Progressive Dairy Podcast

In this digital age, how are dairy producers making numbers work for them? Host Matti McBride chats with Pennsylvania dairy farmer Steve Harnish in this Progressive Dairy Podcast episode. Learn about Harnish's dairy, which software reports he values and how he uses them to manage his herd.  Here is the episode breakdown: 1:00 – Rapid-fire questions3:00 – About the dairy7:15 – System operations9:30 – How Harnish manages workflow14:15 – Daily reports18:00 – Points of improvement20:30 – Seeing results from positive changes25:25 – Making decisions from data

On this Progressive Dairy Podcast, Jade Lomax leads a conversation on a research-backed approach to evaluating transition cow performance using data from over 3 million lactation records and 25 cow-level variables. The discussion explores how comparing actual versus predicted energy-corrected milk (ECM) at first test can help identify gaps in transition support, dry period management and early health outcomes – supporting more informed herd decisions earlier in lactation. This episode is sponsored by DRMS. DRMS is a trusted provider of dairy information and decision tools. As a nonprofit with deep ties to NC State and Iowa State universities, we've spent over 65 years serving the dairy industry – delivering research-backed software, standardized data and exceptional customer support. Our dedicated team works alongside producers and consultants to ensure they get the training, tools and insights they need. We turn complex herd data into clear, actionable insights that help producers and consultants make informed decisions, every day – through solutions built in collaboration with the dairy industry.

Today we're talking about one of the most important — and most challenging — windows in the dairy cow's year: the transition period. Joining us is Dr. Dana Tomlinson, Global Technical Services for Zinpro. Zinpro has been the global leader in Performance Trace Minerals for over five decades and has recently expanded its portfolio to include additional nutritional ingredients that are essential for dairy production. This episode is sponsored by Zinpro. About Zinpro® For more than 54 years, Zinpro has improved the health and wellbeing of both animals and people as a pioneer in the research and development of performance trace minerals and innovative nutritional solutions. As a family-owned, privately held company, our steady growth can be attributed to employing a world-class team of experts, manufacturing quality products and our steadfast commitment to helping our customers advance the health and performance of their animals. With products marketed in more than 70 countries worldwide, Zinpro is the global leader in advancing animal performance through greater nutrition and is dedicated to creating smarter practices for a better, more sustainable world. To learn more visit zinpro.com. About Zinpro® IsoFerm® Fuel the cow by feeding her rumen, first. Zinpro IsoFerm is a breakthrough – the essential nutrient your herd needs. Designed to enhance rumen function by directly feeding the fiber digesting microbes, Zinpro IsoFerm enables dairy cows to be better cows while improving fiber digestion and protein utilization. This proprietary isoacid technology creates game-changing production efficiency, productivity and profitability.

John Cole breaks down indexes and how to effectively use them in your herd on this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast. Cole serves as the Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding's chief research and development officer. Learn about the math and data that's involved in calculating an index, Cole's recommendations for using indexes and a few new tools from CDCB. Here is the episode breakdown: 1:00 – Rapid-fire questions3:15 – Cole's background8:20 – Defining an index15:30 – Balancing regional markets within Net Merit19:05 – Utilizing fluid, cheese or grazing merits23:45 – Creating a herd-based index29:25 – Patience with a genetic plan36:10 – First service to conception

In this episode, host Mike Opperman sits down with Ashley Nadeau, senior loss control consultant at Agri‑Services Agency, to chat about the big risk areas on a dairy – from machinery and PTO entanglements to confined spaces, parlor hazards, chemicals and animal handling injuries — and discuss why complacency can be a farm's biggest threat. This episode is sponsored by Agri‑Services Agency. Agri-Services Agency (ASA) specializes in providing customized insurance solutions for dairy farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses. Insurance offerings include health, dental, vision, life insurance, workers' compensation, and property and casualty insurance. ASA is committed to helping you access comprehensive insurance coverage at a price that fits your budget. 24/7 customer service center: 1-877-466-9089 Website: https://agri-servicesagency.com/

Nick Vande Weerd runs Pleasant Dutch Dairy in South Dakota and serves as vice chair for AgriBank. Progressive Dairy Editor Walt Cooley caught up with him after he spoke at the 2025 Precision Dairy Conference, and he had one message that stopped me: You can't expand your way out of a cost problem. In this conversation, Nick walks through how he scrutinizes every line item in his operation, why he's laser-focused on maximizing beef-on-dairy revenue and why a dairy's willingness to adopt technology and evolve with it may predict its staying power in the industry more than its herd size. Here is the episode breakdown: 1:45 – Who is Pleasant Dutch Dairy2:30 – Why data must generate a path to decisions5:10 – What KPI is most meaningful to you?7:15 – What do you consistently that helps you stay on your game?9:40 – How do you communicate with your team and coordinate work?12:30 – What got you interested in being a dairyman full time?14:30 – What financial wisdom would you share with the industry?17:00 – What do you want to do more of, less of?20:30 – How are you maximizing beef-on-dairy revenue in your herd?24:30 – What do you do when not dairying?27:30 – If you could wave a magic wand on your dairy, what would you wish for?29:30 – What's your take on technology's role in consolidation in the dairy industry?

Join host Matti McBride as she chats with Anton Borst, owner of Halarda Farms in Elm Creek, Manitoba. Learn about the dairy, current succession plans, why Halarda Farms invests in technology and opts to be a trial farm for emerging technologies, as well as future plans for the dairy.  Here is the episode breakdown: 0:50 – Introduction to Halarda Farms1:40 – Using a parlor and robots3:00 – History of Halarda Farms4:30 – Succession planning6:30 – Slow, steady growth8:00 – Investing in technology10:00 – Managing employees and technology12:00 – Employee buy-in14:30 – Experiences with being a trial dairy17:00 – Current technologies being trialed 18:30 – Goals at Halarda20:50 – The life of a cow at Halarda24:30 – Future plans27:00 – Rapid-fire questions

Reproductive success is now central to both milk and beef calf revenue in progressive dairy herds. The episode explores how methionine, lysine, and histidine drive fertility and calf health, making amino acid balancing a critical strategy for profitability. Listeners discover how small gains in conception rates can yield significant financial impact when paired with strategic breeding and nutrition. Key takeaway: Strategic amino acid nutrition is a proven driver of reproductive efficiency and dual revenue streams in dairy production. This episode is sponsored by Actus Nutrition, innovators of precision dairy nutrition solutions. Actus proudly manufactures RPMet, a leading rumen-protected methionine designed to maximize component yields and reproductive efficiency. To learn more about RPMet and other nutrition products by Actus, such as Energy Booster and custom milk replacer products, visit https://actus.com/livestock/specialty-ingredients/

Michigan dairy producer Paul Windemuller joins host Kimmi Devaney to chat about how his family economically started their dairy farm in 2013, the evolution their dairy facilities and the addition of solar panels, the role of artificial intelligence, and how he uses the data provided by his automated milking system and other monitoring technology to make informed management decisions. Links: Listen to Windemuller's podcast – the AgCulture Podcast – and learn more about his work in agriculture on his website.Read about his farm in this Progressive Dairy article from April 2024. Episode overview: [~1:20] Windemuller's inspiration for getting into the dairy business[~2:20] His economical method of starting a dairy farm[~6:50] How his experiences in New Zealand influenced the way he manages his dairy farm today[~8:45] The evolution of his dairy facilities from a turkey coop with freestalls and a New Zealand-style milking parlor to his current modern freestall barns and automated milking system[~10:50] How he utilizes the data provided by his automated milking system and other monitoring technology[~13:05] The most important metrics he watches[~14:00] The process of adding solar panels to his operation [~23:15] Windemuller's industry involvement[~25:50] Nuffield International Farming Scholars program[~27:45] The white paper he wrote about artificial intelligence that he presented at the World Dairy Summit in Chile in October 2025 as a Nuffield International Scholar[~32:50] Team culture and technology implementation[~40:20] His motivation for starting the AgCulture Podcast [~44:50] Windemuller's advice to other dairy producers that are interested in advocating for agriculture[~48:05] Rapid-fire questions

In this Progressive Dairy Podcast, guests from Dairy One discuss how forage testing can impact overall milk quality in herds. Speakers Dan Button, Mike Reuter, and Kenlin Martin have a roundtable-style discussion on what impact they've seen from farmers who want to improve the feed given to their cows and how it ties to milk production. This episode is sponsored by Dairy One. With over 75 years of experience, Dairy One supports farms across the U.S. with a variety of services. From milk, forage, and soil testing to farm technology solutions to field agronomy services, Dairy One has the tools to support dairy farm success. The cooperative's goal is to measure it so that farms can manage it.

Join Progressive Dairy Podcast co-hosts Kimmi Devaney, Walt Cooley and Matti McBride as they highlight some of their favorite articles and podcast episodes from 2025 and discuss Progressive Publishing's new artificial intelligence (AI) policy, the new Ask AgProud AI feature on agproud.com, 2026 internship opportunities and a fun Christmas segment.  Links: Sign up for Real Producer Exchange webinarsArticle: Preparing for unexpected visits from immigration officials (podcast episode – season 7, episode 27)Podcast episode with Bethany Dado-Senn (season 7, episode 1)Snider Dairy Farm's “Grandma Got Run Over By a Jersey” parody video Episode overview: [~1:30] Ask AgProud AI [~5:15] New editorial AI policy [~6:45] Overview of some of Devaney, Cooley and McBride's most memorable articles and podcast episodes this year [~13:25] 2026 internship opportunity for students in the U.S. and Canada [~19:30] Christmas segment [~16:30] Internship advice for college dairy students  [~29:30] Rapid-fire questions

DMI's Katie Bambacht, Vice President of Nutrition Affairs at the National Dairy Council, speaks with DMI's Scott Wallin about how the checkoff is working directly with schools to improve school lunches (with dairy being front and center) by collaborating with the School Nutrition Association. Katie explains that nearly 30 million students participate in school meal programs daily, with dairy providing significant nutrients, while emphasizing the critical role of school meals in addressing food insecurity and improving academic performance. She also covers the "Made with School Lunch" campaign, which aims to change perceptions of school meals, and the "Smart Swaps" initiative, which helps schools meet evolving USDA standards while maintaining dairy offerings. The discussion also touches on the potential of whole milk in schools and future projects with the School Nutrition Association. To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com. Host and Guest: Host: Scott Wallin, Vice President of Farmer Communications & Media Relations, Dairy Management Inc. Guest: Katie Bambacht, Vice President of Nutrition Affairs, National Dairy Council This episode is sponsored by Dairy Management Inc.

David Kerr, milkrite | InterPuls (MI) Regional Sales Manager, shares insights on Impulse Air liner technology, proper milking equipment setup, mastitis prevention strategies, and MI comprehensive Farm Services Programs supporting dairy producers. Episode highlights: MI Lines of Business and Impulse Air [~2:08]How to choose the right liner [~4:00]The importance of massage [~5:17]Key factors for liner setup [~5:58]Relationship between liners and mastitis [~7:25]The advantages of MI Capital Goods and Farm Services [~12:52] This episode is sponsored by milkrite | InterPuls (MI). At MI, we support our business partners and farmers. We provide fully integrated systems where all aspects of herd management and milking meet, constantly monitoring and controlling efficient milking. We serve our products through a well-developed network of distributors and technical dealers, which is constantly developing.

Jim Van Patter has managed large dairy herds from Wisconsin to Turkey to Australia to Mississippi and back again. He's now the dairy manager at Nehls Brothers Farm near Juneau, Wisconsin, and he's brought home some hard-won lessons about what works at scale—and what doesn't. Whether you're running 100 cows or 1,000, Jim's got practical insights on everything from labor management to facility design that you can put to work on your operation.

Genetic advances in Holstein cows are reshaping milk composition, demanding more precise nutritional strategies. This episode highlights how the CNCPS v7.0 model and targeted amino acid supplementation can optimize milk solids and herd efficiency. Experts share practical approaches for leveraging data-driven ration modeling to maximize returns in today's evolving dairy landscape. Key takeaway: Precision nutrition and advanced modeling are essential for unlocking the full value of modern dairy genetics. This episode is sponsored by Actus Nutrition, innovators of precision dairy nutrition solutions. Actus proudly manufactures RPMet, a leading rumen-protected methionine designed to maximize component yields and reproductive efficiency. To learn more about RPMet and other nutrition products by Actus, such as Energy Booster and custom milk replacer products, visit https://actus.com/livestock/specialty-ingredients/

What is Targeted Reproductive Management (TRM)? And why should producers care about this new approach to dairy reproduction? Listen in to this Progressive Dairy sponsorcast as a team of reproductive health experts and enthusiasts evaluate new TRM best practices, how dairies can find better repro rates and more. Episode Highlights The latest reproductive research findingsProstaglandin product comparisonsTRM cost-benefit analysis Episode Guests Dr. Bilby, Merck Animal Health Director of Dairy Technical ServicesAustin Snook, Merck Animal Health U.S. Dairy Marketing ManagerDr. Ricardo Chebel, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine Professor This episode is sponsored by Merck Animal Health. With identification, monitoring and biopharma products fully integrated in one portfolio, Merck Animal Health offers the only true full-solution approach in the dairy industry. Which means you get the tools you need to eliminate guesswork, solve specific problems, let cows be cows and put more milk in the tank. It's the way you want to work, working better than ever before. Learn more about this unique approach to dairy at M-Power-Dairy.com.

Pennsylvania dairywoman Lolly Lesher from Way-Har Farms joins host Kimmi Devaney on this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast to discuss on-farm processing, selling directly to consumers through their farm market and other retail avenues, farm tours and community outreach.  Connect with Lesher on Facebook.  Here is a breakdown of the episode: [~1:00] About Way-Har Farms and Lesher's family[~1:50] Differences between their old freestall barn and the new one they built in 2016[~3:30] Farm market[~4:50] On-farm processing[~5:40] How they develop new flavors[~7:00] Marketing [~9:30] Product distribution[~9:55] Ice cream trailer for events[~10:45] Employee recruitment differences between the dairy and the farm market/on-farm processing [~11:40] The part of her farm Lesher is most proud of[~14:05] Advice for other dairy producers interesting in trying on-farm processing [~20:00] Employee training[~20:40] About their farm's open house in 2020 [~25:30] School tours[27:00] Internships[~28:30] Helpful resources[~29:15] Their Airbnb[~30:45] Agritourism advice for other producers[~33:00] Rapid-fire questions

As a dairy farmer, understanding health insurance options is key to protecting your family, employees, and business. This session explores current market trends and key considerations when evaluating insurance coverage options.  Here is a breakdown of the episode: [3:20] 2026 market outlook[5:22] Extended subsides[6:39] Budgeting for health insurance[9:16] Questions to ask your benefits specialist[13:08] Health insurance programs built for farmers This episode is sponsored by Agri-Services Agency. Agri-Services Agency specializes in providing customized insurance solutions for dairy farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses. Insurance offerings include: Health, dental, vision, life insurance, workers' compensation, and property and casualty insurance. ASA is committed to helping you access comprehensive insurance coverage at a price that fits your budget.  24/7 customer service center: 1-877-466-9089 Website: https://agri-servicesagency.com/ Association health plans for Kansas and Texas: https://agricarehealth.com/

This episode's guest is Dave Saunders. Dave has spent years in business development and ag technology — many might remember his work helping create My Dairy Dashboard, the analytics tool that helps farmers track and improve performance. Now he's focused on helping producers prepare for a changing financial landscape. He's written a new book, The Reset Ready Playbook: Strategies for Navigating the Global Financial Reset, and developed an online educational platform, ResetReady.app, that helps users understand their financial resilience and learn strategies to strengthen it. Dave isn't going to offer specific give financial advice — his goal is to provide insight, education, and practical frameworks so farmers can make informed decisions with their own advisors. He believes agriculture holds unique advantages in uncertain times — real assets, sustainable stewardship, and regenerative practices that can thrive through major economic shifts. We'll talk about what this “reset” really means, how it's unfolding, and what farmers can do to stay resilient — and even thrive — as the system changes. Here is the episode breakdown: 2:00 Who is Dave Saunders6:45 What are examples of real assets that dairies already own?8:15 What should dairies do if they sense some clouds on the horizon?12:15 What is a 'family office' and how do farms act like one?14:55 What is the positive story for dairies' financial future?18:00 Why is the golden age of farming forthcoming?20:00 How is access to capital going to change in the future?21:50 Why is the next economic crisis different than previous ones?25:30 Where can people learn more if interested in the The Reset Ready Playbook and app?

Hear how large-herd producers scaled with Lely automation at a roundtable that was held live at Miltrim Farms in Athens, Wisconsin. Listen to three large-herd producers share best practices, real-world ROI, barn design and labor efficiency gains. Click through to watch the full roundtable video. This episode is sponsored by Lely. Lely North America, based in Pella, Iowa, is part of the Lely Group, founded in 1948. Lely directs all effort toward creating a sustainable, profitable and enjoyable future in farming for its customers. Using the cow as a center point, the company develops premium robotics and data systems that increase animal welfare, flexibility and production on dairy farms.

Brad Guse from BMO returns to the Progressive Dairy Podcast to discuss various financial topics ranging from the key aspects of a risk management plan to economics of diversification, profitability strategies, what to expect from interest rates and much more.  Episode overview: [~1:10] Guse's background/career[~1:35] What is going well on dairy farms and where many are struggling [~2:55] Economics of diversification[~4:50] Favorite ag lending school terms, including what “earns and turns” means for small and large operations[~9:15] Expansion considerations[~12:35] Key aspects of a risk management plan[~14:15] Advisory teams[~19:00] Other profitability strategies[~23:35] Interest rates[~25:40] What happened this past year that Guse didn't expect [~27:10] What keeps an ag banker up at night right now[~32:25] What Guse is excited about[~38:00] Rapid-fire questions

Discover the latest milk fat research on whole milk and dairy foods. DMI's Dr. Chris Cifelli, Senior Vice President of Nutrition Research at National Dairy Council, speaks with DMI's Scott Wallin about how the checkoff is expanding the body of science around whole milk, cheese, and yogurt. With more than 80 studies conducted over the last 20 years, the milk fat research shows that these foods not only help support childhood growth but may also reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and fit into heart-healthy diets. Cifelli explains how the unique makeup of dairy fat—especially components like oleic acid—plays a vital role in supporting better health. He also underscores the need to translate this science into clear messages for both consumers and health professionals and how the checkoff constantly shares these messages with nutrition professionals. Looking ahead, his research team will continue to explore how dairy contributes to lowering cardiometabolic disease risk and the benefits of dairy's unique fatty acids. To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com. Host and Guest: Host: Scott Wallin, Vice President of Farmer Communications & Media Relations, Dairy Management Inc. Guest: Dr. Chris Cifelli, Senior Vice President of Nutrition Research, Dairy Management Inc. This episode is sponsored by Dairy Management Inc.

Join Jeremy Howard, Senior Sales and Marketing Manager at Simplot Animal Sciences, and Lauren Kimble, Manager of the Select Sires ProfitSOURCE program as the discuss the current beef on dairy market and implications for dairy producers. They will unpack: The current strength of the beef-on-dairy marketKey trends and shifts over the past yearWhat dairy farmers should keep on their radarHow the beef supply chain is adapting to this evolving landscape Whether you're in the dairy barn, beef marketer, or just beef-curious, this episode delivers sharp insights and forward-thinking strategies you won't want to miss. Tune in now to stay ahead of the curve—and make sure to subscribe, share, and leave a review to help more producers discover the value of beef-on-dairy! This episode is sponsored by Simplot Animal Sciences.

Tune into this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast to hear from California dairy farmer Maureen Lemos as she chats with host Kimmi Devaney about her family's milk drive, the two children's books she wrote, farm tours, farmers markets and the other ways she connects with her community to put a face on the dairy industry. Find her on Facebook and Instagram (@photographer_on_a_dairy_farm) and check out her website. Here is the episode breakdown: [~0:55] About her farm[~8:05] About the two children's books Lemos wrote about her favorite cow, Clarice[~23:00] Farmers markets[~24:50] Farm tours[~41:10] Advice for other dairy farmers interested in doing farm tours[~42:20] Milk drive[~53:55] Rapid-fire questions

Feed is the single largest expense on any dairy, and how it's managed can make or break both cow performance and your bottom line. In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Frederic sits down with VAS farm performance consultant team leaders, Melissa Freitas and Char Handschke, to talk about the biggest challenges in feed management and how new technology is helping farms of all sizes optimize their investment. They introduce FeedComp, a new cloud-based app from VAS designed to simplify feeding workflows, bring consistency to every mix and reduce waste – so your feed dollars go further. From mixing and delivering rations to tying feed data back to herd performance, this conversation highlights how better management and the right tools pay off. If you've ever wanted more clarity around your feed costs or a simpler, more accessible way to run your daily feed program, this episode is for you. Here is the episode breakdown: 01:35 - Melissa and Char introduction05:30 - Today's most common feeding challenges08:15 - Taking the complexity out of feed management12:36 - How feeders can utilize FeedComp15:16 - Keeping producers, consultants and nutritionists connected18:43 - Tying feed with herd data to see the bigger picture21:07 - Keys to feeding success25:00 - What's next: Other new VAS tools to power your dairy This episode is sponsored by VAS. VAS is focused on your dairy's future with software and information solutions that help collect and connect your farm's data. Contact your local farm performance consultant or reach out to VAS' support team to see how their herd and feed management tools can support your dairy's success. Visit VAS.com for more.

Posilac® has impact on carbon footprint reduction. This episode is sponsored by Union Agener. About Union Agener: The plant was acquired in October 2018 by Fernando de Castro Marques, a majority shareholder of União Química, one of the largest groups in the pharmaceutical industry in Brazil. “Now we are in full control of operations and we will begin production of new Posilac® batches to fully satisfy the demands of the American market and other export markets,” says Fernando de Castro Marques, president of Union Agener and Grupo União Química Farmacêutica. The product is marketed globally under the trademarks Posilac® and Lactotropin. This factory complex is FDA certified, having the product present in 22 countries, including the USA.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Kimmi Devaney and Michele Payn discuss how parents, 4-H leaders and other adults can set a good example of stress management, the current state of mental health in agriculture and how it is impacting youth, available resources and more. Payn wrote two articles that are in the Sept. 12 and Oct. 1 issues of Progressive Dairy about mental health and how it is affecting youth in agriculture.  Episode overview: [~1:15] About Payn's work in agriculture[~2:05] Current state of mental health in agriculture [~3:15] Mental health impacts on farm businesses[~6:00] Mental health topics producers and the agricultural industry are talking about [~7:35] Stress management [~15:10] The impact smartphones, social media and other technology are having on loneliness and lack of true connection[~18:30] Tips to help adults teach youth how to build fulfilling relationships and community [~22:00] How to have difficult conversations about mental health issues with youth[~26:05] Warning signs parents, 4-H leaders and others who work with kids should look out for[~28:00] The impact feeling stuck can have on youth and adults in agriculture [~32:30] Resources[~34:35] What else can listeners do to help themselves feel more in control and more at ease amid so many uncertainties in agriculture?[~37:00] Rapid-fire questions

Are dairy producers getting everything they can from their prebiotic and probiotic feed additives? The historical approach might be letting valuable ingredients go to waste. In this episode, the Papillon Agricultural Company team discuss how feed additives can be used to address specific concerns and how modern testing methods can reveal profitable opportunities. Listen in and explore how complimentary testing can sharpen your approach at DigesTTiveCheckup.com. Hosts: Matt Kauffman, Papillon Great Lakes Regional Sales ManagerDr. Devan Paulus Compart, Papillon Technical Services Manager Episode Highlights: Historical feed additive approach (2:55)What to measure (6:50)Insights from Papillon DigesTTive Checkup (7:57)Dealing with the Stress Response Cascade (10:30) This episode is sponsored by Papillon Agricultural Company. Papillon Agricultural Company develops and produces premium nutritional products for consultants, feed suppliers and producers nationwide. We commit to progressive research and a rigorous quality control program to deliver consistent, high-quality ingredients designed to maximize feed efficiency at the farm level. Our product portfolio includes prebiotics and probiotics, bypass proteins and specialty solutions.

In this episode, Dr. Doug Waterman from Virtus Nutrition explains how management and nutritional strategies influence uterine involution and overall reproductive success in dairy cows. He discusses key factors like inflammation control, calving management, and omega-3 supplementation to improve cow health and future productivity. With today's high value on herd replacements and beef-on-dairy calves, every pregnancy matters more than ever—making proactive transition cow management essential. This episode is sponsored by Virtus Nutrition.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, Gail Carpenter, who is an assistant professor and state dairy specialist at Iowa State University, and host Kimmi Devaney discuss a variety of topics ranging from dairy nutrition, reproduction, silage management and advice for dairy youth. Visit the Iowa State Extension Dairy Team website for resources. Here is an episode overview: [~0:55] Meet Gail Carpenter[~2:45] “You can't outfeed bad management” and back to basics on stocking density, cow comfort, water trough management and more[~10:30] Research: the impact of molasses supplementation on sorting with transition cows [~13:45] Strategies to improve fiber digestion[~15:05] Silage: disease pressure and silage inventory [~17:35] Considerations for silage season[~19:30] Planning for the 2026 silage season [~20:35] Heifer performance strategies [~24:20] Tips to reduce involuntary culling [~28:00] Top challenges Carpenter is hearing from producers [~31:50] Greatest opportunities for dairy producers right now [~36:35] What Carpenter is most excited about with the next generation of the dairy industry [~39:15] The collegiate dairy activities that had the greatest impact on her and set her up for success in her career [~34:10] Carpenter's advice for students and young people interested in a dairy career[~50:55] Rapid-fire questions

CEO Jim VanderGiessen, Jr. shares how cooling milk became a career and how dairy farmers are using PROChillers to instantly cool milk and heat water to 180°F. This episode is sponsored by Pro Refrigeration.

DMI's Anne Marie Splitstone, EVP for Growth Platforms and Partnerships, and Silvia Robles, VP for Growth Platforms and Partnerships, speak with DMI's Scott Wallin about the evolution of fluid milk innovation since 2015, emphasizing consumer insights and industry partnerships. They highlight the role of the Dairy Foods Research Center Network, which includes 150 R&D experts, in driving innovation.  Key consumer trends identified include a preference for high-protein, low-sugar products and lactose-free options.  Successful products like Fairlife, which surpassed $1 billion in sales, and DFA's Milk 50, launched with strategic packaging and positioning, are cited as examples.  The conversation underscores the importance of consumer insights, industry collaboration, and ongoing innovation in driving growth in the fluid milk category.   This episode is sponsored by Dairy Management Inc.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Walt Cooley is joined by Jacob Twohey of Twohey Dairy.  Like 95% of farms in Olmsted County where they dairy, their farm is family-owned, and Jacob represents the next generation taking over the operation. They milk 260 cows and have transitioned to robotic milking. Jacob explains the single deciding factor behind what brand of milking robots he chose and the one thing he'd definitely do differently if given the chance. He also shares the three key metrics he tracks to monitor robot performance and reveals what he's discovered decreases robot efficiency. The Twoheys are also working to lower feed costs by growing and storing more of their own feed. You'll hear their first-out-of-the-gate experience feeding high-oleic soybeans through their robots and what they've learned along the way. Here is the episode breakdown:  ~1:45 About the farm ~3:00 Why the decided to milk with robots and what brand~5:15 What he would change about his robot install~6:20 How he's using data on a day-to-day basis~8:00 What a typical day working cows looks like with robots~10:45 What do you do when you're not working~12:00 What's next for your farm~13:20 How are you doing hoof care with robots~15:30 What metrics do you pay attention to ~19:15 What technologies pique your interest~20:10 What are your current goals on the farm~21:30 What did you learn about how to feed high-oleic soybeans~25:00 What's a decision you are currently weighing~26:05 How do you prevent data overload~28:30 What are your thoughts on whole-life monitoring~29:50 What do you hope is your contribution to your farm's legacy

Introducing the Real Producer Exchange – a new, interactive experience where we go live, face-to-face with producers who are tackling the same challenges you face every day. It's your chance to get real answers from real producers and walk away with actionable insights you can use immediately. Get a taste of what makes these exchanges so powerful with highlights from our debut episode, plus a preview of the next one. Check out the Real Producer Exchange webinars on agproud.com.

From calf to cull cow, probiotics and enzymes have a measurable impact on the dairy farm. This episode is sponsored by Chr. Hansen. Novonesis is leading the era of biosolutions. By leveraging the power of microbiology with science, we transform the way the world produces, consumes and lives. In more than 30 industries around the world, our biosolutions are already creating value for thousands of customers and benefiting the planet. Our 10,000 people worldwide work closely with our partners and customers to transform business with biology. Let's better our world with biology.

In this episode, entomologist and forage research agronomist Dr. Erika Rodbell breaks down the hidden power of alfalfa. From pest control and nitrogen fixation to flexible harvest timing and improved forage quality, learn how alfalfa delivers agronomic and nutritional advantages that can boost your bottom line. This episode is sponsored by HarvXtra. Every operation has different goals and priorities. There's no silver bullet that works for everyone. But with the HarvXtra® Alfalfa trait, you have options. It's the first trait of its kind to provide the flexibility to produce higher-quality forage or extend harvest to maximize yield potential, which opens up new ways to optimize the way you grow alfalfa. You could do things the way you've always done them and get the results you've always gotten. Or, you could live life on the cutting edge with HarvXtra® Alfalfa and take your operation to a whole new level. Visit HarvXtra.com to learn more.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Matti McBride is joined by Tara Felix, associate professor and beef extension specialist at Penn State University. Felix has been feeding dairy steers and beef-on-dairy animals for over 10 years and brings her knowledge and expertise in the field to this episode. Learn about new research being done with beef-on-dairy animals, Felix's opinion on the current cattle cycle and how producers might prepare for a swing in beef prices.  Here is the episode breakdown: ~0:50 – Felix's background~3:00 – Felix's experience with beef-on-dairy~6:30 – The importance of colostrum for beef-on-dairy calves~10:00 – Feeding beef-on-dairy calves~14:30 – What feedlots are thinking about beef-on-dairy calves~16:45 – Felix's summary of recent research on genomic testing in beef-on-dairy calves~19:30 – Felix's prediction of cattle cycle~23:30 – How to create a product packers want to see ~25:10 – The role of implants in beef-on-dairy calves~27:40 – Exciting beef-on-dairy research~30:40 – Rapid-fire questions

Join Jason Mast, Casey Mikus, and Josh Tooley as they recap the 2025 growing season, chat all things harvest, and dive into the DEKALB® Silage breeding process. Learn how DEKALB breeds genetics to be Silage Proven with high quality and tonnage potential. DEKALB® Silage Proven products are bred to meet high-quality forage standards of nutritional value per ton, milk per acre and percentage starch. The exclusive genetics of Silage Proven products create high-quality feed that can improve your performance potential. This episode is sponsored by Bayer Crop Science.

In this episode, Samanta R. Fensterseifer, DVM, MSc, Ruminant Staff Research Scientist at United Animal Health, shares how United Animal Health is tackling complex dairy herd health issues through cutting-edge pathogen surveillance and probiotic development. She explains how United's proprietary microbial platform, PathKinex, helps producers better understand the role of coinfections in herd health, especially in light of recent HPAI outbreaks. Dr. Fensterseifer also introduces the “PROgram” approach to managing herd health and highlights how effective probiotics are developed to support cow immunity, gut integrity, and performance. Episode Time Markers:  00:40 – Introduction to Samanta Fensterseifer and United Animal Health01:50 – Role and research focus in the ruminant division02:40 – United's fermentation capabilities and control over microbial development03:40 – PathKinex platform and its value in pathogen surveillance04:40 – Key findings on coinfections and health markers from over 2,000 cow samples06:10 – HPAI case studies and coinfection exacerbation07:40 – The “PROgram” approach: Prevention, Reduction, Optimization09:10 – The role of targeted probiotics in managing herd health This episode is sponsored by United Animal Health. United Animal Health is a family-owned, global biosciences company serving producers in over 30 countries. Founded in 1956, the company offers innovative solutions in animal nutrition and health, including research-backed probiotics developed through in-house fermentation capabilities. United's PathKinex platform enables microbial surveillance and targeted product development to address complex animal health challenges. Learn more at www.unitedanh.com/cowhealth.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, learn about the dairy provisions included in the One Big Beautiful Bill. American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Economist joins host Kimmi Devaney to discuss the farm bill programs included in the bill, the increased estate tax exemption and what's on the horizon for a skinny farm bill later this year. Sign up for the AFBF Market Intel newsletter here.  Here's an episode overview: [~1:10] General overview of the One Big Beautiful Bill [~3:55] Dairy provisions: Dairy Margin Coverage [~6:20] Dairy provisions: funding for the USDA to conduct mandatory dairy processing cost surveys every two years to provide better data for future make allowance decisions[~9:15] Dairy provisions: Funding for conservation programs[~10:45] Dairy provisions: Funding for animal health programs to prevent, control and eradicate animal diseases[~11:50] Dairy provisions: Disaster assistance[~13:30] Dairy provisions: New trade promotion funding [~15:20] Dairy provisions: Makes the Section 199A tax deduction permanent 1099A[~16:05] Increased estate tax exemption that is now permanent[~16:20] Tax policy changes that dairy producers should know about[~18:30] What is the economic impact of this bill for dairy producers? (Immediate and long-term impact)[~21:00] Other information dairy producers should know about this bill[~26:00] What to expect with continued farm bill discussions this fall[~28:30] Other dairy-related legislation [~30:25] Tips for dairy producers interested in getting involved in policy[~32:20] Farm Bureau resources[~37:00] Rapid-fire questions

In this sponsorcast, Tera Baker, North American Marketing Manager at Nedap, sits down with Roxie Muller, Head of Innovation, to introduce SmartSight Locomotion — a new computer vision tool designed to take control of your herd's hoof health management. SmartSight gives dairy producers real-time, objective insights into cow movement, allowing for earlier intervention, reduced stress, and more animal-centric decision-making. Learn how this technology is already making an impact on farms in the U.S. and Ireland, and why it could be a game-changer for dairies of all sizes. Brought to you by Nedap — creating technology for life on the farm. Learn how Nedap SmartSight gives you more control over hoof health. Visit nedap.com/smartsight Show Notes / Time Markers 00:40 – Introduction02:10 – Meet Roxie Muller, Head of Innovation at Nedap03:40 – What SmartSight does and why it matters for producers07:40 – The role of AI and computer vision in dairy care12:40 – Market availability: U.S., Ireland, and early adopters16:10 – Making protocols more animal-centric21:40 – Hardware overview and how SmartSight integrates on-farm27:40 – Real-world insights: Trim lists, recovery profiles, data feedback30:40 – Final thoughts: embracing change and technology on the farm This episode is sponsored by Nedap. Nedap creates technology for life — solutions that help people become more successful and happier in their professional lives. Nedap Livestock helps farmers optimize the performance and well-being of individual cows while minimizing workload and resource use. By delivering precise, smart solutions, Nedap improves life on the farm for both people and animals, helping reduce the environmental footprint of dairies around the world.

How can IVF embryos be used by dairy and beef producers to meet the changing market dynamics? Listen to this episode to find out. This episode is sponsored by Simplot Animal Sciences. SimVitro® HerdBuilder™ embryos are commercial IVF inputs with flexible, tiered-pricing options to supply a range of beef and dairy producers with select genetic traits for highly marketable cattle.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Kimmi Devaney chats with Elaine Froese about how farm families can build a strong foundation for farm transition. Froese has more than 30 years of experience helping farm families through this process and has written articles in almost every issue of Progressive Dairy – Canada for the past 14 years.  Read Froese's articles in Progressive Dairy and visit her website. Episode overview: [~1:10] About Froese's background and her inspiration for helping farm families with transition planning[~3:00] When should farm families start discussion farm transition?[~4:05] Tips to help farm families communicate better[~7:15] Other essential skills for building a strong foundation for farm transition[~10:55] Tips to better communicate expectations[~13:55] The first step in the farm transition process[~16:40] Understanding conflict styles[~21:20] What role do nonfarm heirs have in the farm transition conversation?[~24:20] How to approach “fair versus equal”[~31:00] Tips to get everyone to the table to discuss farm transition[~34:45] Considerations when selecting a driver to coordinate the farm transition conversation[~38:30] How farm families can better navigate through difficult emotions before and/or during transition conversations[~43:50] Nonrelated transition[~48:30] The top pitfall Froese sees when working with farm families[~49:15] Top three tips for farm transition[~53:15] Rapid-fire questions

What is Targeted Reproductive Management (TRM)? And why should producers care about this new approach to dairy reproduction? Listen in to this Progressive Dairy sponsorcast as a team of reproductive health experts and enthusiasts evaluate new TRM best practices, how dairies can find better repro rates and more. Episode Highlights The latest reproductive research findingsProstaglandin product comparisonsTRM cost-benefit analysis Episode Guests Dr. Bilby, Merck Animal Health Director of Dairy Technical ServicesAustin Snook, Merck Animal Health U.S. Dairy Marketing ManagerDr. Ricardo Chebel, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine Professor This episode is sponsored by Merck Animal Health. With identification, monitoring and biopharma products fully integrated in one portfolio, Merck Animal Health offers the only true full-solution approach in the dairy industry. Which means you get the tools you need to eliminate guesswork, solve specific problems, let cows be cows and put more milk in the tank. It's the way you want to work, working better than ever before. Learn more about this unique approach to dairy at M-Power-Dairy.com.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and big data are revolutionizing industries—so why is dairy only now catching up? In this episode, we explore: Why the dairy value chain is embracing AI nowHow DDW is using data to support smarter, more sustainable dairy operationsThe journey from raw farm data to actionable AI insights Don't miss this conversation on the future of dairy tech! This episode is sponsored by Dairy Data Warehouse.  At Dairy Data Warehouse (DDW), we unlock the full potential of data on dairy farms across the globe to enable the industry to harness big data and AI for sustainable and more profitable farming. DDW collects farm data from the herd management software and other sources on farm. We ensure high data quality by cleaning and transforming it into a unified, comparable set for AI driven strategic decision-making, benchmarking and insights. Our solutions support key stakeholders in nutrition, genetics, animal health, cow monitoring, and milking equipment. Let's connect to explore how data can drive your business forward.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, join Brook Duer from the Penn State Ag Law Center and host Kimmi Devaney for a conversation about how to be proactive and protect your workforce amid ICE raids, I-9 audits and other immigration concerns. Most of this information is also applicable to multiple other scenarios where unauthorized people come to the farm. Reach out to Duer through the Penn State Ag Law Center website. A Guide for Employers: What to Do if Immigration Comes to Your Workplace (National Immigration Law Center) Episode overview: [~1:10] Duer's background[~4:15] What does an ICE raid look like on a farm?[~8:45] Duer's priority areas for farms[~19:00] How to keep employees calm [~25:00] Training and drills for these situations[~32:30] Tips to develop contingency plans[~38:05] Signage[~43:10] Warrants vs. administrative search warrants[~49:10] Detainment with a warrant[~54:40] Rapid-fire questions

Dairy One has partnered with iYOTAH to help farmers bring together data from across their farms with a new technology tool. In this podcast episode, Kari Spaan, CEO of iYOTAH, and Matt Newman, Director of Dairy One's Integrated Farming Solutions group, discuss this new software and how it's making an impact on dairies. From cool features to real-life applications, Blue Board is a tool worth investing in! This episode is sponsored by Dairy One.

Join host Matti McBride as she chats with Lee Erickson, dairy technical specialist with Zinpro, about hoof health management in the summer months. Learn which metrics to monitor to ensure cows are comfortable, how to design barns to avoid lameness and what to look for during weekly locomotion scoring evaluations. Topics covered: How cow comfort and hoof health go hand in handEffective methods of cooling to implement during hot monthsImportance of hoof health evaluation frequency

On dairy farms, pathogens are inevitable. On this Progressive Dairy Podcast, Papillon team members Matt Kaufmann and Kathryn Etteldorf chat about caring for calves in the face of pathogen problems. You'll hear them discuss the impact of pathogens on calf health, management solutions, what tools are available for producers to keep calves on a productive track and what matters most to Kathryn on farm. Episode Highlights: Calf care costs (:50)The impact of the Stress Response Cascade (2:45)How to handle the pathogen problem (5:30)The Papillon Calf Checkup (8:35) Episode Guests: Matt Kaufmann, Great Lakes Regional Sales Manager at Papillon Agricultural CompanyKathryn Etteldorf, Youngstock Sales Specialist at Papillon Agricultural Company This episode is sponsored by Papillon Agricultural Company. Papillon Agricultural Company develops and produces premium nutritional products for consultants, feed suppliers and producers nationwide. We commit to progressive research and a rigorous quality control program to deliver consistent, high-quality ingredients designed to maximize feed efficiency at the farm level. Our product portfolio includes prebiotics and probiotics, bypass proteins and specialty solutions.

Dustin Jonasson, Commodity Consultant at Total Farm Marketing, joins the podcast to discuss essential resources every dairy farmer should track to make informed decisions in today's volatile market. He provides insights into critical reports, such as the Daily Spot Trade, Global Dairy Trade Auction, and USDA Milk Production Report, and how these resources can help dairy farmers stay ahead of market trends. Dustin also explains how Total Farm Marketing's TFM360 platform and Dairy Revenue Protection (DRP) insurance work together to help dairy producers navigate market risks with proactive, AI-driven strategies.  Episode Highlights: Overview of Total Farm Marketing's TFM360 and DRP Insurance SolutionsEssential Dairy Market Reports Every Farmer Should TrackHow TFM360 Uses AI to Drive Strategic Decision-MakingThe Role of DRP Insurance in Protecting Dairy RevenueThe June 30 DRP Insurance Agency Selection Deadline and Why It's Crucial to Act Now This episode is sponsored by Total Farm Marketing by Stewart-Peterson. Total Farm Marketing's family of companies helps farmers manage commodity price volatility with comprehensive strategies and recommendations that span a producer's operation. Total Farm Marketing offers two services to help dairy farmers optimize operations. TFM360, a product of Stewart-Peterson Inc., is an AI-powered, rules-based platform that provides data-driven recommendations for managing price risk on milk, feed, and fuel. Dairy Revenue Protection insurance, offered through SP Risk Services LLC, secures a safety net against market downturns. Futures and options involve risk, and are not suitable for everyone. SP Risk Services LLC is an insurance agency and an equal opportunity provider. Guest Bio: Dustin Jonasson joined Total Farm Marketing in 2020. Dustin's education in finance and business led him to his professional experience in the agricultural industry as a farm marketing advisor and dairy feed salesman. Having worked with both grain and dairy producers, he knows that helping them find success in marketing starts with building a trusted relationship and gaining a deep understanding of his clients' operations. His attention to detail, great listening skills, and his commitment to his clients make him uniquely qualified as a TFM360 Commodity Sales Consultant.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, Brad Guse from BMO joins host Kimmi Devaney to discuss the metrics dairy producers should be watching right now, why risk management and contingency plans are vital, how to build a good relationship with your ag lender, and the recent BMO report about eight key economic and market trends that are significantly impacting U.S. farmers right now. Here's an overview of the episode: [~2:35] BMO report: What is happening right now with trade, the impact is it having on agriculture and how dairy producers can best manage through these uncertainties [~4:05] BMO report: Slower economic growth[~5:00] BMO report: Abundant crop supplies, livestock leaner[~6:40] Impact of beef-on-dairy[~8:45] BMO report: The value of the U.S. dollar [~9:35] BMO report: Some costs decreasing[~11:00] BMO report: Interest rates[~12:25] BMO report: Labor [~13:15] BMO report: Productivity growth[~14:50] The impact of higher butterfat and protein on processing [~17:30] The most important metrics for dairy producers to watch right now as they look at their operation's financials[~23:30] The most important parts of a risk management plan [~25:10] What keeps ag lenders up at night?[~29:30] Tips for building a good relationship with your ag lender[~32:20] Examples of contingency plans and how to develop them [~38:20] Current topics dairy producers are talking about[~41:20] What producers should be asking or talking about with their ag lender that they probably aren't[~43:15] When should producers involve their ag banker in succession planning discussions?[~46:30] Rapid-fire questions