This Independence Day week, Dr. Colt Knight is joined by Dr. Dean Fish of Arizona’s Anchor F Cattle Co. to explore one of America’s most recognizable symbols: the cowboy hat. From John B. Stetson’s original design in the 1860s to today’s custom-crafted masterpieces, Colt and Dean trace the history, function and cultural significance of the hat that helped shape the American West. Along the way, they discuss cowboy etiquette, hat-making traditions, regional styles and why a good hat is much more than a fashion statement.

Whether you’re a lifelong cowboy, a weekend horse owner or someone who has never worn a hat, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the traditions, values and craftsmanship that continue to influence rural America. Pull up a chair, grab a slice of apple pie and join us as we celebrate Independence Day with a story that is uniquely American.

Why does a ribeye cost so much more than it did a few years ago?

In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, Dr. Colt Knight sits down with Dr. Gregg Rentfrow, meat science specialist at the University of Kentucky, while attending North Carolina State University’s BBQ Camp. Together, they break down the many factors driving today’s record-high meat prices, including historically low cattle inventories, rising feed and fertilizer costs, inflation, avian influenza, drought, international trade disruptions and livestock disease concerns.

From beef and pork to poultry, the conversation explores why consumers continue to pay premium prices and what that means for farmers, processors and families at the grocery store. The discussion also takes a broader look at changing protein consumption trends in the United States and around the world. Colt and Gregg examine the rise of chicken as America’s most-consumed protein, the resurgence of animal-based protein demand, the challenges facing local meat processors and the future of plant-based meat alternatives.

Along the way, they share insights into pork production, food processing, consumer perceptions and why predicting future food prices may be harder than ever. Whether you’re a farmer, food enthusiast or simply wondering why your grocery bill keeps growing, this episode provides valuable context on the forces shaping today’s food system.

University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination.

In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, host Colt W. Knight sits down with Sue Ishaq, associate professor and microbiome researcher at the University of Maine, to explore the fascinating world of microbes and their role in animal and human health. From her nonfarm upbringing and path through animal science to building a dynamic research lab, Ishaq shares how curiosity and a few career pivots led her into the rapidly evolving field of microbiome science.

The conversation dives into cutting-edge research on how microbes interact with diet, including the surprising health benefits of foods such as broccoli sprouts and the role of gut microbes in producing anti-inflammatory compounds. Along the way, they connect microbiome science back to livestock production, comparing human digestion to ruminant systems and discussing probiotics, diet shifts and microbial resilience. Whether you’re a farmer, student or just curious about what’s happening inside your gut, this episode offers an engaging and practical look at the invisible world shaping health and agriculture.

• Learn more about Dr. Sue Ishaq

University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination.