Beef prices are climbing, America’s cattle inventory has fallen to levels not seen in more than 70 years, and fewer family farms are left to produce the food we depend on. So what is actually happening to America’s beef supply—and is this problem going to get worse before it gets better?

John sits down with third-generation cattle farmer Adam Williams to unpack what’s happening behind the scenes of the cattle industry. They discuss record cattle prices, rising costs for farmers, why older producers are selling their herds and land, the decline of family farms, imported beef, antibiotics and hormones, and why supporting local farmers may become increasingly important.

They also get practical about buying and raising cattle, what new homesteaders need to know, how livestock auctions really work, and the role small cattle producers still play in America’s food system.

Beef prices are climbing, America’s cattle inventory has fallen to levels not seen in more than 70 years, and fewer family farms are left to produce the food we depend on. So what is actually happening to America’s beef supply—and is this problem going to get worse before it gets better?

John sits down with third-generation cattle farmer Adam Williams to unpack what’s happening behind the scenes of the cattle industry. They discuss record cattle prices, rising costs for farmers, why older producers are selling their herds and land, the decline of family farms, imported beef, antibiotics and hormones, and why supporting local farmers may become increasingly important.

They also get practical about buying and raising cattle, what new homesteaders need to know, how livestock auctions really work, and the role small cattle producers still play in America’s food system.

CHAPTERS
00:00 America’s Beef Supply Problem
06:25 What’s Really Driving the Cattle Shortage?
13:21 How America’s Beef Industry Actually Works
17:51 Should You Raise Your Own Cattle?
22:22 The Future of Beef & Why Local Matters
36:25 Adam’s Advice for Providing for Your Family