Explore every episode of the podcast The Ranchers' Voice

This week on The Ranchers’ Voice, Ellie sits down with the candidates running for MSGA’s North Central District board seats: Rocky Forseth, Trina Jo Bradley, and Kevin Elias. Tune in to get to know each candidate, hear their perspectives, and learn more about their vision for serving MSGA members. Member voting for board positions will open later this fall.

Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.

MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.

To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org

Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

This week on The Ranchers’ Voice, Ellie sits down with the candidate running for MSGA’s Northeastern District board seat: Joe Lewis. Tune in over the next few weeks to get to know each candidate, hear their perspectives, and learn more about their vision for serving MSGA's members. Over the coming weeks, we’ll continue featuring interviews with the remaining board candidates. Member voting for board positions will open later this fall.

Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.

MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.

To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org

Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

This week on The Ranchers’ Voice, Ellie sits down with the candidates running for MSGA’s Western District board seat: Craig Lien and Garrett Harshbarger. Tune in to get to know each candidate, hear their perspectives, and learn more about their vision for serving MSGA members. Over the coming weeks, we’ll continue featuring interviews with the remaining board candidates. Member voting for board positions will open later this fall.

Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.

MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.

To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org

Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

This week, Ellie sits down with Brendan Beatty, director of the Montana Department of Revenue, and Paula Gilbert, Property Assessment Administrator to discuss the changes to property tax that came out of the most recent legislative session.

Learn more about resources discussed in this episode at

• www.revenue.mt.gov
• www.homestead.mt.gov

Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.

MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.

To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org

Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

This week Raylee and Ellie chat about Interim Committees and the work that goes on between legislative sessions.

Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.

MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.

To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org

Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

This week, Ellie and Keni sit down with retired historian, Zoe Ann Stoltz, to dig into the history of Montana's brands and the stories and people behind them. Follow along as Zoe Ann shares first hand accounts of some of Montana's most iconic brands and interesting bits of Montana history!

Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.

MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.

To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org

Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

This week, Keni sits down with MSGA's summer intern, Kelcy Bergstrom and Membership Representative, Ian Kane. The trio discusses the role internships have played in their careers thus far, as well as how these opportunities are vital for students.

This week, Keni sits down with MSGA's summer intern, Kelcy Bergstrom and Membership Representative, Ian Kane. The trio discusses the role internships have played in their careers thus far, as well as how these opportunities are vital for students.

Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.

MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.

To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org

Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

This week, Ellie and Keni chat with MSGA member, Chisholm Christensen, about his 2021 debut album, The Prisoner, ranching on the hi-line, and keeping the balance between his two passions - music and ranching.

Listen to The Prisoner: https://open.spotify.com/album/3rLQ8w7g57NiRFvSUsGAk1?si=In8EM0YDSRK1nnmScL3mQw

Follow Chisholm: https://www.instagram.com/chisholm.1909/

Watch the Public Lands Council Common Ground video https://youtu.be/bzPCAJA_zmM?si=XRNfp55U-Fdu-bhK

Watch The Truth About Ranching - The Story of a 5th Generation (1909) Montana Rancher https://youtu.be/107sKlgItTw?si=3HwSiwQcWaU8F_rn

Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.

MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.

To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org

Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

This week, Ellie and Raylee and joined in studio by Jillien Streit, director for the Montana Department of Agriculture. Jillien chats with us about her recent trade missions, programs within the Department, and her prior experiences in the ag industry.

Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.

MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.

To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org

Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

This week, Raylee is joined by Mike Honeycutt and Jay Bodner from the Montana Department of Livestock. The group discusses the 69th Montana Legislature and the Department's priorities.

This week, Raylee is joined by Mike Honeycutt and Jay Bodner from the Montana Department of Livestock. The group discusses the 69th Montana Legislature and the Department's priorities.

Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.

MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.

To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org

Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

This week, Raylee and Ellie chat with Kent Bacus who serves as NCBA’s Executive Director of Government Affairs. The trio discuss tax policy, trade markets, the One Big Beautiful Bill, and much more! In this role, Kent works with Congress, the Administration, and foreign governments to advance the U.S. cattle and beef industry’s trade priorities and expand U.S. beef access to foreign markets.Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.orgFollow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

This week, Raylee and Ellie are joined by Leoma Donabach, Garrett Harshbarger, and Chance Wilson as they share their experiences at the 2025 Young Cattlemen's Conference. Leoma Donsbach is out of Roy and the owner of Data Genie, LLC. She currently serves as the chair of MSGA’s Seedstock Committee and is a graduate of MSGA’s M Bar Leadership Academy. Garrett Harshbarger is out of Whitehall and owns and operates a cow/calf operation in southwest Montana and is a current participant of MSGA’s M Bar Leadership Academy. Chance Wilson owns a commercial Angus cow/calf operation in Scobey, Mont. and is currently serving on the MSGA board of directors representing the northeastern district. Chance is also a graduate of MSGA’s M Bar Leadership Academy.The Young Cattlemen’s Conference (YCC) is an opportunity for cattlemen and cattlewomen between the ages of 25 and 50 to visit segments of the beef industry across the nation with young cattlemen from other states. Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.orgFollow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

This week, Raylee interviews DNRC Deputy Forestry Administrator, Wyatt Frampton about the upcoming (maybe already started?) fire season and how Montana's ranchers can prepare and important updates from the department regarding fire. Learn more at www.mtfireinfo.org.

Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.orgFollow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

This week Raylee chats with Dr. Brenee Peterson about meetings hosted by the Montana Department of Livestock surrounding disease preparedness, how producers can be prepared, and why our Montana livestock producers should attend to share their input. Learn more about the meetings at https://mtbeef.org/event/montana-department-of-livestock-announces-animal-health-disease-preparedness-meetings/

Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.orgFollow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

In this episode, Ellie and Keni recap MSGA’s 141st MidYear Meeting. Highlighting opening and closing sessions, committee meetings, and the always eventful, Sunset Banquet.

The Ranchers' Voice presented by Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a place for conversations surrounding policy, the Montana Legislature, and issues that matter most to ranching families in Montana.

From the Capitol to the countryside, we'll be the connection point between local ranchers and legislative decision makers, cattle producers and general consumers, and between all cattle ranchers across Montana.

Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.

MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.

To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org

Follow us:

Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociation

Instagram: mtstockgrowers

Twitter: MTStockgrowers

In this week's episode, Raylee and Ellie are joined by MSGA member, Justin Iverson, to share his experience at the recent USMEF 2025 Mexico Market Expo in Monterrey, Mexico. The Ranchers' Voice presented by Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a place for conversations surrounding policy, the Montana Legislature, and issues that matter most to ranching families in Montana.From the Capitol to the countryside, we'll be the connection point between local ranchers and legislative decision makers, cattle producers and general consumers, and between all cattle ranchers across Montana. Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.orgFollow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

In this week's episode, Raylee and Ellie are joined by retired teacher and Butte history buff, Chris Fisk, as we learn a bit more about our MidYear Meeting host city and it's colorful history. Chris will be sharing a bit more at the Coffee Talks Session on Friday, May 30 in Butte, so make sure to register for MSGA's MidYear Meeting today at www.mtbeef.org!

The Ranchers' Voice presented by Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a place for conversations surrounding policy, the Montana Legislature, and issues that matter most to ranching families in Montana.

From the Capitol to the countryside, we'll be the connection point between local ranchers and legislative decision makers, cattle producers and general consumers, and between all cattle ranchers across Montana.

Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.

MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.

To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org

Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

In this week's episode, Raylee is joined by MSGA 1st VP, Turk Stovall, to share his experience at the recent Common Ground Summit in Denver, Colorado.

The Ranchers' Voice presented by Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a place for conversations surrounding policy, the Montana Legislature, and issues that matter most to ranching families in Montana.

From the Capitol to the countryside, we'll be the connection point between local ranchers and legislative decision makers, cattle producers and general consumers, and between all cattle ranchers across Montana. ________Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org_________Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

The Ranchers' Voice presented by Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a place for conversations surrounding policy, the Montana Legislature, and issues that matter most to ranching families in Montana.From the Capitol to the countryside, we'll be the connection point between local ranchers and legislative decision makers, cattle producers and general consumers, and between all cattle ranchers across Montana. _______________________________________________________________

Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org

_______________________________________________________________

Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

This week we're happy to have both Raylee and Ellie back together in studio to discuss the Montana Legislative Session and more! Last week, Ellie visited Washington DC for the Public Lands Council Legislative Conference and spent some time with Montana's congressional delegation. Raylee shares what MSGA has been up to in Helena including confirmation hearings, tax bills, and updates on HB 119. 

The Ranchers' Voice presented by Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a place for conversations surrounding policy, the Montana Legislature, and issues that matter most to ranching families in Montana.From the Capitol to the countryside, we'll be the connection point between local ranchers and legislative decision makers, cattle producers and general consumers, and between all cattle ranchers across Montana. Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.orgFollow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

_______________________________________________________________Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org_______________________________________________________________Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

_______________________________________________________________Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org_______________________________________________________________Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

_______________________________________________________________Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org_______________________________________________________________Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

_______________________________________________________________Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org_______________________________________________________________Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

_______________________________________________________________Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org_______________________________________________________________Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

_______________________________________________________________Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org_______________________________________________________________Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

_______________________________________________________________Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org_______________________________________________________________Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

_______________________________________________________________Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org_______________________________________________________________Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

_______________________________________________________________Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a grass roots non-profit membership organization with a 140-year history of advocating on behalf of Montana cattle ranchers to ensure cattle ranching remains relevant, safe, & a sustainable way of life for generations to come.MSGA is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers, and advocate of cattle ranching for state and federal legislators and a true partner in efforts to preserve & advance Montana’s cattle industry.To become a member of MSGA, visit www.mtbeef.org_______________________________________________________________Follow us: Facebook: MontanaStockgrowersAssociationInstagram: mtstockgrowersTwitter: MTStockgrowers

The Ranchers' Voice presented by Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a place for conversations surrounding policy, the Montana Legislature, and issues that matter most to ranching families in Montana. From the Capitol to the countryside, we'll be the connection point between local ranchers and legislative decision makers, cattle producers and general consumers, and between all cattle ranchers across Montana.

The Ranchers' Voice presented by Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a place for conversations surrounding policy, the Montana Legislature, and issues that matter most to ranching families in Montana. From the Capitol to the countryside, we'll be the connection point between local ranchers and legislative decision makers, cattle producers and general consumers, and between all cattle ranchers across Montana. 

The Ranchers' Voice presented by Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is a place for conversations surrounding policy, the Montana Legislature, and issues that matter most to ranching families in Montana. New episodes weekly in 2025.

You can find the Ranchers' Voice Podcast on all major podcast streaming platforms and YouTube.

On the twenty third episode of The Ranchers' Voice, Jay and Raylee discuss the recent release of the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) draft environmental assessment (EA) and Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) and share with listeners some drought resources. 

Lastly, we share the first part of our interview with State Director of BLM for Montana & Dakotas, John Mehlhoff.

On the twenty second episode of The Ranchers' Voice, Jay and Raylee review MSGA's MidYear Meeting, announce the 2021 winners of the Environmental Stewardship Award and invite listeners to join the Montana Stockgrowers Foundation at the TBone Classic in August. 

Lastly, we share an interview with Matt Pearson, president of the Producer Partnership, which includes local producers, local meat processors and local food centers working in partnership to provide Montana beef to those individuals and families with food insecurity.

On the twenty first episode of The Ranchers' Voice, Jay and Raylee discuss MSGA's upcoming MidYear Meeting and what attendees can expect. 

Lastly, we share an interview with Governor Greg Gianforte in which we cover a variety of topics from the Governor's proclamation of May as beef month, cattle markets, the Montana Comeback Plan, ARPA funding and much more!

On the twentieth episode of The Ranchers' Voice, Jay and Raylee discuss the recent meeting of Ag organization to discuss market concerns, new information surrounding the Biden Administration's 30x30 Initiative, and share details on MSGA's MidYear Meeting happening in Lewistown, MT on June 9 - 11.

Lastly, we share an interview with the Montana Agriculture Safety Program director, Austin Grazier, as he shares more about the program, the benefits, and how folks can enroll.

On the nineteenth episode of The Ranchers' Voice, Jay and Raylee take a deep dive on the 67th Legislature and a review of the bills MSGA worked on.

On the eighteenth episode of The Ranchers' Voice, Raylee gives a quick update on the closing of the 67th Montana Legislature (a more in-depth update coming next week!).

Lastly, we share an interview with Montana Attorney General, Austin Knudsen, regarding the lawsuit surrounding water rights and HB 286, Montana's relationship with Taiwan, and the Land Board.

On the seventeenth episode of The Ranchers' Voice, Jay and Raylee update listeners on MSGA's priority bills and prepare for the wrap up of Legislature. 

Lastly, we share an interview with Karen Budd-Falen, rancher attorney and former Deputy Solicitor for Wildlife and Parks in the Department of the Interior, regarding the Biden administration's '30 by 30 Plan' and what it means for ranchers.

On the sixteenth episode of The Ranchers' Voice, Jay and Raylee discuss the recent court decision on HB 286, the HAULS Act, NCBA's Price Discovery Framework, and give an update on this week's legislative highlights. 

Lastly, we share an interview with Ethan Wilfore, Montana Department of Livestock Brands Enforcement Division, regarding the ongoing brand rerecord, how folks can confirm receipt/payment of rerecords, what happens to brands that do not get rerecorded, and how the department is looking at making the process more efficient.

On the fifteenth episode of The Ranchers' Voice, Jay and Raylee discuss this week's legislative highlights with a focus on HB 2 and funding. 

Lastly, we share an interview with Lesley Robinson, MSGA’s 2nd Vice President who has been recently appointed as chair to the Fish & Wildlife Commission regarding her role as chair, the importance of landowner representation on the commission, details on the Elk Management Plan, other issues relating to the commission and how folks can get involved and have their voices heard.

On the fourteenth episode of The Ranchers' Voice, Jay and Raylee discuss updates regarding grizzly bears, share recent appointments by Gov. Gianforte, and hit on this week's legislative highlights. 

Lastly, we share an interview with Krista Lee Evans of Blake Creek Consulting as she discusses water rights and the bills we've seen at the legislature regarding water policy.

On the thirteenth episode of The Ranchers' Voice, Jay and Raylee review the happenings of National Ag Week, share details regarding the upcoming Board of Livestock and FWP commission meetings, and hit on this week's legislative highlights.

On the twelfth episode of The Ranchers' Voice, Jay and Raylee celebrate National Ag Week, discuss their meeting with Taiwan's Director General, give an update on the latest MSGA Board of Directors meeting, and share news of Gov. Gianforte's proclamation of "Montana Meat Day." 

Lastly, we share an interview with Senator Ryan Osmundson, Chair of Senate Finance and Claims Committee as he explains how to committee functions, HB 2 and gives listeners some insights to the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and how that money might be allocated.

On the eleventh episode of The Ranchers' Voice, Jay and Raylee discuss the second half of the Legislature and the bill hearings we will be seeing. We also discuss the next round of COVID-19 funding and how dollars will be allocated. 

Lastly, we share an interview with Director of Fish, wildlife and Parks, Hank Worsech, as he discusses his background with the department, how he plans to work with landowners as director, HB 505 involving elk licenses on private lands, the FWP commission, and the Red Tape Task Force.

On the tenth  episode of The Ranchers' Voice, Jay and Raylee take a deep dive on HB 554, a bill which would require the Montana Legislature’s approval of National Heritage Areas (NHA) and National Trail Designation in Montana. 

We share an interview with MSGA's North Central District Board of Director & Big Sandy rancher, Dana Darlington, as he discusses his history with designations, the background on the info and how MSGA's grassroots efforts benefit members' private property rights.

On the ninth  episode of The Ranchers' Voice, Jay and Raylee review the first half of the Legislature and discuss the bills for the upcoming week MSGA will be watching. Lastly, listen as we share an interview with Amanda Kaster, Director of the Department of Natural Resources in which Director Kaster shares a little about her background in multiple use issues, the Red Tape Task Force and her vision for DNRC.

On the eight episode of The Ranchers' Voice, Jay and Raylee discuss the upcoming transmittal date and some hot topic hearings MSGA will be taking part in.

Lastly, listen as we share an interview with Jake Feddes of Feddes Family Meats in which we discussed meat processing legislation on the Federal and State levels, the challenges of being a family owned facility and Made in Montana and how it benefits Montanans.

On the seventh episode of The Ranchers' Voice, Jay and Raylee provide listeners with a recap of last week's bills in addition to a preview of the bills for this week. We take a deep dive on HB 324 and MSGA's stance on the bill along with some upcoming bills regarding bison.

Lastly, listen as we share an interview with Representative Josh Kassmier, chairman of the House Agriculture Committee in which we discussed how members can get involved with the 67th legislature, the committee's bills, and the BIG Jobs Act.