Introduction
A Conversation with Teddy Gentry: The Visionary Behind the South Poll Cattle Breed
In a rare and insightful interview, agricultural advocate Greg recently sat down with Teddy Gentry, the legendary musician and innovative cattleman behind the South Poll cattle breed. Known to many as a founding member of the iconic country band Alabama, Gentry has also spent decades quietly reshaping sustainable cattle farming in the United States. This interview offered a unique opportunity to explore a different side of Teddy—one rooted in soil, stewardship, and long-term vision for agriculture.
Teddy Gentry began developing the South Poll breed in the late 1980s on his farm in Fort Payne, Alabama. His goal was ambitious yet simple: to create a heat-tolerant, gentle, and highly efficient grass-based breed specifically suited for the challenging conditions of the American Southeast. By carefully crossbreeding Red Angus, Barzona, Hereford, and Senepol, Teddy developed a four-way composite that would not only thrive on grass but also deliver tender, flavorful beef with minimal input.
During the interview, Teddy shared the motivations behind the South Poll project. “I wanted a cow that could do well in the heat, stay healthy on grass alone, and still provide a premium product,” he explained. “It wasn’t just about efficiency—it was about sustainability and doing right by the land.”
Greg and Teddy discussed the breed’s rapid growth in popularity among regenerative farmers and small-scale ranchers. Thanks to its docile temperament, strong maternal traits, and impressive adaptability, the South Poll breed has gained national attention as a viable option for those transitioning to more sustainable grazing systems.
Beyond the technical aspects, the interview also touched on Gentry’s philosophy as both an artist and a farmer. “Whether I’m writing a song or raising cattle, it all comes down to heart and purpose,” he said. “You have to believe in what you’re building.”
For viewers and listeners, the conversation was more than just a cattleman’s tale—it was a compelling look at how innovation, dedication, and love for the land can come from the most unexpected places. Teddy Gentry’s story is living proof that true legacy can be built both on stage and in the pasture.