Progressive Dairy Podcast

 Success in today's dairy industry requires aligning genetics, management, and market demands. In this episode, our industry partners share how they help producers integrate Simplot Animal Sciences' SimVitro IVF embryos into daily operations to help producers drive consistency, adapt to changing markets and create long-term profitability across diverse regions and customer needs. This episode is sponsored by Simplot Animal Sciences.

Join Brad Guse from BMO and host Kimmi Devaney for a discussion about what sets excellent dairy producers apart from the rest. Learn which financial metrics they focus on, risk management strategies and how they build a great team culture while fine-tuning their own leadership skills. Here is an episode overview. [~2:10] The financial metrics that excellent dairy producers focus on[~5:50] The role high beef prices play and how it has influenced dairy financials [~7:15] How risk management can make a huge difference for dairy operations[~8:35] How culture and leadership impact profitability[~9:55] Examples of how successful dairies build a productive team culture[~12:30] Characteristics of great leaders[~14:05] Tips to improve overall communication between all levels of employees[~17:25] Steps to grow your leadership skills[~19:05] The types of questions excellent dairy producers are asking their advisers [~21:15] What causes an A player to fall into the C category?[~24:55] How someone can move from being a C player to an A player faster[~26:30] How peer groups and advisory boards can help producers identify and improve their blind spots[~28:20] Qualities to look for when assembling a peer group[~32:20] Outlook for the remainder of 2026[~38:20] Rapid-fire questions

In this episode, Pablo Janowicz, global key account manager from Dairy Data Warehouse, explores how technology is helping transform the dairy industry through data and artificial intelligence (AI). We discuss the challenges of accessing farm data, the innovative technology that makes data collection simple and automated, and the rigorous quality processes required to ensure data is accurate, standardized, and ready for analysis. We also dive into how data points from millions of cows are used to power machine learning models that help dairy professionals make smarter, data-driven decisions. Whether you're interested in dairy technology, AI, or the future of dairy farming, this episode provides valuable insights into how data is driving innovation across the industry. 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. 

Join Progressive Dairy Podcast co-hosts Matti McBride and Kimmi Devaney, along with Progressive Dairy Editor Jenn Coyne, for a special commemorative episode celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.  Episode breakdown: 1:30 – How Progressive Dairy is celebrating America's 250th anniversary 4:30 – Summary of special elements in the July 1 issue of Progressive Dairy 16:00 – How different parts of the country are celebrating

DMI's Gail Legaspi-Gaull, Group EVP of Strategic Insights and Planning, joins DMI's Scott Wallin to break down how strategic intelligence is helping the dairy industry stay ahead of change. From analyzing consumer behavior and market trends to forecasting what's next, Gail explains how these insights are used to shape marketing, drive product innovation, and support global partnerships that grow demand for dairy. She also shares what this means for farmers—allowing them to stay focused on the farm while checkoff works to build demand for their milk today and for years to come. Host: Scott Wallin, Vice President of Farmer Communications & Media Relations, Dairy Management Inc. Guest: Gail Legaspi-Gaull, Group EVP of Strategic Insights and Planning, Dairy Management Inc. This episode is sponsored by Dairy Management Inc This is Episode 47 of the Your Dairy Checkoff Podcast.

Matthew Evangelo sits down with host Matti McBride in this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast to chat about milking Holsteins and Jerseys, mastitis management and vermiculture. Learn about Evangelo's career in dairy, current management practices and future plans at Bar E Dairy and their commitment to sustainability.  Episode breakdown: 1:00 – Rapid-fire questions 2:00 – Evangelo's background 3:20 – Bar E Dairy 4:25 – Milking cows 2X vs. 3X 6:25 – Milking Holsteins and Jerseys 9:45 – Youngstock management 10:40 – Milking protocol at Bar E 11:50 – Mastitis treatment protocol 13:00 – Advice for improving somatic cell counts 15:00 – Cow comfort 17:00 – Vermifiltration system

In this episode, Dr. Blaine Ellison, owner of Applied Biotechnologies Inc. details the uses of a new product QFA. When used during the pre-fresh period and in the first groups fresh where possible, ketosis can be controlled, dry matter intakes will remain at far-off dry group levels without dropping, uterine health will improve, and first-service conception rates, especially in first-lactation heifers, will improve. This is made possible by controlling the 21-day cortisol surge and controlling the blood glucose wasted by the immune system of these stressed cattle. A recent study conducted by Iowa State and Penn State universities concerning this problem will be highlighted and discussed. This episode is sponsored by Applied Biotechnologies Inc. Applied Biotechnologies Inc. is a consulting business owned by Blaine N Ellison, DVM that focuses on evaluating technologies for profitable applications on behalf of the beef and dairy cattle industries.

In this sponsorcast, IFF Animal Nutrition & Health highlights its science‑driven approach to helping calves start strong and perform predictably. Drawing on more than 40 years of animal microbiome and nutritional expertise, IFF discusses how early‑life stress can compromise gut health and long‑term performance in dairy calves and calf ranch systems. The conversation focuses on two complementary solutions: Omni‑Bos® CB, a three‑strain probiotic designed to support early gut development and reduce health challenges, and Betafin®, a naturally derived betaine that helps maintain hydration and gut integrity during stress—together supporting healthier calves from day one. This episode is sponsored by IFF Animal Nutrition & Health.

Join host Kimmi Devaney as she chats with Jason Shamburg and Nic Schoenberger, founders and managing partners of Kansas Dairy Development (KDD), about raising dairy replacements and leading a dynamic, high-caliber team. KDD is a calf ranch and heifer-raising facility based in Deerfield, Kansas, that raises youngstock for dairy clients in Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New York, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Wisconsin and Wyoming. They also operate a calf depot in Wisconsin.  Progression of calves and heifers at KDD:  KDD receives calves at 2 to 3 days of age on average, and calves spend approximately 90 days in bedded hutches with a wire paneled outdoor area. After 90 days, calves are moved into transition barns for approximately 60 days. The transition barns range in size from 480'- 660' in length with individual pens that are 30' wide by 90' deep with a 35' deep roof structure at the back of the pen. Pens are well drained and bedded seasonally with a curtain at the north end of the barn that can be raised and lowered seasonally as conditions require. Calves move to group pens at 150 days of age, which have a significant shade and windbreak structure. Both the group pens and transition barns are bedded heavily to the conditions and needs of the animals throughout the year. At 180-200 days of age, animals are moved to more traditional open lot pens where they will continue to grow until they are moved into the breeding area at approximately 350 days of age. Heifers will be bred according to their voluntary waiting period (VWP) and grown to eventually head back to their respective home dairy at 210 days carrying calf (DCC) on average).  Episode breakdown:  [~1:10] How KDD and the partnership between Shamburg and Schoenberger came together about a decade ago[~2:15] About their calf depot[~4:30] Seasonal management differences, including bedding year round[~7:20] Heifer breeding program[~8:30] Data management[~12:45] Overview of calf ranch and heifer development programs[~13:40] Their client base and how they built those relationships over the last decades[~16:20] Biosecurity[~19:25] Keys to successfully raising heifers[~23:40] How their core values help to shape their team culture[~31:00] Qualities they look for in new employees[~33:05] Keeping employees motivated and engaged[~35:30] The greatest lessons Shamburg and Schoenberger have learned about leading a high-caliber team[~37:45] Schoenberger was recognized by the Holstein Foundation with the 2026 Young Dairy Leaders Institute (YDLI) Distinguished Alumni Leader Award[~39:00] Schoenberger's message for current the YDLI class and what he hopes they gain from their experience[~41:40] Rapid-fire questions

Rising costs are reshaping dairy nutrition strategies as milk fat levels continue to increase across US herds. This episode examines how supply chain pressures and renewable diesel demand are influencing fat economics, while highlighting how different fatty acids affect intake, component efficiency, reproduction, and overall return on investment. Key takeaway: Diets balanced for functional fatty acids and efficiency, rather than cost per ton, are critical for protecting cow performance and profitability in volatile fat markets. This episode is sponsored by Actus Nutrition, innovators of precision dairy nutrition solutions. Actus proudly manufactures Energy Booster and RPMet, category leading supplements that help farmers maximize their milk check. To learn more about other nutrition products by Actus, such as custom milk replacer products, visit https://actus.com/livestock/specialty-ingredients/

Ben Dickman of Dickman and Sons Dairy joins host Matti McBride in this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast to discuss how he creates pregnancies in 110°F temperatures. Learn what type of cooling system Dickman implements, what reproduction protocol he follows and more about his dairy in Coolidge, Arizona.  Episode breakdown: 0:40 – Rapid-fire questions1:45 – Dickman's background, Dickman and Sons Dairy3:20 – Temperature challenges4:45 – Cooling systems6:30 – Reproduction protocol7:30 – Current breeding split9:15 – Focus on cow comfort11:20 – Methane digester12:20 – Dickman's advice for getting cows pregnant in heat13:20 – Goals moving forward

Join Kenley Zuga and Gene Spellman from Central Life Sciences as they highlight how feed-through fly control can help livestock producers manage fly populations more effectively. In this podcast, they will talk about how targeting flies early in their lifecycle can help reduce pressure on animals, improve overall comfort, and support better performance. They also underscore the importance of combining multiple control methods as part of a broader management approach. Tune in to learn a practical, low-labor strategy for controlling flies that can improve both animal and working conditions on your farm. Learn more about ClariFly Larvicide and how it can work on your operation. This episode is sponsored by Central Life Sciences.

On this Progressive Dairy Podcast, Matt Hendel shares how herd data supports day-to-day decision-making on his dairy operation. From cow-side decisions to long-term herd management, this conversation highlights how disciplined, accurate data helps keep herd information organized, manage complexity, and support informed decisions with confidence. Drawing from years of experience using Dart—the proven herd management system built on standardized data—Matt discusses how herd management tools support daily workflows, connect data across technologies, and adapt as his operation has grown. This episode is sponsored by DRMS. DRMS is a trusted provider of dairy information and decision tools. As a non-profit 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.

This episode introduces you to the 2026 Nexus Innovation Award winners, recently recognized at the Professional Dairy Producers Business Conference. We're talking about three technologies that caught the judges' attention: a bolus administered at dry-off that cuts milk production 50% to 60% in 24 hours, an eartag that monitors calf activity from birth and alerts you when behavior deviates from normal, and a semiautomated milking technology that handles everything from pre-dip to post-dip. Congratulations to the 2026 Nexus Innovation Award winners! Related articles: AHV for StopLac Merck Animal Health for SenseHub Dairy Youngstock GEA Farm Technologies for DairyProX StopLac by AHV (1:45 to 14:22) 2:55 How does the product work? 5:30 How was this product developed? 7:00 When do you administer this product? 8:00 How are early adopters using this product? 9:30 What are the long-term effects of this product? 11:05 Any side effects from this product? 12:00 What feedback have you heard from early adopters? SenseHub Dairy Youngstock by Merck Animal Health (14:25 to 30:00) 15:00 When do you administer this product and how does it work? 15:45 Is the algorithm customizable? 17:00 What insights are you seeing from early adopters?  21:00 What sets this product apart from other monitoring?  23:15 What's the life expectancy of the tag and any warranties? 25:00 What value is created for producers in whole-life monitoring?  27:30 What have you learned about how to successfully transition to an activity monitoring system?  DairyProX by GEA Farm Technologies (31:00 to 44:10) 31:10 What is this product and what does it do?  31:55 How does the product work? 34:10 Does this product limit pre- or post-dips a dairy can use?  36:15 What's the consistency a dairy can expect from using this product?  37:30 What's the return on investment for most dairies?  38:45 Does this product only work with GEA equipment?  41:30 Does this product use more water than conventional milking prep?  42:40 What feedback have you heard from early adopters?

Making good silage is an art and utilizing technologies can help us improve the process to deliver consistent feed to our animals. This episode is sponsored by Novonesis.

Join host Kimmi Devaney and dairyman George Dick from Dicklands Farm and Dicklands Biogas in Chilliwack, British Columbia, for a conversation about building and managing a digester, their genetics strategy and the evolution of their facilities over the last four decades.  Learn more about their digester by visiting their website.  Episode breakdown: [~0:40] History of Dicklands Farm and what inspired the family to start dairying again in 1988[~1:35] Evolution of facilities from 1988 until now[~2:00] How robots have changed their farm[~4:50] How data from the robots and other technology is utilized in management decisions[~7:00] What they would change if they built new facilities today[~8:40] Genetics strategy[~12:05] Other genetic traits they are prioritizing[~13:50] When and why they added the digester[~16:10] The process of building a digester[~18:55] Where they get the food waste for the digester[~21:15] Receiving frozen products[~23:00] The most rewarding part of owning a digester[~24:35] Digester tours[~26:50] Tour FAQs[~28:30] Questions dairy producers should be asking when considering adding a digester to their operation[~31:15] Running a digester as a separate business with different employees[~32:00] Fertilizer pellet as a byproduct of the digester[~35:30] Rapid-fire questions

Join us to explore how targeted beef-on-dairy breeding decisions can address key dairy farm challenges, including calf value optimization and breeding efficiency. Jeremy Howard, senior sales and marketing manager for Simplot Animal Sciences and Texas Tech graduate researcher Kade Miller will share insights from recent Simplot Animal Science feedlot performance research and what the findings mean for dairies. They'll examine how data-driven strategies can improve calf performance outcomes and help producers improve calf quality, capture more value and make more confident breeding decisions while managing risk and return in an evolving production and supply environment. Learn more about SimVitro® cattle embryos by Simplot

Feeding colostrum is arguably one of the most important processes on a dairy. Michael Steele of the University of Guelph joins host Matti McBride in this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast to discuss passive immunity, feeding colostrum and transition milk past day 1, and current research in this field. Episode breakdown: 1:00 – Intro and rapid-fire questions2:50 – Steele's background4:20 – Passive immunity8:00 – Feeding colostrum past day 111:05 – Feeding transition milk13:00 – Overfeeding colostrum17:00  – Colostrum collection and storage19:30 – Steele's thoughts on the future of colostrum

With tight margins and volatile milk prices, rising insurance costs add a frustrating layer of complexity to your daily operation. In this episode, we sit down with Dan Rice, a Senior Dairy Consultant at Nationwide, to discuss tailored solutions for dairy farms. Dan shares his extensive background in the industry and explains the core reasons behind climbing premiums. More importantly, he offers practical, actionable advice to help you manage risks and streamline your coverage to protect your legacy, including how to find a Farm Certified agent who truly understands your needs. To find a local Farm Certified agent, visit FarmAgentFinder.com. Episode breakdown: 00:40 - Navigating rising insurance costs in the dairy industry01:20 - Meet Dan Rice, Senior Dairy Consultant at Nationwide03:02 - Why dairy premiums are climbing06:19 - The hidden dangers of underinsuring your farm09:05 - Actionable steps to take control of your insurance12:33 - Building a strong contingency plan for your dairy15:08 - Protecting your operation with liability contracts17:50 - Finding an agent that specializes in farm insurance Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company based in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest and strongest diversified financial services and insurance organizations in the United States. Nationwide is rated A+ by Standard & Poor's. Founded by farmers in 1926, Nationwide is committed to helping farmers and ranchers prepare their businesses for what's ahead with tailored coverage, smart risk management solutions, innovative resources, industry partnerships and support for the rural communities where they live and work. For more information about Nationwide and Nationwide's ratings, visit www.nationwide.com or Company Ratings -- Nationwide.

Sleep and healthy habits are often the first to be deprioritized during busy seasons on the farm. Join registered dietitian and sports dietitian Leslie Bonci and host Kimmi Devaney for an energetic discussion about how to feel great and set ourselves up for success when life gets busy. Bonci has worked with several professional sports teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs, and shares tips to improve sleep quality, enhance stress management and improve overall nutrition, along with some insights into working with professional athletes. Connect with Bonci: http://activeeatingadvice.com/ BonciLJ1@gmail.com Episode breakdown: [~1:15] About Bonci and why she is passionate about helping others with nutrition[~2:40] Where to start with nutrition[~4:20] What a healthy plate looks like[~7:05] Tips to incorporate more produce[~8:50] How to develop a more balanced mindset with nutrition[~10:35] F&F concept: fiber and fluid[~14:00] Grab-and-go meal planning and preparation for busy days[~20:00] How nutrition impacts stress and resilience[~22:50] How stress changes eating patterns and how to combat this[~26:45] Tips to improve sleep[~30:55] Which aspects of nutrition that Bonci recommends people track and monitor[~34:15] Tools and trackers that can help with nutrition and wellness[~36:45] Incorporating movement and exercise into busy days[~42:00] Rapid-fire questions

Welcome to this episode of the Progressive Dairy sponsorcast. Today we're diving into a timely challenge facing dairy producers right now, managing feed costs and efficiency in a tight milk price environment. I'm joined by Daryl Kleinschmit, discovery researcher and dairy nutritionist with Zinpro. Zinpro has been a global leader in trace mineral nutrition for decades and continues to expand its portfolio with nutritional solutions that help producers get more value out of forage and feed. In this conversation, we'll discuss where efficiency opportunities show up when margins are tight, why forage quality matters so much this time of year, and how nutrition strategies can help cows convert feed into milk more efficiently. 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.

Columnist Ryan Dennis has been writing for Progressive Dairy for many years. In addition, he's also a published author. His most recent book is titled Barn Gothic: Three Generations and the Death of the Family Dairy Farm. It's a memoir about his own family dairy farm. At the center of the story is his dad, who taught him everything about handling cattle, farming and running a dairy. Most dairy dads are heroes. And Ryan's book is a tribute to his own dairy hero and the many others just like him.  Walt and Ryan talk about father-son working relationships, the pressures of writing a monthly column on deadline, and the one story he deliberately left out of the book to not distract from his father's legacy. We also get into what it feels like to watch the family dairy disappear. Highlights  1:30 – Ryan Dennis - a master of ‘show don't tell' writing4:30 – ‘Quiet violence' – the loss of 1/2 of U.S. dairy farms in two decades 6:00 – ‘The rhythm of farming' 9:00 – Why did you want to write this book?12:00 – Do you see your dad as hero or victim in this story?15:00 – ‘An ember of toughness'17:30 – Father-son relationships in farming 20:00 – A story that didn't make it into the book23:15 – What would you redo about your life while dairying?26:10 – Why do people still farm if it's not often very profitable?  30:25 – What are your fondest memories of writing for Progressive Dairy? 34:00 – What would U.S. dairy farmers find interesting about Irish dairying? 

On-farm accidents are costly, and farm injuries can happen during everyday tasks. In this episode, host Mike Opperman talks with Joe Buschor about what to expect during a safety audit, common safety hazards and the safety gaps that can happen among employees. Here is the episode breakdown: 2:14: Dairy farm safety audit2:33: Farm walk through3:04: Preparing your farm for a safety visit4:30: Most common safety hazards5:20: Safety audits and OSHA inspections6:20: On-farm employee training7:20: Safety gaps among employees on your farm8:30: Parlor safety10:00: Animal handling12:32: Agri-Services Agency contact information 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/

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: 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.

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