First-Time Cow Breeding Fail (And Why I’m Still Glad I Tried)

We got a new mic setup and I was pretty hyped to use it—until I realized it doesn’t work with the tripod. So, first lesson of the day: nothing’s ever simple. But that’s kind of the theme around here lately.

Yesterday was a first for me: I tried to AI breed a cow. I’ve never done it before, and yeah, I was nervous. The tech came out—super nice guy, but he works fast. Like fast. So we’re getting things set up, and I’ve got my straws ready (trying to breed to lowline, since my cows are already half lowline). Some folks say that’s not ideal, but hey—at least I’m doing something.

That’s kind of my whole philosophy: I’d rather take action and make a few mistakes than just sit around overthinking it.

So the guy’s got the tank, grabs what he needs, and we go. Now here’s the kicker—there were practice straws in the tank. And it’s very possible that’s what he used. So I might’ve just spent a hundred bucks to breed a cow to a straw of water.

But here’s the thing: I’m not even that mad. From a stoic perspective, I paid $100 for that experience, for that lesson. I got to see how the whole thing works, got to interact with someone experienced, and I learned something. Worth it? I think so.

We’ll know in 21 days if she’s settled. If not, well… I used a practice straw. Either way, it’s going to be a great story someday.

Mistakes Are the Best Teachers

I’m still in what I like to call “the learning stage.” I’ve only been doing this for about two years, and while I’ve learned a ton, I’m not pretending to be a pro. I’m figuring things out by doing—and by screwing up.

I remember hearing something from Naval once—he said when you’re in learning mode, like 95% of what you do will be mistakes. That really stuck with me. It made me realize that messing up isn’t just normal—it’s necessary. Especially in farming.

Most farmers I talk to focus a lot on what didn’t work. And I used to think it was negativity, but now I get it. Those “failures” are what taught them the most. It’s how you grow.

Day-to-Day Chaos (With a New Baby Calf!)

Between figuring out this breeding stuff and milking, I’ve also been juggling content creation. Filming farm life is kind of a hassle, honestly. Lugging a camera around when you’re already tired is a drag. But what keeps me coming back is the potential: to share, to inspire, maybe even to support the farm financially.

Is it weird to document your life like this? Sometimes. But seeing how others inspired me to farm—why not return the favor?

Anyway, speaking of inspiring, we had a surprise on the farm: a new baby heifer from Jesse, one of our cows. Absolute cutie. I’m thinking of a “J” name to go with her mom—suggestions welcome.

Got her colostrum ready (28 BRIX—nice!), navel dipped, and she’s doing great. Little moments like that remind you why all the chaos is worth it.

Final Thought: Just Do the Thing

So if you’re in a spot where you’re thinking about starting something—farming, filming, anything—here’s my advice: it’s more fun doing than just thinking.

You’re gonna feel dumb sometimes. That’s okay. I’m still out here fumbling with mics and maybe breeding cows with water. But I’m learning. I’m building something. And it feels real.

Catch you in the next one.