e1. Introducing the Grazing Grass Podcast and Myself

In this very first episode of the Grazing Grass Podcast, host Cal Hardage shares the story behind the show, his background in farming, and the vision for building a community of graziers who want to maximize forage production through better management. Cal reflects on his upbringing on a dairy and beef operation, his lifelong learning in the world of grass farming, and his current practices on 240 acres in Oklahoma raising cattle, sheep, and goats using regenerative rotational grazing.Listeners will learn why Cal created the podcast, what to expect from future episodes, and how to connect with others through the Grazing Grass Community. He also answers the original version of the Famous Four questions, sharing his favorite grazing books, top tools on the farm, and where listeners can learn more about his work.Topics CoveredWhy Cal launched the Grazing Grass PodcastThe need for a dedicated grass-farming focused podcastCal’s background—from dairy to beef to sheep & goatsThe evolution of his grazing practicesCurrent rotational grazing approach across 240 acresForage species on his farm (Bermuda, fescue, clover mixes, lespedeza, Johnson grass)Fence setups and rotational challengesUsing technology, electric fence, and daily vs weekly movesPerformance impacts of weekly movesThe origin of the Famous Four questionsCal’s favorite books, tools, and community resourcesWhy You Should Listen This episode sets the tone for everything the Grazing Grass Podcast is about: practical grazing knowledge, farmer-to-farmer learning, and real-world insights from someone working to improve forage and livestock production. It’s an honest, down-to-earth introduction that helps listeners connect with Cal’s story and the mission behind the podcast.Resources MentionedNo-Risk Ranching by Greg JudyComeback Farms by Greg JudyThe Stockman Grass FarmerHedge Apple Acres — https://hedgeappleacres.comGrazing Grass Community — https://grazinggrass.comNeed genetics that perform on forage?Take a look at Grass Based Genetics—a directory of livestock bred to thrive on grass.Helpful Grazing Grass Links: • Website (Episodes, Resources & More) • Join the Grazing Grass Community on FacebookOriginal music by Louis Palfrey. Looking for grass-based breeders? Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.Visit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmond Agriculture Grassroots CarbonGrazing Grass LinksWebsiteCommunity (on Facebook)Original Music by Louis Palfrey