by
Shreene Johnson
| Mar 03, 2026
This article was written based on a podcast interview on From the Pasture with Hired Hand. You can listen to the full interview here or wherever you get your podcasts.
On the quiet outskirts of Weatherford, Texas — in a town of fewer than 75 people — a modern ranch vision is quietly taking shape. Broken Oak Ranch, led by Brittany Fellows and Kale Pierce, blends two worlds: high-performance barrel horses and registered Texas Longhorns. What began as a spontaneous purchase at a dispersal sale has evolved into a thoughtful breeding program driven by data, discipline, and long-term vision.
In this episode of From the Pasture with Hired Hand, Brittany shares how a bold rebrand, a genetics overhaul, and strategic use of breeder websites and digital tools are positioning Broken Oak for lasting impact in the ranching community.
Meet Brittany Fellows & the Origin of Broken Oak Ranch
Brittany’s background in elite barrel racing collided organically with Kale’s commercial cattle experience when the couple purchased their first three Longhorns — admittedly with very little knowledge and a lot of enthusiasm.
“We bought three Longhorns and didn’t know what we were doing. We were winging it at the beginning.”
The ranch name reflects both geography and philosophy — inspired by nearby Broken Road and the oak trees dotting their property — symbolizing resilience, growth, and adaptability.
From KB Cattle Co. to Broken Oak: A Strategic Rebrand
Formerly known as KB Cattle Company, the ranch rebranded to reflect its broader mission beyond cattle alone. The new identity unifies horses, Longhorns, family life, and future expansion under one recognizable brand.
The transition required new logos, updated messaging, and a refreshed website — a bold move that Brittany encourages other breeders not to fear.
“If it’s time to rebrand or start your herd over, take the step. It’s scary — but it’s worth it.”
Genetics with Intention: Learning the Hard Way
Early purchases taught valuable lessons. Like many new breeders, the team initially focused heavily on sires without fully understanding maternal depth and generational performance. Mentorship from experienced breeders — including Justin Rombeck — reshaped their approach.
Today, Broken Oak prioritizes:
Their recent investments include Bentwood bloodlines and Cowboy Tuff Chex influence — paired with disciplined pedigree evaluation using online pedigree management tools.
“Slow down. Study the pedigrees. Don’t just look at the sire — go back generations.”
Favorite Cattle & Standout Genetics
Among Brittany’s favorites is DB Mermaids Miley, a Drop Box x RM Texas Mermaid heifer that symbolized the beginning of their genetic revamp. Another standout is RJF Awesome Attraction, a Cowboy Tuff Chex daughter measuring over 92 inches with striking up-and-out horn shape.
But the showstopper? Rose Blossum, a Cowboy Tuff Chex daughter out of HR Slam’s Rose — already exceeding 100 inches TTT.
“Rose Blossum is one of those cows you have to see in person — pictures don’t do her justice.”
Rose Blossum, a Cowboy Tuff Chex daughter at Broken Oak Ranch, showcasing elite horn growth, body structure, and maternal strength.
Horses & Cattle: Parallel Breeding Philosophies
Brittany applies the same genetic rigor to her barrel horses, favoring strong maternal lines and proven performance crosses such as Goodbye Lane bloodlines. Despite higher reproduction costs and maintenance, horses remain her lifelong passion.
“Statistics matter. Data tells you what actually works.”
Daily Ranch Life & Humor in the Chaos
From feeding cubes and riding trails through wooded pastures to measuring horn growth every few weeks, no two days look alike. The family’s eight-year-old son helps feed cattle nightly, while trail cameras, guardian dogs, and even mountain lion encounters keep ranch life exciting.
Their favorite ranch upgrade? A P&C cattle chute, replacing two panels and a prayer.
Why Marketing Matters in Livestock Success
Brittany believes reputation and transparency matter as much as genetics. In both the horse and cattle industries, strong branding builds trust, attracts buyers, and reinforces program integrity.
“If people don’t trust your name, it doesn’t matter how good your animals are.”
How Hired Hand Tools Support Their Growth
Broken Oak uses Hired Hand Websites and Hired Hand Software to organize pedigrees, showcase cattle photos, update horn measurements, and engage buyers through breeder websites and livestock marketing tools. The platform’s user-friendly design allows easy updates while providing responsive customer support.
Ready to market your herd online? Visit Hired Hand Websites to explore ranch website examples and learn how we help breeders connect pedigrees, photos, and ranch stories with one click.
Looking Ahead: Building a Breeding Legacy
Future goals include expanding embryo programs, producing bull prospects from elite donor cows, attending major industry sales, and establishing Broken Oak as a respected breeder brand — not only for cattle quality, but for integrity and community involvement.
Final Thoughts from Brittany
Her advice is simple: love what you do, ask questions, stay humble, and enjoy the journey.
“We’re all in this because we love these animals. Have fun and don’t be afraid to learn.”
Learn More About Hired Hand Websites
Explore: hiredhandsoftware.com
View pricing: hiredhandsoftware.com/pricing
Listen to the Full Interview
🎧 Podcast: From the Pasture with Hired Hand
📺 Watch: Hired Hand’s YouTube Channel
📝 Prefer reading? You’re already here — this article pairs with the full transcript.
Instagram: @fromthepasturepodcast
TikTok: @fromthepasturepodcast
Facebook: @fromthepasturepodcast
Special thanks to Brittany Fellows of Broken Oak Ranch for being not only a guest but a Hired Hand-powered website customer.