Far Reaches Podcast

29/09/2023

I've have a longtime friend who's been a huge help on the ranch. As The Girl puts it, he's "my ride or die, buddy," and she's spot on.

He loves the ranch, but at times, it stresses him out. The fences are fixable, Twitch trainable, and pickups repairable. But there is one issue that keeps him on the verge of a heart attack.

The issue? It's me.

I'm a bit unorthodox. People often call me aloof, which is strange. Difficult is another label I get. And let's not forget stubborn and liberal. You get the drift.

Seeing yourself through others' eyes is a trip. It makes you reflect.

I've got quirks.

In ranching, we lean on tools like spreadsheets to manage complex systems. These tools are great for insights but can also narrow our focus, making us lose sight of the bigger picture. For example, obsessing over short-term metrics like weight loss during weaning can eclipse long-term considerations like cattle well-being.

This tunnel vision is similar to our human experience with time management. We're stuck in a paradox—the rigidity of artificially imposed schedules versus the fluidity of individual experiences. Like we impose frameworks on cattle, we slap these random timelines on natural processes. We forget that nature doesn't sync with our fancy calculator watches or smartphones. This tension is more than anxiety. As Mick and the Stones sang, "Here it comes, your 19th nervous breakdown. It highlights our collective struggle to align societal norms with personal quirks. Better Stop and Look Around.

The challenge lies in balancing human systems with natural rhythms, whether cattle well-being or our time management. This resonates with regenerative ranching and holistic resource management principles, which advocate a systems-thinking approach. These philosophies urge us to view the ranch—or any professional setting—as an interconnected ecosystem.

So, what's my point?

The answer might not be a one-size-fits-all "solution," but recognizing the inherent contradictions in how we experience time and manage complex systems. By considering how "natural time" impacts our daily lives, just as it does for cows and all living things, we can balance the relentless pace of modern life. We can shift our behavior to align more closely with our evolutionary rhythms, pre-clock, and calendar.

Next time you're stressed, remember that we've become uncomfortably comfortable forcing ourselves into a time system that has nothing to do with how the rest of the universe—the natural world—operates. Consider the beat of life outside our artificial boundaries.

Cattle in a pasture might hold the secret to a more balanced, less stressful life. 🤔

06/10/2022

Season 4 is here Reachers! That is right, the gang is back from the summer hiatus and fresh back from Pendleton Roundup and exploring Ireland. This season is once again proudly brought to you by our amazing friends at B&K Auto Salvage in La Grande and Baker City. Check em out and tell them the Far Reaches sent ya! http://bandkautosalvage.com/
Ralls is still digging out of summer hay duties, but Joel, Richard and Micah kick off the season with some updates during the world famous Far Reaches, Reach Around session.
The boys quickly fall into their old ways and tear into several great discussions including hurricanes, energy policy and finish off with a rousing examination of the us education system, bailouts, student loans, liberal arts and even a little on the Oregon governor race.
The gang also discuss having special guests more frequently, so if you know someone who deserves (either good or bad) to come explore the Reaches, or you yourself want to tell them a thing or two about a thing or two, let us know! And most importantly, keep on Reachin!

05/10/2022

Season 4 Baby

12/08/2022

The gang is back in full force! Life has been, well, being life. Work has been on fire for everyone and it is that time of year that you have to make hay while the sun is shining! Two of the Reachers suffered the sudden loss of one of their college roommates, which certainly reminded them of how lucky they truly are to have true friends, and the ability to talk on The Far Reaches as well.
Thank you again to our amazing friends at B&K Auto for all they do to help bring this podcast to your kitchen, pickup, tractor, swather, backhoe, exercise bike or any number of places that people say they listen. We truly couldn't do it without them, so be sure and tell them thank you and listen for the exclusive promo code for Reachers! https://www.facebook.com/BkAutoSalvageInc
Amy and Shandie are making their way through the Mongolian Outback in the world famous Mongol Derby! Track them live right here and cheer them on....Because they can hear you! https://equestrianists.com/mongol-derby/
The gang cover another wide range of topics, including a mind blowing theory on the tv show House, Joel's MVP softball season, Micah's gratitude and Ralls and little Buster tearing up the hay field!
It's another instant classic and one you are sure to mark as a favorite!

11/08/2022

Live and in STEREO!

19/07/2022

Once again, we thank the great team at B&K Auto for their sponsorship and support of the Far Reaches. Be sure and stop by and thank them, and keep them in mind for your scrap and parts needs! They serve the Northwest well, and be sure and tell them The Reachers sent ya!
The Reacher's are back and Richard and Micah do their best to keep the wheels rolling and the topics flying. Richard has taken to buying jeans on Ebay and Micah has decided to wear the same color and style of shirt every day for work...Both have been traveling for work and Ralls and Joel have been busy with all things work and ranchin.
Richard brings up the fact that server farms use a lot of water and are using a tremendous amount of natural resources, both the land and the water. Something to consider and look into for sure....Which inspires the Entertainment Spotlight of Chinatown. One of many great movies about water and the struggle for the power to control it.

18/07/2022

Far Reaches...Get Ya Some of That!

19/06/2022

18/06/2022

This episode of FRX is brought to you by a special guest sponsor, our amazing friends at Bieber Red Angus of South Dakota! Craig and Peggy are amazing people and friends and we are honored to have them as part of this episode. Check out their website, put one of their upcoming bull sales on your calendar and be prepared to catch some Bieber Fever! https://bieberredangus.com/
Shandie and Amy are entering the final weeks before they blast of to Mongolia in August...Yes, Mongolia to participate in one of the most epic horse races in the world, The Mongol Derby (https://equestrianists.com/mongol-derby/)
They step out of the saddle for a few minutes to give us some updates on their upcoming adventure!
They bring us up to speed on some of their training, gathering of final supplies and remind us all why they are chasing this quest! They have some great stories of their training and the fun and joy of heading into town to do some shoppin...Because, well...they just don't get to town that often!
There is no doubt these two adventurers will represent Eastern Oregon, and all the ranchers out there with style...While sharing the kick ass, can do attitude that it takes to carve a place in this world.
They have several people to thank, for getting them this far, and the list will continue to grow for sure. We will be checking back in again, before they blast off in August. So, give a watch, or a listen or both and be sure and share and let them know you are pulling for them!

Amy and Shandie want to especially thank the following for their SUPPORT and willingness to help a couple ranch women make it happen!

Everyone at The Mongol Derby for making this happen! https://equestrianists.com/mongol-derby/
The AMAZING team at the Absolute Horse in Bend: https://theabsolutehorse.com/
The folks at The Colorful Cowgirl: https://thecolorfulcowgirl.com/
Some amazing gear from Kerrits! https://kerrits.com/
The amazing suggestions from the local REI: https://www.rei.com/
And certainly, all the amazing support...from the fine folks at Brooks! https://www.brooksrunning.com/en_us/brooks-running-sports-bra/

18/06/2022

Live with the Eastern Oregon Cowgirls headed to Mongolia!

16/05/2022

We are BACK! Live and in stereo!

16/05/2022

We are back! Live and in stereo!

06/04/2022

The Reachers are back and better than ever. They have all been busy doing what makes them happy and a Full On Reacher! Ralls has been calving, Richard is counting the days until turnout, Joel is a dart throwing fool, and Micah has been battling plumbing and chaos in general!
They bring up a couple past Entertainment Spotlights of Old Henry and Open Range...And since we haven't all seen and talked about them yet, we keep them on the list to review. Richard also suggests that we all pick our favorite Led Zeppelin song and discuss the next time...
The gang talk about the Nitrogen Cycle, buying local beef, who will run for president next time and inflation.
Strap in, sit down, listen, watch, share and enjoy!!

24/03/2022

We are pleased to sit down with Eastern Oregon's own Jason Brandt, owner and operator of Brandt Trucking. Jason was faced with a tough decision when his long time employer implemented policies that he felt removed his freedom of choice. This husband of 25 years and father of two had a tough choice. He could either give in and comply, or stand by his word and do what he felt was right to maintain his rights and freedoms by striking out on his own to do whatever it takes to provide.
Jason has an amazing story, and most importantly, an inspirational outlook on life. He is sure to inspire you to be the positive light in your community. This is sure to be a favorite episode and one that you will go back and listen to time and time again. Strap in and come along for an amazing ride!

To contact Brandt Trucking by email:[email protected]

Jason wants to be sure and thank those who helped him along the way. First and foremost, his amazing wife Emily and his children!
Also, Joe and Dana @ J&D Hill Farms and Joe Hill Consulting
Parker Warner @ Flying J Trucking

23/03/2022

Gather round kids….brand new Far Reaches Extra hits the streets tomorrow at 5 am Pacific. Start your day with a great story about freedom of choice and doing what it takes to make it. We sit down with Jason Brandt of Brandt Trucking LLC. One for the ages!

23/03/2022

Apologies for the random spam on the page. Seems we are popular or controversial enough to be hacked. So, enjoy this bad ass commercial and keep on Reachin!

https://youtu.be/s92UMJNjPIA

A year ago, Harry’s Razors advertised on our shows. But then, they pulled their ads due to “values misalignment." Harry’s apparently decided that conservativ...

04/03/2022

Thank you again to our friends at B&K Auto for helping to bring the magic live and all up in your kitchen! We couldn't do it without them. Remember to listen for the exclusive Far Reaches promo code as well. Be sure and check out B&K for parts, scrap and just to thank them for making all this possible!

The gang is all back, and all have been busy! Ralls and Richard are dealing with calving and a wild spring. Joel is up to his eyes in darts and cooking steaks. Micah is fresh back from the Daytona 500 and freezing his arse off in Wisconsin the next week.

The gang give a classic Reach Around and cover some of the in your face topics that they love to dive into. It is a slow time in the world, so they struggle to find anything to talk about!
Richard and Ralls have been extra busy, so they hadn't watched the last entertainment spotlight, Old Henry...That doesn't stop Ralls from picking the next one too, Open Range! Another great western classic!

This episode is stuffed full of classic Reaching and one you are sure to save for a snowy day. Sit down, strap in, and listen up ya'll. And remember, Keep on Reachin!

03/03/2022

Season 3, Episode 12, All up in your kitchen!

11/02/2022

Hang on kids, all the Reacher's are back and on point! Thank you again to the amazing folks at B&K Auto for making all this brilliance and pontification to the world. Remember, listen to this episode to get the Far Reaches Promo code!
The gang are all in fine form and cover the spectrum on the very slow week in news! HA!
The next entertainment is the recent and soon to be classic film, Old Henry. Be sure to watch and send us your thoughts! ...https://www.imdb.com/video/vi961003545?playlistId=tt12731980
They cover the spectrum and lay down the law, so strap in tight and have some fun! And remember, keep on Reachin!

11/02/2022

For those Reachers who are wondering how to support the Canadian Truckers Freedom Convoy 2022!

10/02/2022

Season 3, Episode 11...Truckers, Crack Pipes and "Science"

01/02/2022

28/01/2022

Thank you again to our great, great friends at B&K Auto Salvage for making this magic possible! Listen to the episode to get the Far Reaches promo code for discounts on purchases and a boost in scrap prices. Tell em the Reachers sent ya!
This week we have a full cast of Reachers, and even a special guest from Reacher Superfan, Amy McNamee.
The gang kick off with an all star reach around and catch up with all the fun and wild times for the past few days. Everyone has been turnin and burning and they all get to learn about some excitement and career updates from Amy!
The gang review the last Entertainment Spotlight of the Super Bob Einstein show, the documentary about long time comedian, Super Dave Osbourne!
The gang dives into some cows, wolves, Sage Grouse, politics and of course some Joe Rogan. They decide to feature episode 1767 with James Lindsay for the next entertainment spotlight and the controversial implementation of ESG Ratings. https://open.spotify.com/episode/2rYwwE7hcpgsDo9vRVHxAI?si=e252262f35504731
They also discuss how to use bitcoin to buy cows, and think of a new fun feature called, Doin It With Joel...This one is packed full of all that you love about the Far Reaches!

27/01/2022

Season 3, Episode 10...It's a Full on 10

19/01/2022

Recent interview with Far Reacher, Rawley Bigsby and the impact of wolves on ranching.
https://www.kptv.com/news/more-wolves-means-more-livestock-conflicts-illegal-killings-in-oregon/article_7676d57a-78d4-11ec-a927-9726c4bc4fb7.html?block_id=994431&fbclid=IwAR0wVcNS0z7FMkGCcpcasnc90rDEUKdPjnsCx9UCkEHLBEfyG4_mcvWtrHY

WALLOWA COUNTY, Ore. (KPTV) – There are two sides wrapped up in a battle in some of rural Oregon.

14/01/2022

Thank you again to our friends at B&K Auto for bringing this episode to the world. Be sure and listen to get your Far Reaches promo code for unbelievable savings!
The gang are down a Reacher as Ralls is still digging out from the snow storm and dealing with the fun of being new parents. Richard, Joel and Micah forge ahead and even get a peek of Richard kickin up some Cowboy Carbonara in the kitchen!
The gang has a great reach around as Micah tried to get Turnpike Troubadour tickets, but failed miserably, Joel went to the movies, and Richard worked on budgets. Joel even went back and watched The Last Boyscout, so be sure to see if he likes it or not.
Richard leads the entertainment spotlight discussion on season 1, episode 1 of the Far Reaches Podcast. They all enjoyed listening to where it all began and some of the discussion on COVID when it first emerged. It was a little raw but fun nonetheless!
Joel suggested that everyone check out The Super Bob Einstein movie, about the comedic life of Bob Einstein who played Super Dave Osborne and many other characters on TV. If you haven't seen a Super Dave show, check it out for sure!
The gang share some shower thoughts which cover the spectrum on content and will keep you guessing! They even find time to give Richard grief for still not having an iphone, but do enjoy the fact that we can see him on the video now. So, strap in for this little trip down memory lane and scrub your eyes with some shower thoughts...Most importantly, keep on Reachin!