Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Gale McKinney, he's the owner of the American Cattlemen Podcast and he sits down with Bray Haven, Executive Vice President of Cattlemen's Congress.
Bray begins by sharing his personal and professional journey, describing how his upbringing in rural western Oklahoma and experience with organizations like the Oklahoma Youth Expo shaped his approach to leadership and community building. He recounts the formation of Cattlemen’s Congress in 2020, emphasizing that its creation was a response to widespread event cancellations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to supportive state and city leaders, and the fortuitous availability of Oklahoma City’s OKC Fair Park, the event managed to attract over 11,000 entries in its first year, providing a vital opportunity for cattlemen to trade genetics and maintain the progress of the beef industry during a challenging period.
Bray explains that the show’s mission is centered on revolutionizing seed stock marketing and commerce for breeders across North America. The organization’s leadership relies on input from national breed associations and an advisory committee comprising exhibitors from across the country, ensuring that every decision, from event logistics to marketing strategies, is informed by participant feedback. He highlights the enormous logistical task of managing more than 25 breeds and over 20 sales but credits clear communication and Oklahoma City’s strategic location for much of the event’s continued growth. The Congress also prioritizes inclusivity, recently welcoming new associations like the Wagyu Association.
Bray discusses the importance of bridging the gap between purebred and commercial cattle sectors through conferences and specialized sales, underscoring the event’s commitment to fostering industry collaboration, advancing technology, and continuously improving facilities. He concludes with optimism, looking forward to future shows and reinforcing Cattlemen’s Congress’ role as an evolving, participant-driven hub for the beef industry.
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit: www.americancattlemen.com.
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