As fourth-generation farmers, Taylor and Nathan Isakson manage their family’s Angus farm near Lawrenceburg, Missouri, alongside their daughter Korbett Paige.

The family’s generational farm, Isakson Cattle Company, stands as a testament to their dedication to heritage and innovation. Established on land originally owned by Nathan’s great-grandfather, the Isaksons are deeply rooted in tradition, but they are also planting seeds for the future.  

Wearing many hats 

Taylor and Nathan balance demanding careers with the daily rigors of farm life, exemplifying the modern farming family. Both wear many hats as parents, ranchers, community leaders and advocates for agriculture.   

Taylor, a 2016 agricultural business graduate of Missouri State University’s Darr College of Agriculture, serves as assistant vice president at Freedom Bank of Southern Missouri. As a commercial and agricultural loan portfolio manager, she uses her financial expertise to guide her family’s cattle operation, as well as the businesses of local farmers and ranchers through lending, planning and strategic growth. 

Modernizing the herd  

In 2019, the Isaksons introduced artificial insemination into their herd management program. Since then, they have incorporated embryo transfer and DNA testing, enabling them to synchronize calving and select traits that create efficient, low-input and highly adaptable cattle.

These data-driven decisions are essential for a family balancing farm duties with full-time careers and community commitments. 

Bringing beef to the table 

They have also developed a direct-to-consumer beef program, marketing beef locally in quarters, halves and wholes. This approach adds value to their product and connects them personally with the families they feed.  

Leading beyond the ranch 

Beyond their ranch, the Isaksons are involved in advocacy and agricultural leadership. They are active members of organizations like the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, the Southwest Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, where Nathan has served as both vice president and president, and several others. 

Taylor also serves as secretary of the Springfield Area Real Estate and Mortgage Professionals group. In addition, she is a member of the Nominating Committee for the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, where she helps select the next cohort of emerging leaders. 

She was selected for the 2024 Missouri Cattlemen’s Leadership College, where she engaged with legislators in Jefferson City and Washington, D.C., toured cattle operations across the country and honed her skills in leadership and policy.  

Mentoring the next generation   

The Isaksons are passionate supporters of their local Missouri FFA chapter and serve on the Ash Grove Youth Fair Board. Taylor finds joy in mentoring young producers, sharing not just financial advice, but also instilling a love for agriculture and a sense of possibility in the next generation. 

Vision for the future 

Looking ahead, the Isaksons plan to further develop their herd’s genetics, grow their customer base and explore new marketing opportunities, including online sales and educational farm visits.  

For them, agriculture is not just about raising cattle; it’s about raising the bar for what a small family farm can achieve. With hard work, dedication and a forward-looking vision, the Isaksons are making sure their farm and its legacy will thrive for generations to come.   

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