Regenerative Ranching in New Mexico's High Desert with Sile Pastures

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What happens when a chef's passion for food quality leads to raising cattle? In this enlightening conversation with the family behind Sile Pastures, we discover how culinary expertise transformed into regenerative ranching in Sile, New Mexico.
Sage Hagen shares his remarkable journey from high-end kitchens working alongside Wolfgang Puck to establishing a diversified farm operation with his wife Andrea and their daughters. Their story illustrates the challenges and rewards of being first-generation ranchers in New Mexico's varied landscape, where water access proves both precious and determining. With incredible candor, they discuss how their operation has evolved from a small market garden to managing 60 head of cattle and 70 sheep while maintaining their commitment to sustainable practices.
The conversation delves into what makes New Mexico ranching unique, from dealing with unexpected May snowstorms to navigating limited land access. You'll hear how their four-year-old daughter already serves as the "farm manager," spotting trailers, sorting cattle, and developing an enviable work ethic that only agricultural life can provide. This family's deep respect for their animals permeates everything they do, from humane handling practices to their innovative "ancestral blend" ground beef that incorporates nutrient-dense organ meats.
Beyond cattle, Andrea explains their latest venture creating tallow-based body products as part of their commitment to using every part of the animal. Their philosophy of connection—to the land, their animals, and their community—offers listeners a thoughtful perspective on modern ranching that honors traditional values while embracing innovation.
Whether you're curious about regenerative agriculture, the realities of starting a ranch from scratch, or simply want to understand the dedication behind locally-raised beef, this episode provides an authentic window into the lives of those who choose to nurture both land and livestock. Listen now to appreciate the people behind your next meal.

Chapters

1. Meet the Seely Pastures Family (00:00:00)

2. New Mexico's Diverse Ranching Landscape (00:07:31)

3. Challenges of First-Generation Ranching (00:13:31)

4. Family Values in Agriculture (00:20:23)

5. Value-Added Farm Products (00:25:25)

6. Beyond Beef: A Full-Circle Approach (00:32:25)

7. Where to Find Seely Pastures (00:36:51)