How Cattle Producers Can Take Back Their Time

In this conversation, Zack Lindsley shares his journey as a first-generation farmer and feedlot owner, discussing the challenges he faced, the importance of financial literacy, and how technology has transformed his operation. He emphasizes the significance of community involvement and mentorship in agriculture and offers insights into evaluating new technologies for efficiency and ROI. Zack's story is one of perseverance, growth, and a commitment to family and community.

Takeaways

• Zack is a first-generation farmer who took over his father-in-law's operation.

• He faced challenges due to a lack of experience and had to learn independently.

• Zack emphasizes the importance of financial literacy in farming.

• He believes success in agriculture is defined by family and community, not just money.

• Technology, like Performance Beef, has significantly improved his operation's efficiency.

• Zack evaluates new technologies based on cost, efficiency, and ease of use.

• He has built a supportive team to help manage his operation.

• Community involvement is crucial for rural thriving and personal fulfillment.

• Zack encourages others to take risks and try new things in agriculture.

• He values the lifestyle that farming provides for his family.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Description of Zack's Operation

03:38 Challenges Faced as a First-Generation Farmer

05:07 Vetting Ideas and Mentors in Agriculture

08:15 Motivation to Enter Agriculture and Definition of Success

10:22 Key Traits of Successful Farmers

12:06 Tracking Inputs and Financial Management

14:24 Implementing Technology for Efficiency

16:44 Impact of Performance Beef on the Operation

19:16 Vetting Process for New Technologies

20:35 Other Technologies Implemented on the Operation

24:28 Outsourcing and Time Management

26:17 Use of EIDs and Animal Health Tracking

28:02 Adoption of EIDs in the Industry

30:47 Impact of Time Savings on Community Involvement

32:01 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Aspiring Farmers

Performance Beef: https://www.performancelivestockanalytics.com/stories/10-cattle-feeders-ag-lender-relationship?utm_campaign=%5BPLA%5D%20General%20Awareness%20%7C%202024&utm_source=Casual%20Cattle%20Conversations&utm_medium=Newsletter%20Ad&utm_content=Ag%20Lending%20Article

More Ranching Resources: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranching-resources