164.   Splitting the Farm to Evolve with Becky Szarzynski

164.   Splitting the Farm to Evolve with Becky Szarzynski

Author: Grazing Grass April 2, 2025 Duration: 1:26:41
Grazing Grass Podcast | Rotational Grazing, Soil Health & Profitable Livestock Farming
ScienceNatural

Becky Szarzynski is a pioneering farmer in the field of sustainable farming and regenerative agriculture. With her independent venture, Ember Cattle Company, based in Fairfield, Virginia, Becky has transformed her family's farming legacy into a solo endeavor. Her journey is marked by innovative practices such as intensifying grazing techniques and focusing on more frequent moves. Becky's story is a compelling narrative of resilience and passion as she navigates the complexities of transitioning from a joint family operation to a successful independent farm business, all while maintaining strong family ties.

Topics covered in this episode:

  • Transition from joint family farming to independent farming
  • Innovations in grazing practices and cattle management
  • Challenges of non-selective grazing and managing Sericea lespedeza
  • Integration of sheep alongside cattle
  • Emotional and mental challenges of family farm dynamics
  • The role of cattle genetics in improving herd quality
  • Importance of dung beetles in regenerative agriculture
  • Efficient cattle management with ATVs
  • Future prospects of regenerative agriculture in the USA


Listening to this podcast offers invaluable insights into the world of regenerative agriculture through Becky's firsthand experiences and expertise. Whether you're an aspiring farmer or a seasoned agricultural enthusiast, Becky's innovative approaches and practical tips provide a comprehensive understanding of sustainable farming practices. Her journey underscores the potential for personal growth and success in agriculture, encouraging listeners to embrace both the challenges and rewards of this dynamic field.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Ember Cattle Company

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Noble Research Institute

Redmond
GBT Angus

Grazing Grass Links
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Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

  • (00:00) - Introduction and Guest Revisit
  • (00:15) - Fast Five Questions
  • (01:05) - Podcast Overview and Sponsor Message
  • (02:51) - Farm Update and Grazing Goals
  • (05:35) - Becky's Journey and Farm Split
  • (08:01) - Challenges and New Beginnings
  • (12:31) - Family Dynamics and Support
  • (22:40) - Grazing Practices and Innovations
  • (35:08) - Genetics and Culling Standards
  • (42:37) - Feeding Strategies and Genetic Improvement
  • (44:08) - Considering Sheep and Overgrazing
  • (46:50) - Introduction to Dung Beetles
  • (49:52) - Dung Beetle Lifecycle and Benefits
  • (53:45) - Challenges and Observations with Dung Beetles
  • (01:04:37) - Advice for New Farmers
  • (01:20:03) - Future of Regenerative Agriculture
  • (01:25:21) - Conclusion and Resources


Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Upcoming Grazing Events

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Apr 22-24 3 Springs Utah

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Original Music by Louis Palfrey


There’s a quiet revolution happening in the fields and pastures, one that ties the health of the soil directly to the health of a farm’s bottom line. Grazing Grass Podcast | Rotational Grazing, Soil Health & Profitable Livestock Farming is a part of that conversation, sitting down with the men and women who are putting regenerative principles into daily practice. Hosted by Grazing Grass, each episode feels like a candid chat across a fence line, moving beyond theory into the tangible details of managing livestock on grass. You’ll hear farmers recount their own journeys-what prompted their shift in thinking, the logistical hurdles of changing their operation, and the outcomes they’ve witnessed in their land and ledger books. A recurring segment called "Over Grazing" digs into the specific problems and hard-won lessons that come with this way of farming. This isn’t just a science or nature podcast; it’s a practical resource built on shared experience, aiming to strengthen a community where knowledge about profitable, grass-based systems is passed along openly. Tune in for honest stories that get to the root of what it means to work with the land.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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Grazing Grass Podcast | Rotational Grazing, Soil Health & Profitable Livestock Farming
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