367: What Nearly 50 Years in the Sale Barn Can Teach Every Producer with Dwayne Mayes

What can nearly five decades in the livestock marketing business teach today's cattle producers? In the first episode of our 2026 Cattle Marketing Hall of Fame series, Lauren sits down with Hall of Fame inductee Dwayne Mays to reflect on a remarkable career spanning nearly 50 years in the sale barn. From starting at the bottom to eventually owning one of the nation's most respected livestock markets, Dwayne shares the lessons, relationships, and values that shaped his career. The conversation explores the evolution of the cattle industry, the importance of integrity and trust, mentoring the next generation, and why faith has remained the foundation of his success.

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Key Takeaways:

• Dwayne Mays reflects on nearly 50 years of leadership in the livestock marketing industry
• Why starting at the bottom gave him the perspective to lead successfully
• How trust, integrity, and long-term relationships built a Hall of Fame career
• The evolution of cattle marketing from local sale barns to video auctions
• Why timing, patience, and perseverance matter more than chasing quick success
• The importance of investing in and mentoring the next generation of producers
• How faith guided Dwayne's decisions throughout his career
• Why the future of the cattle industry depends on strong leadership and lasting relationships

Chapters:

00:00 – Introducing Hall of Fame inductee Dwayne Mays

01:06 – Growing up in Nebraska and beginning a career in the sale barn

03:15 – Starting from the ground up and earning opportunities

05:45 – Purchasing Ogallala Livestock and leading through decades of change

08:10 – The evolution of cattle marketing and the rise of video auctions

10:32 – The faith and values behind a successful career

12:05 – Retirement, moving to Indiana, and finding a new purpose

15:00 – Helping young producers get started in the cattle business

16:01 – The advice every young rancher and entrepreneur should hear

16:41 – Looking back on a lifetime in the livestock industry

18:11 – Why God's timing is always worth trusting

18:26 – Building a legacy that extends beyond the sale barn

20:02 – Reflections on the Hall of Fame and the future of the cattle industry

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