Podcasts about compeer financial

Dairy Stream and the Menn Law Firm are proud to present the third annual “How We Got Here” podcast series featuring dairy farmers sharing the history of their farm and steps they have taken to get to where they are today. Dairy Stream host Joanna Guza and guests, Chuck Ripp and Kailyn Kippley, third and fourth generations at Ripp's Dairy Valley, discuss early influences, improvements to be better the farm, challenges, financial preparations and the future for the farm and dairy industry. This three-part series is sponsored by the Menn Law Firm. About the guests: Chuck Ripp is a third-generation farmer with his brothers, Troy and Gary, and they own Ripp's Dairy Valley in Dane. They manage more than 1,800 head of cattle and farm 1,600 acres. Chuck was awarded the DBA Advocate of the Year award at the Dairy Strong conference for his contributions to the Wisconsin's dairy community. He is also an a board member of Yahara Pride Farms.   Kailyn Kippley is the daughter of Chuck and the fourth generation to be taking over Ripp's Dairy Valley. She has been working as the herdsperson since 2022.   Season 1: How We Got Here (2024): How We Got Here: Norm E Lane in Chili, Wisconsin How We Got Here: Solhawk Dairy in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin How We Got Here: Verhasselt Farms in Kaukauna, Wisconsin Season 2: How We Got Here (2025): How We Got Here: Ocooch Dairy in Hillsboro, Wisconsin How We Got Here: Melichar Broad Acres in Port Washington, Wisconsin How We Got Here: Scheps Dairy in Almena, Wisconsin Season 3: How We Got Here (2026): How We Got Here: Bomaz Farms in Hammond, Wisconsin Next episode releasing this fall. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

Dairy Stream and the Menn Law Firm are proud to present the third annual “How We Got Here” podcast series featuring dairy farmers sharing the history of their farm and steps they have taken to get to where they are today. The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on July 29. This three-part series is sponsored by the Menn Law Firm. About the guests: Chuck Ripp is a third-generation farmer with his brothers, Troy and Gary, and they own Ripp's Dairy Valley in Dane. They manage more than 1,800 head of cattle and farm 1,600 acres. Chuck was awarded the DBA Advocate of the Year award at the Dairy Strong conference for his contributions to the Wisconsin's dairy community. He is also an a board member of Yahara Pride Farms.   Kailyn Kippley is the daughter of Chuck and the fourth generation to be taking over Ripp's Dairy Valley. She has been working as the herdsperson since 2022.   Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

As of midyear 2026, farmland values across Compeer Financial's Upper Midwest territory have held firm despite weak farm incomes. Today's guest is Brent Wiest, a Regional Manager Appraisal for Illinois at Compeer Financial. He works closely with appraisers across Compeer's territory and has a unique perspective on the trends we're seeing throughout the Upper Midwest farmland market. He will discuss lower crop margins, elevated financing costs and uneven sales activity have made buyers more cautious. For more expert updates and in-depth analysis throughout the year, subscribe to Compeer's monthly appraisal e-newsletter and the Appraisal Report podcast.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Components and beef on dairy are the strong themes in this interview. We dive into a farm's true net revenue, historic high beef prices and future items to keep an eye on. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest, Dr. Megan Roberts, discuss the following topics:  Structural shifts occurring now compared to 5-10 years ago Diversification in dairy changing baseline stability Three items to note on your milk check Calculating a farm's ‘true' net revenue Hedging strategies Beef on dairy, herd rebuild Cost of purchasing vs raising a replacement heifer vs crossbred calf Less cull cows, what does the next 12–18-month dairy cycle projection Keeping an eye on in 2026 and into 2027 About the guest Dr. Megan Roberts is a seasoned agricultural economist at Compeer Financial, bringing experience in farm economics, agribusiness education and policy analysis. With deep roots in agriculture, Megan combines academic expertise and hands-on farming experience to provide real-world insights that help farmers navigate economic challenges and opportunities. Before joining Compeer, Megan spent years teaching agricultural economics and business in higher education, including leadership roles in the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system and as an Extension educator at the University of Minnesota. She holds a doctorate in agricultural education from Texas A&M University, along with a master's and bachelor's degree in agriculture from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities. Beyond academia, Megan is a farmer herself, living on a farrow-to-finish hog, corn and soybean farm in southern Minnesota with her husband and son. Growing up on a dairy farm and now co-managing her family's operation, she understands the day-to-day realities of farming, giving her a unique perspective that blends economic theory with practical application. Megan is a regular speaker at industry events and published author on farm business strategies and ag policy. Her ability to break down complex economic trends into actionable insights makes her a trusted resource for today's farmers and agribusiness professionals. This is sponsored by Compeer Financial.   Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com.  *Recorded July 6

The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on July 15. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest, Dr. Megan Roberts, agricultural economist at Compeer Financial, discuss the biggest structural shifts occurring now compared to 5-10 years ago, understanding a farm's baseline with multi-commodity businesses, beef herd rebuild and what to keep an eye on in 2026 and into 2027. This is sponsored by Compeer Financial.   Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com.  *Recorded July 6

The latest USDA Acreage Report is out, and Ag Economist Megan Roberts explains what it means for farmers. She compares the June report to March planting intentions, discusses market reactions, and shares key takeaways on margin management, input costs, and what to watch as the growing season continues.For more market insights, subscribe to Megan's Economic Minute at compeer.com/economic-minute.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Thinking about purchasing your own slice of the wild outdoors? In this episode, Compeer Home Loan Officer, Chris Allen, shares what to consider when purchasing recreational land: how to use it, what factors to consider as you search for your perfect paradise, and financing options that support your goals. Whether you're dreaming of a quiet cabin, a hunting haven, or a private fishing hole, this conversation paves the way for making that dream a reality. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on July 1. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guests, Duane Ducat, owner of Deer Run Dairy, and Joel Roltgen, agribusiness energy advisor with Focus on Energy, discuss the update made at Deer Run Dairy, which saved them thousands of dollars. We give an overview of the money saved, most impressive energy savings project, process of working with Focus on Energy and what's next in the energy efficiency space for dairy. This is sponsored by Focus on Energy. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com.

When a devastating barn fire destroyed the heart of Four Cubs Farms in November 2017, the Peterson family faced a decision that would shape the future of their business for generations to come. In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen continues her conversation with Gary and Cris Peterson, Ben Peterson, and Dairy Manager Nathan Brandt as they reflect on one of the most difficult days in the farm's history—and how it became the catalyst for transformation.From the overwhelming support of neighbors and fellow dairy producers to rebuilding with robotic milking technology, the team shares how resilience, innovation, and a willingness to embrace change helped them emerge stronger than before. The conversation explores how data-driven decision making, animal welfare, technology adoption, and strategic growth are helping Four Cubs Farms remain competitive while preparing for its 150th anniversary and the next generation of leadership.This episode is sponsored by Compeer Financial.Compeer Financial is a member-owned Farm Credit cooperative serving and supporting agriculture and rural America. Their dairy team brings world-class expertise and tailored solutions to support dairy producers' financial goals and lending needs.02:00 – The day the barn fire changed everything04:00 – Moving cows and saving the herd during the crisis06:00 – Community support and the dairy industry's response07:00 – Rebuilding after the fire and making a major decision08:00 – Choosing robotic milking technology10:00 – Bringing cows home and transitioning to robots12:00 – How the robotic dairy is organized today14:00 – Collecting and using data to improve performance16:00 – Measuring return on investment through data18:00 – Data, profitability, and continuous improvement20:00 – Solving challenges through real-time insights22:00 – Staying competitive in a changing dairy industry23:00 – Cow behavior, stocking density, and robot efficiency25:00 – Labor, technology, and future dairy strategies27:00 – Growth plans and expansion opportunities28:00 – Building the next generation of the herd30:00 – Celebrating 150 years of family farming32:00 – Looking ahead to the future of Four Cubs Farms33:00 – Lessons in resilience, leadership, and perseverance

For nearly 150 years, Four Cubs Farms in Grantsburg, Wisconsin, has been built on a simple principle: people matter.In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen sits down with Gary and Cris Peterson, their son Ben Peterson, and Dairy Manager Nathan Brandt to explore the leadership, culture, communication, and innovation that transformed a small family dairy into a thriving 1,000-cow operation.From succession planning and employee engagement to genomic testing, feed efficiency, and building trust across generations, this conversation offers valuable lessons for dairy producers looking to create resilient businesses that can thrive well into the future.Whether you're navigating farm transition, building a team, or looking for ways to strengthen your operation's culture, this episode delivers practical insights from a farm that has successfully blended family values with modern dairy management.This episode is sponsored by Compeer Financial. Compeer Financial is a member-owned Farm Credit cooperative serving and supporting agriculture and rural America. Their dairy team brings world-class expertise and tailored solutions to support dairy producers' financial goals and lending needs.02:00 – Growing from 60 cows to 1,000 cows03:00 – Roles and responsibilities within the farm team05:00 – Cris Peterson's journey from city girl to dairy advocate09:00 – Leadership transition and bringing in outside talent10:00 – Nathan Brandt's path into dairy and Four Cubs Farms13:00 – Building a team with complementary strengths14:00 – Innovation through feed systems and grain storage16:00 – Genetics, genomic testing, and future herd growth20:00 – Nutrition strategies for today's high-performing dairy cows24:00 – The role of culture in farm success27:00 – Trust, communication, and employee retention30:00 – Creating clarity, consistency, and rhythm across the operation32:00 – Succession planning, growth, and preparing for the future

In this episode of On the Record, brought to you by Associated Equipment Distributors, we look at Compeer Financial and PepsiCo's pilot program to help lower the cost of strip-till equipment for farmers. In the Technology Corner, Noah Newman visits with Rob Saik, founder and CEO of Vi by VisorPRO. Also in this episode, the number of Big Dealers dropped again in 2026 and the latest Dealer Sentiments Report shows prices were up 1.5% vs. the prior report.

Learn more about BankFirst. The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on June 17. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guests, Dr. Mara Cloutier, research soil scientist and program director at the Soil Health Institute, and Dr. Dennis Busch, senior scientist at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, discuss accomplishments of the Dairy Soil and Water Regeneration Project (DSWR), focus and research areas at UW-Platteville, most impactful conservation practices, economics and the future of the project. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com.

Quality cropland continues to attract buyers, but high interest rates are causing many producers to rethink construction and expansion decisions. Jeremy Fluegge, Compeer Certified General Appraiser, discusses interest rates that continue to influence farm expansion plans, Southern Minnesota cropland value trends, why land supply still matters, and what to watch for in the second half of 2026. Ready to invest in land or sell a parcel? Compeer's appraiser team live and work throughout the Midwest region, so you'll get the expert insights you need to make the best decision for your operation. Visit https://www.compeer.com/ag-financing/agriculture-business-services/appraisal-services to discuss your situation with Compeer. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about BankFirst. Dairy Stream and the Menn Law Firm are proud to present the third annual “How We Got Here” podcast series featuring dairy farmers sharing the history of their farm and steps they have taken to get to where they are today. The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on June 3. This three-part series is sponsored by the Menn Law Firm. About the guests: Bob Zwald is the second generation to operate Bomaz Farms in Hammond, Wisconsin. Bob's is the general manager and oversees the cattle. Tom Zwald is the third generation to operate Bomaz Farms in Hammond, Wisconsin. Tom oversees cropping operations on the farm. They milk 1,500 cows and farm 2,500 acres.   Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

Billions of dollars in new investment are pouring into the I-29 corridor and the Great Lakes region, creating some of the most technologically advanced cheese processing plants in the world. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guests, Greg Siegethaler and Mike North, discuss the following topics:  Overview of cheese processing capacity in the Midwest Economic signals for the Midwest area What it means for farmers in the short-term Processors achieving net zero and ESG requirement Make allowances Dairy landscape in 10 years About the guests Greg Siegethaler, president of the Dairy Business Association and the VP of Milk Marketing, Strategic Sourcing, & Sustainability at Grande Cheese  Mike North, president of the Producer Division at Ever. Ag and a past DBA president   Learn more about Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on May 20. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guests, Greg Siegethaler, president of the Dairy Business Association and the VP of Milk Marketing, Strategic Sourcing, & Sustainability at Grande Cheese and Mike North, president of the Producer Division at Ever. Ag and a past DBA president, discuss the billions of dollars in new investment pouring into the I-29 corridor and the Great Lakes region, creating some of the most technologically advanced cheese processing plants. Learn more about Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship.

In this episode, hear from David Kluck, Senior Certified Appraiser with Compeer, as he discusses why southeast Wisconsin farmland values have risen 25%-35% as dairy operators compete for cropland near nutrient management systems. Whether you're preparing to buy or sell, partner with an appraiser who is based in your region and understands what's driving value in your market. Connect with Compeer's appraisal team to discuss your situation and listen to learn more!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The benefits of working with a cooperative don't stop at closing. In this Compeer Home Podcast episode, Compeer Home Loan Officer Lindsey Anderson breaks down the value of member-ownership and why partnering with a community-rooted lender pays off long after the loan is funded. Learn more about how Compeer Home champions rural America: https://www.compeerhome.com/about-us/. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Wisconsin legislative sessions has wrapped up and we want to walk you through the wins, surprises and importance of member engagement. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guests, Chad Zuleger and Cody Carpenter, discuss the following topics:  Biggest wins for Wisconsin dairy Surprises in the policy space Wisconsin Initiative for Agricultural Exports Farm field calculator Label grown meat Clean water and PFAS Importance of engagement Basic to advance ways to get involved What's next in the policy space About the guests Chad Zuleger is the Executive Director of the Dairy Business Association. He has been working in the policy space for 25 years.   Cody Carpenter, owns and operates Redrock View Farms with his family in Darlington, Wisconsin, where they milk 650 cows and farm 1,500 acres. Cody is currently serving as a DBA board member and also a member of the Lafayette Ag Stewardship Alliance.   Resources: Dairy Business Association priorities ARIP Program Producer- Led Watershed Protection Grants Crop Insurance Premium Rebates for Planting Cover Crops Rock Elm local ordinance: DBA members help prevent local ordinance Wisconsin dairy and farm statistics from Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin Dairy Day at the Capitol information DBA Dairy Golf Classic July 28 information Learn more about Dairy Business Association. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on April 29. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guests, Chad Zuleger, executive director of the Dairy Business Association, and Cody Carpenter, dairy farmer and owner of Redrock View Farms in Darlington, Wisconsin and also a DBA board member, discuss the Wisconsin legislative wins, surprises, basic to advanced ways to engage policymakers and what's next in the policy space. Learn more about Dairy Business Association. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com.

How are your finances looking for Q2? In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen interviews Steve Schweoer of Compeer Financial on what financially strong dairy farms are doing in 2026 amid tight first-half cash flow, lower milk prices, and higher costs of capital. Steve notes many producers prepaid 2026 expenses in 2025, easing near-term pressure, and expects improved markets in the second half while emphasizing preparing during good times by building working capital and paying down lines of credit. He advises maintaining a three-to-five-year capital replacement plan using “needs vs. wants,” evaluating land purchases case by case, and not letting taxes drive decisions. Key profitability levers include beef-on-dairy and managing net herd replacement cost, feed efficiency and ration cost, strong components and herd health, disciplined capital spending, and low employee turnover. He urges producers to know their cost of production, keep a consistent operating model, and bring lenders and advisors a long-term plan including risk management and family goals.This episode is sponsored by Compeer Financial. Compeer Financial is a member-owned Farm Credit cooperative serving and supporting agriculture and rural America. Their dairy team brings world-class expertise and tailored solutions to support dairy producers' financial goals and lending needs.Visit https://www.compeer.com/specialists/dairy01:17 Cash Flow Cycles Ahead03:02 Needs vs Wants Capital05:11 Land Buying Decisions06:36 Cost of Capital Squeeze08:17 Beef on Dairy Boost11:07 Feed Efficiency Levers12:48 What Profitable Looks Like15:04 Tech Investments Timing17:36 Lender Talks and Planning19:34 Disciplines for Stability21:50 Know Your Cost Production23:16 Stick to Your Model

What's driving farmland values in western Illinois? Learn how buyer trends, land use, and market conditions are shaping prices across the region in this episode with Justin Martin, Senior Certified Appraiser with Compeer Financial. Farmland markets in western Illinois remain active and resilient, but they are increasingly shaped by localized factors. In today's market, understanding what drives value is critical whether you are actively buying, preparing to sell, or evaluating your next move. Connect with Compeer's appraisal team anytime!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about BankFirst. We are through the first quarter of 2026 and we've seen some big items for dairy. We cover the highlights of the last four months, dairy policy items, market trends and more. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest, Dr. Marin Bozic, discuss the following topics:  Top highlights for dairy in the last four months Federal Milk Marketing Orders update Farm Bill Pros/cons of new dietary guidelines Global conflicts Record-high beef prices Value of milk GLP-1 weight-loss Market signals to keep an eye on About the guest Marin Bozic is the founder and CEO of Bozic LLC, a global provider of technology solutions for commodity markets analytics and designer of three major livestock insurance programs in the United States - Dairy Revenue Protection, Livestock Gross Margin and Livestock Risk Protection. In addition, Dr. Bozic is a board advisor to Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative and a nationally popular consultant and speaker on economics of dairy markets and policy issues.  Learn more about Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com.  *Recorded March 30, 2026

Learn more about BankFirst. The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on April 8. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest, Dr. Marin Bozic, a nationally recognized dairy economist who serves as an adviser to the Edge board of directors, discuss the top highlights for dairy in the last four months, Federal Milk Marketing Orders, global conflicts, value of milk and market signals to keep an eye on. Learn more about Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. *Recorded March 30, 2026  

Listen to Compeer's Economic Minute Podcast as Megan Roberts, Agriculture Economist with Compeer Financial, talks with Brownfield about the changes we are seeing at home due to changes overseas and the importance of risk management. She also touches on renewable volume oblications, expectations for future market numbers, and ideal legislative timelines in regards to the farm bill. Roberts suggests farmers have a good cost of production estimate as farmers start planting, which will help make risk management and marketing plans for one's operation. Dive into the prospective planting report, stock numbers, and the market reaction today.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learn more about BankFirst. The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on April 1. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest, Barb Dartt, principal consultant for The Family Business Consulting Group, discuss assessing and aligning farm owners, biggest thorn, preparations and what's next in the space of succession planning. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

Members of the Dairy Business Association, Wisconsin's leading dairy advocacy group, demonstrated the positive impact farmers can have when they come together to prevent unnecessary and burdensome local ordinances designed to limit the productivity of dairy farms. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guests Erin Tomasik and Paul Fetzer discuss the following topics:  Rock Elm township local ordinance in Pierce County, Wisconsin Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (WPDES) permits Conversations leading up to the committee meeting DNR meeting with the town board Testifying at town board meetings Bridging the gap Monitoring local ordinances Running for local office About the guests Erin Tomasik is the Community Relations Manager at the Voice of Milk, where she works to ensure farmer voices are represented on local policy issues. She supports the organization's government affairs team as well as its permitting and regulatory efforts. Erin collaborates closely with members to connect them with resources, participate in important town meetings and advocate for practical change at the county level. With over 4 years of experience in agricultural advocacy, she has a strong commitment to supporting farmers and the dairy community.  Paul Fetzer is a retired dairy farmer and his family is running Fetzer Farm in El Paso, Wisconsin. Where they milk 1,400 cows and farm 3,000 acres. Paul is a past DBA board member and was awarded the 2024 DBA Advocate of the Year.  Resources: DBA members help prevent local ordinance in Rock Elm, read here. Nutrient Management Planning resource   Livestock Facility Siting resource  Contact DBA team DBA policy priorities Connect with Erin, email Erin at etomasik@voiceofmilk.com  Learn more about the Dairy Business Association. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on March 18. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guests Erin Tomasik, community relations manager and Paul Fetzer, retired dairy farmer and DBA member board member, discuss the recent burdensome local ordinance designed to limit the productivity of dairy farms in Rock Elm township. They discuss the local ordinance, collaborative efforts, monitoring local ordinances and running for local office. Resources: DBA members help prevent local ordinance in Rock Elm, read here. Nutrient Management Planning resource   Livestock Facility Siting resource  Contact DBA team DBA policy priorities Connect with Erin, email Erin at etomasik@voiceofmilk.com  Learn more about the Dairy Business Association. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

Join Compeer Financial Certified General Appraiser, Hannah Korish, as she discusses the farm real estate market in West Central Wisconsin's La Crosse area. Hannah shares insights on the diverse property types in her eight-county region. She covers current market stability, seasonal trends, the growing homesteading movement, and emerging construction trends like shed houses. Whether you're interested in agricultural land values or rural residential markets, this episode offers valuable perspectives from Compeer Financial. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Determination is an unwritten characteristic of anyone involved in agriculture. The 2026 Groundbreaker award winners, presented by Compeer Financial, exemplify that determination. The selected winners are Bryanna and Dylan Handel of Barneveld. There story has taken many turns over the past decade, but they remain determined to pursue their passion for agriculture. Pam Jahnke listened in. Bryanna’s plans to establish a farm began at 16 years old when she purchased her first cow and housed it at her grandparents’ farm. She and Dylan established B. Kurt Dairy in 2014 with 16 cows in a rented barn near Verona, Wis., before they purchased their current farmstead from a retiring farmer near Barneveld in 2016. Since then, they’ve been growing their farm, family and community engagement while addressing a severe stray voltage issue. The stray voltage began in late 2023 and was linked to a nearby substation. It impacted overall herd health and drastically reduced milk production. The Handels enlisted experts and deployed solutions like rewiring and isolating their farm to minimize the impact. During their journey, the Handels encountered other farmers experiencing stray voltage challenges and helped them navigate their situations. They continue their fight as they engage with state and federal organizations to fund a new USDA study focused on better understanding stray voltage. Their goal is to uncover and correct the source cause so other farmers aren’t faced with stray voltage issues in the future. Meghan Wellnitz-Trejo, financial officer with Compeer Financial, who nominated the Handels, shared that the Handels believe “farming is a calling that provides their children and community a grounded connection to the land and their food sources.” They demonstrate that connection by offering farm camps to area youth and on-farm markets where they invite area farmers to sell their goods. They also established a farm store in downtown Barneveld to strengthen local food networks. The store is helping 35 area farmers sell their products locally. “It’s really great because you get to see so many businesses thrive off this one idea. All these farmers are gaining income from this store, which is great because as farmers we need that help to get it to the consumer,” Bryanna said. Compeer Financial presented the Handels with a $5,000 award, as well as $5,000 that the Handels will split between the Iowa County Technical Rescue Team and Marshall FFA Chapter on their behalf by Compeer. Dense fog advisory is in effect for most of eastern Wisconsin this morning. Stu Muck says the moisture will linger through the day with nearly an inch possible. Fortunately temperatures will stay above average. The World Champion Cheese hails from the Netherlands for 2026. The Beemster Royaal Grand Cru, made by CONO Kaasmakers in Westbeemster, Netherlands, walked away with the title Thursday, scoring 98.68 out of a possible 100. The cheese features a very sweet, nutty flavor and is very creamy. The dairy cooperative that makes up CONO Kaasmakers features 400 dairies in northern Holland with approximately 98% grazing their herds. Wisconsin came away with 45 first-place awards, followed by New York with eight and Vermont with seven. Pam Jahnke shares comments from the cheesemaker in Holland. There's a new driving force behind the Farm and Industry Short Course at UW-River Falls. Stephanie Hoff introduces us to Mary Holle. She's taken the reins as program director. Mary and her husband operate a 480-acre farm in Baldwin, Wisconsin, where they manage a herd of 50 registered Holsteins. The 16-week course is specifically designed for the "slow season," running from the last week of October to the second week of March. Students spend roughly 80% of their time at the Mann Valley lab farm, working directly with cows, silages, and industry professionals. While the current curriculum is dairy-focused, there are plans to add business, horticulture, agronomy, and soil science electives by the 2026–27 school year. Mary aims to rebuild the FISC advisory board and restart the agricultural tour to connect current students with successful program graduates. Prospective students can reach out directly to the program via a dedicated email address: fisc@uwrf.edu.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Details matter and our guest doesn't miss a beat sharing insight on the challenges and successes with regenerative farming practices. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest Alex Udermann of Meadowbrook Dairy Inc. discuss the following topics:  Meadowbrook Dairy's start in regenerative farming Go-to cover crops Making educated decisions Soil health mentorship Most impactful equipment for regenerative practices Precision nutrient management practices What consumers are asking Conservation goals Improving animal health from in-field conservation efforts Perspective on feed additives What's next for regenerative farming About the guest Alex Udermann is a fifth-generation dairy, beef, and row crop farmer who operates alongside his parents, John and MaryLou, his wife Kirsten, and his brother Jake and sister-in-law Sam. Their farm focuses on regenerative practices including no-till, cover crops, and responsible nutrient and manure management. They also provide custom no-till planting, cover crop seeding, custom manure hauling, and direct-to-consumer beef sales. Alex serves as an active member and mentor with the MN Soil Health Coalition, helping educate farmers and communities on soil health practices    Resources: Meadowbrook Farm website Follow Meadowbrook Dairy on Facebook. UM-Extension article on the Udermann family MN Soil Health Coalition website Learn more about the Voice of Milk. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

Join us as we talk with Taylor Rieder, Loan Officer with Compeer Financial, as she guides first-time home buyers through the essential steps of purchasing their first rural property. In this episode, Taylor breaks down the home-buying process, covering topics like financial readiness, debt-to-income ratios, credit health, and the pre-approval process. Hear more about Compeer's specialized first-time home buyer program offering zero down payment options up to $400,000 for qualified borrowers on rural properties. Additionally, learn about the upcoming free webinar on March 11th for even more in-depth guidance on your home-buying journey.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on March 4. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest Alex Udermann of Meadowbrook Dairy Inc. discuss regenerative farming practices, precision nutrient management, what consumers are asking and what's next for the future of regenerative farming practices. About the guest Alex Udermann is a fifth-generation dairy, beef, and row crop farmer who operates alongside his parents, John and MaryLou, his wife Kirsten, and his brother Jake and sister-in-law Sam. Their farm focuses on regenerative practices including no-till, cover crops, and responsible nutrient and manure management. They also provide custom no-till planting, cover crop seeding, custom manure hauling, and direct-to-consumer beef sales. Alex serves as an active member and mentor with the MN Soil Health Coalition, helping educate farmers and communities on soil health practices    Learn more about the Voice of Milk. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

On the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen talks with Curtis Gerrits and Jim Moriarty of Compeer Financial about why benchmarking is essential for dairy farms, especially as year-end financials become available, milk prices soften, and recent beef-on-dairy income may have masked underlying costs. They explain benchmarking as first comparing a farm to itself over time, then comparing to a larger peer dataset of similar farms to identify strengths and small opportunities across income and expenses that can add up. Key areas discussed include feed cost and productivity (including homegrown forages like corn silage and increased use of alfalfa), feed efficiency factors such as refusals and mixing time, and the importance of working with nutritionists and local crop partners. They highlight core benchmarks such as capital cost per hundredweight and labor cost per hundredweight, how capital and labor relate when making investments, and improvements in net herd replacement costs driven by lower herd turnover, fewer heifers raised, and more beef calf sales. They conclude with takeaways to embrace financial management and benchmarking, keep moving forward during down cycles, and note that top-performing dairies succeed through attention to detail, execution, regular decision-making, and involving family, key employees, and advisors by sharing financial results.This episode is sponsored by Compeer Financial.Compeer Financial is a member-owned Farm Credit cooperative serving and supporting agriculture and rural America. Their dairy team brings world-class expertise and tailored solutions to support dairy producers' financial goals and lending needs.Visit https://www.compeer.com/specialists/dairy00:00 Why Benchmarking Matters Right Now (Year-End Numbers + Softer Milk Prices)04:05 Benchmarking Basics: Compare to Yourself, Then to Peer Groups07:22 Big Levers: Feed Costs, Efficiency, and Milk Components08:59 Homegrown Forages & Feed Management: What to Optimize11:38 Core Benchmarks to Watch: Capital Cost, Labor, and Replacement Rates16:18 Turning Data Into Action: Consistency, Clean Categories, and Advisory Teams20:45 Key Takeaways for Dairy Strong: Embrace the Process & Keep Moving Forward22:56 What Top-Performing Dairies Do Differently (Attention to Detail + Team Buy-In)27:31 Wrap-Up & Resources

With low commodity prices and constricted global markets, farmers are under a lot of stress. John Shutske, Professor and Extension Specialist: Safety Engineering & Agricultural Health, UW-Madison says it's important to remember your mental health resources. He tells Kiley Allan that high levels of stress are being driven by chaotic trade policies and market unknowns, compounded by a "work harder" agricultural stigma that often prevents people from seeking help. Waking up in the early morning with racing thoughts is the primary red flag that professional medical intervention is needed. He explains that stress-induced cortisol affects the brain's frontal lobe, leading to poor communication and childish behavior, which can result in a vicious cycle of bad business decisions.Wisconsin could hit the 60's today - not what you'd expect on February 16th. Stu Muck says this balmy, mild weather will be the story for most of the week. Farmers got an early Valentines present on Friday when Glenn "GT" Thompson announced the release of the 2026 Farm Bill. He's got it on a fast track, with mark up scheduled for February 23rd. Pam Jahnke visit with Perry Aasness, vice president of legislative affairs for Compeer Financial on what this version contains. Some of the highlights include "fixing" Proposition 12, addressing farm labor needs and programs supporting them, plus creating new partnerships that can help rural infrastructure including things like child care. Junie Kierce is the state champion of the 2nd annual WI Auctioneering challenge. She says she only knew about auctioneering after watching shows like "Storage Wars". Now, she's completed a mentorship with auctioneer, Jenny Gehl, and has become engaged in the profession. Wisconsin dairy farmers are bringing the farm to the classroom with the launch of the Care for the Land Escape Room, a digital, game-based learning experience for high school students. Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin Board member Gary Kohn joins Stephanie Hoff to discuss how this turnkey resource allows students to explore regional sustainability practices across four different Wisconsin farms. Launching Feb. 27, this interactive project uses modern technology to help the next generation connect with the science and heart behind local dairy production. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on Feb. 18. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest Tera Baker of Nedap discuss the basics of hoof health, automating hoof care, working with your hoof trimmer, artificial intelligence, ROI and the future of hoof health care. This episode is sponsored by Nedap. About the guest Tera Baker is the North American Marketing Manager for the NedapDairy Business, bringing a lifelong passion for agriculture and a career spanning multiple segments of the dairy industry. Originally from Three Oaks, Michigan, she holds a B.S. in Agribusiness Management from Michigan State University and an MBA from Central Michigan University. Tera's career includes roles in pharmaceutical sales and leading the precision livestock sales unit at Topcon, and has spent time living and working with farms in Texas, Wisconsin, and Michigan in addition to national and international roles. She is especially energized by Nedap's commitment to technology creation and its role as a key connector among leading brands serving progressive dairy farmers. Beyond her work at Nedap, Tera remains deeply rooted in agriculture. She farms cash crops with her family, co-owns a precision ag dealership with her husband, and operates a U-Pick flower farm experience. Tera brings a grounded yet forward-looking perspective on dairy technology, innovation, and the future of livestock management.    Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

Paul Kohls at Compeer Financial tells Adam and Jordana why his business is involved with the End Hunger Together Radiothon.

The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on Feb. 4. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest discuss AI platforms, simple and advance ways to use AI, hype vs. reality, data ownership, government's role in AI and the role it plays on farms. Collaborate with the Voice of Milk. About the guest Mike Kutzke is a life-long learner who is interested in technology, artificial intelligence, and how people and groups adapt to change. He holds an M.S. in Social Sciences from North Dakota State University and a B.A. in Criminal Justice from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Mike grew up on a dairy farm and farmed full-time early in his career. He was a police officer for 17 years and has worked in higher education for over 20 years.  Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

Farm financial stress is rising as the farm economy faces continued uncertainty. In this Saturday Shorts episode from Successful Farming Radio, Jay Wagner, CFO at Compeer Financial, shares practical farm financial management tips to help producers navigate risk and protect cash flow. Learn why understanding cost of production, reviewing interest rates, restructuring farm debt, and improving risk management strategies are critical during low commodity prices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What agricultural policy items should you be keeping an eye on in 2026? Our guests share insight on workforce, trade and the farm bill while stressing the importance of advocacy with the turnover in Congress. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guests Heidi Fischer of Fischer-Clark Dairy and Michael Torrey of Torrey Advisory Group discuss the following topics:  Reflect on ag policy and what we can learn Workforce, labor shortage Exports Positives and negatives of tariffs Farm bill FDA, Dietary Guidelines for Americans Renewable Fuel Standards How to advocate About the guest Michael Torrey founded the Torrey Advisory Group in 2005. Mike's commitment to the critical role of agriculture remains the foundation of the firm, and he has developed an experienced, bipartisan team who is dedicated to working for the greater good through food, agricultural, and related industries. The team's ranks include experts in science, nutrition, legislative policy, and trade.  Heidi Fischer is a dairy farmer and owner of Fischer-Clark Dairy in Hatley, Wisconsin, where they milk 1,100 cows and farm 2,800 acres. Heidi is currently serving as the president of Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative.  Resources: Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative policy priorities Edge member portal Contact Edge Chief Policy Officer Karen Gefvert at kgefvert@voiceofmilk.com Learn more about Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on Jan. 21. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guests Heidi Fischer of Fischer-Clark Dairy and Michael Torrey of Torrey Advisory Group discuss the complexities of agricultural policy in 2026. It covers the historical perspectives on policy-making, current labor shortages, the farm bill timeline and the importance of advocacy for farmers. About the guests Michael Torrey founded the Torrey Advisory Group in 2005. Mike's commitment to the critical role of agriculture remains the foundation of the firm, and he has developed an experienced, bipartisan team who is dedicated to working for the greater good through food, agricultural, and related industries. The team's ranks include experts in science, nutrition, legislative policy, and trade.  Heidi Fischer is a dairy farmer and owner of Fischer-Clark Dairy in Hatley, Wisconsin, where they milk 1,100 cows and farm 2,800 acres. Heidi is currently serving as the president of Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative.  Learn more about Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

Register now for the Dairy Strong conference Jan. 14-15 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. What will 2026 bring the dairy economy? Our guest emphasizes the importance of understanding demand curves and offers actionable insights for farmers to navigate the challenges ahead. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest David Widmar of AEI discuss the following topics:  Reflecting on Historical Contexts Current Financial Health of U.S. Agriculture Commodity Prices Outlook for 2026 Trade Dynamics and Their Impact Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture Labor and Immigration Policy Effects Risk Management Strategies for Farmers Ad Hoc Policies and Their Implications Demand Curves and Economic Insights Key Action Items for Farmers in 2026 About the guest David Widmar is an ag economist specializing in trends and conditions across the farm economy. He is the managing partner of Ag Economic Insights (AEI.ag), which he co-founded with Dr. Brent Gloy in 2014. AEI is a trusted source of insight for thousands of ag professionals who subscribe to the free weekly newsletter, AEI Premium, or various data offerings. Before founding AEI, Mr. Widmar was a researcher at Purdue University. He holds degrees from Kansas State University and Purdue University.  Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com.  Join us at Dairy Strong on January 14-15 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Gain timely political updates, dive into the dynamics of producer-processor relationships and learn strategies to sustain a stronger future for dairy through innovation and collaboration. United together, we're leading with purpose—one person, one policy and one farm at a time. To learn more, visit dairystrong.org. Recorded 12.17.25

Happy New Year's Eve! Mid-West Farm Report takes a trip down memory lane, looking at our most popular stories of 2025. We start with No. 5 -- when a Wisconsin construction company was preparing for tariffs before a March 1 expected deadline. In other news, FSA State Director Sandy Chalmers reviews 2025, including a look toward the rollout of Farmer Bridge Assistance. The Compeer Financial Ag Weather Update says cold temperatures are on the way tonight. Meanwhile, the weekend might feel like spring! The No. 4 story of 2025 -- rural residents seeking more information on wind energy, and whether wind turbines belong in their communities. This morning, the Steffes Group tells us how they are bringing in first-time online auction buyers with a buying guide. At No. 3, Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Secretary Randy Romanski discussed the reason behind the proposed fee hikes for livestock markets, dealers, and truckers in early September. At No. 2, Equity Cooperative Livestock Sales Association CEO Curt Larson said the 1,700% proposed fee hikes would be problematic for farmers. Since this coverage, DATCP announced it would rework its original proposal. And the top story of the year -- celebrating Compeer Financial's 2025 GroundBreakers, a Fond du Lac couple, Evan and Taylor Schrauth. Find these top stories tonight at midwestfarmreport.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2026 is Jan. 14-15 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, we hope you can join us - learn more at dairystrong.org. We are showcasing past Dairy Strong conference speakers and some of the key highlights. At the 2024 Dairy Strong conference, Scott Caine, president of Aimpoint Research, was the keynote speaker. He discussed key concerns for dairy farmers going forward and the steps needed to keep the industry secure. Join us at Dairy Strong on January 14-15 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Gain timely political updates, dive into the dynamics of producer-processor relationships and learn strategies to sustain a stronger future for dairy through innovation and collaboration. United together, we're leading with purpose—one person, one policy and one farm at a time. To learn more, visit dairystrong.org. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

Kwik trip has been repeatedly named as a “Best Place to Work” both statewide and nationally and we dive into the specifics on employee culture. This previews a 2026 Dairy Strong conference presentation, register today at dairystrong.org. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest Ben Leibl of Kwik Trip discuss the following topics:  Praise Program Unsolicited guest compliments Employee training On-going education and professional development Motivators Challenges Keys to building a reputation Advice to balance performance with fostering a supportive, compassionate environment How to start a positive culture Future goals for Kwik trip customer service and employee engagement Register now for the Dairy Strong conference Jan. 14-15 in Green Bay, Wisconsin About the guest Ben Leibl is a Public Relations Specialist for Kwik Trip Inc., based in La Crosse, WI. In his role at Kwik Trip, he assists coworkers with their ongoing educational needs and directs the Kwik Trip praise program, which last year meant acknowledging over 2600 unsolicited guest compliment letters. Prior to joining Kwik Trip in 2020, Ben was an instructor and principal in Oshkosh, WI and Omaha, NE. He holds degrees from Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN. Ben sits on the Boards of the Boys and Girls Club in La Crosse, WI and serves as the Chair of St. Paul's Lutheran School Board. Ben and his wife Heidi have 3 children and they live in Holmen, WI. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com.  Join us at Dairy Strong on January 14-15 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Gain timely political updates, dive into the dynamics of producer-processor relationships and learn strategies to sustain a stronger future for dairy through innovation and collaboration. United together, we're leading with purpose—one person, one policy and one farm at a time. To learn more, visit dairystrong.org.

The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on Dec. 17. Kwik trip has been repeatedly named as a “Best Place to Work” both statewide and nationally and we dive into the specifics on employee culture. This previews a 2026 Dairy Strong conference presentation, register today at dairystrong.org. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest Ben Leibl of Kwik Trip discuss the Kwik Trip Praise Program, unsolicited guest compliments, employee training, motivators, how to start a positive culture, future goals for customer service innovation and employee engagement. Register now for the Dairy Strong conference Jan. 14-15 in Green Bay, Wisconsin About the guest Ben Leibl is a Public Relations Specialist for Kwik Trip Inc., based in La Crosse, WI. In his role at Kwik Trip, he assists coworkers with their ongoing educational needs and directs the Kwik Trip praise program, which last year meant acknowledging over 2600 unsolicited guest compliment letters. Prior to joining Kwik Trip in 2020, Ben was an instructor and principal in Oshkosh, WI and Omaha, NE. He holds degrees from Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN. Ben sits on the Boards of the Boys and Girls Club in La Crosse, WI and serves as the Chair of St. Paul's Lutheran School Board. Ben and his wife Heidi have 3 children and they live in Holmen, WI. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com.  Join us at Dairy Strong on January 14-15 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Gain timely political updates, dive into the dynamics of producer-processor relationships and learn strategies to sustain a stronger future for dairy through innovation and collaboration. United together, we're leading with purpose—one person, one policy and one farm at a time. To learn more, visit dairystrong.org.

The 2026 is Jan. 14-15 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, we hope you can join us - learn more at dairystrong.org. We are showcasing past Dairy Strong conference speakers and some of the key highlights. At the 2024 Dairy Strong conference, Dr. Thomas P.M. Barnett, a strategist and bestselling author, was the keynote speaker. He shared the latest on the demographic studies and what steps the United States could take to win over the globe's growing middle class, which could help U.S. farmers with selling their products abroad. In 2024, he shared how the world is going through three major transitions — climate change, demographic transition and a growing global middle class.   Join us at Dairy Strong on January 14-15 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Gain timely political updates, dive into the dynamics of producer-processor relationships and learn strategies to sustain a stronger future for dairy through innovation and collaboration. United together, we're leading with purpose—one person, one policy and one farm at a time. To learn more, visit dairystrong.org. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

In this episode of the Rooted Agritourism Podcast, host Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen from Sunny Mary Meadow announces the upcoming 2026 Flower Farmer Forum Conference. Scheduled for January 31st, 2026, at their farm in St. Joseph, Minnesota, the event will cover numerous topics pertinent to flower farming and agritourism. With industry shifts towards local sourcing driven by tariffs and supply chain issues, the conference aims to equip farmers with practical knowledge and networking opportunities. Key speakers from Ball Horticulture, CoolBot, Len Bush Roses, Compeer Financial, and Farmer's Union Agency will provide insights on various aspects of flower farming. A unique feature of this year's conference is the hands-on farm tours showcasing real systems in action. Attendees can also opt for an additional day focused on integrating wedding flowers into their businesses. Special discounts are available, and tickets can be purchased at Sunny Mary Meadow's website.00:00 Introduction to Rooted Agritourism00:30 Welcome to the 2026 Flower Farmer Forum Conference01:29 The Shift in the Flower Farming Industry03:49 Conference Highlights and Key Speakers05:38 Networking and Additional Opportunities07:31 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSave $25 on your CoolBot: https://storeitcold.referralrock.com/lv1/6R543BWF/Podcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourismPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.comFarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

The 2026 is Jan. 14-15 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, we hope you can join us - learn more at dairystrong.org. We are showcasing past Dairy Strong conference speakers and some of the key highlights. Jeff Eggers is a leading senior policy advisor, best-selling author and organizational performance expert and former Navy SEAL. He has 20+ years of experience managing strategic efforts and leading high-stakes, high-performing teams during his time with the White House, Department of Defense and the U.S. Navy as a Navy SEAL. Jeff spoke at the 2025 Dairy Strong conference.  Join us at Dairy Strong on January 14-15 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Gain timely political updates, dive into the dynamics of producer-processor relationships and learn strategies to sustain a stronger future for dairy through innovation and collaboration. United together, we're leading with purpose—one person, one policy and one farm at a time. To learn more, visit dairystrong.org. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com.   

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy sits down with Jim Moriarty, Director of Dairy at Compeer Financial, to discuss the seven key areas dairy producers should address before expanding their operations. Drawing on over 30 years of industry experience, Jim delves into critical topics such as family dynamics, financial planning, milk plant capacity, construction costs, and community relations. The episode provides a detailed checklist to help dairy farmers plan, communicate, and grow with purpose. About Compeer FinancialCompeer Financial is a member-owned Farm Credit cooperative serving and supporting agriculture and rural America. Our dairy team brings world-class expertise and tailored solutions to support dairy producers' financial goals and lending needs.For more information, contact the Compeer Dairy Industry Experts .