Progressive Dairy Podcast

Gain insights directly from Erica Tessmann, Marketing Manager for Dairy Monitoring Technology at Merck Animal Health. Learn about the evolution of SenseHub Dairy monitoring technology as Erica highlights its empowering impact on producers, herd health and labor efficiency, all with exclusive access to industry-leading people and resources at Merck Animal Health. This episode is sponsored by SenseHub Dairy. SenseHub Dairy is the leading provider of monitoring solutions that empower users to safeguard their animals’ health and well-being, while achieving optimal production outcomes for a healthy food supply. SenseHub Dairy operates fully within Merck Animal Health. Through its commitment to the Science of Healthier Animals®, Merck Animal Health offers veterinarians and farmers one of the widest ranges of veterinary pharmaceuticals, vaccines and health management solutions and services. Learn more about how dairy monitoring can empower your operation by visiting SenseHub-Dairy.com.

A new dairy checkoff growth program, in collaboration with pizza partners, is set to boost cheese consumption by over 12 million pounds, primarily focusing on international markets. On the domestic front, Domino’s has introduced Pepperoni Stuffed Cheesy Bread to its menu. Restaurant partnerships are a collaborative effort and a powerful means to enhance the dairy industry’s presence in the global food market. This episode is sponsored by Dairy Management Inc.

Join hosts Walt Cooley and Matti McBride as they dive into Cooley’s recent presentation “Level-Up” given at the Amelicor Herd and Feed Management Conference in this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast. Learn how to level up technology on your operation, champion an employee and ask providers tough questions. Click here to download the worksheet Cooley references in his presentation. Click here to read the article Cooley references about how to test drive technology before you buy it: Simulate technology to test-drive automation Here’s a breakdown of the episode: ~00.55: What listeners can learn from this discussion~03:50: Cooley explains his methods of presenting. ~04:55: Cooley introduces and outlines his presentation.~06:27: List and rank technologies used on your dairy. ~07:51: Cooley’s example of using this “level-up” method with his personal technology~09:38: Concept of champions~12:06: Cooley’s advice for becoming a champion~14:34: How to win and “level up” with your dairy’s technology~17:27: Cooley discusses bandwidth when it comes to adopting technology.~20:15: How to engage with your technology provider~22:15: Creating a battleboard for your technology~24:30: Looking to the future with technology~27:20: Test-drive a technology you are interested in.~29:48: A technology Cooley is excited to experiment with

Managing Director Kirk Vander Dussen explains the premise of AHV protocols and how we are doing things a little differently to allow farmers to keep more milk in the tank, address common dairy challenges, and build stronger herds to impact the bottom line. For customer experiences, go to https://ahvint.com/us/customer-experiences/ This episode is sponsored by AHV (Animal Health Vision). AHV (Animal Health Vision) is a global company that gives #PowerToTheFarmer with science-based solutions to herd health challenges. By proactively addressing bovine health, farmers can maximize production and longevity while avoiding milk and meat withdrawal. AHV provides unique products that can formulate strategic solutions to address udder health, uterine health, calves, and energy and metabolism challenges specific to your dairy. Maximize production and increase herd vitality with AHV!

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Kimmi Devaney visits with Kiley Heim from Heim’s Hillcrest Dairy in Wisconsin. As the next generation on her family’s dairy farm in Wisconsin, Heim manages their calves and has taken on a few additional responsibilities from her grandma, including preparing meals for employees during the workday and accounting. Here's a breakdown of the episode: About Heim and her family’s dairy farm [~0:45]Warming and cooling rooms for their newborn calves [~2:10]Managing calves in their new calf barn [~3:40]Lung ultrasounds [~4:15]Beef on dairy [~6:10]Calf management in hutches and in the calf barn [~6:40]The most important thing Heim has learned since she started managing the calves a few years ago [~7:55]Building a network of helpful people [~9:15]Providing meals for employees [~10:30]New office with a kitchen [~12:30]Meal planning [~13:15]Why Heim decided to come back to the farm as the next generation [~14:15]Heim’s favorite part of being back on the farm [~15:25]Future goals [~15:50]Rapid-fire questions [~16:20]

The integration of beef into the dairy industry has reshaped the market as we know it today and has furthered the potential to foster the development of a sustainable beef industry. Simplot Animal Sciences has elected Luis Davalos who is a farm manager for Corrales Dairy in Roswell, New Mexico, to speak on this topic as he has extensive knowledge in what it takes to run a successful breeding program. This episode is sponsored by Simplot Animal Sciences. Simplot's Animal Sciences team uses an innovative approach to provide advanced reproductive solutions for beef and dairy cattle producers to improve efficiency, productivity, and profitability in a changing market. Combining extensive experience in agribusiness with the latest in reproductive solutions, the Animal Sciences team developed the innovative SimVitro™-branded platform for improving genetics and reproductive efficiency in dairy and beef cattle.

Would you use an intelligent system to help you make sense of farm data and apply it to improve efficiency? Or maybe you already are! In this episode we take a look at how dairy farmers can approach implementing cutting-edge tech on their dairies. What is the value to be gained and potential wins, as well as challenges and things to keep in mind when considering adoption. Highlights: [02:07] What are the challenges and pain points that bring farmers to explore and adopt new tech like AI systems on dairy farms? Short answer: Labor shortage and big data management. [03:57] How do intelligent systems available on the market today make use of Artificial Intelligence and how does that transform dairy operations that use them? Short answer: Their processing capabilities allow them to consolidate multiple data sources and generate real value out of this data. [10:24] How do these systems help improve efficiency and profitability on dairies? Short answer: Save time, centralize data, support analysis and informed decision making. [14:14] How has technology adoption impacted the collaboration between dairy farmers and their advisors? Short answer: When advisors have access to farm data and analysis tools it allows them to stay up to date and give better advice, even when they’re not on the farm. [17:44] What advice can you give to farmers who are considering implementing a smart system on their dairy? Short answer: Always start by identifying the main challenges you’re trying to solve and choose the solution that works best to support you with these specific issues. This episode is sponsored by Connecterra. Connecterra is an artificial intelligence company on a mission to empower the dairy industry to become more efficient while reducing impact on the planet. We are headquartered in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, with teams in Europe and the United States. Our solution is the Connecterra platform, which transforms data into intelligent digital experiences and products for farmers, advisors and dairy companies. Our customers and partners include some of the largest global brands in the dairy industry.

In this episode, hear what articles and podcast episodes stood out to Editors Kimmi Devaney, Walt Cooley, Jenn Coyne, Matti McBride and Dave Natzke in 2023. You’ll also hear about changes to Progressive Dairy’s editorial team in 2024, including Natzke’s retirement and the addition of McBride to the podcast team. The episode wraps up with entertaining answers to the rapid-fire questions from these five editors. Here’s a breakdown of the episode: Highlights from Natzke’s 40-plus-year career in ag journalism [~1:15]Natzke explains the greatest changes he has seen on farms in the last four decades [~2:45]Common characteristics of farms that have navigated change well [~4:35]Natzke’s key takeaways from many years of covering dairy policy [~5:20]Why it matters for dairy producers to be involved in the policy process [~8:00]Natzke discusses the parts of his career he is most proud of [~9:55]What Natzke is most looking forward to in retirement [~11:25]Natzke’s professional development advice for dairy producers looking to take their businesses to the next level [~13:00]McBride joins the podcast team in 2024, while Coyne focuses on other responsibilities [~14:15]Cooley and Devaney ask McBride questions about her role at Progressive Dairy, dairy background, dairy interests and more to help listeners get to know the new podcast co-host [~15:05]Editors discuss the most memorable articles and podcast episodes from 2023 [~22:55]Hear what these five editors are most excited about in 2024 [~30:50]Rapid-fire questions [~35:00]

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, Dr. Devan Paulus Compart, Technical Services Manager with Papillon Agricultural Company, shares her 5-step process for selecting feed additives, how additives can be used as a tool to manage on-farm challenges, what metrics define feed additive success and how to make an informed financial decision for your operation. To learn more about how feed additives improve animal health and productivity, visit papillon-ag.com or reach out to your local Papillon representative. This episode is sponsored by Papillon Agricultural Company.

Dr. Andrew Bohnhoff is the Director of Forage and Nutrition for Prairie Estates Genetics. Today he returns to discuss and define cull rate, an ever-important but sometimes under-considered variable for dairy farmers. Specifically, he addresses how it factors into Net Herd Replacement Cost and how both of these metrics affect profitability. He answers crucial questions about how low a cull rate should be and how to optimize replacements, genetics, animal health and fertility. This episode is sponsored by Prairie Estates Genetics.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Kimmi Devaney chats with Abby Kornegay and Casey Kinler from the Animal Agriculture Alliance about what’s new with animal rights activism, key tactics dairy producers should know about and tips for dairy producers interested in building relationships with their legislators to become a trusted resource. Visit the alliance website to access resources, contact their team and to learn more about their work. Here’s a breakdown of the episode: About the alliance [~0:45]How they define animal rights activism [~1:50]The evolution of activism and what it looks like now [~4:00]Examples of how activist groups are putting pressure on restaurants and retailers [~6:05]Activist strategy focusing on incremental changes [~7:05]An overview of recent legislation backed by activist groups and upcoming bills to watch [~8:20]Tips for farmers interested in reaching out to legislators [~14:45]What’s on the horizon for the 2024 legislative session [~17:38]Issues to watch [~21:40]Kinler and Kornegay’s recommendations for being proactive while responding to emerging issues [~25:05]An overview of activism in the other animal agriculture industries [~27:55]Activist group funding and fundraising efforts [~30:35]Alliance resources and how dairy producers can access them [~32:40]Rapid-fire questions [~34:50]

Dairy farmers rely on accurate data to make timely decisions. Instead of standing knee-deep in meaningless numbers, farmers now have the context needed to act on this information. In this episode, Evine van Riemsdijk, CowControl global application manager for Nedap, introduces the cloud-based platform, Nedap Now, and describes how farmers can access relevant insights around the clock from any location. Here’s the episode breakdown: 0:30 – Welcome, Evine van Riemsdijk and host, Tera Baker1:17 – What sensors around the dairy will this integrate with?2:45 – What insights are powerful to the dairyman from Nedap Now?6:55 – What are the top features you’re excited about?11:45 – How can consultants access and use the insights?14:40 – What other software can connect with Nedap Now?17:14 – Does Nedap Now need an internet connection?19:20 – Built with feedback from farmers 20:00 – How can farmers get their hands on Nedap Now? Contact Evine van Riemsdijk at [email protected]. This episode is sponsored by Nedap. Nedap develops technology for life. Technology that helps people be more successful and happier in their professional lives. For Nedap this means helping professional dairy producers run a profitable, sustainable and enjoyable business. The solutions Nedap creates enable users to automate everyday tasks and make informed decisions based on individual animal identification and data. Nedap empowers livestock producers to respond to the growing global demand for animal protein in a way that is profitable and aligned with rising standards for animal welfare, sustainability, transparency and the safety and quality of food. Learn more at https://www.nedap-livestockmanagement.com/dairy-farming/

Dr. Andrew Bohnhoff is the Director of Forage and Nutrition for Prairie Estates Genetics. Today he discusses the complexity of determining profitability and how dairy farms can use data to their advantage. He explains in-depth the difference between several popular metrics, the research that helped define them, their limitations, and tells us the best metrics to track for success. This episode is sponsored by Prairie Estates Genetics.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Jenn Coyne visits with Jason Anderson and Pam Selz-Pralle regarding the recently updated Dairy Calf and Heifer Association (DCHA) Gold Standards. Anderson is the association’s west regional director and Selz-Pralle is a dairy producer from Wisconsin. Both were on the committee for revising the fourth edition of DCHA Gold Standards. In this episode, the guests speak about the revisions – why they came to be and how they play a critical role in the dairy community for dairy producers and calf and heifer growers alike. Here is the episode breakdown: How did the Dairy Calf and Heifer Association’s Gold Standards come to be and how have they served the industry over time? [~1:40]What prompted the 2023 revisions and how were they made? [~3:16]How was the committee developed to make these revisions? [~4:12]Walk us through some specifics of the revisions. [~6:13]Of these revisions, which do you feel will be most impactful for the dairy community? [~17:16]What will be helpful for calf and heifer growers to ensure they are reaching industry expectations? [~19:16]Of these revisions, which seems the most challenging to adhere to? [~22:06]Rapid-fire questions [~27:16] Contact information: Dairy Calf and Heifer Association (https://calfandheifer.org/) Jason Anderson, DCHA west regional director [email protected] (208) 573-7072 Pam Selz-Pralle, Selz-Pralle Dairy [email protected]

If you're not focusing on feed efficiency, you're leaving money on the table. Zinpro® dairy team members Dr. Jeff Weyers and Roger Olson join the podcast to discuss why feed efficiency provides a direct snapshot to your herd's profitability. As dairies continue to navigate market pressures, homing in on feed efficiency boosts profitability and can open the door to more benefits. Learn how to tailor your nutrition program to make the most of this metric and improve health and reproduction in the process. This episode is sponsored by Zinpro. Backed by more than 50 years of research and industry expertise, Zinpro leads in the dairy nutrition space. Our experts partner with nutritionists and producers to deliver solutions that provide flexibility and drive herd performance.

Dr. Andrew Bohnhoff is the Director of Forage and Nutrition for Prairie Estates Genetics. During his lifetime of involvement with the dairy industry, he has researched an array of topics that affect the bottom line of the farmer. While the importance of starch digestibility is widely known, he speaks with us today to show what specific factors can and should be considered, including growing conditions, corn hybrid genetics, moisture content, lab work and more. We discuss how all of these aspects translate directly to income over feed cost. This episode is sponsored by Prairie Estates Genetics.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Kimmi Devaney visits with Kennedy Youngren and Emily Schaapman about how to stay energized during busy seasons, what you can do to fuel your body properly, optimize the hours you do have for sleep, protect your mental health, manage stress and much more. Follow Youngren and Schaapman on social media: Emily Schaapman: @dairygirlfitness Kennedy Youngren: @the.legendairy.dietitian Here’s a breakdown of the episode: Meet Kennedy and Emily. [~0:55]Learn why they started sharing about nutrition, fitness and agriculture online. [~2:40]Emily and Kennedy describe how they approach busy seasons when it comes to nutrition and overall wellness [~5:05]How to prioritize nutrition and make it easier to eat healthy during busier times of year [~6:55]Grab-and-go healthy snack ideas [~10:35]Easy breakfast ideas that are quick and easy to make [~13:55]Tips to optimize sleep, fall asleep faster and sleep better [~20:25]How to add in more movement when there is not time for a full workout or a walk [~29:00]Stress management tips for busy seasons [~31:00]Kennedy and Emily discuss how farmers can protect their mental health when stress is high, they are trying to get crops in, still running their dairies and trying to fulfill their countless other responsibilities. [~35:40]Rapid-fire questions [~42:40]

Raising dairy-beef crossbred calves is a value-added production strategy that is here to stay, and dairy producers have a tremendous opportunity to influence the success of their crossbred program through early-life nutrition. Researchers at the Purina Animal Nutrition Center have diligently worked to better understand the specific nutritional needs of crossbred calves. Their research has focused on preweaning nutritional needs, but the findings have shown that early-life nutrition has a significant impact on the long-term growth and performance of a calf. Dr. Olivia Genther-Schroeder, senior manager of dairy feed R&D for Purina Animal Nutrition, joins us today to share why early-life nutrition plays a critical role in the overall growth and performance of dairy-beef crossbred calves. Q: Why is early-life nutrition and care so important for long-term success of dairy-beef crossbred calves? Q: What are the nutritional needs, in particular protein, of dairy-beef crossbred calves? Q: Why should dairy-beef crossbred calves be fed differently than purebred dairy calves intended for beef? Q: Beyond nutrition, are there other things a producer should consider when raising dairy-beef crossbred calves? Q: What are the health and growth consequences of holding back in the pre-weaning phase? To learn more about raising high-quality dairy-beef crossbred calves, talk with your Purina representative or visit purinamills.com. Olivia Genther-Schroeder, Ph.D. Sr. Manager, Dairy Feed R&D Purina Animal Nutrition [email protected] This episode is sponsored by Purina Animal Nutrition. Purina Animal Nutrition LLC is a national organization serving producers, animal owners and their families through more than 4,700 local cooperatives, independent dealers and other large retailers throughout the United States. Driven to unlock the greatest potential in every animal, the company is an industry-leading innovator offering a valued portfolio of complete feeds, supplements, premixes, ingredients and specialty technologies for the livestock and lifestyle animal markets.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Kimmi Devaney visits with five dairy producers representing a variety of herd sizes and geographic regions about what agritourism looks like on their farms, how they got started, their advice for other producers interested in doing something similar and much more. Whether you are interested in doing your first farm tour, hosting an open house, scheduling regular tours, opening up the farm for several weekends or anything in between, you’ll learn a lot of tips and insights from Will Gladstone from Newmont Farm in Vermont, Josh Snider from Snider Dairy Farm in North Carolina, Amy Kelsay from Kelsay Farms in Indiana, David Volleman from Volleman’s Dairy in Texas and Derrick Josi from Wilsonview Dairy in Oregon. Here's a breakdown of the episode: About their farms and what agritourism looks like on their operations [~1:15]Their inspiration for welcoming the general public onto the farm [~5:45]All five producers describe their process for preparing the farm for visitors in the days and weeks prior to a farm tour/open house/agritourism season [~9:55]Lessons learned [~14:40]Greatest challenges related to their agritourism activities and how these producers overcame them [~19:00]How they market their events to their target audience [~23:15]Staffing needed for a variety of agritourism activities, including the recruitment and training process [~27:40]Helpful resources [~34:20]What to know about insurance and limited liability laws [~37:40]Advice for other dairy producers considering adding farm tours, a farm camp, an open house, a fall festival or other forms of agritourism [~41:00]Rapid-fire questions [~47:50]

ChatGPT and other Artificial Intelligence systems have taken the world by storm, generating debates on the potential benefits and threats of wider AI applications. But what is different about these systems and how could this impact the dairy industry? Here is a breakdown of the episode: 01:10 Perspectives on new advances in Artificial Intelligence technology and generative AI such as ChatGPT. 02:29 What is different about generative AI and what it can do for the dairy industry. 04:57 Potential applications of AI models and their value. 07:40 Challenges in applying generative AI in dairy tech. 11:52 Concerns around data privacy and security and approaches to managing these issues. 13:56 Staying on top of the rapid developments in the AI space. 16:17 Race to Replace: will AI take over our jobs? This episode is sponsored by Connecterra. Connecterra is an artificial intelligence company on a mission to empower the dairy industry to become more efficient while reducing impact on the planet. We are headquartered in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, with teams in Europe and the United States. Our solution is the Connecterra platform, which transforms data into intelligent digital experiences and products for farmers, advisors and dairy companies. Our customers and partners include some of the largest global brands in the dairy industry.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Jenn Coyne visits with Matthew Byl of Dutch Cowboy Dairy in Utah. Byl is a second-generation dairy farmer whose father and uncle immigrated to the U.S. from Holland in the 1980s. Since then, the family has captured the American dream, founding Dutch Cowboy Dairy first in Texas with 40 cows milked in a double-six parlor and later resettling in Utah. Today, the family and 30 employees milk 4,500 cows. In this episode, Byl shares more about his family’s start in the industry and how this dairyman is setting himself up for future success. Here is the breakdown of this episode: Walk through what Dutch Cowboy Dairy looks like today and your role on the farm. [~1:44]How are other family members involved? [~2:19]Briefly touch on the history of the farm, and from your point of view, how did the decisions your dad and uncle made throughout their career set the dairy business up for future generations to be involved? [~3:26]Talk to us about specific instances or decisions made that you feel have since been the building blocks for what Dutch Cowboy Dairy is today. [~5:04]How has the farm evolved to keep up with the industry trends and demands? [~6:21]Tell us about a time when you had to think through a decision that benefited your farm. [~8:06]How has the way you managed the dairy progressed to continue being a distinguished farm among others in the industry? [~9:29]What were some of the features of the milking system you liked that would benefit your farm goals? [~10:34]Why is an act of opening up your farm for others to see important to the Byls? How has community connection shaped your farming philosophy? [~13:13]What’s next for Dutch Cowboy Dairy? [~14:43]Rapid-fire questions [~15:56] Contact Matthew Byl at [email protected]

Listen in with our dairy farmer hosts, New York’s Audrey Donahoe and Georgia’s Jennifer Glover, as they talk with registered dietitians Katie Brown, Senior Vice President at National Dairy Council, and Abigail Copenhaver of Farmstead Nutrition & Consulting about what the dietary guidelines are, how they evolve, who follows them and how that affects dairy. To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit usdairy.com/for-farmers. This episode is sponsored by Dairy Management Inc.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, guest host and Progressive Dairy editorial intern Michelle Stangler visits with two young adults who work on dairy farms – Max Shenkenberg and Aubrey Schlimgen – about how Schlimgen's experiences of growing up on a dairy farm and Shenkenberg's experience not being involved in the dairy industry until college have both led them to where they are today. Listen in to hear what it’s like as a young adult being part of the dairy community, what ideas they contribute, and how they are advocating for dairy and young people alike. Here’s a breakdown of the episode: Overview of their involvement in the dairy industry [~0:40] Shenkenberg’s first experience in the dairy industry [~1:28] How the World Dairy Expo showed Shenkenberg what opportunities are available in the dairy industry [~2:08] Why he majored in dairy science [~2:22] What Shenkenberg has learned from college that has been helpful in his full-time role as a herd manager [~3:47] Valuable opportunities during college [~4:29] Schlimgen’s reasoning for taking a few years off from college after high school graduation [~5:34] Mindset when balancing leadership positions while being on the farm [~7:56] Managing logistics on the farm – both maintaining relationships and working with family [~9:37] What the full-time role looks like for Shenkenberg, in addition to challenges day to day [~10:53] Specific challenges as a young adult on the dairy farm for Shenkenberg [~13:34]Positions after college graduation [~14:56] Schlimgen’s typical week working on the dairy farm [~16:21] How she’s overcoming challenges [~18:41] Young perspectives brought to the dairy industry [~21:17] Schlimgen’s perspective [~23:02] Contributed ideas led to more technology on the farm [~25:30] Ways Shenkenberg is advocating for the dairy industry, specifically with social media [~28:23] Favorite TikTok video created [~30:37] Feedback from videos [~31:12] Ways Schlimgen advocates for the dairy industry on social media [~32:12] What it looks like serving in leadership positions for Schlimgen [~34:19] What fuels Schlimgen to stay involved in the dairy industry [~35:24] Shenkenberg’s viewpoint [~36:45] Advice Schlimgen has for getting started in the dairy industry [~38:38] Advice after not growing up on a dairy farm from Shenkenberg [~40:14] Rapid-fire questions [~41:48]

the future of the lactating herd, but they determine your long-term profitability. That’s why providing them with adequate and consistent vitamin and trace mineral nutrition is important to help support optimal growth, health, immunity, reproduction and hoof integrity. Melissa Holtz, technical calf nutrition and business manager for Land O’Lakes Animal Milk Solutions & Purina Animal Nutrition, joins us today to share when to start implementing vitamin and mineral nutrition into your heifer diets and why it is so important for your herd's overall growth, health and reproduction. Q: Vitamins and minerals play a crucial role in the overall growth and reproductive development of dairy heifers. When should a producer start incorporating a mineral supplement into their replacement heifer diets and why? Q: How does a mineral supplement in the postweaning phase set the calf up for success later in life? Q: We understand digital dermatitis in dairy heifers has been an ongoing issue for producers. How can producers utilize a DD mineral formula to help mitigate digital dermatitis issues in their heifers? Q: Why is it important to provide a mineral supplement before, during and after breeding? Q: How do heifer minerals promote a healthy pregnancy and newborn calf? Q: Where can producers go to learn more about Purina’s heifer mineral product options? To learn more about incorporating a mineral supplement into your heifer diets, talk with your Purina representative or visit purinamills.com. Melissa Holtz, MA Technical Calf Nutrition & Business Manager Land O’Lakes Animal Milk Solutions [email protected] This episode is sponsored by Purina Animal Nutrition. Purina Animal Nutrition LLC is a national organization serving producers, animal owners and their families through more than 4,700 local cooperatives, independent dealers and other large retailers throughout the United States. Driven to unlock the greatest potential in every animal, the company is an industry-leading innovator offering a valued portfolio of complete feeds, supplements, premixes, ingredients and specialty technologies for the livestock and lifestyle animal markets.

Did you know? … there are more than 30 different stressors that can affect the health and performance of dairy cows. Knowing how these stressors work and how they affect your cows can help you reduce their negative impacts on your herd. Jefo Nutrition has developed an initiative to help producers better understand and manage everyday stressors. Know stress, no stress at JefoDairyStressors.com. This episode is sponsored by Jefo. Jefo is a global leader in high-performance, non-medicated nutritional solutions for animals. Founded in Canada in 1982, the company offers innovative, cost-effective, and efficient solutions in over 80 countries. With its commitment to Life, Made Easier, Jefo aims to improve animal health and increase human longevity by feeding growing populations with better sources of protein.

In this episode, meet Tennessee dairy producer and dairy advocate Stephanie Nash. The Nash family moved their dairy from California to Tennessee in the last 10 years and in the last few years added a creamery and agritourism. Listen in to learn what they did differently when building the new dairy in Tennessee, how they revamped their calf program, their experiences with on-farm processing and welcoming the general public to their farm and creamery, and what else Stephanie is doing to teach consumers about dairy. Here's a breakdown of the episode: About Nash Family Farms in Tennessee [~1:10]When and why they left California [~2:30]Their priorities when building their new dairy facilities in Tennessee [~4:10]Stephanie’s role on the farm [~6:20]How they changed their calf program after moving to the Southeast [~8:30]Other farm management changes they made when moving to Tennessee [~10:25]The biggest challenge they faced when moving the dairy farm across the nation [~11:30]Why they opened Nash Family Creamery and started on-farm processing [~14:15]Their transition into on-farm processing [~16:00]Products offered at Nash Family Creamery [~16:50]Feedback from visitors to the farm and creamery [~17:35]How they celebrated National Dairy Month and National Ice Cream Month [~19:45]Agritourism on the farm [~20:25]Farm camp [~21:55]Highlights from the 2023 farm camp season [~23:00]Farm camp marketing [~24:20]Other farm tours [~25:10]Stephanie’s advice for other producers interested in adding agritourism [~25:35]The perspective Stephanie and her brother, Cody, bring to the operation as millennials [~27:20]Stephanie’s future goals and plans [~29:30]About Stephanie’s advocacy on national media outlets [~31:00]Other advocacy activities [~32:30]Rapid-fire questions [~34:50]

Beef on dairy has been in the news over the past few years as dairy farmers search for ways to add value to their businesses. In today’s episode Brady Hicks with Simplot Animal Sciences, along with Nampa, Idaho, dairy farmer Joe Stewart to talk about using full beef embryos to take advantage of this trend and create new revenue opportunities for dairy farmers. Learn more at herdflex.com. Here is a breakdown of the episode: Who is Brady Hicks and Simplot Animal Sciences. [~0:41]Using Beef embryos in a targeted breeding protocol [~2:10]Criteria for sire selection for beef embryos. [~3:15]Partnership with Select Sires [~3:50]Training embryo technicians [~4:50]Ongoing research [~6:50]How can you learn more? [~8:05]How can these embryos be integrated into a dairy’s system [~8:59]How long have you need using Beef embryos? [~11:02]How are embryos incorporated into your breeding program [~12:20]Conception rate of the embryos [~14:04]What do you do with the resulting calves? [~14:24]Performance of beef dairy cross cattle vs full beef embryo calves [~15:57]How are you marketing your beef? [~17:50]Conclusions [~19:36] This episode is sponsored by Simplot Animal Sciences. Simplot's Animal Sciences team uses an innovative approach to provide advanced reproductive solutions for beef and dairy cattle producers to improve efficiency, productivity, and profitability in a changing market. Combining extensive experience in agribusiness with the latest in reproductive solutions, the Animal Sciences team developed the innovative SimVitro™-branded platform for improving genetics and reproductive efficiency in dairy and beef cattle.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Kimmi Devaney visits with Kansas dairy producer Lee Holtmeier from Linn Willow Creek Dairy about their employee culture, what they do to mentor and empower employees, and how they keep employee turnover low. Here is the breakdown of the episode: How Holtmeier got into the dairy business midway through his career [~1:00]Linn Willow Creek Dairy’s business structure [~4:10]How the dairy has grown over the past 24 years and what it looks like now [~5:20]Their priorities for building a great employee culture [~7:40]About their regular team meetings [~10:45]How they mentor and empower employees [~11:50]Holtmeier’s mentorship process to prepare his assistant manager to be the next dairy manager [~14:20]The most effective things Holtmeier did to prepare his assistant manager for success in his new managerial role [~17:15]Overview of their onboarding process [~21:30]Ongoing training opportunities [~23:35]The three core values of their employee culture [~25:50]Rapid-fire questions [~28:00]

Learn from Steve Maddox, owner of Maddox Dairy, and Dr. Greg Goodell, owner of The Dairy Authority, as they discuss the workflow and efficiency benefits of sample based pregnancy testing with IDEXX’s Charles Perotti. Speaking from the producer’s perspective and from veterinarians’ this episode demonstrates how IDEXX Alertys™ sample based testing can increase access and reduce lock up times, with long term sustainable benefits to veterinarians and cow comfort. This episode is sponsored by IDEXX. IDEXX is the global leader in veterinary diagnostic tests and services to monitor the health of herd and flock animals worldwide. With an expert team of on-farm and veterinary professionals and 40 years of experience, IDEXX has been developing innovative solutions to improve the reproductive performance and generate higher return on investment. IDEXX Alertys™ pregnancy tests increase operational efficiency and reduce days open, improving herd health with accurate, fast results.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Jenn Coyne visits with Josh Mendenhall, founder and chief brand officer of Spylt. The product is a dairy-based chocolate energy drink that is shelf stable, high in protein, low in sugar and lactose-free. Mendenhall worked with several dairy partners, including Dairy Farmers of America, to create this product and was recognized as the 2022 New York MilkLaunch Champion, which is an accelerator for driving dairy-based product consumption to Gen Z. Here is a breakdown of the episode: Talk about Spylt and how the idea of such a product came to be. [~1:28]Why is this concept of a dairy caffeinated drink important to you? [~3:36]How did your upbringing and connection to the dairy industry guide you in developing this product? [~5:01]Tell us about how the Dairy Farmers of America accelerator program, the New York MilkLaunch Campaign and your own ambassador program have been pivotal in launching Spylt. [~7:29]What is most exciting about each of these programs in how they’ve helped you achieve your goals? [~14:27]How do you plan to use the funds received from the MilkLaunch Campaign? [~16:03]Why did you choose the target audience as Gen Z? [~18:17]What’s next for you and your brand? [~19:52]Rapid-fire questions [~22:06] Contact Josh Mendenhall: [email protected] www.SPYLT.com

Heifers are one of the most valuable assets for a dairy operation. They are the future of the milking herd and ultimately determine the profitability and longevity of your business. Research has shown that early calf care and nutrition are the foundation for and can significantly impact the future growth, potential milk production, reproduction and overall health of your replacement dairy heifers. Dr. Rebecca Klopp, calf and heifer specialist for Purina Animal Nutrition, is joining us today to share why care and nutrition play an important role in overall calf health, growth and future milk production performance. Q: What role does early-life nutrition, including colostrum, play in calf health, growth and future performance? Q: Beyond nutrition, are there other things to keep in mind surrounding early life care? Q: How do you investigate calf health issues on farm? Q: What on-farm benefits have you seen in lactating cows when they are fed a high plane of nutrition as calves? Q: How does supporting proper mammary growth and development early in life lead to increased milk production in subsequent lactations? To learn more about raising healthy and productive heifers, talk with your Purina representative or visit purinamills.com. Rebecca Klopp, Ph.D. Calf and Heifer Specialist Purina Animal Nutrition [email protected] This episode is sponsored by Purina Animal Nutrition.

Hear from Chris Wacek-Driver, independent consultant for Forage Innovations, LLC, about the importance of using an oxygen barrier film to reduce silage losses and maintain high-quality silage. This episode also covers common mistakes related to silage chopping, packing and covering—as well as strategies producers can implement to avoid these pitfalls. This episode is sponsored by Silostop Agri. Silostop Agri is now the global leader in all things silage, from silage clamps to HOB silage films and covers, employing an expert team worldwide to help you reduce the amount of plastic used, while producing high quality silage. Through easy-to-use, innovative, and sustainably conscious products and solutions, Silostop Agri helps make the best silage possible, generating a higher return on investment and reducing the impact on the environment.

In this episode, host Kimmi Devaney visits with Charlie Gardner and Emily Barge from the Center for Dairy Excellence in Pennsylvania about their new resources for new and beginning farmers. These resources can also be helpful for the next generation returning to the farm and producers that have been in the dairy business for several decades. The guide can be accessed online at www.centerfordairyexcellence.org/getting-started or by calling the Center for Dairy Excellence at (717) 346-0849. Here's a breakdown of the episode: What type of information is included in the guide? [~3:45]Is this also relevant to the next generation coming back to the farm or is it mostly targeted at people with no dairy farming background? [~4:53]How could this guide be useful to producers who have been dairy farming for years already? [~6:05]Who should be part of the advisory team? [~8:05]What feedback have you heard so far? [~13:10]Since the center is in Pennsylvania, will many of the resources be applicable to dairy producers in other states? [~14:40]How can new dairy producers in other states find similar resources if the ones provided don’t apply to their region? [~16:20]What are some tips for new producers to build relationships with current producers and others in the allied industry that can help them? [~17:40]How do you recommend future and new producers work through this material? Is there a particular order that works best? [~21:40]What are the most important things you’d like new producers to take away from reading this guide? [~22:45]What else would you like producers to know about this guide that we haven’t already covered? [~25:25]Rapid-fire questions [~27:50]

In this episode, the experts from Central Life Sciences discuss ClariFly® Larvicide and the importance of fly control on dairy operations including biosecurity and employee retention (1:03), the threats of flies and the diseases they spread (3:33), fly audits on a dairy operation (7:11) and the importance of implementing an integrated pest management program (8:46). This episode is sponsored by Central Life Sciences. ClariFly® Larvicide protects from disease-carrying flies that feed on dairy cattle, including house flies, stable flies, face flies and horn flies. Adding this feed-through as part of an IPM program can have a major impact on dairy cattle productivity. As a feed additive, ClariFly® Larvicide is incorporated into an animal’s feed to stop flies in their larval stage. Adding this ingredient to their feed ration is all the work an employee needs to do to reduce disease-carrying fly populations on an operation.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Jenn Coyne visits with Alice Crothers of Long Green Farms in Maryland. Crothers is a member of the Holstein Foundation’s Young Dairy Leaders Institute Class 12 where she spent the last two years welcoming opportunities that allowed for personal and professional growth. That progress pushed Crothers to be a greater leader in her community and be a true advocate for her family’s farm and the larger dairy indusry. Along with her YDLI involvement, Crothers and her husband, Caleb, were recognized as Maryland’s Leopold Conservation Award recipients for their dedication to sustainability of farming in their community. Here is a breakdown of the episode: What first intrigued you about the Holstein Foundation’s YDLI program? [~1:20]What did you hope to achieve at the end of this two-year program? [~1:50]How have you seen yourself grown personally and professionally with this program? [~2:17]Tell us about your farm, and how you became involved in the industry. [~3:09]What do you hope to achieve as stewards of the land and being committed to serving your community? [~6:24] In what ways are you and your family dairy farming with sustainability in mind? [~8:39]How does being recognized as Maryland’s Leopold Conservation Award recipient reflect your efforts for your farm and greater community? [~10:38]In what ways are you and your family able to share your story of conservation? [~11:16]What’s next for the Crothers family? [~13:35]Rapid fire questions. [~14:57] Contact Alice Crothers: https://www.longgreenfarms.com/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100022668793550

As temperatures begin to rise, dairy producers know their cows are susceptible to heat stress. Even in relatively cool regions, heat stress can negatively affect cow comfort, health and performance. Stu Rymph, technical support dairy nutritionist for Purina Animal Nutrition, says understanding the visual signs of heat stress is the first step to developing strategies to help your cows cope with the heat. Q: What is heat stress and what are the visual signs? Q: What are the effects of unmanaged heat stress? Q: What abatement strategies do you recommend for heat stress management? Q: What nutritional strategies do you recommend to aid in heat stress abatement? Q: Why is heat stress abatement important? To learn more about managing heat stress, talk with your Purina representative or visit purinamills.com. Stuart Rymph, Ph.D., CCA, PAS Technical Support Dairy Nutritionist Purina Animal Nutrition [email protected] This episode is sponsored by Purina Animal Nutrition. Purina Animal Nutrition LLC is a national organization serving producers, animal owners and their families through more than 4,700 local cooperatives, independent dealers and other large retailers throughout the United States. Driven to unlock the greatest potential in every animal, the company is an industry-leading innovator offering a valued portfolio of complete feeds, supplements, premixes, ingredients and specialty technologies for the livestock and lifestyle animal markets.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Kimmi Devaney visits with Sara Talcott and Felice Thorpe about how to build a standout brand, when to stay local versus grow regionally or nationally, how to differentiate your brand story and much more as it relates to branding, sales and marketing. Here’s a breakdown of the episode: How does a brand become valuable to consumers? [~3:30]What are some examples of farms and agricultural brands that have done a great job marketing to consumers? [~4:50]What does it take to launch a standout brand? [~7:45]What role does conveying a compelling story have on brand loyalty and overall marketing? [~11:25]For farms considering diversification, what are some key skillsets that you’d recommend they either identify within their current team members or add to their team? [~17:35]How does social media and having an online presence impact marketing efforts? [~20:44]When is it advantageous to stay local and when should a brand consider branching out to reach a broader customer base? [~22:55]For existing brands, why is it important for them to nurture their current loyal customers base instead of only trying to attract new fans? [~25:30]Where do you see the most potential for growth within agricultural niche markets? [~27:30]Is there anything that you’d recommend avoiding or lessons learned that you’ve observed from some of the farms you’ve worked with? [~33:00]What else can dairy farmers do to differentiate themselves and build a loyal customer base? [~37:40]What are the first steps a producer who is interested in diversifying should take to set themselves up for success? [~42:30]Rapid-fire questions [~43:30]

In this episode, the experts from Central Life Sciences discuss ClariFly® Larvicide and the importance of fly control on dairy operations including biosecurity and employee retention (1:03), the threats of flies and the diseases they spread (3:33), fly audits on a dairy operation (7:11) and the importance of implementing an integrated pest management program (8:46). This episode is sponsored by Central Life Sciences. ClariFly® Larvicide protects from disease-carrying flies that feed on dairy cattle, including house flies, stable flies, face flies and horn flies. Adding this feed-through as part of an IPM program can have a major impact on dairy cattle productivity. As a feed additive, ClariFly® Larvicide is incorporated into an animal’s feed to stop flies in their larval stage. Adding this ingredient to their feed ration is all the work an employee needs to do to reduce disease-carrying fly populations on an operation.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Jenn Coyne visits with Brent and Nancy Wilson of Wilson Centennial Farms in Michigan. The couple and their sons, Tyler and Ben, work in partnership on the dairy and crop farm operation. Over the years, the Wilsons have been recognized for their dedication to milk quality and production, as well as regularly participating in cutting-edge industry research trials. Most recently, the family was honored as the 2023 Dairy Farm of the Year by Michigan State University’s Department of Animal Science. This episode explores the Wilsons’ legacy in the industry and their tactics as progressive dairy producers. Here is the breakdown of the episode: How do you think the recognition as Michigan State University’s 2023 Dairy Farm of the Year epitomizes your dairy career and your family’s purpose as dairy farmers? [~1:13]How are the Wilsons all involved on the dairy? [~1:54]Wilson Centennial Farm is known for its superior milk quality and production. What credit can you give to your family and their expertise that helps you meet these benchmarks. [~8:04]What management tactic or approach has helped achieve the farm goals? [~9:56]Walk us through your dairy farming philosophy and how you guys have pivoted over the years to keep up with industry trends. [~13:33]Why such a strong relationship with MSU and your cooperative to participate in research trials and host student interns? What are the most recent projects you’re a part of? [~16:25]As a seventh-generation farm, how do you think your ancestors would react to progress you’ve made and the recognition you’ve received as a leading dairy farming business? [~20:55]What’s next for the Wilsons? [~22:07]How does the Wilson family make decisions for the future of the dairy? [~24:32]Rapid-fire questions [~26:12] Contact Brent and Nancy Wilson, Wilson Centennial Farms at [email protected]

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Kimmi Devaney talks with California dairy farmer Richie Mayo, who is the chief financial officer (CFO) for DeJager Farms in California, about how technology has contributed to their overall sustainability efforts on the farm. Here is a breakdown of the episode: Mayo’s agricultural background and his role on DeJager Farms [~0:27]Examples of technologies that Mayo and his team have implemented to improve overall sustainability [~2:55]Why they chose subsurface drip irrigation [~5:15]Benefits of subsurface drip irrigation [~10:00]How system management has evolved since installation [~13:00]Available resources and assistance for dairy producers interested in installing similar systems [~18:05]How data collected from the technology is used in their management decisions [~21:20]Why sustainability matters to Mayo as a CFO [~22:55]What Mayo wishes more dairy producers knew about sustainability [~26:00]Rapid-fire questions [~28:05]

Should you make that next level investment in technology? Listen to learn firsthand, how McCormick Dairy LLC went from “knowing we needed a change” to “the decision of the year” with GENEX HerdMonitor® cow monitoring system. Dan Utter, Reproductive Program Senior Technician from GENEX and Jen McCormick from McCormick Dairy LLC share their herd check success as the farm has gone from 50% palpated pregnancy rate to 90 to 95%. GENEX HerdMonitor® brings real-time solutions and next level technology to fruition with 24/7 cow monitoring, identification, rumination, heat detection, and cow positioning options. This episode is sponsored by Genex. GENEX is the global cooperative leader dedicated to providing innovative genetic and reproductive solutions to our progressive dairy and beef members and customers. With our Herd Genetic Line, Herd Care Line and Herd Tech Lines, we offer a comprehensive approach to providing the products, services and systems you need for your next generation.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Jenn Coyne visits with Mike Haddad, the former chair of the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy, as well as dairy producer Suzanne Vold of Minnesota. Last year, Haddad spoke at the Dairy Sustainability Alliance fall meeting where he reminded the audience of the industry’s unity and alignment on sustainability goals for the future of the industry. This episode dives further into those efforts and leans on Vold. She and her family’s experiences in implementing sustainable practices on their farm showcase how efforts are being accomplished and the impact they have for the dairy community. Here is the episode breakdown: What are the industry’s goals for sustainability in the future? [~2:19]Why is this so important for farmer's social right to farm? [~6:08]Why is it important for the Volds to keep sustainability top of mind? [~8:26]What key ways has the industry been supported to reach these goals? [~11:37]How is the industry as a whole supporting farmers reaching these goals on their individual farms or regions across the U.S.? [~19:06]Vold: How has your family’s farm kept sustainability at the forefront of your operation? [~24:21]Which partnerships created through the USDA Partnership for Climate Smart Commodities stand out? [~29:14]Haddad: In your career, how did you see the industry progress in sustainability? [~35:32]What excites you about the industry’s current position and its path for the future? [~38:23]Rapid-fire questions [~39:56] Contact: Scott Wallin, Dairy Management Inc. [email protected]

In this episode, we will introduce you to, and celebrate, the 2023 Nexus Innovation Award winners. They were recently recognized at Professional Dairy Producers' (PDPW) business conference. One of the award winners requires zero wires to work, another can separate corn stover from corn silage after its been in the pile, yet another inhibits pathogen growth in recycled manure solids, one can tell you how much water and how often your cows drink, and the final one uses a smell-masking technology to bring a product back into service that was last offered in the 1980s and that increases energy-corrected milk production. If you were present at the conference, you would have seen Editor Walt Cooley holding up a pineapple during his awards introduction of these companies. Cooley believes a pineapple is a good analogy for these winners. “What they offer is different than what you’ve seen before. It’s non-traditional. It’s not an apple or an orange. At first glance, it may not look that appealing. That's just because you may not have tried it. It feels different,” Cooley said during the conference. “Because what these companies offer is different, it will take just a bit more effort than other fruits to crack into. But I promise you, there is something exotic, unique and sweet inside each of these companies, just like a pineapple.” Congratulations to the 2023 Nexus Innovation Award winners! Nedap for its SmartFlow Milk MeterGlori Enterprises for The FoddArm & Hammer Animal Nutrition for its Certillus product for dairy beddingSmaXtec for its TruDrinking featureZinpro for IsoFerm

Do you wonder about the impact of your dairy checkoff investment? Join farmer hosts in conversations about how local and national checkoff works together to build dairy sales and trust in today’s changing marketplace. Episode 9 - Dairy Innovation: Who is doing it and how does it work? Hear from California dairy farmer Tyler Riberio and New York dairy farmer Emma Andrew-Swarthout chat with Michelle McBride, founder and CEO of GoodSport Nutrition, and Bill Graves, SVP of Product Research at Dairy Management, Inc. about dairy product innovation. Listen to the Your Dairy Checkoff Podcast here.

In this episode, editors Kimmi Devaney and Dave Natzke discuss the trends and insights they learned from talking with more than 100 dairy producers and industry leaders across the U.S. while compiling the 2023 State of Dairy coverage, which appeared in the March 12, 2023, issue of Progressive Dairy. Here's a breakdown of the episode: What we mean when we say “State of Dairy coverage”? [~2:20]How this annual coverage originated [~3:10]This year’s trends compared to the last few years [~3:45]Areas of optimism for the dairy industry in 2023 [~5:00]Overview of some of the words dairy producers and industry leaders used to describe 2023 [~6:30]Summary of some of the concerns and challenges facing the dairy industry in 2023 according to those Dave and Kimmi talked with across the industry [~7:40]Processing capacity strengths and weaknesses across the nation [~9:15]How dairy producers are addressing current challenges [~9:50]Noteworthy insights regarding the Federal Milk Marketing Order reform or other policies and regulations [~10:55]Dave and Kimmi discuss what they think brings the most optimism for the dairy industry in 2023 [~13:25]Rapid-fire questions: Get to know Dave Natzke [~15:25]

Calves are the future of our herd. Health and performance play a significant role in calf growth and development. And, ultimately, how well they start paying us back when they enter the milking herd. But raising calves isn’t always easy and they require special care and attention to detail. In this episode, Taylor Wolfe, territory sales representative with DBC Ag Products, shares how we can navigate the challenges of calf raising to grow healthy, productive calves. She’ll share her perspective on what she sees and hears as she visits calf raisers across the Northeast. Here is the episode breakdown: 1:27 – Taylor introduction 2:20 – Role helping calf raisers3:19 – Favorite part of working with dairy farmers4:28 – One thing about calf health that gets overlooked5:10 – Biggest on-farm challenges6:58 – Focusing on management practices7:35 – Uncovering hidden costs9:10 – Calf health and future milk production10:20 – Veterinarian prescriptions10:55 – Advice for calf raisers11:20 – Where to learn more This episode is sponsored by DBC Ag Products. DBC Ag Products offers innovative, all-natural eubiotics based products that set your calves up for success. First Arrival® with Encrypt® and Last Stand® with ImmWave® help calves maintain normal digestive health and support a healthy, functioning immune system. You can find them at an animal health distributor, dealer or veterinarian near you. Learn more at dbcagproducts.com.

This episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast includes a recap of the recent ground-breaking work that Editor Walt Cooley has done. He has collaborated with the IFCN Dairy Network to create the first-ever dairy farm tech poster. That poster is a collection of worldwide companies who are developing or deploying technology on dairy farms throughout the globe. Download a PDF of the poster here. Walt’s guest is Torsten Hemme, founder and CEO of the IFCN Dairy Network. They talk about how the poster came to be, the amount of dairy farm technology investment flowing into the dairy industry and the innovations that dairy farmers will need to become more efficient, sustainable and ultimately profitable into the future. Here is a breakdown of the episode: What is the IFCN Dairy Network? [~1:45] What is most impressive to you about milk economics around the ward? [~3:45] What is the dairy farm tech poster? [~5:00] Are people really interested in dairy farm tech? [~8:30] Where are dairy farm tech companies located? [~10:30] How much money is being invested in dairy farm tech? [~12:45] The dairy industry is bigger than Apple and Google combined? [~14:00] How are dairy farm tech companies categorized? [~15:15] What will be the core topic for the coming decade in dairy tech? [~20:00] How are current events impacting dairy technology advancement? [~23:00] Where are milk prices going globally? [~24:15] Rapid-fire questions [~28:00] Follow IFCN online. Join the dairy tech LinkedIn group.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Jenn Coyne visits with Justin Malone of Minnesota. Malone is an organic dairy producer who helped spearhead the acquisition of Hastings Creamery as a way to create a market for organic dairy products while sustaining family businesses for future generations. Not only has Malone played an integral role in developing this market, he and a small of group of dairy farmers also ventured into America’s Dairyland with the purchase of Comstock Creamery. The episode delves into these business decisions and what Malone has learned in creating a market for his organic milk. Here is a breakdown of the episode: Tell me about your family’s farm and your history with organic dairy production. [~1:22]How was Smoky Hills Farmers Cooperative formed? [~4:21]When was the Hastings Creamery proposition pursued and why? [~5:22]Walk me through that purchase of the creamery and preparing the location with a new storefront and organic processing. [~10:56]What does the creamery look like today? [~13:43]What has been the feedback from the community? [~15:56]Since 2021 when the creamery was purchased, how has the business expanded? [~18:24]How do you do it all as a dairy farmer and general manager of the creamery? [~20:29]What has this business venture taught you or showed you as an organic dairy producer in today’s industry? [~22:27]What’s next for Justin Malone? [~28:05]Rapid-fire questions [~31:14]

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Kimmi Devaney is joined by Jenna Muller and Mary Campbell from the California Ag Mediation Program to discuss a resource that can help you resolve some of the tense situations and difficult conversations that inevitably come up while managing a business, especially one with your family. Mediation can assist with transitioning the farm from one generation to another, diffuse tense situations with neighbors and assist with multiple other situations. Visit calamp.org to learn more about mediation in California. Visit agriculturemediation.org for mediation in other states. Here’s a breakdown of the episode: How does mediation help farm families? [~1:00]The primary reasons a farmer would call a mediator [~2:40]Jenna and Mary walk us through the process when a farmer calls them for assistance [~3:40]How mediation can assist with transitioning the farm from one generation to another [~4:30]Facilitating debt issues [~8:55]Dealing with neighbor disputes [~10:20]Misconceptions they hear about facilitation and mediation [~13:30]Trainings offered and what they cover [~14:20]Additional tips for anyone looking to have more productive conversations and discussions [~15:55]How can farmers across the country who need some extra help navigating difficult conversations with family members, neighbors, or others find facilitators or mediators to help them? [~23:50]Rapid-fire questions [~27:40]

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Jenn Coyne visits with Evan Barton of South Fork Dairy Farm in Newark, Ohio. Barton is a first-generation dairy farmer who signed a deal with Clean Energy Fuel to use the manure that his cows produce to create renewable natural gas. The amount of clean fuel produced allows about 52 Amazon trucks to fill up at the fuel station each day as an added benefit to Barton reducing his farm’s carbon footprint. The episode also discusses Barton’s perspective as a first-generation farmer in today’s industry. Here is the breakdown of the episode: Tell us about your career in the dairy industry. [~1:01]What led to this partnership with Clean Energy Fuel? [~3:43]What is the project timeline? [~5:00]How will you have to prepare your farm for the partnership? [~6:09]How will manure be processed at your farm? [~8:03]How has this business decision bettered your farm? [~8:57]From an environmental and sustainability standpoint, how are you anticipating this manure digester to benefit your farm? [~10:04]How did you get into the dairy industry? [~12:31]What have been those key moments that defined your career and helped you build it to what it is today? [~17:16]How do you evaluate a proposition and whether it’s right or not for your dairy? [~19:14]What was the best advice you’ve ever received regarding dairy farming? [~21:06]What advice would you give to a new producer entering today’s industry? [~22:01]What’s next for Evan Barton and South Fork Dairy Farm? [~22:57]Rapid-fire questions [~23:51] Contact Evan Barton: [email protected]