Travis Browne - The Cult of Rec Podcast, Episode 19

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Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Cult of Recreationalism podcast! In Episode 19, our host Nathan Morris sat down with Travis Browne, the retired UFC fighter who has seamlessly transitioned from the octagon to a life of ranching and regenerative farming. This episode delves into Travis's journey, the philosophy behind his ranch, and the importance of nutrition and sustainable farming practices.

From Octagon to Acres: Travis Browne’s New Chapter

Nathan Morris welcomed Travis Browne to the show, sparking a discussion about his transition from professional fighting to ranching. Travis, who began training for combat sports at 26 and joined the UFC at 27, described how his and his wife Ronda Rousey’s interest in self-sustainability led them to start Browsy Acres. The ranch focuses on producing high-quality Wagyu beef and pasture-raised poultry. Travis emphasized, “We're primarily Wagyu, American Wagyu, full-blood Wagyu and then pasture-raised poultry and it's the way that we do it that really separates us from a lot of people that currently are in the industry.”

The Genesis of Browsy Acres

Travis explained the motivation behind starting Browsy Acres, highlighting how the pandemic reinforced the importance of knowing where their food comes from and the value of self-sufficiency. He shared how they had freezers full of meat and were well-prepared when the pandemic hit, unlike many who were scrambling for supplies. This experience solidified their commitment to raising their own food and ensuring its quality and safety.

The Superiority of Wagyu

Delving into the qualities that make Wagyu beef superior, Travis explained that its excellence comes from the Japanese genetics, particularly the marbling, taste, and tenderness. He noted, “It's considered the higher-end beef and that really comes from the Japanese genetics... and it comes from the marbling, the taste, the tenderness, and everything that goes into that piece of meat that you're eating.” The superior marbling results in a more tender and flavorful meat, making Wagyu a highly sought-after breed.

The Importance of Regenerative Farming

A significant portion of the conversation focused on the benefits of regenerative farming. Travis passionately discussed how this method improves soil health and results in more nutritious and flavorful meat. He shared that regenerative ranching is about “using the animals as a tool to build the soil” and rotating them daily to new pastures, which enhances the quality of the grass and the health of the soil. This practice not only benefits the environment but also ensures the animals are healthy and produce nutrient-dense meat.

A Family Affair

Travis’s dedication to his family was evident throughout the episode. He shared heartwarming anecdotes about his children and their involvement in ranching activities, learning valuable life skills along the way. “We ride through the pastures and check on the herd,” he said, highlighting how his children are actively participating in the ranch’s daily operations. This involvement teaches them where their food comes from and instills a sense of responsibility and connection to their environment.

Nutrition and Health: A Fighter’s Perspective

Nathan, who owns a gym, and Travis discussed the critical role of nutrition in maintaining peak physical condition. Travis credited his improved performance and recovery to focusing on whole foods and proper nutrition. He teamed up with Dan Garner, who based nutritional plans on blood work, ensuring that Travis addressed specific health needs. “When you start fixing those problems that you have... you start feeling so much better,” Travis noted, emphasizing the importance of personalized nutrition for optimal health.

The Simplest Advice

Travis’s philosophy on life is simple yet profound: always do the right thing. This mantra guides his decisions both personally and professionally, ensuring he remains true to his values. He shared, “You're never wrong doing the right thing,” a principle he also teaches his children, reinforcing the importance of integrity in every aspect of life.

Conclusion

This episode of the Cult of Recreationalism podcast offers listeners an insightful look into Travis Browne’s life after fighting, highlighting the importance of sustainable farming, nutrition, and family. Travis’s journey from the UFC to ranching is a testament to his dedication and passion for improving not only his life but also the lives of those who enjoy the products from Browsy Acres.

Remember to tune in to the Cult of Recreationalism podcast for more inspiring stories and insights into living a balanced, healthy life.