390: Mentorship Could Be the Cattle Industry's Greatest Investment with Wes Shaw

The future of the cattle industry depends on more than strong markets and good genetics, it depends on the next generation of producers stepping up to lead. In this episode of the Cattle USA Daily Podcast, Lauren sits down once again with fifth-generation Texas cattle producer Wes Shaw to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing young producers today. From mentorship and leadership to preserving family ranches, getting involved in agricultural organizations, and finding a voice in policy, Wes shares why investing in the next generation is one of the most important things the cattle industry can do. Links:Connect with Wes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wes-shaw4/CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/CattleUSA App IOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/cattleusa/id1673147759CattleUSA App Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.edgarmcbee.cusamobile&pcampaignid=web_shareFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusa.shop/products/cattleusa-drive-premium-daily-newsletter?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&brid=YWdncwFNXt0EmdzFy5cJJBp84J9gCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways:Mentorship as the foundation of a stronger cattle industryLeadership opportunities for young cattle producersThe importance of getting involved in agricultural organizationsBuilding relationships with mentors and industry leadersPreserving family ranches through intentional succession planningChallenges facing the next generation of cattle producersConfidence gained through advocacy and leadershipThe role of agricultural policy in shaping the industry's futureBalancing tradition with innovation on family operationsInvesting in people to strengthen the cattle industryChapters:01:06 Meet Wes Shaw02:03 Why the Cattle Industry Needs More Young Producers04:27 Finding the Right Mentor06:09 Why Mentorship Benefits Both Generations07:34 Organizations That Build Future Leaders09:58 Staying Involved Beyond College12:37 Carrying on a Family Ranch Legacy16:23 The Biggest Challenges Facing Young Producers20:23 Why Young Producers Need a Voice in Policy23:27 Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone25:18 Final Advice for the Next Generationcattle industry, mentorship, young cattle producers, Wes Shaw, Lauren Moylan, Cattle USA Daily Podcast, beef industry, agricultural leadership, young farmers, young ranchers, cattle ranching, family ranches, ranch succession, agricultural mentorship, leadership development, agricultural organizations, Texas cattle producers, Texas Tech University, agricultural communications, ranch management, agricultural advocacy, cattle production, Farm Bureau, Texas Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, TSCRA, 4-H, FFA, agricultural policy, rural leadership, multi-generational ranches, next generation of agriculture, cattle producers, beef producers, agriculture careers, leadership in agriculture