Toplines and Tales

191 - Special Episode - Live from National Western Stock Show

A unique podcast, coming to you live from Denver, Colorado, USA. This episode I chat on a combined live podcast with Heath and Brock from Angus One Promotions, about what they do, including an insight into the Bonsmara theory, Heath’s visit to Wye Plantation and the relevance of pedigrees. We also go through the highlights of the National Western stock Show, as well as the tables turned as they interview me!
 

190 - People in Livestock - Colin Davidson

Great to chat to Angus breeder Colin Davidson from Skaill on the Orkney Islands. Not many people can state that they have been instrumental in changing a breed once, but this week’s guest is well into his second go. We chat through the 50-year history of the herd and the pioneering spirit that Colin has invested in it in this thought provoking interview, which also includes some interesting views on the future of methane reduction.

189 - A Christmas message from Toplines and Tales

With such a busy year almost past, this week I reminisce about the year that was with a Christmas message to all our listeners. 

188 - People in Livestock - Cathal O'Meara

One of Ireland's hottest talents in the cattle show ring, Cathal talks about his influences and experience not just at the halter but also behind the scenes. Hailing from near Limerick, his skills have been in demand not just in Ireland but around UK and also Europe. 

187 - People in Livestock - Andrew Bishop

An interesting chat with Andrew Bishop from Gloucestershire who would have been the top man to beat in the carcass lamb competitions throughout UK for two or three decades. Although winding his workload down now, there are some great snippets of wisdom for everyone in this podcast.
And a bit of live racing from son Charlie in the background!

186 - People in Livestock - Ben and Wendy Mayne - Texas Angus

From a small Scottish based herd started 90 years ago, to selling the record price Angus bull, Texas Thunderstruck for $360,000, (£160,000) the Australian Texas Angus herd have become a dominant force of breeding throughout the world. Ben and Wendy Mayne talk us through the expansion of the herd to nearly 1000 pedigree cows, selling close to 400 bulls per year and how sustainability and minimum inputs have advanced their breeding system. We also hear a brief preview of the World Angus forum to be held in Australia next year.

185 - People in Livestock - Dave Murray

Dave Murray is well known in pedigree cattle circles, both as a breeder and judge. He talks us through his young years in the Angus breed and the changes that occurred including bringing in a measuring stick to try and improve them! Through a lifetime with both Angus and Charolais cattle we relive a bit of history, including him being in charge of the conception of the first Charolais to win Smithfield show.

184 - Special Podcast - Live from Irish Aberdeen Angus Extravaganza

A special podcast live from the Irish Aberdeen Angus Extravaganza in Tipperary, with some great chat with many breeders and other highly interesting characters over a two day spectacular weekend.
Thanks to Shane Murphy and the society for asking me over to record the event. 

183 - People in Livestock - Jimmy Laing

A man that needs no introduction, Jimmy has been involved in pedigree beef cattle  man and boy. Hailing from Ross-shire in Scotland, we hear of the herds and cattle he has worked with, including a few great stories, as well as his short venture into the oil business. in this entertaining episode. 

182 - Irish Aberdeen Angus Special - 1

The Irish Aberdeen Angus Extravaganza will be held at Thurles, Tipperary on weekend 5th and 6th October. In the first of a series, this week I speak to secretary Shane Murphy about what to expect in this exceptional event.