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Eye for Cattle: How a 16-Year-Old Built a Buyer’s Reputation [episode 80]


header graphic Eye for Cattle: How a 16-Year-Old Built a Buyer’s Reputation [episode 80]

Listen to Eye for Cattle: How a 16-Year-Old Built a Buyer’s Reputation on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Your platform of choice  



Most people assume cattle buying is a business that takes decades to break into. In this episode, John sits down with Eli Hopping, a 16-year-old cattle buyer from northeastern Oklahoma, to talk about how skill, discipline, and reputation matter far more than age when having an eye for cattle. Joined by Wally Olson, the conversation highlights what it really takes to succeed in the sale barn and why doing a good job consistently is still the fastest way to earn trust.


Eli shares how growing up around auction barns shaped his eye for cattle, how he learned to think fast under pressure, and what he looks for when evaluating calves in the ring. The discussion also covers customer relationships, commission structures, record keeping, and why understanding where cattle are going is just as important as knowing what to buy.


In this episode, Eye for Cattle: How a 16-Year-Old Built a Buyer’s Reputation, we cover: 

  • How Eli got started buying cattle at a young age and earned trust in the sale barn

  • What experienced buyers look for when evaluating cattle quickly and accurately

  • Why reputation, consistency, and knowing your customers matter more than age

  • The importance of understanding cattle potential and where those cattle will be sold

  • Lessons about business, math, and decision-making learned in real time at auctions

  

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More about the Ranchonomics podcast:  

Welcome to Ranchonomics, where we empower you to build a better ranch and transform your operation into a thriving business. This podcast is brought to you by Ranch Right LLC, and together we will look at essential strategies, mindsets, and processes needed to take command of your financials and master the business metrics that make all the difference. If you are ready to start winning at ranching, then you are in the right spot. 


With each episode of Ranchonomics, you will hear inspiring success stories, gain simple yet powerful financial literacy tips, and listen to insightful interviews with industry experts and real-life practitioners. 


Whether you are a seasoned rancher or just starting out, we believe that managing a ranch shouldn't mean drowning in paperwork or missing out on valuable opportunities. Our mission is to help you see the link between your daily ranching operations and your financials that allow you to go from chaos to clarity and achieve your goals. 


Join us as we explore the intersection of ranching and finance, helping you understand your numbers and make informed decisions that propel your business forward. 

Subscribe now and start your path to a more profitable, less stressful ranching experience with Ranchonomics. It's time to harness the full potential of your operation. 

 

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