McDonnells on Efficiency, Innovation, Abundant Opportunities and Disagreeing Gracefully

Leo and Sam McDonnell, Angus breeders from Columbus, Mont., aren’t afraid of hard work, speaking up or taking risks. In this episode the couple covered everything from a post-Angus tour proposal and the story of the Midland Bull Test to ways that a healthy dose of conflict can make everyone better. Working in an industry with a lot of opinions has similarities to running a family ranch, and they have plenty of advice for navigating both. 

HOSTS: Mark McCully and Miranda Reiman

GUESTS: Leo and Sam McDonnell, Columbus, Mont., devote their time and efforts to providing the most predictable and proven genetics available on their operation, McDonnell Angus. Moving toward trait selection of economic value, the family’s success increased as they worked with breeders toward a common goal — industrywide efficiency. Carrying on what his father started in 1962, Leo managed the Midland Bull Test. The test has since grown to become the largest performance test center in North America, testing about 2,000 bulls annually, and has since been passed on to his son. As Leo and Sam transition their focus to McDonnell Angus, they note that the legacy isn’t the business — the legacy is their children and grandchildren.

Related Reading:
A Lifetime Dedicated to Improvement: https://www.angusjournal.net/post/a-lifetime-dedicated-to-improvement

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