Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains near Oldfield, Missouri, in newly Agri-Ready Designated Christian County, sits Gilbert Cattle Company. The family-owned seedstock cattle operation is rooted in hard work, good cattle, and values that grow deep in rocky soil.

The Gilberts officially began their Angus journey in 2012 when Josh and LeAnna, along with their children, Lauren and Paden, purchased their first group of registered Angus females. Their purchase launched a family business that has grown faster than they ever expected and shaped the direction of their lives.

“We picked Angus cattle because they work well for us in the Ozark hills,” Josh says. “They fit our customers’ programs, they add value, and the breed’s versatility is something we believe in.”

A Family Operation and Team Effort

Every member of the Gilbert family leans into their strengths to play a vital role in the day-to-day operation.

LeAnna and Paden serve as the herdsmen (although LeAnna jokingly resists the title). They visit the pastures every day, watching, calving, checking, and tending to the cattle that serve as the foundation of their program.

“Mom and Paden really are the herdsmen,” Lauren laughed. “They are boots on the ground every day, and they know these cattle better than anyone because they are right there with them.”

Josh manages the business side of the ranch, making genetic selections and working with customers to ensure their investments in Gilbert Cattle Company are working for them.

“Dad definitely runs the business side of things,” Lauren says. “But he is also the one connecting with customers and building those relationships. Dad loves the cattle business because it brings like-minded people together and has established many friendships for our family.”

Lauren (now Lauren Brown) manages the marketing and promotion of the farm, as well as their production sales.

“We are really grateful we have the opportunity to be in business with our family,” she says. “It has grown us closer together, and we are constantly talking about how to grow and improve. It is kind of fun when your dinner table conversations are also a business meeting.”

Growing Through Genetics

As a seedstock operation, the Gilberts place an enormous emphasis on genetics and breed improvement. From the start, they were committed to building a cow herd that could thrive in the rugged and brushy hills of the Ozarks while delivering results for the cattlemen they serve.

“Genetics are everything, especially in cattle,” Paden explains. “As a seedstock operation, we are supplying our customers with genetics that work for them. We want cattle that are maternal, growth-oriented, efficient, and profitable.”

To reach those goals, the family has embraced embryo transfer, artificial insemination, and a carefully selected base of high-quality females. Their early years also included a strong involvement in the National Junior Angus Association, where Lauren and Paden showed cattle across the country.

“Everything we learned from showing cattle carries into our program now,” Lauren says. “It taught us what good cattle look like, and how to build toward that.”

The Growing Tradition of Gilbert Production Sales

Five years ago, the Gilberts launched an annual spring production sale. They knew they had the genetics and the demand, and they wanted to share their cattle with producers looking for predictable and trustworthy seedstock. Like any first year effort, though, it came with plenty of lessons.

“We did not know what we were doing at all,” LeAnna said with a smile. “It was a baptism by fire. You just learn by doing.”

Their second year brought a brand-new sale barn that was finished the morning of the event. But each subsequent sale brought growth, greater confidence, and better systems. Today, the Gilberts not only host their successful annual spring sale, but added an annual fall production sale beginning in November 2026.

Sale days are made possible by a long list of family members and friends

“We could not do it without them,” LeAnna says. “They are a team, and we are very grateful for them.”

Rooted in Community

The Gilbert family’s appreciation for community runs deep. In the Ozarks, neighbors show up for one another, and the Gilberts try to be the kind of family who does the same.

“There is a strong sense of community in our area where people help each other out,” Lauren says. “We live in the middle of the Ozark Mountains, and it is beautiful country. We are stewards of God’s land, and it is an honor to take care of it for future generations.”

The Gilberts regularly welcome local elementary students and FFA chapters to their farm. Whether it is showing a child what a cow eats or teaching older students about reproductive technologies, they believe in helping young people understand where their food comes from, and who is behind it.

Committed to Missouri Agriculture

“There’s no better way of life or business to be in than agriculture,” Lauren says. The family has long been active in the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, the Missouri Angus Association, and the American Angus Association.

Lauren’s involvement began early. She served as a Missouri Cattlemen’s Association Beef Queen, Missouri FFA state vice president, Missouri Junior Cattlemen’s Association president, and later as vice chairman of the National Junior Angus Board.

Today, she continues that commitment through her role as communications director for the Missouri Fertilizer Control Board and the Missouri Agri-Business Association. For the Gilberts, staying engaged in these organizations is an important way to support the industry that has shaped their family.

Through their involvement in Missouri agriculture, their support of youth, and the care they put into their own operation, the Gilberts continue to invest in the future of the industry. They take pride in raising cattle that work in the Ozarks and in backing the people who raise them. As they look ahead, their focus remains the same: serve their customers well, care for the land entrusted to them, and continue building a legacy they can be proud of.