Chas. S. Middleton and Son

Ranch Talk with Sam Middleton and guest John Welch
🎞️ Episode Three: Interest Rates • Small Producers

In the third and final portion of their conversation, Sam Middleton and John Welch talk about the impact of historically high cattle prices and the challenges facing producers moving forward.

John explains that high interest rates are creating major financial pressure, especially for ranchers carrying debt, and notes that rising costs are making it difficult for many operations to stay profitable. He also points out that a large percentage of smaller producers are vulnerable because they often lack the financial flexibility to withstand higher borrowing costs and market uncertainty. Despite strong cattle prices, both agree that inflation, debt, and interest rates remain serious concerns for the long-term stability of the cattle industry.

Ranch Talk with Sam Middleton and guest John Welch
🎞️ Episode Two: Optimism in the Future of the Cattle Business

In part two of this discussion, Sam Middleton continues his conversation with longtime cattle rancher and former cattle market analyst John Welch about the unprecedented rise in cattle prices and what lies ahead for the beef industry. John explains that while today’s market volatility creates uncertainty, he remains optimistic due to strong long-term fundamentals, including limited cattle supply, continued consumer demand, and historically resilient market cycles.