The latest episode of Grazing The Facts takes listeners deep into the history and future of Florida cattle production with seventh-generation cattleman Jody Counts.
In Episode 57, Counts shares his family’s deep roots in Florida and the ranching traditions that have been passed down through generations. Recorded on September 29, 2026, the conversation offers a look at what it means to be a cattleman in a state where agriculture continues to face a changing landscape.
For Counts, cattle production is more than a business. It is a family legacy that stretches back seven generations. That history has given him a unique perspective on the traditions that helped shape Florida’s cattle industry and the responsibility that comes with carrying those traditions forward.
One of the challenges discussed in the episode is the continued pressure from development. As Florida grows and land uses change, cattle producers are faced with questions about how agriculture can remain a part of the state’s future. Counts shares his perspective on what it takes to continue ranching in an evolving Florida while preserving the heritage and traditions that have defined the state’s cattle industry.
The conversation also highlights the resilience of Florida’s cattlemen and women. Producers must navigate the state’s unique climate and conditions while finding ways to keep their operations productive and sustainable.
Looking toward the future, Counts discusses his hopes for preserving the cattle industry for the generations that follow. Maintaining a strong agricultural presence will require both respect for the industry’s history and a willingness to adapt to the challenges ahead. His story is a reminder that Florida cattle production is deeply connected to the families, land and traditions that have sustained the industry for generations.
Hear the full conversation with Jody Counts on Episode 57 of Grazing The Facts, available on the podcast player above or through your favorite podcast app.
This program was funded by the Florida Cattle Enhancement Board.