Outside of the office and as a passion project, I am a co-host for the Millennial Ag Podcast. Bringing the perspective, hot topics, and real life stories of agriculture to the public through the lens of millennials.

And when I have free time, I spend it riding my horse and assisting my family on their cow-calf operation.

How has your life been shaped by agriculture?
Agriculture is deep in my veins and it has and will always be a large part of my heart. When I graduated high school, I knew I wanted to be involved in agriculture and work towards making a difference in my community. I ended up pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering and continued to stay involved in agriculture in a variety of ways. During that time, I always thought that the agriculture community was who could influence me the most. While this is true and I have a lot of people to thank, I had a very closed mind. I ended up being influenced a lot by people outside the agriculture community and those who helped me understand the other 98% of the world who eats, wears and uses the products we produce.

Who inspires you or serves as a mentor?
My family, and specifically my parents, Bill and Laurie. They have always worked humbly and hard to be involved in their communities and take a lot of pride in their work. I am so blessed and grateful to have role models that answer my silly questions and guide me in life, the cattle markets and my career.

How do you provide encouragement to others?
In the last six months, I have co-hosted the Millennial Ag Podcast with my good friend Katharine Lotspeich. Through the podcast we talk about real issues, real stories and allow agriculture to be vulnerable with the consumers and themselves. We try and tackle the real hot topic issues but we always try and leave everyone with a positive thought, idea or action item. We want to give hope to agriculture and allow agriculture to begin to have those tough conversations that we have been avoiding for years.
Our podcast can be found on any major podcast platform (Apple, Google, Spotify, Podbean, etc.) or at millennialag.com.

If given the chance, what message about agriculture or the beef industry would you share with a large group of people?
Dare to be different and Dare to take a chance! As a fifth generational rancher, I never imagined I would ever rock climb, run long distances or hike tall mountains. I also never thought I was capable of starting a podcast or leading a team of professionals at 25. Once I shook off the control and tunnel vision of the life I thought I should be living, the opportunities and connections I made were better than I could ever imagine. Life is not going to be easy. We are going to fall flat on our face, but we have to have faith, work hard and stay true to our roots while opening our eyes to the possibilities.

What are you most thankful for?
I am grateful for my faith, my community (family and friends) and adventure!

What is your favorite meal to cook yourself or for others?
You cannot really beat a good T-bone steak, sweet potatoes and a fresh veggie. Easy, tasty and nutritious!

Valene (center) with her parents, Bill and Laurie, participated in the Race for the Steaks to benefit Beef Counts and the Treasure Valley YMCA.

What is your favorite childhood memory?
One of my favorite childhood memories was getting a group of friends together and catching all our “broke” horses to play football on bareback. When we would get bored playing football, we would run them through the pivot sprinklers and jump the pivot tracks. How we didn’t fall off or get bucked off more times than we did is still a mystery to me.

What are a few of your guilty pleasures?
Wine or a cold beer (depending on the time of year) and lots of laughs with friends and family!

Where is your favorite place to shop?
My Mom’s closet… My mom loves clothes, has better style than I do,   and her rule is that anything that comes into her closet, something has to go out. So it is a win-win situation.

Thanks to everyone who commented on our Levi’s Lost Calf book giveaway! The winner is Mandy Blank! Email us at info@idahocattlewomen.org to redeem your book!

So, how do get a chance to win?! Comment below with your favorite childhood book. Contest will remain open until Friday, March 8 at 5 p.m. A winner will be chosen by random and announced on Monday, March 11.

I grew up on a 1200-acre hay farm, but my mom, brother and I have our small herd of show calves that we sell to 4-H and FFA kids. My husband ranches with his family raising registered Angus and Herefords as seedstock. My career in agriculture started at a young age helping out on our family farm, but I was always drawn to the animal side of agriculture. I worked for local cattle companies, helping them exhibit their cattle at shows throughout high school and college. With a college degree in hand, I moved to Iowa to fulfill my dream of living in the Midwest.  During my time there, I was working for Tyson Fresh Meats as a Carcass Merchandiser. Once engaged to my now-husband, it was time to move to Idaho & I started working in procurement for Agri Beef. When an opportunity came to work closer to home, I jumped on it and now am employed at Boise Valley Feeders. Here, we currently feed about 20,000 head of Wagyu & conventional cattle. I have been fortunate enough to have been employed in different aspects of the industry and in different parts of the country.  From going through the pastures to scope out the new calves in Oregon to watching the cattle grow in the feedlot in Idaho to walking through the coolers in a plant in Nebraska, seeing the process beginning to end still leaves me in awe.  Every segment works a little differently, but ultimately they are all working towards the same end goal—providing consumers with tasty BEEF!

What is your favorite part of the beef industry?
It’s got to be the people and work ethic gained from this industry. I know firsthand I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it wasn’t for that strong agricultural foundation I was raised on. The life lessons in the ag world are second to none, and I am continually thankful for those (even if I did have to learn some of them the HARD way).

Why are you passionate about the beef industry?  
We feed and fuel the world. Not only do we provide a safe, reliable, nutritious product for all to consume, but the list of byproducts the cattle industry provides is downright mind blowing. It’s amazing that 99 percent of a beef animal can be used between the meat and byproducts we use every day. Also, farmers and ranchers are the salt of the earth. The passion they exude for the land and their animals is nothing short of inspiring.

What’s your favorite beef meal to cook (or favorite beef recipe)?
I tend to leave the grilling to my husband, but it is hard to beat a perfect Prime Rib cooked medium rare, with a side of fresh horseradish.

When you’re not busy ranching, what do you like to do to “unwind”?
A summer evening cruise with the windows rolled down, the smell of fresh cut hay in the air and a good tune coming through the speakers does my soul good. Also, I believe surrounding yourself with good people is number one, so I love to spend quality time with my family, friends, fur baby, Cinch, and of course, shopping! Ag is my number one passion, but fashion isn’t far behind.

What is your favorite part about Idaho?  
The sky. Whether it’s a sunrise or sunset or if I am at home, the ranch, feedlot or on the road, I am in constant awe. They are absolutely breathtaking and serves as a great reminder to give yourself a second in this hectic world to take it all in.

When it comes to eating beef, everyone loves a good steak; but for an everyday meal that’s affordable, easy, and so delicious I’d say either a Roast or Chuck Steak in the crockpot for French Dip Sandwiches.  I have used many Chuck Steaks for this. It’s best to thaw and trim them before, season well and let them cook on low for 8 hours. They should shred up pretty good, put a scoop of meat on to some hoagies with the inside grilled and pepper jack cheese with au jus sauce for dipping. You can also add green peppers and onions. Even as a rancher, one thing that I am still always learning is how to use all of the cuts for the best eating experience.

What is your favorite part of the beef industry?
I would have to say my favorite part of the beef industry is the closeness between beef producers. It doesn’t matter where your operation is what breed you raise, its size, whether you’re a feedlot owner, stocker, cow/calf, etc.  All beef producers seem to treat each other with respect, a smile and usually a question like “how’s the weather around your place?” We share so much in common that if there is a time when a beef producer in need, there will be support from all over come to lend a hand. It’s a special thing to be a part of.

As young producers that started small, I am so appreciative for all the support we have received. It’s because of other ranchers and our own hard work that we were able to grow in herd numbers, pasture and equipment via letting us know of available pieces or allowing us to take over unused land. It’s refreshing to see relationships built between veteran and young producers.

Why are you passionate about the beef industry?
I am passionate on a couple levels. First I have seen how beef operations can be passed down from one generation to the next, keeping a legacy alive. I think you will be hard pressed to find another industry with as much tradition and heritage associated with it. Second, when it comes down to it, we as a society need agriculture. We have a need for a nutritious and healthy product to nourish our bodies. I enjoy being a part of providing that.

When you’re not busy ranching, what do you like to do to “unwind”?
Ride my darn horses! Even better if I can catch a barrel race. For an inside activity I like to crochet, watch documentaries on about anything  and Big Bang Theory.

What is your favorite part about Idaho?
I was born in Winnemucca, Nevada; however my family roots have always been here on the Prairie, including my grandfather ranching here, as well. My favorite part about it all are the wide open spaces and challenging country. Living so close the Salmon River canyon I have an established respect for the areas that sometimes are just plain inaccessible by man. To ranch in many parts of Idaho, horses are still very much needed. I appreciate living in a state that there are still areas you can’t drive too.

Are you a native Idahoan?
You bet, I was born and raised in Southern Idaho, attended college at Boise State University and have never had any desire to leave Idaho.  

What is your favorite part of the beef industry?
Family tradition! I grew up on a ranch in Fairfield and am happy to be allowing my kids to grow up in the same fashion. Working with cattle instills work ethic, passion, and drive.  I remember my dad working hard and our kids see us working hard. We wouldn’t have it any other way.  We also love the community and people involved.    

Why are you passionate about the beef industry?
The thing about passions is that you can’t explain them. Sometimes there Is just a gravitational pull to them. Maybe it’s the animals or the land we love the most–at the end of the day we are producing something we are proud of.  

What’s your favorite beef meal to cook (or favorite beef recipe)?
I feel very fortunate to have a freezer full of beef. It provides quick, delicious meals for my family. I think my favorite is ground beef. It is so versatile. I brown it up with onions and garlic and it go many directions from there. Spaghetti sauce, tacos, enchiladas, shepherd’s pie, simply a bake potato topping or pizza topping are some of our favorites. My husband is also quite partial to my chicken fried steak, made with cube steak. I use my Grandma Davis’s recipe which is delightful to this day!

When you’re not busy ranching, what do you like to do to “unwind”?
It seems that we are always on the go. Lately, our evenings and weekends have been spent working cattle to go out to pasture. We consider ourselves lucky when friends will come and help us out. When the work is done and we can sit under the shade tree and relax is the best feeling.

What is your favorite part about Idaho?
My favorite part about Idaho is that we are lucky enough to get to call it home.   

My name is Dawn Anderson, and I’m a born and raised Idaho rancher. We own and operate a registered Hereford and Red Angus operation, JBB/AL Herefords & Reds, that’s located halfway between Gooding and Bliss along the Malad River. My parents began raising registered Herefords 50 years ago. I had my own herd of Hereford cows growing up and was fortunate to marry someone who was interested in the ag industry. My husband, James, and I entered a partnership with my parents, John and Bev Bryan, in the early 1990’s. Our children, Bryan and Jae, started their own herd of registered Herefords as well. In 2012, my son and my Dad decided it was time to add a second breed to our operation and purchased our first group of Red Angus heifers.

We maintain a herd of around 125 spring calving cows and hold a production sale the 2nd Monday of March in conjunction with Spring Cove Ranch.  Our offering includes bulls and heifers.  We also farm and raise primarily corn and hay.   

What is your favorite part of the beef industry?
It’s difficult to identify one part of the beef industry as my favorite.  It is probably the connections it creates among producers and beyond.  I enjoy talking with people who have been in the industry a long time and hear about the changes that have occurred as well as to those individuals who know very little about “cows” and assume I raise black and white animals that produce milk for public consumption.  It’s exciting to share our story.    

Why are you passionate about the beef industry?
There is no better way to raise a family.  It provides a great opportunity to teach children responsibility and that we have a greater responsibility to the world in providing a wholesome, nutritious product.  I was fortunate to be raised in this lifestyle and to be able to raise my family in this environment.  It is imperative that we be good stewards to provide the same opportunities for our children to raise their families here if they desire to do so.  

What’s your favorite beef meal to cook (or favorite beef recipe)?
I don’t like to spend a lot of time in the kitchen, so my favorite is fast, easy and delicious.  You can’t go wrong with a steak (any kind) on the grill, with freshly picked asparagus, and a baked/grilled potato.  

When you’re not busy ranching, what do you like to do to “unwind”?
I’m not sure how relaxing it is but I enjoy golfing whenever I get the chance.  

What is your favorite part about Idaho?
I recently made a trip to the Moscow area and it reminded me of the variety of terrain Idaho offers.  It’s amazing and beautiful.

To catch up with Dawn Anderson and her family on a regular basis, you can keep up with her ranch’s Facebook page!

We know consumers have a lot of questions these days about where their food comes from. We cattlewomen are still learning and also have questions about agriculture. Bottomline is as agriculturists, we have a strong tie to the land and animals in our care. Providing safe and nutritious food is our number one priority. We’re feeding our families too! Please know if you have any questions about your food or how it’s produced, you can reach out and ask. We’d love to hear from you!

Links

 Idaho Cattle Association ~ www.idahocattle.org

 Idaho Beef Council ~ www.idbeef.org

 Beef Counts ~ www.beefcounts.org

Braising is searing meat on a high temperature then finishing it in a covered pot set at lower temperature with a variable amount of liquid.

Meat for stewing should be lean and can be less tender because we’re going to use braising to create the tenderness. Cuts from the chuck or round are great for stew meat. You can buy it precut at the store or as a larger roast that you cut into chunks yourself. I appreciate that our butcher precuts bite-size chunks into packages for us. It’s usually the scraps after steaks and roasts are cut. Stew meat can be a more affordable cut that still creates a delicious and hearty dish.

I pulled the package, probably about 1 1/2 pounds out of my freezer and defrosted it in the microwave so it broke apart easily. Normally when I’m planning ahead I defrost meat in the refrigerator the day before I cook it. Safe cooking tip: Never thaw meat on the countertop.

I put a little canola oil (around 1-1 1/2 TB)  in a heavy stock pot and browned the pieces, making sure not to crowd them. I wanted them good and brown. As you can see there were lots of bits and pieces stuck to the bottom. After the meat was finished cooking, I added a can of stewed tomatoes and about a can and a half of water. Stirring the liquid helps deglaze the pan and gets all those yummy bits off the bottom. The acid in the tomatoes also help tenderize the meat. I also added in seasonings, including a tsp. of beef bouillion, 1 TB. of taco seasoning, some black pepper, cumin and minced garlic. This is where you can get creative—add seasonings your family enjoys. I also added one chopped chipotle pepper in adobe sauce. It adds some heat and smokiness. Smoked paprika is another option to add flavor.

I set my temperature to low, which on my stove maintained a low boil/high simmer, then I checked the pot about every hour to see how the meat was tenderizing and if I needed to add additional liquid (I didn’t). It simmered about 3 hours. This braising method helps break down the meat so it pulls apart and is super tender. About 30-45 minutes before I wanted to serve it, I added chopped green bell pepper and chopped onion. I also added a cup of frozen corn and a can of black beans (rinsed). I cooked the stew until the veggies were tender, but still had a little bite to them. I topped the stew with chopped fresh cilantro. Other optional toppings could include shredded cheese, crispy corn tortilla strips, plain Greek yogurt or sour cream. Or you can leave it plain as it has plenty of flavor.

Easy Tex-Mex Beef Stew
1-2 pounds stew meat (chuck or round cut into cubes)
1-2 cans stewed tomatoes plus 1-2 cans of water
1-2 tsp. of beef bouillion
1 TB. taco seasoning
Other seasonings to taste (ie. salt, pepper, garlic, smoked paprika, chipotle pepper)
Green or other bell peppers
Medium onion
1 cup frozen corn or 1 can corn
1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)

*If you want to use this in your slow cooker, you can brown the meat in a skillet, deglaze pan with some water or broth, then add it to the slow cooker with the seasonings and veggies. Cook on low heat 6-8 hours or high 4-6 hours.

This Beef Stew is super easy because you can take the meat in different flavor directions. I went with more Tex-Mex Seasonings because I had more of them on hand, but you could easily do a traditional stew with potatoes, carrots and celery or instead add Italian herbs and spices. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

In addition to a full week of kid activities, it’s calving season on the ranch. Lots of new babies are hitting the ground every day and it’s fun to have pastures full of cows and calves.

I’m sure many of you have busy weeknights also, but still want to get a great tasting and healthy meal on the table for your family. Don’t be afraid to keep a package or two of stew meat in your freezer because this Easy Beef Stew is a great option for a weeknight family dinner.

~ M

Maggie and her husband raise their four children and registered cattle on his family’s southwest Idaho ranch. As a family, they enjoy sports, showing cattle, 4-H, church and other activities when not working on the ranch. She likes to experiment with recipes in the kitchen, shares her love of sweets through baking with her children and has been known to start a DIY project every now and then. Sometimes she actually finishes one.