In a world that’s hungry for authenticity, few voices ring truer than those still riding for the brand. At Scrub Oak Cattle Co., the cowboy way isn’t just a lifestyle—it’s a legacy. Rooted in family ranching traditions, stewardship of the land, and a deep respect for the animals they raise, this American cowboy is blending old-school values with modern craftsmanship. From pasture-raised, 100% USA-born beef to handmade leather gear built for the working cowboy, it’s a story of resilience, responsibility, and a quiet kind of patriotism. In this Q&A, we talk with the rancher behind it all about cattle, leatherwork, and what it really means to be Made in America.
Q: Can you tell us a little more about your background, history and passion for agriculture and ranching?
A: My Great Grandpa, Bob Perry, owned Mt. Sopris Hereford Ranch and was an all around incredible cowboy. What’s left of Bob’s ranch is run by his daughter Marj Perry and her husband Bill Fales. I got a job working for Marj and Bill at the age of seventeen and quickly fell in love with ranching. They taught me a great deal about agriculture and I am still learning from them. Ranching is an art and I take pride in the horsemanship and stockmanship that makes a true cowboy.
Q: You’ve recently had some reels on social media gain some traction. What do you think it is that draws people into the cowboy and western industry?
I think the idea of cowboy life is adventurous and romantic. Viewers can’t help but feel infatuated with the culture and excitement.
Q: In a time where people are finally coming around to wanting to get back to their roots and knowing where their food comes from, what does it mean to you to provide American raised beef and leather goods to your customers?
A: We are proud to be a part of the shift towards American grown and American made products. We believe God has given us a responsibility to be good stewards over His creation. That means we ensure our cattle live good quality lives out on pasture and the forest, as well as work to regenerate and improve the land they inhabit for generations to come. It’s not just a job, it’s a way of life, and a responsibility for life. It’s some of the most fulfilling work anyone can do to care for the cattle and the land, raising beef for the American people.
Q: Why do you think that social media is an important tool for ranchers and western industry advocates alike to use to tell their story or share the facts about agriculture and ranching?
A: By sharing our story and daily lives we are able to reach an audience we would have never been able to before. Social media is a great tool for ranchers who are hoping to sell directly to Americans, especially in a world where thousands of family-owned farms and ranches are forced to shut down each year due to financial struggles. The demand for American beef is growing, and social media allows us to meet that demand.
Q: What is something you wish more people knew about ranching and raising beef?
A: I wish more people knew how beneficial ranching is to public lands. There is a popular movement to let the public lands and national forests “be wild” and unmanaged by cattle and ranchers. They seek to remove us from grazing our cows on public land. But the reality is that cows manage forest overgrowth as well as fertilize the soil, vastly improving the quality of land for people to enjoy.
Q: What’s one lesson cattle have taught you that you carry into the rest of your life?
A: Patience. Working cows require patience; they can be frustrating to move and handle at times. They feed off your attitude, when you get frustrated, they also get frustrated. Such occurs in life, you gotta be patient sometimes.
Q: What is your favorite aspect of crafting leather goods?
A: My favorite aspect of leatherwork is being able to meet the needs of my fellow cowboys, and it’s also handy to be able to craft my own gear. I love working on a project from start to finish.
Closing Thoughts
We raise 100% USA-born, grass-fed, pasture-raised beef. No added hormones. No antibiotics or pesticides. BQA certified. Clean American beef. I also build western leather cowboying gear, completely handmade from start to finish. I strive to craft leather that is not only functional but also beautiful in design. To learn more and to shop, visit scruboakcattleco.com. Follow our Instagram @scruboakcattleco and Facebook @scruboakleather. We ship USA grass-fed beef and custom, handmade leather.
