What happens when the cows disappear from the countryside? For nearly 30 years, Mitch Barthel has had a front-row seat to one of the biggest shifts in American agriculture: the decline of the family farm and the steady loss of cattle across the Midwest.

In this episode of Regenerative Renegades, host and Chief Renegade Matt Maier sits down with Mitch Barthel, owner of Tri-County Stockyards and Perham Stockyards, lifelong cattleman, and nationally recognized livestock auctioneer. From selling cattle as a young farm kid in Minnesota to becoming on of the top livestock auctioneers in the country, Mitch shares the lessons, challenges, and stories he's gathered from a lifetime in the cattle business.

Together Matt and Mitch explore why so many diversified farms have exited the cattle business, the economic forces reshaping rural America, the labor challenges facing producers, and what the future holds for cattle, beef, and regenerative agriculture. They also discuss nutrition, soil health, government policy, livestock genetics, and the enduring connection between cattle, stewardship, and life on the land.

Whether you're a rancher, farmer, homesteader or simply care about where your food comes from, this conversation offers an honest and thought-provoking look at the past, present, and future of American agriculture.