In this episode of Cow Talks, host Marcelo Wallau sits down with Ernie Shea, President of Solutions from the Land, to explore a transformative approach to modern agriculture — one that puts farmers and ranchers at the center of problem-solving rather than treating them as recipients of top-down policy. Ernie shares his decades of experience bridging the gap between government, academia, industry, and producers, and how that journey led to the creation of a farmer-scientist co-design model now taking root in Florida. Listeners will learn about the CHEERS project — redefining how we value farmland, from commodity production to ecosystem service delivery. Whether you're a producer, researcher, or ag enthusiast, this conversation will challenge the way you think about the future of sustainable agriculture.

For more on CHEERS, check out the following resources: https://cheers-hub.org/about-page/

Contact: https://cheers-hub.org/contact-page/

In this episode of our research in perspective, we speak with William Piwowarek who shares revolutionary insights on mole cricket management. Discover how understanding biology and seasonal patterns can lead to eco-friendly pest control solutions. William explains innovative biocontrol methods, like using the Larra wasp and nematodes, to transform pasture management.

Cows don't actually talk, despite our podcast name. But we brought someone who can speak out for them!

In this episode of Cow Talks, livestock extension agent Bridget Stice shares an inside look at beef cattle production in South Florida, where the majority of the state’s herd is raised. She discusses the structure of the industry—from large, multi-generational ranches to smaller, part-time operations—and the economic and environmental roles each plays. Stice highlights how producers are not only raising cattle, but also stewarding land and natural resources critical to Florida’s future.

In Part 2 of this Cow Talks series, host Marcelo Wallau and guests expand the conversation beyond immediate disaster impacts to explore long-term resilience in agriculture. The episode highlights the nationwide role of Extension networks in disaster response and the importance of thinking beyond preparedness to include recovery and adaptation. Listeners will also hear why producer input and data sharing remain critical to shaping effective disaster response and future policy.

In this episode of Cow Talks, host Marcelo Wallau is joined by disaster and economics experts Drs. Christa Court and Angela Lindsey to examine the far-reaching impacts of Florida’s recent winter freeze events. From crop losses and disrupted market windows to long-term effects on livestock systems, the conversation explores how a rare combination of cold temperatures and drought led to billions in damages. This is a deep dive into how agricultural systems respond and adapt under pressure.

For more information, check out the links below.

• UF/IFAS Economic Impact Analysis Program (EIAP)https://go.ufl.edu/eiap
• UF/IFAS Disaster Impact Analysishttps://go.ufl.edu/disasters
• UF/IFAS EIAP Winter Freeze Event Resources (English + Español)https://go.ufl.edu/winter26freezeagimpacts2026https://go.ufl.edu/impactosagricolashelada2026
• Extension Disaster Education Networkhttps://extensiondisaster.net/
• Florida Extension Disaster Education Networkhttps://piecenter.com/fl-eden/
• USDA Secretarial Natural Disaster Designation (Florida - Winter Freeze Events - as of March 5, 2026)https://www.fsa.usda.gov/news-events/news/03-05-2026/usda-designates-26-florida-counties-natural-disaster-areas-due-winter
• USDA - Farm Service Agency Service Center Locatorhttps://www.farmers.gov/working-with-us/service-center-locator

In this episode of Cow Talks, Marcelo Wallau sits down with Tom Bryant to unpack the realities of tax planning for cattle producers. Moving beyond the April 15 deadline, they explore why effective tax strategy must happen year-round and how it can determine whether an operation is profitable or not. The conversation dives into key issues like hobby loss rules, small herd economics, and the importance of treating farming as a true business. They also break down recent policy changes and what they mean for producers today. Whether you run 10 cows or 1,000, this episode offers practical insights on planning, recordkeeping, and building a financially resilient operation.

In our episode of Cow Bites, host Dr. Marcelo Wallau unlocks the secrets to maximizing your pasture productivity this spring without risking long-term damage. If you're eager to turn your cows out now but unsure if your forage is ready, this episode reveals the critical management steps to take to ensure lush, sustainable pastures all year round in the face of fluctuating weather.

Mentioned article: https://share.google/jiuc5HTgBOXjDkxbF

In this episode of Cow Talks, Marcelo Wallau speaks with University of Florida veterinary extension specialist João Bittar about two research projects affecting beef cattle producers across Florida. This conversation is part of our Research in Perspective series. The discussion explores the widespread presence of liver flukes in Florida herds and research testing new strategies to manage them. The episode also examines vaccination timing in pregnant heifers and how it may improve calf health through stronger colostrum.