91. The Hidden Risk Inside Today’s Record Cattle Prices with Ryan Noble & Wally Olson

Record cattle prices have created strong profits across the industry, but how much of that success is actually driven by good management versus simple market inflation? In this episode, John Haskell sits down with Ryan Noble and Wally Olson to break down the critical difference between inflation, deflation, appreciation, and depreciation, and why confusing these forces can lead to costly missteps, even in the best markets.

As cattle values have surged over the past several years, many producers have seen their balance sheets grow without realizing how much of that gain is driven by external market forces. The conversation highlights how depreciation still quietly works against you, why relative value matters more than price, and how failing to actively manage herd inventory and replacement decisions can leave significant money on the table, especially when the market eventually turns.

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In this episode, we cover:

1. Why recent profits are largely driven by market inflation, not management
2. The difference between inflation, deflation, appreciation, and depreciation
3. How cattle can depreciate even while prices are rising
4. Why relative value matters more than absolute price
5. The hidden cost of holding cows too long and missing replacement windows
6. The importance of actively valuing and managing inventory

Connect with Ryan:

1. Follow on Instagram @noble.ranch
2. Send an email at [email protected]

Connect with Wally:

1. Check out his website

Connect with Ranch Right:

1. Subscribe on YouTube
2. Follow on Instagram @ranchrightllc
3. Follow on Facebook
4. Check out the website
5. Check out all of our past webinars here

Resources & Links:

1. Ryan's Inflation Deflation Spreadsheet
2. Book a Free Discovery Call to Learn More
3. Ranching for Profit
4. Ranching.FYI
5. Wally Olson, Olson Ranch LLC

Mentioned in this episode:

We work with producers on cash flow, risk management, and long-term financial strategy so the business stays resilient—no matter the market. If you want to see whether that’s the right fit for your operation, click below to book a free call.

Book a free discovery call