of the 2026 Alabama Legislative Session, and hosts Kayla Greer and Erin Beasley recap the fast‑paced 2026 session with Russ Durrance of the Alabama Farmers Federation. The trio focus on budget outcomes and pieces of proposed policy the ag community monitored throughout the busiest 105 days in downtown Montgomery. Tune in to learn more about the final session in Alabama’s old Statehouse and the fourth year of the Quadrennium.

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.