153. Verification, Value, and the Future of Beef Production, with Leann Saunders

In this week’s episode, I’m sitting down with Leann Saunders, president of Where Food Comes From. We talk about something that impacts every single one of us in agriculture, whether we realize it or not: third-party verification.Leann has seen the beef industry from every angle, from working on the buyer side with McDonald's to building one of the earliest USDA process verified programs, and now working directly with producers across the country. We break down what verification actually means, why it matters, and how it connects ranchers, consumers, and the entire food supply chain.We also talk about what this looks like from the actual verification process to the financial return, and why this isn’t about changing your operation but validating what you’re already doing. From direct-to-consumer brands to global export markets, this conversation really highlights where the industry is headed and why building trust with consumers is only going to become more important moving forward.Be sure to subscribe/follow the show so you never miss an episode!Connect with Leann:Visit Where Food Comes FromCall (866) 395-5883Connect with Jessie:Follow on Instagram @ofthewest.co and @mrsjjarvFollow on Facebook @jobsofthewestCheck out the Of The West websiteResources & Links:2026 Power of Meat Study (Ann-Marie Roerink)The Nightingale by Kristin HannahJoin The Directory Of The WestGet our FREE resource for Writing a Strong Job DescriptionGet our FREE resource for Making the Most of Your InternshipGet our FREE resource: 10 Resume Mistakes (and how to fix them)Get our FREE resource: How to Avoid the 7 Biggest Hiring Mistakes Employers MakeEmail us at [email protected] to Of The West's ⁠NewslettersList your jobs on ⁠Of The WestMentioned in this episode:Raising a champion takes more than feed. It’s work, time, and passion. Purina Equine Feed