The Crown Chronicles

Mastering the Juggle: How to Balance Leadership Responsibilities and Showing Cattle

For many of us, the world of junior livestock exhibition is about more than just showing — it’s a demanding training ground for leadership. However, balancing significant roles — such as serving as the JRA queen, on the junior board or as a livestock exhibitor with additional responsibilities inside and outside the industry — while maintaining a competitive string of cattle can feel like a constant high-wire act. This period of life demands peak efficiency and strategic management. It’s entirely possible to excel in both areas, allowing your leadership role to amplify your show ring success.

I’m going to share a few ways that help me balance everything. Balancing executive duties and barn responsibilities relies on three core principles. Mastering your time — and learning how to manage it effectively — makes a huge difference. Your schedule is your most valuable asset, so approach it with the same precision you use in the show ring. I’ve found that what works best for me is using a digital or physical planner to block out time for official duties — appearances, meetings and travel — while also dedicating equal, protected time to caring for my animals. Treat barn time like a mandatory board meeting — it can’t be canceled. As a high school senior, it can be hard to keep up with everything at once, but when you focus on what needs to get done and when, it helps more than you’d think.

Commercial Marketing Chair Report
Taryn Cox

I had the opportunity to attend La Crosse Livestock Inc.’s Annual Red Angus Influence Sale with Commercial Marketing Specialist Taylor Ohlde in La Crosse, Kansas, earlier this month. While I enjoyed watching the sale, seeing the prices cattle brought and having a good old-fashioned sale barn lunch, what stood out most was the power of visibility and connection in the cattle industry.

I watched producers visit with Taylor about market conditions, cattle type, the weather and their families, and I listened as he delivered his thank-you remarks from the podium before the sale began. I noticed the sale barn owner personally thanked every producer who brought cattle and every buyer — whether they were filling an order or purchasing only a few head.

In those moments, it became clear that relationships are the true currency of this industry. The simple act of showing up — shaking hands, talking cattle and kids, and expressing gratitude — keeps the beef business moving forward. Watching that unfold reminded me that behind every sale is a network of people who value trust, loyalty and connection just as much as high-quality cattle.