Breeding Philosophies with Jordan Rhodes of Rhodes Red Angus

This week on Angus Underground, your hosts are discussing one of their absolute favorite topics: breeding philosophy!

Having seen different breeding programs across the nation up close and personal, David, Joe, and Korbin are bringing their well-rounded expertise to the table to share their insights on various breeding philosophies.

Joining them to discuss their own breeding program and philosophy in detail today is Jordan Rhodes of Rhodes Red Angus, located in Faulkton, South Dakota.

When David first met Jordan a year ago, his story and experience struck a chord with him. As a young, passionate breeder, Jordan is truly paving the way for the next generation of cattle ranchers. Despite his success in these recent years, Jordan has never forgotten his roots. His commitment to helping others along their own journeys is both admirable and inspiring — something this industry needs more of!

In this episode, Jordan shares about his purebred cattle breeding program, how he first got into the industry, how he became interested in AI and the mission of making beef cattle better, how he studies the beef business, the major lessons he has learned throughout his career in terms of breeding cattle, his thoughts on the commercial cattle industry, and key insights into the work, environment, and genetics that went into their top-selling bull this year.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Rhodes Red Angus

The Montana Bred for Balance Bull and Female Sale — Nov. 13th, 2021

Rafter 5M Land & Cattle

Connors State College Bull Test Sale — Dec. 2nd, 2021

Ginger Hill Angus Bull and Female Sale — Nov. 20th, 2021

Shady Brook Angus Farm

Bruin Ranch

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American Angus Association

Quotes:

“This business doesn’t have to be so complicated. … I think right now, in this day and age, we have an opportunity to raise the absolute best Angus cattle the world has ever seen. … Technology has given us [that] opportunity.” — Jordan Rhodes

“The way I study this beef business is a conglomeration of everything. … There’s so much data that’s turned in.” — Jordan Rhodes

“I realized really quickly that if you can get a cow pregnant, and you can understand just how much she maintains her skeleton, you can change things.” — Jordan Rhodes

“I think that everybody who has a genetic influence in this industry should have to calf their own cows as initiation. If you have never calved 300 cows, you haven’t walked a mile in [a breeder’s] shoes.” — Jordan Rhodes

“The other thing about Red Angus that I love is that there is virtually no labor in these cattle. They are awesome.” — Jordan Rhodes

“Our obligation to our commercial bull customers should be that we don’t create more problems for them and that we should give them a product that’s predictable and consistent.”

 

“Just avoid the noise. … Just go to work.” — Jordan Rhodes

Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.