#147 How Josh Increased Stocking & Cut Costs

Real Wealth Ranching is dedicated to helping ranchers build profitable and sustainable operations by applying proven grazing principles.

Through the Total Grazing Program, ranchers gain the tools to increase productivity, improve soil health, and eliminate costly inefficiencies. One of our students, Josh Teague of Running T Farms, has experienced these transformations firsthand.

Josh Teague, a cattle rancher based in North Carolina, United States, started his journey in livestock in 2014. Though his family had a history with livestock, he was the first in his generation to run cattle. In 2019, he officially launched his 100% grass-fed beef business while also working as a licensed general contractor. His ranching journey was filled with challenges before discovering the Total Grazing Program.

Before implementing Total Grazing, Josh struggled with the common pitfalls of conventional grazing. Overgrazing led to deteriorating pastures, which forced him to rely on expensive hay feeding to sustain his herd. This cycle drained resources and limited his ranch’s carrying capacity. As he describes it:

Transitioning from his old grazing method to the Total Grazing program was a learning experience. "At first, it was a mindset shift. We had to trust the process and stick to the system," Josh recalled. (00:05:10) He gradually adjusted his stocking density, controlled grazing patterns, and focused on maximizing forage utilization. "It was tough at the beginning because it went against what we had been doing for years. But after a few months, we started seeing the pastures recover, and the cattle were doing better than ever." (00:07:45)

“I was following the mainstream grazing advice, and it just wasn’t working for me. We were overgrazing, and I didn’t realize it. We were feeding way too much hay and constantly battling declining pasture health.” (09:16)

Determined to find a better way, Josh explored regenerative grazing methods. He came across Johann Zietsman’s teachings, which led him to the Total Grazing Program. He committed to stockpiling forage instead of relying on hay and began selecting better-adapted cattle genetics.

“Once I started focusing on using all the forage available and letting pastures recover properly, I saw a shift. The grass came back stronger, and I needed less and less hay each year.” (13:43)

One of Josh’s biggest wins came from improving his herd’s genetics to better fit his environment. By culling cattle that struggled in his local conditions and selecting more resilient animals, he created a herd that thrives on forage alone.

“I had to make some tough decisions with my cows. Some just couldn’t perform in my conditions, so I had to let them go. Now, I have a herd that maintains body condition year-round on grass alone.” (20:58)

Through the Total Grazing Program approach, Josh also increased his stocking rate while improving the health of his soil. His operation is now more productive and profitable than ever before.

“We’ve increased our carrying capacity each year, and I’m aiming for 1,000 pounds of live animal weight per acre. Moving the herd now takes me under 10 minutes—it’s so efficient.” (34:01)
The transformation was evident in several key areas:

• Improved Pasture and Soil Health – Carrying capacity increased, and soil fertility improved significantly.
• Better-Adapted Genetics – Culling the wrong cattle and selecting for optimal genetics led to healthier animals.
• Time Efficiency – Daily cattle moves were reduced to under 10 minutes, makin management easier and more sustainable.

As Josh reflects on his journey, he encourages other ranchers to take the leap into Total Grazing:

"If you want to make your ranch sustainable, you’ve got to change your approach. Total Grazing is the way to do it." (41:27)

Josh also highlights how Total Grazing has given him more freedom in his daily life. With proper planning and low-cost yet effective infrastucture, he can now from time-to-time step away from the ranch without worrying about his cattle running out of forage.

“The best part is I can leave for the weekend, and I know my cattle have enough grass. That’s real peace of mind.” (41:27)

Josh encourages other ranchers to consider Total Grazing, emphasizing how it has transformed his operation. He believes the system provides a sustainable and profitable future for those willing to make the change.

Beyond the technical aspects, Josh found a strong support system in the Fat Wallet Ranchers community. "Having that group to lean on and ask questions has been a game changer. Everyone is sharing experiences, and you’re learning from people who are actually doing it and seeing results." (00:17:05) He credits the community for keeping him motivated and on track during the transition.

Josh encourages other ranchers to consider the Total Grazing program. "If you’re on the fence, just try it. Follow the system, and you’ll see the results. It’s one of the best decisions we’ve made for our ranch." (00:19:40)

Conclusion and Recap:

• Reduced dependence on hay – Josh drastically cut back on supplemental feeding.
• Improved soil health – Pastures recovered faster and produced more forage.
• Increased carrying capacity – More cattle per acre without sacrificing land health.
• Better herd genetics – Cattle now thrive on forage alone, reducing unnecessary costs.
• More time freedom – Ranching has become more efficient, allowing more flexibility.

Josh’s story is a testament to the power of the Total Grazing Program. His success proves that with the right approach, ranchers can increase profitability while improving land and herd health. Click here to watch the full interview and hear Josh’s insights directly and learn how you can apply these principles to your operation.

Spring is a season of renewal and growth—the perfect time to invest in your land and grazing system. To help you maximize your pasture’s potential, I’m offering 25% off the Total Grazing Academy course this month!

🌱 Take advantage of this season of growth to improve your pastures, feed more animals, and build a more productive ranch. Offer valid through March 27th!

Go to www.rwranching.com/enroll and use coupon code "SPRING" at checkout to get 25% off today!