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Cattle prices drop again this week | Weekly Livestock Market Update for September 12, 2025 cover art

Cattle prices drop again this week | Weekly Livestock Market Update for September 12, 2025

In this episode, Meghan Grebner and ag economist Charley Martinez discuss the latest trends in the livestock market, focusing on supply and demand dynamics, slaughter numbers, and future projections for beef and pork production. They also discuss the impact of current prices on consumer behavior and market trends, providing insights into the agricultural economy. ➤ Live cattle prices have decreased this week. ➤ Boxed beef prices are still high relative to historical averages. ➤ Cattle slaughter numbers are down year-to-date compared to last year. ➤ Pork retail prices have remained stable despite increased production. ➤ The forecast for red meat production in 2025 has been reduced. ➤ Beef production is expected to be lower due to reduced slaughter rates. ➤ There is a concern about capacity utilization in processing plants. ➤ Demand for beef remains strong despite high prices. ➤ Future projections indicate potential price increases for pork due to reduced supply. ➤ The upcoming cattle on feed report will provide more insights into market dynamics. Learn more about what's happening in the agriculture markets here: https://brownfieldagnews.com/markets/ Find more agriculture news here: https://brownfieldagnews.com/ Connect with Brownfield Ag News: » Get the latest ag news: https://www.brownfieldagnews.com/ » Subscribe to Brownfield on YouTube: @BrownfieldAgNews » Follow Brownfield on X (Twitter): https://x.com/brownfield » Follow Brownfield on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrownfieldAgNews Subscribe and listen to Brownfield Ag News: ➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/dz/podcast/brownfield-ag-news/id1436508505 ➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4qoIHY9EYUV9sf5DXhBKHN?si=a4483aaa1afd445e Brownfield Ag News creates and delivers original content across multiple media platforms. Brownfield is the largest and one of the oldest agricultural news networks in the country carrying agricultural news, markets, weather, commentary and feature content.

263 | Dairy Leadership: Managing Growth and Generational Success on the Dairy cover art

263 | Dairy Leadership: Managing Growth and Generational Success on the Dairy

In the final installment of the Country Aire Farms series, brothers Craig and Nick Gerrits reflect on stepping into leadership roles within their family’s dairy operation. They discuss the challenges of earning respect, building trust with employees, and maintaining a healthy leadership mindset, even during tough times. The episode highlights the importance of confidence, open communication, and continuous learning, as well as the legacy and values passed down through generations. Both brothers share advice they would give their younger selves, emphasizing the need for self-trust, motivation, and a focus on personal well-being to lead effectively. The story of Country Aire Farms is ultimately one of family, tradition, and progressive growth in the dairy industry. This episode is brought to you by DeLaval. DeLaval provides integrated solutions designed to improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. To learn more, visit Delaval.com/en-us/. 00:00 – Introduction & Series Recap 00:59 – Sponsor Message 01:17 – Stepping into Leadership: Nick’s Perspective 03:19 – Handling Challenges & Building Confidence 06:46 – Earning Respect as a Young Leader 07:46 – Balancing Friendship and Management 09:59 – Communication and Team Input 12:15 – Family Legacy and Taking on Responsibility 14:10 – Leadership Mindset & Trust 17:41 – Implementing Team Ideas 20:01 – The Importance of Trust 22:15 – Growth, Confidence, and Advice to Younger Selves 26:26 – Motivation, Momentum, and Progress 28:14 – Managing Stress and Personal Growth 31:35 – Health, Well-being, and Leadership 33:14 – Family Legacy and Farm History 34:56 – Generational Story of Country Air Farms 36:30 – Closing Remarks & Outro

262 | Innovation in Action: How Country Aire Farms Uses Technology to Succeed cover art

262 | Innovation in Action: How Country Aire Farms Uses Technology to Succeed

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, we are back with the third episode of the Country Aire Series, brought to you by Delaval. Today, Peggy Coffeen is back with the Gerrits to explore how technology is transforming modern dairy operations. Cousins Craig and Matt Gerrits share their experiences implementing advanced tools—from automated rotary parlors and precision cow sorting systems to biosolid bedding management and high-tech dashboards—that have improved cow comfort, milk quality, and labor efficiency. The discussion highlights the farm’s transition to biosolids, the challenges and solutions in maintaining milk quality, and the importance of consistent management. On the cropping side, Matt describes how data-driven decision-making and innovations like GPS-guided planting and variable rate technology are optimizing fieldwork and margins. The episode underscores the value of embracing new technology while balancing tradition, teamwork, and a forward-thinking mindset to ensure the farm’s continued success. This episode is brought to you by DeLaval. DeLaval provides integrated solutions designed to improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. To learn more, visit Delaval.com/en-us/. 0:00 — Introduction and episode overview 0:41 — Sponsor message (De Laval) 0:59 — Interview with Craig Gerrits: vision for the dairy, technology in barn design, cow sorting, and rotary parlor 4:28 — Automated milking technology, labor efficiency, and cost management 7:07 — Transition to biosolids bedding, milk quality challenges, and management strategies 10:01 — Data-driven management, dashboards, and performance indicators 13:22 — Cow comfort technologies and barn environment control 14:12 — Employee training and adapting to new technology 17:01 — Transitioning cows to the new rotary, minimizing yield drag 18:41 — Achievements and benchmarks in milk quality and herd management 20:02 — Advice for other dairies in expansion 20:02 — Transition to cropping: Matt Gerrits discusses technology in fieldwork 20:25 — Advances in agronomy technology, GPS, and variable rate planting 21:21 — The impact of time savings and data on field operations 23:42 — Scheduling, team management, and future technology in cropping 24:30 — Thoughts on autonomous tractors and balancing tradition with innovation 26:11 — Future technologies to watch in cropping 27:25 — Closing remarks and outro

261 | Passing the Torch: Next-Generation Dairy Leadership at Country Aire Farms cover art

261 | Passing the Torch: Next-Generation Dairy Leadership at Country Aire Farms

In this next episode of the Uplevel Dairy Country Aire Series, the focus shifts to the next generation at Country Aire Farms, where four cousins—Matt, John, Nick, and Craig—each find their way back to the family dairy after exploring different career paths. Influenced by family values and the encouragement of their grandfather, the cousins embrace the challenges and opportunities of running a modern dairy operation. The conversation delves into their unique roles, from crop management and finance to equipment and employee relations, highlighting how their diverse skills contribute to the farm’s success. The cousins share candid reflections on the difficulties of stepping into leadership at a young age, earning respect from employees, and balancing family dynamics with business responsibilities. Mentorship from the older generation, a strong workplace culture, and a commitment to sustainability and community involvement emerge as central themes. As they navigate the complexities of a family-run business, the cousins emphasize the importance of trust, communication, and adaptability. The episode concludes with a sense of gratitude for the foundation laid by previous generations and a shared commitment to carrying the family legacy forward, blending tradition with innovation at Country Aire Farms. This episode is brought to you by DeLaval. DeLaval provides integrated solutions designed to improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. To learn more, visit Delaval.com/en-us/. 0:00 — Introduction: Four cousins return to the family dairy 0:55 — Sponsor message and Nick’s early career thoughts 1:22 — John’s early passion for dairy 1:45 — Matt’s career change to farming 2:59 — Family as the central hub 4:12 — Craig’s appreciation for the dairy industry 5:57 — Managerial roles and hands-on training 6:43 — Discovering individual interests and roles 8:42 — Division of roles among the cousins 9:35 — Handling unplanned situations and challenges 10:08 — Earning respect as young managers 13:36 — Importance of cleanliness and employee care 14:27 — Craig’s focus on workplace culture 15:15 — Defining and building a positive culture 18:17 — Culture and employee happiness 18:36 — Leadership mindset and caring for people 19:36 — Family involvement in supporting employees 20:24 — Gratitude for family and support 25:25 — Sustainability initiatives at Country Aire 26:21 — Evolving definition of a family farm 27:41 — Balancing family and business 30:15 — Facing difficult times and future challenges 31:06 — Advice from the older generation 32:34 — Teamwork and learning from hardships 32:53 — Closing reflections and legacy

260 | Building a Legacy: How Country Aire Farms Grew a Generational Dairy in Wisconsin cover art

260 | Building a Legacy: How Country Aire Farms Grew a Generational Dairy in Wisconsin

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen launches a four-part series in partnership with De Laval, spotlighting the multi-generational story of Country Aire Farms in Greenleaf, Wisconsin. Brothers Mike and Tom Gerrits share their journey from growing up on a small 80-cow dairy to leading a thriving, innovative operation. The episode explores how their father, Bud, instilled a strong work ethic and forward-thinking mindset, guiding the family through pivotal decisions—like building the area’s first rotary parlor in 1998—that set the stage for major growth. Mike and Tom discuss the division of responsibilities (cows vs. crops), the importance of embracing new technology, and the challenges and rewards of bringing the next generation into the business. Listeners hear about the transition of leadership, the value of learning from mistakes, and the family’s commitment to core values, community, and continuous improvement. The episode closes with reflections on legacy, pride in the next generation, and optimism for the future of Country Aire Farms. This episode is brought to you by DeLaval. DeLaval provides integrated solutions designed to improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. To learn more, visit Delaval.com/en-us/. 0:00 — Introduction & Series Overview 1:02 — Meet the Gerrits Brothers 2:08 — Sponsor Message 3:22 — Early Days on the Farm 6:09 — Division of Labor (Cows vs. Crops) 8:59 — Transition to Ownership 11:29 — Growth & Building the Rotary Parlor 14:24 — Embracing Technology 18:44 — Next Generation Joins the Farm 24:16 — Lessons in Leadership 27:53 — Family Legacy & Values 34:52 — Looking to the Future 39:37 — Closing Thoughts 41:19 — Outro & Sponsor Message

AgEmerge Podcast 170 with Taylor Herren #podcast #farming #regenerativeagriculture #commoditymarket cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 170 with Taylor Herren #podcast #farming #regenerativeagriculture #commoditymarket

Taylor Herren is a beach-loving Californian who traded Santa Barbara for Cotton Plant, Arkansas, to pursue her dream of becoming a farmer and agricultural entrepreneur. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Hear from another entrepreneur, Taylor Henry sharing his farming story: https://youtu.be/rt2V_YnBfsI Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ *** *** More about Taylor Herren: After 15 years working in regenerative agriculture—including roles with Green America, Kiss the Ground and Chico State —Taylor made the leap into farming last year. Her first crop year in 2025 marks a significant milestone as one of the few women entering large-scale row crop agriculture, farming 400 acres of corn, soybeans, and rice with a USDA crop loan while building a pasture livestock operation starting with 600 birds. The transition from one of California's most beautiful coastal cities to the hot, swampy Mississippi Delta has been challenging but transformative, connecting her to both the land and her farming partner Adam Chappell. Taylor's mission goes beyond building a successful agricultural business—she's driven by those meaningful moments in nature where life abounds in the plants, birds, bugs, and the passionate farmers who tend the land. Currently at Soil & Climate Initiative, she leads the farm transition program and regenerative crop market development work, including the Delta Regen Rice project. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. Her ultimate goal: to become a successful "chicken baroness" while proving that regenerative agriculture can create profitable, resilient farming operations. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-herren-590196107/ FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/taylor.herren.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlsfarmhard/

259 | The Power of Language and Leadership in Dairy Farming with Elsie Gonzalez-Leach cover art

259 | The Power of Language and Leadership in Dairy Farming with Elsie Gonzalez-Leach

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen engages with Elsie Gonzalez-Leach of Motiva Consulting to discuss her inspiring journey from Puerto Rico to the United States. Elsie shares how her experiences have fueled her mission to support Spanish-speaking dairy farm employees through leadership development and tailored Dairy English language courses. With a focus on personal growth, leadership training, and communication, Elsie’s programs have helped numerous farm workers progress in their careers and contribute positively to their farms and communities. The episode delves into her motivations, challenges, and the impact she aims to achieve, making it a must-listen for those interested in elevating their dairy farming operations and cultivating a motivated workforce. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview 00:40 Elsie's Journey to the US 03:41 Starting Motiva Consulting 12:26 Leadership and Personal Development 23:37 Mentors and Inspirations 34:35 The Impact of Danielle's Leadership 38:21 Elsie's Leadership Program Explained 41:26 Personal Development and Overcoming Challenges 48:58 The Launch of Dairy English Academy 58:59 Future Goals and Reflections 01:02:23 Elsie's Journey and Lessons Learned 01:13:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Learn more about the Dairy English Academy here: https://www.motivadairy.com/dairy-english-academy Contact Elsie González-Leach Motiva Consulting Cell: 262.388.9096 Email: elsie.gonzalez@motiva.consulting Visit Motiva Consulting on Facebook! This Episode is Brought to you by Adisseo This episode is sponsored by Uplevel Dairy Podcast Founding Partner Adisseo, a global leader in nutritional solutions and premier provider of rumen-protected methionine for dairy producers who want to optimize milk production, capture more value from components, and maintain the health of their high-performing herds. Learn more at https://www.adisseo.com/en/

AgEmerge Podcast 170 with Taylor Herren cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 170 with Taylor Herren

Taylor Herren is a beach-loving Californian who traded Santa Barbara for Cotton Plant, Arkansas, to pursue her dream of becoming a farmer and agricultural entrepreneur. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Hear from another entrepreneur, Taylor Henry sharing his farming story: https://youtu.be/rt2V_YnBfsI Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ *** *** More about Taylor Herren: After 15 years working in regenerative agriculture—including roles with Green America, Kiss the Ground and Chico State —Taylor made the leap into farming last year. Her first crop year in 2025 marks a significant milestone as one of the few women entering large-scale row crop agriculture, farming 400 acres of corn, soybeans, and rice with a USDA crop loan while building a pasture livestock operation starting with 600 birds. The transition from one of California's most beautiful coastal cities to the hot, swampy Mississippi Delta has been challenging but transformative, connecting her to both the land and her farming partner Adam Chappell. Taylor's mission goes beyond building a successful agricultural business—she's driven by those meaningful moments in nature where life abounds in the plants, birds, bugs, and the passionate farmers who tend the land. Currently at Soil & Climate Initiative, she leads the farm transition program and regenerative crop market development work, including the Delta Regen Rice project. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. Her ultimate goal: to become a successful "chicken baroness" while proving that regenerative agriculture can create profitable, resilient farming operations. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-herren-590196107/ FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/taylor.herren.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlsfarmhard/

258 | World Dairy Expo’s Dairy Producers of the Year: McCarty Family Farms cover art

258 | World Dairy Expo’s Dairy Producers of the Year: McCarty Family Farms

This collaboration episode between Uplevel Dairy and World Dairy Expo features the McCarty Brothers—Mike, David, Ken, and Clay—as they discuss their family's legacy and milestones that led to being named World Dairy Expo's Dairy Producers of the Year. They reflect on their family's history from northeastern Pennsylvania to their significant growth in Kansas, their partnerships with large companies like Danone, and their commitment to sustainability and innovation in dairy farming. They share insights into working as a family, their passion for sustainable practices, and their excitement for the future. The episode also offers advice to aspiring young farmers, underscoring the importance of hard work, taking risks, and maintaining a forward-thinking vision. The McCarty family's story is one of resilience, innovation, and community impact. Be sure to start planning your trip to World Dairy Expo, September 30th through October 3rd. Get your passes now worlddairyexpo.com.  This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Dairy Show and World Dairy Expo.  00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:37 The McCarty Family History 03:36 The Move to Kansas 07:59 Partnerships and Growth 11:47 Sustainability Efforts 18:38 Community Outreach and Learning Centers 23:54 Technological Advancements and Cow Comfort 28:27 Reflections on the Recognition Award 53:26 Advice for the Next Generation 57:48 Final Thoughts and Future Vision

Beef cow slaughter is down 17% from 2024 | Weekly Livestock Market Update cover art

Beef cow slaughter is down 17% from 2024 | Weekly Livestock Market Update

Market highlights -Markets opened the week processing last Friday’s cattle-on-feed report and the news of a human case of New World Screwworm in the US. -The 5-market average fed steer price was essentially unchanged at $243.58 per cwt in today’s report. -October live cattle futures gained roughly $2 per cwt this week, settling Friday at $239.80. -Choice boxed beef price was up almost $9 compared to last week, coming in today at $415.41. -September feeder cattle futures gained almost another $3 per cwt on the week, closing today at $365.48. -The national base hog carcass price was down about $1 this week at $100.80 per cwt. -Pork cutout values were up by more than $3 this week at $116.68 per cwt. -October lean hog futures gained almost $4 per cwt this week, closing at $95 today. Weekly Slaughter: -Cattle slaughter for the week is projected at 565,000 head, which is about 3% higher than last week. Year-to-date, cattle slaughter is running 6.9% below last year. -Hog slaughter was down about 1% from last week, estimated at 2.391 million head. Year-to-date, hog slaughter is down 2.4% from last year. Beef Cow Slaughter Trends -Beef cow slaughter continues to run 17% below 2024 levels. The industry is on track to harvest almost 500,000 fewer beef cows than last year. -This continues to suggest a slightly smaller cowherd is likely going into 2026. USDA Quarterly Trade Outlook - August: -Beef and veal export forecasts for this fiscal year (Oct 2024 to September 2025) were largely unchanged from May (slight value decrease). But value is expected to drop by roughly 7% for the 2026 fiscal year. -Similar to beef, pork export value estimates were lowered slightly for the current fiscal year. Export volumes are expected to be steady for the upcoming fiscal year for pork. -Beef and veal import forecasts were raised for the current FY from May, but projected to decrease by a bit in the upcoming fiscal year. -Imports are much less significant for pork, but value estimates were raised slightly for the current fiscal year. Projections for the 2026 fiscal year were essentially the same as 2025. -Not surprisingly, live cattle imports are forecast to be lower in the 2026 fiscal year. Learn more about what's happening in the agriculture markets here: https://brownfieldagnews.com/markets/ Find more agriculture news here: https://brownfieldagnews.com/ Connect with Brownfield Ag News: » Get the latest ag news: https://www.brownfieldagnews.com/ » Subscribe to Brownfield on YouTube: @BrownfieldAgNews » Follow Brownfield on X (Twitter): https://x.com/brownfield » Follow Brownfield on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrownfieldAgNews Subscribe and listen to Brownfield Ag News: ➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/dz/podcast/brownfield-ag-news/id1436508505 ➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4qoIHY9EYUV9sf5DXhBKHN?si=a4483aaa1afd445e Brownfield Ag News creates and delivers original content across multiple media platforms. Brownfield is the largest and one of the oldest agricultural news networks in the country carrying agricultural news, markets, weather, commentary and feature content.

AgEmerge Podcast 169 with Waldo Moraga and ECO2MIX #CO2 #podcast #water #sustainability #farming cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 169 with Waldo Moraga and ECO2MIX #CO2 #podcast #water #sustainability #farming

Waldo Moraga, founder of ECO2MIX, talks with Monte about the huge strides carbonic acid has taken in farming, and even the golf industry as sustainable water pH control. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Watch another outstanding educator, Dr. Dwayne Beck, here: https://youtu.be/1JlTPcoKB0M Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ Got questions you want answered? Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers. Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? Send your questions or suggestions to contactus@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you. *** Show notes and Links *** Learn how carbonic acid is a safer alternative to sulfuric acid, and plays a significant role in soil health by breaking down minerals in the soil and releasing essential nutrients plants need to grow. Carbonic acid also improves soil structure by promoting the formation of soil aggregates, which enhances water retention and infiltration, ultimately supporting healthy plant growth. Join Monte and Waldo as they uncover the science behind this innovative solution and its promising future. Waldo Moraga: Waldo earned his B.S. of Agriculture and has a passion for water related topics, from conservation to treatment. More than 30 years in irrigation, fertigation, and water pH control in Chile, Peru, Mexico and since 2016 fully committed to change the paradigm on how farmers deal with water pH in the Central Valley of California and the US. ECO2MIX: https://www.eco2mix.com We decided to find a better solution, specifically designed for agriculture, to reduce pH in irrigation water with a more sustainable process. That’s when we designed a system that uses carbonic acid to acidify water, mimicking nature. CO2 is not new to the world of agriculture. There’s plenty of research and publications about its biological and soil benefits and yields improvements. With this in mind, we decided to design a highly efficient system using this natural compound. Our mission is to provide a sustainable solution for water pH control, using an eco-friendly technology that helps the plant and soil biology by replacing the use of toxic and dangerous mineral acids with innocuous carbonic acid (CO2 + water). We are the only carbon pH control designed with the grower’s problem in mind.

256 | Leading Through Legacy: Jim Mulhern on Shaping the Future of Dairy cover art

256 | Leading Through Legacy: Jim Mulhern on Shaping the Future of Dairy

This collaboration episode between Uplevel Dairy and World Dairy Expo features Jim Mulhern, a seasoned dairy policy expert, who shares his journey from growing up in small town Wisconsin to leading the National Milk Producers Federation. Jim talks about his early exposure to politics and policy in seventh grade, which led to his interest in agricultural policy during his college years. He also discusses his career trajectory, significant industry challenges, such as workforce and trade policy, and the major changes in the dairy sector over the last four decades. Jim reflects on the importance of staying connected to the people he serves, the value of meaningful work, and his philosophy of balancing change with core values. As he receives the World Dairy Expo's Industry Person of the Year award, Jim fondly remembers the people who've impacted his career and offers advice for young professionals in the dairy industry. Be sure to start planning your trip to World Dairy Expo, September 30th through October 3rd. Get your passes now worlddairyexpo.com. This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Dairy Show and World Dairy Expo. 00:00 Introduction to Jim's Journey in Dairy 00:57 Early Influences and Education 02:30 First Steps in Dairy Policy 03:43 Internship and Early Career Challenges 05:29 Balancing Supply and Demand in Dairy 07:23 Realizing the Impact of Policy Work 10:04 Career Growth and National Milk Producers Federation 18:40 Changes and Challenges in the Dairy Industry 28:09 Future Challenges for Dairy Producers 34:27 The Importance of Middle Ground in Politics 38:22 Engaging in Industry Organizations 41:09 Advice for Young Professionals 43:41 Receiving the World Dairy Expo Honor 45:54 Reflecting on a Career in Dairy 49:17 Personal Reflections and Future Plans 01:01:40 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

Placements drop 6% in Cattle on Feed report | Weekly Livestock Market Update for August 22, 2025 cover art

Placements drop 6% in Cattle on Feed report | Weekly Livestock Market Update for August 22, 2025

Market highlights: Live cattle prices closed $241.95/cwt, which is down 6 cents from last week. October live cattle prices ($237.87) were up $7.22 compared to a week ago, and September feeder cattle future prices ($362.67) finished down $15.32 compared to last week. Choice box beef was at $ 406.61 end of this week, which is up $15.22 from last week. Select box beef was at $ 381.46 end of this week, which is up $15.29 from last week. National Base Hog Carcass was $102.20, which is down 3% from last week. Nearby lean hog futures close at $ 91.2,0 which is up $1.10 from a week ago. Weekly Slaughter: Cattle slaughter for the week is at 547,000, up 17,000 head compared to last week and down approximately 61,984 compared to the previous year. Year-to-date cattle slaughter is down 6.9% Hog slaughter for the week is at 2.41 million head, up 11,000 compared to last week and down about 88,400 compared to a year ago. Year-to-date hog slaughter is down 2.4% Livestock Slaughter: Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 4.36 billion pounds in July, down 4 percent from the 4.55 billion pounds produced in July 2024. Beef production, at 2.18 billion pounds, was 4 percent below the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.54 million head, down 7 percent from July 2024. The average live weight was up 30 pounds from the previous year, at 1,410 pounds. Pork production totaled 2.16 billion pounds, down 4 percent from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 10.3 million head, down 4 percent from July 2024. The average live weight was down 1 pound from the previous year, at 282 pounds Cattle on Feed: United States Cattle on Feed Down 2 Percent with 10.9 million head on August 1, 2025. The inventory was 2 percent below August 1, 2024. Placements in feedlots during July totaled 1.60 million head, 6 percent below 2024. Net placements were 1.55 million head. Marketings of fed cattle during July totaled 1.75 million head, 6 percent below 2024. Next week’s reports: Outlook for U.S. Trade Learn more about what's happening in the agriculture markets here: https://brownfieldagnews.com/markets/ Find more agriculture news here: https://brownfieldagnews.com/ Connect with Brownfield Ag News: » Get the latest ag news: https://www.brownfieldagnews.com/ » Subscribe to Brownfield on YouTube: @BrownfieldAgNews » Follow Brownfield on X (Twitter): https://x.com/brownfield » Follow Brownfield on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrownfieldAgNews Subscribe and listen to Brownfield Ag News: ➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/dz/podcast/brownfield-ag-news/id1436508505 ➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4qoIHY9EYUV9sf5DXhBKHN?si=a4483aaa1afd445e Brownfield Ag News creates and delivers original content across multiple media platforms. Brownfield is the largest and one of the oldest agricultural news networks in the country carrying agricultural news, markets, weather, commentary and feature content.

254 | Record Corn Crops, Cattle Market Updates & Commodity Trends: August Market Update cover art

254 | Record Corn Crops, Cattle Market Updates & Commodity Trends: August Market Update

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen and Curtis Bosma from HighGround Dairy provide an extensive market update for August 2025. The discussion covers key areas such as the continual year-over-year growth in US milk production, including a 3.3% increase reported in June, which is attributed to genetic improvements and enhanced cow comfort. The podcast also highlights a record-breaking corn crop forecast, favorable for dairy producers in terms of feed costs. Additionally, the episode explores the state of cattle markets, emphasizing the impacts of past droughts and current efforts to rebuild herds. Further insights are provided into dairy commodity markets, particularly cheese and butter, with projections on future pricing and supply-demand balances. The episode wraps up with strategic advice for dairy producers on planning and managing margins for a profitable future. Grab your market report here: https://marketing.highgrounddairy.com/august-2025-producer-market-update 00:00 Introduction and Market Overview 00:41 US Milk Production Insights 03:39 Corn Crop and Feed Costs 05:19 Soybean Market and Trade Negotiations 11:13 Cattle Market Trends 14:30 Dairy Commodity Market Analysis 21:35 Forecast and Strategic Planning for Dairy Producers 24:49 Conclusion and Call to Action This episode is brought to you by: HighGround Dairy provides global dairy market intelligence, insurance services, futures & options brokerage, and advisory programs to a diverse range of dairy market participants throughout the supply chain. Information shared in this podcast is for educational purposes and is not a solicitation to buy or sell commodities. Opinions expressed are current opinions as of August, at 1 p.m. CST and only represent the views of the speaker and not those of HighGround Trading, unless otherwise expressly noted.

AgEmerge Podcast 169 with Waldo Moraga and ECO2MIX #CO2 #podcast #water #sustainability #farming cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 169 with Waldo Moraga and ECO2MIX #CO2 #podcast #water #sustainability #farming

Waldo Moraga, founder of ECO2MIX, talks with Monte about the huge strides carbonic acid has taken in farming, and even the golf industry as sustainable water pH control. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Watch another outstanding educator, Dr. Dwayne Beck, here: https://youtu.be/1JlTPcoKB0M Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ Got questions you want answered? Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers. Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? Send your questions or suggestions to contactus@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you. *** Show notes and Links *** Learn how carbonic acid is a safer alternative to sulfuric acid, and plays a significant role in soil health by breaking down minerals in the soil and releasing essential nutrients plants need to grow. Carbonic acid also improves soil structure by promoting the formation of soil aggregates, which enhances water retention and infiltration, ultimately supporting healthy plant growth. Join Monte and Waldo as they uncover the science behind this innovative solution and its promising future. Waldo Moraga: Waldo earned his B.S. of Agriculture and has a passion for water related topics, from conservation to treatment. More than 30 years in irrigation, fertigation, and water pH control in Chile, Peru, Mexico and since 2016 fully committed to change the paradigm on how farmers deal with water pH in the Central Valley of California and the US. ECO2MIX: https://www.eco2mix.com We decided to find a better solution, specifically designed for agriculture, to reduce pH in irrigation water with a more sustainable process. That’s when we designed a system that uses carbonic acid to acidify water, mimicking nature. CO2 is not new to the world of agriculture. There’s plenty of research and publications about its biological and soil benefits and yields improvements. With this in mind, we decided to design a highly efficient system using this natural compound. Our mission is to provide a sustainable solution for water pH control, using an eco-friendly technology that helps the plant and soil biology by replacing the use of toxic and dangerous mineral acids with innocuous carbonic acid (CO2 + water). We are the only carbon pH control designed with the grower’s problem in mind.

Live steer prices up more than $53 from a year ago | Weekly Livestock Market Update cover art

Live steer prices up more than $53 from a year ago | Weekly Livestock Market Update

In this episode, Meghan Grebner and Josh Maples discuss the latest trends in the livestock market, focusing on cattle prices, beef production, and slaughter numbers. They analyze the impact of corn yields on feed costs and the implications of cattle imports on future price forecasts. They talk about the importance of risk management strategies for producers as they navigate the current market dynamics and prepare for the future. Takeaways: » Cattle prices have shown significant increases compared to last year. » The beef market is experiencing strong values due to lower production. » Weekly cattle slaughter numbers are at their lowest non-holiday levels this year. » Corn yield revisions indicate a positive outlook for feed costs. » USDA forecasts suggest optimistic prices for cattle in 2026. » Cattle imports from Mexico have significantly decreased this year. » Producers are encouraged to adopt risk management strategies. » The livestock market is currently favorable for producers, but caution is advised. » Producers should not overlook the benefits of risk management tools Learn more about what's happening in the agriculture markets here: https://brownfieldagnews.com/markets/ Find more agriculture news here: https://brownfieldagnews.com/ Connect with Brownfield Ag News: » Get the latest ag news: https://www.brownfieldagnews.com/ » Subscribe to Brownfield on YouTube: @BrownfieldAgNews » Follow Brownfield on X (Twitter): https://x.com/brownfield » Follow Brownfield on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrownfieldAgNews Subscribe and listen to Brownfield Ag News: ➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/dz/podcast/brownfield-ag-news/id1436508505 ➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4qoIHY9EYUV9sf5DXhBKHN?si=a4483aaa1afd445e Brownfield Ag News creates and delivers original content across multiple media platforms. Brownfield is the largest and one of the oldest agricultural news networks in the country carrying agricultural news, markets, weather, commentary and feature content.

AgEmerge Podcast 168 with Black Hawk College #podcast #farming #education cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 168 with Black Hawk College #podcast #farming #education

No matter the generation, it's a pretty common complaint about the next set of kids who arrive onto the scene. Farming and higher education are no different. Or are they? Meet Drew Cotton and Andrew Larson. Mr. Larson is fresh into the retirement scene but together, the two men served as professors at Black Hawk College in Galva, Illinois. They've seen it all. And they confidently say, we're all in good hands. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Watch another outstanding educator, Dr. Dwayne Beck, here: https://youtu.be/1JlTPcoKB0M Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ Got questions you want answered? Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers. Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? Send your questions or suggestions to contactus@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you. *** Show notes and Links *** Monte Bottens hosts interns and classes from Black Hawk multiple times throughout the year. The three guys talk all about the unique learning approach Black Hawk provides and the depth of experience students have under their belts by graduation. Drew Cotton is the Co-Department Chair for the Agriculture Department at Black Hawk College. He focuses on agribusiness education. Prior to Black Hawk, Mr. Cotton studied Animal Sciences at the University of Florida and completed undergrad at Kansas State University. Mr. Cotton leads the Agribusiness Club and coaches the Agricultural Business and Horse Judging teams. With his peers and students, Mr. Cotton has coached and guided wins with the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) Judging Conference Sweepstakes Awards. Andrew Larson: We thank Mr. Larson for his military service, prior to becoming an instructor. He recently retired after teaching at Black Hawk College for 27 years. He earned a Master's of Science in Nutrient Management and Crop Production from the University of Illinois in 1998 after completing his undergrad from the Illinois State University in Environmental Sciences and Protection in 1994. While at Black Hawk, Mr. Larson served as a full-time instructor in the agriculture department of Black Hawk College. He taught production, marketing and management of agriculture curriculums. He's secured places of employment for over 500 graduates in the agriculture industry. And provided leadership to place and supervise over 100 internships. Mr. Larson managed a 25-acre college agronomy lab, coached college soil and crop judging teams, and also served as Advisor for the Trap Shooting Club. He was the lead Investigator for Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity grant that supported a four-acre sustainable agriculture research plot and conducted numerous field trials annually in the agronomy lab. He designed subsurface drainage system in the agronomy lab to implement nutrient management study; facilitated installation of a bio-reactor.

252 | Capitalizing on Cashflow Opportunities cover art

252 | Capitalizing on Cashflow Opportunities

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, hosted by Peggy Coffeen, financial expert Steve Schwoerer from Compeer Financial shares nearly four decades of lending experience to provide insights on maximizing returns from beef on dairy cattle and strategic long-term herd planning. Discussions include short-term strategies to take advantage of high beef prices, the long-term outlook for dairy operations, and key considerations such as labor, facilities, and manure management. The conversation also broaches risk management and the potential for leveraging lower commodity prices. Steve offers practical advice for both immediate income opportunities and sustainable operational growth in the dairy industry. About Compeer Financial Compeer 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 . 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:21 Guest Introduction: Steve Schwoerer 01:25 Historical Perspective on Dairy Lending 02:14 Economic Shifts in Dairy and Beef Markets 06:26 Strategic Approaches to Beef on Dairy 07:23 Short-Term vs Long-Term Planning 09:28 Risk Management Strategies 12:44 Operational Costs and Considerations 15:31 Long-Term Dairy Operation Planning 18:54 Market Speculations and Future Outlook 23:13 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts 30:03 Conclusion and Farewell

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263 | Dairy Leadership: Managing Growth and Generational Success on the Dairy cover art

263 | Dairy Leadership: Managing Growth and Generational Success on the Dairy

In the final installment of the Country Aire Farms series, brothers Craig and Nick Gerrits reflect on stepping into leadership roles within their family’s dairy operation. They discuss the challenges of earning respect, building trust with employees, and maintaining a healthy leadership mindset, even during tough times. The episode highlights the importance of confidence, open communication, and continuous learning, as well as the legacy and values passed down through generations. Both brothers share advice they would give their younger selves, emphasizing the need for self-trust, motivation, and a focus on personal well-being to lead effectively. The story of Country Aire Farms is ultimately one of family, tradition, and progressive growth in the dairy industry. This episode is brought to you by DeLaval. DeLaval provides integrated solutions designed to improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. To learn more, visit Delaval.com/en-us/. 00:00 – Introduction & Series Recap 00:59 – Sponsor Message 01:17 – Stepping into Leadership: Nick’s Perspective 03:19 – Handling Challenges & Building Confidence 06:46 – Earning Respect as a Young Leader 07:46 – Balancing Friendship and Management 09:59 – Communication and Team Input 12:15 – Family Legacy and Taking on Responsibility 14:10 – Leadership Mindset & Trust 17:41 – Implementing Team Ideas 20:01 – The Importance of Trust 22:15 – Growth, Confidence, and Advice to Younger Selves 26:26 – Motivation, Momentum, and Progress 28:14 – Managing Stress and Personal Growth 31:35 – Health, Well-being, and Leadership 33:14 – Family Legacy and Farm History 34:56 – Generational Story of Country Air Farms 36:30 – Closing Remarks & Outro

262 | Innovation in Action: How Country Aire Farms Uses Technology to Succeed cover art

262 | Innovation in Action: How Country Aire Farms Uses Technology to Succeed

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, we are back with the third episode of the Country Aire Series, brought to you by Delaval. Today, Peggy Coffeen is back with the Gerrits to explore how technology is transforming modern dairy operations. Cousins Craig and Matt Gerrits share their experiences implementing advanced tools—from automated rotary parlors and precision cow sorting systems to biosolid bedding management and high-tech dashboards—that have improved cow comfort, milk quality, and labor efficiency. The discussion highlights the farm’s transition to biosolids, the challenges and solutions in maintaining milk quality, and the importance of consistent management. On the cropping side, Matt describes how data-driven decision-making and innovations like GPS-guided planting and variable rate technology are optimizing fieldwork and margins. The episode underscores the value of embracing new technology while balancing tradition, teamwork, and a forward-thinking mindset to ensure the farm’s continued success. This episode is brought to you by DeLaval. DeLaval provides integrated solutions designed to improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. To learn more, visit Delaval.com/en-us/. 0:00 — Introduction and episode overview 0:41 — Sponsor message (De Laval) 0:59 — Interview with Craig Gerrits: vision for the dairy, technology in barn design, cow sorting, and rotary parlor 4:28 — Automated milking technology, labor efficiency, and cost management 7:07 — Transition to biosolids bedding, milk quality challenges, and management strategies 10:01 — Data-driven management, dashboards, and performance indicators 13:22 — Cow comfort technologies and barn environment control 14:12 — Employee training and adapting to new technology 17:01 — Transitioning cows to the new rotary, minimizing yield drag 18:41 — Achievements and benchmarks in milk quality and herd management 20:02 — Advice for other dairies in expansion 20:02 — Transition to cropping: Matt Gerrits discusses technology in fieldwork 20:25 — Advances in agronomy technology, GPS, and variable rate planting 21:21 — The impact of time savings and data on field operations 23:42 — Scheduling, team management, and future technology in cropping 24:30 — Thoughts on autonomous tractors and balancing tradition with innovation 26:11 — Future technologies to watch in cropping 27:25 — Closing remarks and outro

261 | Passing the Torch: Next-Generation Dairy Leadership at Country Aire Farms cover art

261 | Passing the Torch: Next-Generation Dairy Leadership at Country Aire Farms

In this next episode of the Uplevel Dairy Country Aire Series, the focus shifts to the next generation at Country Aire Farms, where four cousins—Matt, John, Nick, and Craig—each find their way back to the family dairy after exploring different career paths. Influenced by family values and the encouragement of their grandfather, the cousins embrace the challenges and opportunities of running a modern dairy operation. The conversation delves into their unique roles, from crop management and finance to equipment and employee relations, highlighting how their diverse skills contribute to the farm’s success. The cousins share candid reflections on the difficulties of stepping into leadership at a young age, earning respect from employees, and balancing family dynamics with business responsibilities. Mentorship from the older generation, a strong workplace culture, and a commitment to sustainability and community involvement emerge as central themes. As they navigate the complexities of a family-run business, the cousins emphasize the importance of trust, communication, and adaptability. The episode concludes with a sense of gratitude for the foundation laid by previous generations and a shared commitment to carrying the family legacy forward, blending tradition with innovation at Country Aire Farms. This episode is brought to you by DeLaval. DeLaval provides integrated solutions designed to improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. To learn more, visit Delaval.com/en-us/. 0:00 — Introduction: Four cousins return to the family dairy 0:55 — Sponsor message and Nick’s early career thoughts 1:22 — John’s early passion for dairy 1:45 — Matt’s career change to farming 2:59 — Family as the central hub 4:12 — Craig’s appreciation for the dairy industry 5:57 — Managerial roles and hands-on training 6:43 — Discovering individual interests and roles 8:42 — Division of roles among the cousins 9:35 — Handling unplanned situations and challenges 10:08 — Earning respect as young managers 13:36 — Importance of cleanliness and employee care 14:27 — Craig’s focus on workplace culture 15:15 — Defining and building a positive culture 18:17 — Culture and employee happiness 18:36 — Leadership mindset and caring for people 19:36 — Family involvement in supporting employees 20:24 — Gratitude for family and support 25:25 — Sustainability initiatives at Country Aire 26:21 — Evolving definition of a family farm 27:41 — Balancing family and business 30:15 — Facing difficult times and future challenges 31:06 — Advice from the older generation 32:34 — Teamwork and learning from hardships 32:53 — Closing reflections and legacy

260 | Building a Legacy: How Country Aire Farms Grew a Generational Dairy in Wisconsin cover art

260 | Building a Legacy: How Country Aire Farms Grew a Generational Dairy in Wisconsin

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen launches a four-part series in partnership with De Laval, spotlighting the multi-generational story of Country Aire Farms in Greenleaf, Wisconsin. Brothers Mike and Tom Gerrits share their journey from growing up on a small 80-cow dairy to leading a thriving, innovative operation. The episode explores how their father, Bud, instilled a strong work ethic and forward-thinking mindset, guiding the family through pivotal decisions—like building the area’s first rotary parlor in 1998—that set the stage for major growth. Mike and Tom discuss the division of responsibilities (cows vs. crops), the importance of embracing new technology, and the challenges and rewards of bringing the next generation into the business. Listeners hear about the transition of leadership, the value of learning from mistakes, and the family’s commitment to core values, community, and continuous improvement. The episode closes with reflections on legacy, pride in the next generation, and optimism for the future of Country Aire Farms. This episode is brought to you by DeLaval. DeLaval provides integrated solutions designed to improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. To learn more, visit Delaval.com/en-us/. 0:00 — Introduction & Series Overview 1:02 — Meet the Gerrits Brothers 2:08 — Sponsor Message 3:22 — Early Days on the Farm 6:09 — Division of Labor (Cows vs. Crops) 8:59 — Transition to Ownership 11:29 — Growth & Building the Rotary Parlor 14:24 — Embracing Technology 18:44 — Next Generation Joins the Farm 24:16 — Lessons in Leadership 27:53 — Family Legacy & Values 34:52 — Looking to the Future 39:37 — Closing Thoughts 41:19 — Outro & Sponsor Message

AgEmerge Podcast 170 with Taylor Herren #podcast #farming #regenerativeagriculture #commoditymarket cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 170 with Taylor Herren #podcast #farming #regenerativeagriculture #commoditymarket

Taylor Herren is a beach-loving Californian who traded Santa Barbara for Cotton Plant, Arkansas, to pursue her dream of becoming a farmer and agricultural entrepreneur. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Hear from another entrepreneur, Taylor Henry sharing his farming story: https://youtu.be/rt2V_YnBfsI Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ *** *** More about Taylor Herren: After 15 years working in regenerative agriculture—including roles with Green America, Kiss the Ground and Chico State —Taylor made the leap into farming last year. Her first crop year in 2025 marks a significant milestone as one of the few women entering large-scale row crop agriculture, farming 400 acres of corn, soybeans, and rice with a USDA crop loan while building a pasture livestock operation starting with 600 birds. The transition from one of California's most beautiful coastal cities to the hot, swampy Mississippi Delta has been challenging but transformative, connecting her to both the land and her farming partner Adam Chappell. Taylor's mission goes beyond building a successful agricultural business—she's driven by those meaningful moments in nature where life abounds in the plants, birds, bugs, and the passionate farmers who tend the land. Currently at Soil & Climate Initiative, she leads the farm transition program and regenerative crop market development work, including the Delta Regen Rice project. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. Her ultimate goal: to become a successful "chicken baroness" while proving that regenerative agriculture can create profitable, resilient farming operations. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-herren-590196107/ FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/taylor.herren.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlsfarmhard/

259 | The Power of Language and Leadership in Dairy Farming with Elsie Gonzalez-Leach cover art

259 | The Power of Language and Leadership in Dairy Farming with Elsie Gonzalez-Leach

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen engages with Elsie Gonzalez-Leach of Motiva Consulting to discuss her inspiring journey from Puerto Rico to the United States. Elsie shares how her experiences have fueled her mission to support Spanish-speaking dairy farm employees through leadership development and tailored Dairy English language courses. With a focus on personal growth, leadership training, and communication, Elsie’s programs have helped numerous farm workers progress in their careers and contribute positively to their farms and communities. The episode delves into her motivations, challenges, and the impact she aims to achieve, making it a must-listen for those interested in elevating their dairy farming operations and cultivating a motivated workforce. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview 00:40 Elsie's Journey to the US 03:41 Starting Motiva Consulting 12:26 Leadership and Personal Development 23:37 Mentors and Inspirations 34:35 The Impact of Danielle's Leadership 38:21 Elsie's Leadership Program Explained 41:26 Personal Development and Overcoming Challenges 48:58 The Launch of Dairy English Academy 58:59 Future Goals and Reflections 01:02:23 Elsie's Journey and Lessons Learned 01:13:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Learn more about the Dairy English Academy here: https://www.motivadairy.com/dairy-english-academy Contact Elsie González-Leach Motiva Consulting Cell: 262.388.9096 Email: elsie.gonzalez@motiva.consulting Visit Motiva Consulting on Facebook! This Episode is Brought to you by Adisseo This episode is sponsored by Uplevel Dairy Podcast Founding Partner Adisseo, a global leader in nutritional solutions and premier provider of rumen-protected methionine for dairy producers who want to optimize milk production, capture more value from components, and maintain the health of their high-performing herds. Learn more at https://www.adisseo.com/en/

AgEmerge Podcast 170 with Taylor Herren cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 170 with Taylor Herren

Taylor Herren is a beach-loving Californian who traded Santa Barbara for Cotton Plant, Arkansas, to pursue her dream of becoming a farmer and agricultural entrepreneur. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Hear from another entrepreneur, Taylor Henry sharing his farming story: https://youtu.be/rt2V_YnBfsI Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ *** *** More about Taylor Herren: After 15 years working in regenerative agriculture—including roles with Green America, Kiss the Ground and Chico State —Taylor made the leap into farming last year. Her first crop year in 2025 marks a significant milestone as one of the few women entering large-scale row crop agriculture, farming 400 acres of corn, soybeans, and rice with a USDA crop loan while building a pasture livestock operation starting with 600 birds. The transition from one of California's most beautiful coastal cities to the hot, swampy Mississippi Delta has been challenging but transformative, connecting her to both the land and her farming partner Adam Chappell. Taylor's mission goes beyond building a successful agricultural business—she's driven by those meaningful moments in nature where life abounds in the plants, birds, bugs, and the passionate farmers who tend the land. Currently at Soil & Climate Initiative, she leads the farm transition program and regenerative crop market development work, including the Delta Regen Rice project. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. Her ultimate goal: to become a successful "chicken baroness" while proving that regenerative agriculture can create profitable, resilient farming operations. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-herren-590196107/ FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/taylor.herren.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlsfarmhard/

258 | World Dairy Expo’s Dairy Producers of the Year: McCarty Family Farms cover art

258 | World Dairy Expo’s Dairy Producers of the Year: McCarty Family Farms

This collaboration episode between Uplevel Dairy and World Dairy Expo features the McCarty Brothers—Mike, David, Ken, and Clay—as they discuss their family's legacy and milestones that led to being named World Dairy Expo's Dairy Producers of the Year. They reflect on their family's history from northeastern Pennsylvania to their significant growth in Kansas, their partnerships with large companies like Danone, and their commitment to sustainability and innovation in dairy farming. They share insights into working as a family, their passion for sustainable practices, and their excitement for the future. The episode also offers advice to aspiring young farmers, underscoring the importance of hard work, taking risks, and maintaining a forward-thinking vision. The McCarty family's story is one of resilience, innovation, and community impact. Be sure to start planning your trip to World Dairy Expo, September 30th through October 3rd. Get your passes now worlddairyexpo.com.  This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Dairy Show and World Dairy Expo.  00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:37 The McCarty Family History 03:36 The Move to Kansas 07:59 Partnerships and Growth 11:47 Sustainability Efforts 18:38 Community Outreach and Learning Centers 23:54 Technological Advancements and Cow Comfort 28:27 Reflections on the Recognition Award 53:26 Advice for the Next Generation 57:48 Final Thoughts and Future Vision

AgEmerge Podcast 169 with Waldo Moraga and ECO2MIX #CO2 #podcast #water #sustainability #farming cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 169 with Waldo Moraga and ECO2MIX #CO2 #podcast #water #sustainability #farming

Waldo Moraga, founder of ECO2MIX, talks with Monte about the huge strides carbonic acid has taken in farming, and even the golf industry as sustainable water pH control. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Watch another outstanding educator, Dr. Dwayne Beck, here: https://youtu.be/1JlTPcoKB0M Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ Got questions you want answered? Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers. Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? Send your questions or suggestions to contactus@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you. *** Show notes and Links *** Learn how carbonic acid is a safer alternative to sulfuric acid, and plays a significant role in soil health by breaking down minerals in the soil and releasing essential nutrients plants need to grow. Carbonic acid also improves soil structure by promoting the formation of soil aggregates, which enhances water retention and infiltration, ultimately supporting healthy plant growth. Join Monte and Waldo as they uncover the science behind this innovative solution and its promising future. Waldo Moraga: Waldo earned his B.S. of Agriculture and has a passion for water related topics, from conservation to treatment. More than 30 years in irrigation, fertigation, and water pH control in Chile, Peru, Mexico and since 2016 fully committed to change the paradigm on how farmers deal with water pH in the Central Valley of California and the US. ECO2MIX: https://www.eco2mix.com We decided to find a better solution, specifically designed for agriculture, to reduce pH in irrigation water with a more sustainable process. That’s when we designed a system that uses carbonic acid to acidify water, mimicking nature. CO2 is not new to the world of agriculture. There’s plenty of research and publications about its biological and soil benefits and yields improvements. With this in mind, we decided to design a highly efficient system using this natural compound. Our mission is to provide a sustainable solution for water pH control, using an eco-friendly technology that helps the plant and soil biology by replacing the use of toxic and dangerous mineral acids with innocuous carbonic acid (CO2 + water). We are the only carbon pH control designed with the grower’s problem in mind.

256 | Leading Through Legacy: Jim Mulhern on Shaping the Future of Dairy cover art

256 | Leading Through Legacy: Jim Mulhern on Shaping the Future of Dairy

This collaboration episode between Uplevel Dairy and World Dairy Expo features Jim Mulhern, a seasoned dairy policy expert, who shares his journey from growing up in small town Wisconsin to leading the National Milk Producers Federation. Jim talks about his early exposure to politics and policy in seventh grade, which led to his interest in agricultural policy during his college years. He also discusses his career trajectory, significant industry challenges, such as workforce and trade policy, and the major changes in the dairy sector over the last four decades. Jim reflects on the importance of staying connected to the people he serves, the value of meaningful work, and his philosophy of balancing change with core values. As he receives the World Dairy Expo's Industry Person of the Year award, Jim fondly remembers the people who've impacted his career and offers advice for young professionals in the dairy industry. Be sure to start planning your trip to World Dairy Expo, September 30th through October 3rd. Get your passes now worlddairyexpo.com. This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Dairy Show and World Dairy Expo. 00:00 Introduction to Jim's Journey in Dairy 00:57 Early Influences and Education 02:30 First Steps in Dairy Policy 03:43 Internship and Early Career Challenges 05:29 Balancing Supply and Demand in Dairy 07:23 Realizing the Impact of Policy Work 10:04 Career Growth and National Milk Producers Federation 18:40 Changes and Challenges in the Dairy Industry 28:09 Future Challenges for Dairy Producers 34:27 The Importance of Middle Ground in Politics 38:22 Engaging in Industry Organizations 41:09 Advice for Young Professionals 43:41 Receiving the World Dairy Expo Honor 45:54 Reflecting on a Career in Dairy 49:17 Personal Reflections and Future Plans 01:01:40 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

254 | Record Corn Crops, Cattle Market Updates & Commodity Trends: August Market Update cover art

254 | Record Corn Crops, Cattle Market Updates & Commodity Trends: August Market Update

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen and Curtis Bosma from HighGround Dairy provide an extensive market update for August 2025. The discussion covers key areas such as the continual year-over-year growth in US milk production, including a 3.3% increase reported in June, which is attributed to genetic improvements and enhanced cow comfort. The podcast also highlights a record-breaking corn crop forecast, favorable for dairy producers in terms of feed costs. Additionally, the episode explores the state of cattle markets, emphasizing the impacts of past droughts and current efforts to rebuild herds. Further insights are provided into dairy commodity markets, particularly cheese and butter, with projections on future pricing and supply-demand balances. The episode wraps up with strategic advice for dairy producers on planning and managing margins for a profitable future. Grab your market report here: https://marketing.highgrounddairy.com/august-2025-producer-market-update 00:00 Introduction and Market Overview 00:41 US Milk Production Insights 03:39 Corn Crop and Feed Costs 05:19 Soybean Market and Trade Negotiations 11:13 Cattle Market Trends 14:30 Dairy Commodity Market Analysis 21:35 Forecast and Strategic Planning for Dairy Producers 24:49 Conclusion and Call to Action This episode is brought to you by: HighGround Dairy provides global dairy market intelligence, insurance services, futures & options brokerage, and advisory programs to a diverse range of dairy market participants throughout the supply chain. Information shared in this podcast is for educational purposes and is not a solicitation to buy or sell commodities. Opinions expressed are current opinions as of August, at 1 p.m. CST and only represent the views of the speaker and not those of HighGround Trading, unless otherwise expressly noted.

AgEmerge Podcast 169 with Waldo Moraga and ECO2MIX #CO2 #podcast #water #sustainability #farming cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 169 with Waldo Moraga and ECO2MIX #CO2 #podcast #water #sustainability #farming

Waldo Moraga, founder of ECO2MIX, talks with Monte about the huge strides carbonic acid has taken in farming, and even the golf industry as sustainable water pH control. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Watch another outstanding educator, Dr. Dwayne Beck, here: https://youtu.be/1JlTPcoKB0M Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ Got questions you want answered? Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers. Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? Send your questions or suggestions to contactus@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you. *** Show notes and Links *** Learn how carbonic acid is a safer alternative to sulfuric acid, and plays a significant role in soil health by breaking down minerals in the soil and releasing essential nutrients plants need to grow. Carbonic acid also improves soil structure by promoting the formation of soil aggregates, which enhances water retention and infiltration, ultimately supporting healthy plant growth. Join Monte and Waldo as they uncover the science behind this innovative solution and its promising future. Waldo Moraga: Waldo earned his B.S. of Agriculture and has a passion for water related topics, from conservation to treatment. More than 30 years in irrigation, fertigation, and water pH control in Chile, Peru, Mexico and since 2016 fully committed to change the paradigm on how farmers deal with water pH in the Central Valley of California and the US. ECO2MIX: https://www.eco2mix.com We decided to find a better solution, specifically designed for agriculture, to reduce pH in irrigation water with a more sustainable process. That’s when we designed a system that uses carbonic acid to acidify water, mimicking nature. CO2 is not new to the world of agriculture. There’s plenty of research and publications about its biological and soil benefits and yields improvements. With this in mind, we decided to design a highly efficient system using this natural compound. Our mission is to provide a sustainable solution for water pH control, using an eco-friendly technology that helps the plant and soil biology by replacing the use of toxic and dangerous mineral acids with innocuous carbonic acid (CO2 + water). We are the only carbon pH control designed with the grower’s problem in mind.

AgEmerge Podcast 168 with Black Hawk College #podcast #farming #education cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 168 with Black Hawk College #podcast #farming #education

No matter the generation, it's a pretty common complaint about the next set of kids who arrive onto the scene. Farming and higher education are no different. Or are they? Meet Drew Cotton and Andrew Larson. Mr. Larson is fresh into the retirement scene but together, the two men served as professors at Black Hawk College in Galva, Illinois. They've seen it all. And they confidently say, we're all in good hands. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Watch another outstanding educator, Dr. Dwayne Beck, here: https://youtu.be/1JlTPcoKB0M Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ Got questions you want answered? Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers. Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? Send your questions or suggestions to contactus@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you. *** Show notes and Links *** Monte Bottens hosts interns and classes from Black Hawk multiple times throughout the year. The three guys talk all about the unique learning approach Black Hawk provides and the depth of experience students have under their belts by graduation. Drew Cotton is the Co-Department Chair for the Agriculture Department at Black Hawk College. He focuses on agribusiness education. Prior to Black Hawk, Mr. Cotton studied Animal Sciences at the University of Florida and completed undergrad at Kansas State University. Mr. Cotton leads the Agribusiness Club and coaches the Agricultural Business and Horse Judging teams. With his peers and students, Mr. Cotton has coached and guided wins with the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) Judging Conference Sweepstakes Awards. Andrew Larson: We thank Mr. Larson for his military service, prior to becoming an instructor. He recently retired after teaching at Black Hawk College for 27 years. He earned a Master's of Science in Nutrient Management and Crop Production from the University of Illinois in 1998 after completing his undergrad from the Illinois State University in Environmental Sciences and Protection in 1994. While at Black Hawk, Mr. Larson served as a full-time instructor in the agriculture department of Black Hawk College. He taught production, marketing and management of agriculture curriculums. He's secured places of employment for over 500 graduates in the agriculture industry. And provided leadership to place and supervise over 100 internships. Mr. Larson managed a 25-acre college agronomy lab, coached college soil and crop judging teams, and also served as Advisor for the Trap Shooting Club. He was the lead Investigator for Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity grant that supported a four-acre sustainable agriculture research plot and conducted numerous field trials annually in the agronomy lab. He designed subsurface drainage system in the agronomy lab to implement nutrient management study; facilitated installation of a bio-reactor.

252 | Capitalizing on Cashflow Opportunities cover art

252 | Capitalizing on Cashflow Opportunities

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, hosted by Peggy Coffeen, financial expert Steve Schwoerer from Compeer Financial shares nearly four decades of lending experience to provide insights on maximizing returns from beef on dairy cattle and strategic long-term herd planning. Discussions include short-term strategies to take advantage of high beef prices, the long-term outlook for dairy operations, and key considerations such as labor, facilities, and manure management. The conversation also broaches risk management and the potential for leveraging lower commodity prices. Steve offers practical advice for both immediate income opportunities and sustainable operational growth in the dairy industry. About Compeer Financial Compeer 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 . 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:21 Guest Introduction: Steve Schwoerer 01:25 Historical Perspective on Dairy Lending 02:14 Economic Shifts in Dairy and Beef Markets 06:26 Strategic Approaches to Beef on Dairy 07:23 Short-Term vs Long-Term Planning 09:28 Risk Management Strategies 12:44 Operational Costs and Considerations 15:31 Long-Term Dairy Operation Planning 18:54 Market Speculations and Future Outlook 23:13 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts 30:03 Conclusion and Farewell

Crop Production

Channels

Videos

AgEmerge Podcast 170 with Taylor Herren #podcast #farming #regenerativeagriculture #commoditymarket cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 170 with Taylor Herren #podcast #farming #regenerativeagriculture #commoditymarket

Taylor Herren is a beach-loving Californian who traded Santa Barbara for Cotton Plant, Arkansas, to pursue her dream of becoming a farmer and agricultural entrepreneur. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Hear from another entrepreneur, Taylor Henry sharing his farming story: https://youtu.be/rt2V_YnBfsI Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ *** *** More about Taylor Herren: After 15 years working in regenerative agriculture—including roles with Green America, Kiss the Ground and Chico State —Taylor made the leap into farming last year. Her first crop year in 2025 marks a significant milestone as one of the few women entering large-scale row crop agriculture, farming 400 acres of corn, soybeans, and rice with a USDA crop loan while building a pasture livestock operation starting with 600 birds. The transition from one of California's most beautiful coastal cities to the hot, swampy Mississippi Delta has been challenging but transformative, connecting her to both the land and her farming partner Adam Chappell. Taylor's mission goes beyond building a successful agricultural business—she's driven by those meaningful moments in nature where life abounds in the plants, birds, bugs, and the passionate farmers who tend the land. Currently at Soil & Climate Initiative, she leads the farm transition program and regenerative crop market development work, including the Delta Regen Rice project. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. Her ultimate goal: to become a successful "chicken baroness" while proving that regenerative agriculture can create profitable, resilient farming operations. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-herren-590196107/ FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/taylor.herren.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlsfarmhard/

AgEmerge Podcast 170 with Taylor Herren cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 170 with Taylor Herren

Taylor Herren is a beach-loving Californian who traded Santa Barbara for Cotton Plant, Arkansas, to pursue her dream of becoming a farmer and agricultural entrepreneur. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Hear from another entrepreneur, Taylor Henry sharing his farming story: https://youtu.be/rt2V_YnBfsI Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ *** *** More about Taylor Herren: After 15 years working in regenerative agriculture—including roles with Green America, Kiss the Ground and Chico State —Taylor made the leap into farming last year. Her first crop year in 2025 marks a significant milestone as one of the few women entering large-scale row crop agriculture, farming 400 acres of corn, soybeans, and rice with a USDA crop loan while building a pasture livestock operation starting with 600 birds. The transition from one of California's most beautiful coastal cities to the hot, swampy Mississippi Delta has been challenging but transformative, connecting her to both the land and her farming partner Adam Chappell. Taylor's mission goes beyond building a successful agricultural business—she's driven by those meaningful moments in nature where life abounds in the plants, birds, bugs, and the passionate farmers who tend the land. Currently at Soil & Climate Initiative, she leads the farm transition program and regenerative crop market development work, including the Delta Regen Rice project. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. Her ultimate goal: to become a successful "chicken baroness" while proving that regenerative agriculture can create profitable, resilient farming operations. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-herren-590196107/ FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/taylor.herren.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlsfarmhard/

AgEmerge Podcast 169 with Waldo Moraga and ECO2MIX #CO2 #podcast #water #sustainability #farming cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 169 with Waldo Moraga and ECO2MIX #CO2 #podcast #water #sustainability #farming

Waldo Moraga, founder of ECO2MIX, talks with Monte about the huge strides carbonic acid has taken in farming, and even the golf industry as sustainable water pH control. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Watch another outstanding educator, Dr. Dwayne Beck, here: https://youtu.be/1JlTPcoKB0M Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ Got questions you want answered? Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers. Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? Send your questions or suggestions to contactus@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you. *** Show notes and Links *** Learn how carbonic acid is a safer alternative to sulfuric acid, and plays a significant role in soil health by breaking down minerals in the soil and releasing essential nutrients plants need to grow. Carbonic acid also improves soil structure by promoting the formation of soil aggregates, which enhances water retention and infiltration, ultimately supporting healthy plant growth. Join Monte and Waldo as they uncover the science behind this innovative solution and its promising future. Waldo Moraga: Waldo earned his B.S. of Agriculture and has a passion for water related topics, from conservation to treatment. More than 30 years in irrigation, fertigation, and water pH control in Chile, Peru, Mexico and since 2016 fully committed to change the paradigm on how farmers deal with water pH in the Central Valley of California and the US. ECO2MIX: https://www.eco2mix.com We decided to find a better solution, specifically designed for agriculture, to reduce pH in irrigation water with a more sustainable process. That’s when we designed a system that uses carbonic acid to acidify water, mimicking nature. CO2 is not new to the world of agriculture. There’s plenty of research and publications about its biological and soil benefits and yields improvements. With this in mind, we decided to design a highly efficient system using this natural compound. Our mission is to provide a sustainable solution for water pH control, using an eco-friendly technology that helps the plant and soil biology by replacing the use of toxic and dangerous mineral acids with innocuous carbonic acid (CO2 + water). We are the only carbon pH control designed with the grower’s problem in mind.

AgEmerge Podcast 169 with Waldo Moraga and ECO2MIX #CO2 #podcast #water #sustainability #farming cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 169 with Waldo Moraga and ECO2MIX #CO2 #podcast #water #sustainability #farming

Waldo Moraga, founder of ECO2MIX, talks with Monte about the huge strides carbonic acid has taken in farming, and even the golf industry as sustainable water pH control. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Watch another outstanding educator, Dr. Dwayne Beck, here: https://youtu.be/1JlTPcoKB0M Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ Got questions you want answered? Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers. Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? Send your questions or suggestions to contactus@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you. *** Show notes and Links *** Learn how carbonic acid is a safer alternative to sulfuric acid, and plays a significant role in soil health by breaking down minerals in the soil and releasing essential nutrients plants need to grow. Carbonic acid also improves soil structure by promoting the formation of soil aggregates, which enhances water retention and infiltration, ultimately supporting healthy plant growth. Join Monte and Waldo as they uncover the science behind this innovative solution and its promising future. Waldo Moraga: Waldo earned his B.S. of Agriculture and has a passion for water related topics, from conservation to treatment. More than 30 years in irrigation, fertigation, and water pH control in Chile, Peru, Mexico and since 2016 fully committed to change the paradigm on how farmers deal with water pH in the Central Valley of California and the US. ECO2MIX: https://www.eco2mix.com We decided to find a better solution, specifically designed for agriculture, to reduce pH in irrigation water with a more sustainable process. That’s when we designed a system that uses carbonic acid to acidify water, mimicking nature. CO2 is not new to the world of agriculture. There’s plenty of research and publications about its biological and soil benefits and yields improvements. With this in mind, we decided to design a highly efficient system using this natural compound. Our mission is to provide a sustainable solution for water pH control, using an eco-friendly technology that helps the plant and soil biology by replacing the use of toxic and dangerous mineral acids with innocuous carbonic acid (CO2 + water). We are the only carbon pH control designed with the grower’s problem in mind.

AgEmerge Podcast 168 with Black Hawk College #podcast #farming #education cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 168 with Black Hawk College #podcast #farming #education

No matter the generation, it's a pretty common complaint about the next set of kids who arrive onto the scene. Farming and higher education are no different. Or are they? Meet Drew Cotton and Andrew Larson. Mr. Larson is fresh into the retirement scene but together, the two men served as professors at Black Hawk College in Galva, Illinois. They've seen it all. And they confidently say, we're all in good hands. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Watch another outstanding educator, Dr. Dwayne Beck, here: https://youtu.be/1JlTPcoKB0M Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ Got questions you want answered? Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers. Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? Send your questions or suggestions to contactus@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you. *** Show notes and Links *** Monte Bottens hosts interns and classes from Black Hawk multiple times throughout the year. The three guys talk all about the unique learning approach Black Hawk provides and the depth of experience students have under their belts by graduation. Drew Cotton is the Co-Department Chair for the Agriculture Department at Black Hawk College. He focuses on agribusiness education. Prior to Black Hawk, Mr. Cotton studied Animal Sciences at the University of Florida and completed undergrad at Kansas State University. Mr. Cotton leads the Agribusiness Club and coaches the Agricultural Business and Horse Judging teams. With his peers and students, Mr. Cotton has coached and guided wins with the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) Judging Conference Sweepstakes Awards. Andrew Larson: We thank Mr. Larson for his military service, prior to becoming an instructor. He recently retired after teaching at Black Hawk College for 27 years. He earned a Master's of Science in Nutrient Management and Crop Production from the University of Illinois in 1998 after completing his undergrad from the Illinois State University in Environmental Sciences and Protection in 1994. While at Black Hawk, Mr. Larson served as a full-time instructor in the agriculture department of Black Hawk College. He taught production, marketing and management of agriculture curriculums. He's secured places of employment for over 500 graduates in the agriculture industry. And provided leadership to place and supervise over 100 internships. Mr. Larson managed a 25-acre college agronomy lab, coached college soil and crop judging teams, and also served as Advisor for the Trap Shooting Club. He was the lead Investigator for Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity grant that supported a four-acre sustainable agriculture research plot and conducted numerous field trials annually in the agronomy lab. He designed subsurface drainage system in the agronomy lab to implement nutrient management study; facilitated installation of a bio-reactor.

Livestock Production

Channels

Videos

Cattle prices drop again this week | Weekly Livestock Market Update for September 12, 2025 cover art

Cattle prices drop again this week | Weekly Livestock Market Update for September 12, 2025

In this episode, Meghan Grebner and ag economist Charley Martinez discuss the latest trends in the livestock market, focusing on supply and demand dynamics, slaughter numbers, and future projections for beef and pork production. They also discuss the impact of current prices on consumer behavior and market trends, providing insights into the agricultural economy. ➤ Live cattle prices have decreased this week. ➤ Boxed beef prices are still high relative to historical averages. ➤ Cattle slaughter numbers are down year-to-date compared to last year. ➤ Pork retail prices have remained stable despite increased production. ➤ The forecast for red meat production in 2025 has been reduced. ➤ Beef production is expected to be lower due to reduced slaughter rates. ➤ There is a concern about capacity utilization in processing plants. ➤ Demand for beef remains strong despite high prices. ➤ Future projections indicate potential price increases for pork due to reduced supply. ➤ The upcoming cattle on feed report will provide more insights into market dynamics. Learn more about what's happening in the agriculture markets here: https://brownfieldagnews.com/markets/ Find more agriculture news here: https://brownfieldagnews.com/ Connect with Brownfield Ag News: » Get the latest ag news: https://www.brownfieldagnews.com/ » Subscribe to Brownfield on YouTube: @BrownfieldAgNews » Follow Brownfield on X (Twitter): https://x.com/brownfield » Follow Brownfield on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrownfieldAgNews Subscribe and listen to Brownfield Ag News: ➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/dz/podcast/brownfield-ag-news/id1436508505 ➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4qoIHY9EYUV9sf5DXhBKHN?si=a4483aaa1afd445e Brownfield Ag News creates and delivers original content across multiple media platforms. Brownfield is the largest and one of the oldest agricultural news networks in the country carrying agricultural news, markets, weather, commentary and feature content.

263 | Dairy Leadership: Managing Growth and Generational Success on the Dairy cover art

263 | Dairy Leadership: Managing Growth and Generational Success on the Dairy

In the final installment of the Country Aire Farms series, brothers Craig and Nick Gerrits reflect on stepping into leadership roles within their family’s dairy operation. They discuss the challenges of earning respect, building trust with employees, and maintaining a healthy leadership mindset, even during tough times. The episode highlights the importance of confidence, open communication, and continuous learning, as well as the legacy and values passed down through generations. Both brothers share advice they would give their younger selves, emphasizing the need for self-trust, motivation, and a focus on personal well-being to lead effectively. The story of Country Aire Farms is ultimately one of family, tradition, and progressive growth in the dairy industry. This episode is brought to you by DeLaval. DeLaval provides integrated solutions designed to improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. To learn more, visit Delaval.com/en-us/. 00:00 – Introduction & Series Recap 00:59 – Sponsor Message 01:17 – Stepping into Leadership: Nick’s Perspective 03:19 – Handling Challenges & Building Confidence 06:46 – Earning Respect as a Young Leader 07:46 – Balancing Friendship and Management 09:59 – Communication and Team Input 12:15 – Family Legacy and Taking on Responsibility 14:10 – Leadership Mindset & Trust 17:41 – Implementing Team Ideas 20:01 – The Importance of Trust 22:15 – Growth, Confidence, and Advice to Younger Selves 26:26 – Motivation, Momentum, and Progress 28:14 – Managing Stress and Personal Growth 31:35 – Health, Well-being, and Leadership 33:14 – Family Legacy and Farm History 34:56 – Generational Story of Country Air Farms 36:30 – Closing Remarks & Outro

262 | Innovation in Action: How Country Aire Farms Uses Technology to Succeed cover art

262 | Innovation in Action: How Country Aire Farms Uses Technology to Succeed

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, we are back with the third episode of the Country Aire Series, brought to you by Delaval. Today, Peggy Coffeen is back with the Gerrits to explore how technology is transforming modern dairy operations. Cousins Craig and Matt Gerrits share their experiences implementing advanced tools—from automated rotary parlors and precision cow sorting systems to biosolid bedding management and high-tech dashboards—that have improved cow comfort, milk quality, and labor efficiency. The discussion highlights the farm’s transition to biosolids, the challenges and solutions in maintaining milk quality, and the importance of consistent management. On the cropping side, Matt describes how data-driven decision-making and innovations like GPS-guided planting and variable rate technology are optimizing fieldwork and margins. The episode underscores the value of embracing new technology while balancing tradition, teamwork, and a forward-thinking mindset to ensure the farm’s continued success. This episode is brought to you by DeLaval. DeLaval provides integrated solutions designed to improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. To learn more, visit Delaval.com/en-us/. 0:00 — Introduction and episode overview 0:41 — Sponsor message (De Laval) 0:59 — Interview with Craig Gerrits: vision for the dairy, technology in barn design, cow sorting, and rotary parlor 4:28 — Automated milking technology, labor efficiency, and cost management 7:07 — Transition to biosolids bedding, milk quality challenges, and management strategies 10:01 — Data-driven management, dashboards, and performance indicators 13:22 — Cow comfort technologies and barn environment control 14:12 — Employee training and adapting to new technology 17:01 — Transitioning cows to the new rotary, minimizing yield drag 18:41 — Achievements and benchmarks in milk quality and herd management 20:02 — Advice for other dairies in expansion 20:02 — Transition to cropping: Matt Gerrits discusses technology in fieldwork 20:25 — Advances in agronomy technology, GPS, and variable rate planting 21:21 — The impact of time savings and data on field operations 23:42 — Scheduling, team management, and future technology in cropping 24:30 — Thoughts on autonomous tractors and balancing tradition with innovation 26:11 — Future technologies to watch in cropping 27:25 — Closing remarks and outro

261 | Passing the Torch: Next-Generation Dairy Leadership at Country Aire Farms cover art

261 | Passing the Torch: Next-Generation Dairy Leadership at Country Aire Farms

In this next episode of the Uplevel Dairy Country Aire Series, the focus shifts to the next generation at Country Aire Farms, where four cousins—Matt, John, Nick, and Craig—each find their way back to the family dairy after exploring different career paths. Influenced by family values and the encouragement of their grandfather, the cousins embrace the challenges and opportunities of running a modern dairy operation. The conversation delves into their unique roles, from crop management and finance to equipment and employee relations, highlighting how their diverse skills contribute to the farm’s success. The cousins share candid reflections on the difficulties of stepping into leadership at a young age, earning respect from employees, and balancing family dynamics with business responsibilities. Mentorship from the older generation, a strong workplace culture, and a commitment to sustainability and community involvement emerge as central themes. As they navigate the complexities of a family-run business, the cousins emphasize the importance of trust, communication, and adaptability. The episode concludes with a sense of gratitude for the foundation laid by previous generations and a shared commitment to carrying the family legacy forward, blending tradition with innovation at Country Aire Farms. This episode is brought to you by DeLaval. DeLaval provides integrated solutions designed to improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. To learn more, visit Delaval.com/en-us/. 0:00 — Introduction: Four cousins return to the family dairy 0:55 — Sponsor message and Nick’s early career thoughts 1:22 — John’s early passion for dairy 1:45 — Matt’s career change to farming 2:59 — Family as the central hub 4:12 — Craig’s appreciation for the dairy industry 5:57 — Managerial roles and hands-on training 6:43 — Discovering individual interests and roles 8:42 — Division of roles among the cousins 9:35 — Handling unplanned situations and challenges 10:08 — Earning respect as young managers 13:36 — Importance of cleanliness and employee care 14:27 — Craig’s focus on workplace culture 15:15 — Defining and building a positive culture 18:17 — Culture and employee happiness 18:36 — Leadership mindset and caring for people 19:36 — Family involvement in supporting employees 20:24 — Gratitude for family and support 25:25 — Sustainability initiatives at Country Aire 26:21 — Evolving definition of a family farm 27:41 — Balancing family and business 30:15 — Facing difficult times and future challenges 31:06 — Advice from the older generation 32:34 — Teamwork and learning from hardships 32:53 — Closing reflections and legacy

260 | Building a Legacy: How Country Aire Farms Grew a Generational Dairy in Wisconsin cover art

260 | Building a Legacy: How Country Aire Farms Grew a Generational Dairy in Wisconsin

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen launches a four-part series in partnership with De Laval, spotlighting the multi-generational story of Country Aire Farms in Greenleaf, Wisconsin. Brothers Mike and Tom Gerrits share their journey from growing up on a small 80-cow dairy to leading a thriving, innovative operation. The episode explores how their father, Bud, instilled a strong work ethic and forward-thinking mindset, guiding the family through pivotal decisions—like building the area’s first rotary parlor in 1998—that set the stage for major growth. Mike and Tom discuss the division of responsibilities (cows vs. crops), the importance of embracing new technology, and the challenges and rewards of bringing the next generation into the business. Listeners hear about the transition of leadership, the value of learning from mistakes, and the family’s commitment to core values, community, and continuous improvement. The episode closes with reflections on legacy, pride in the next generation, and optimism for the future of Country Aire Farms. This episode is brought to you by DeLaval. DeLaval provides integrated solutions designed to improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. To learn more, visit Delaval.com/en-us/. 0:00 — Introduction & Series Overview 1:02 — Meet the Gerrits Brothers 2:08 — Sponsor Message 3:22 — Early Days on the Farm 6:09 — Division of Labor (Cows vs. Crops) 8:59 — Transition to Ownership 11:29 — Growth & Building the Rotary Parlor 14:24 — Embracing Technology 18:44 — Next Generation Joins the Farm 24:16 — Lessons in Leadership 27:53 — Family Legacy & Values 34:52 — Looking to the Future 39:37 — Closing Thoughts 41:19 — Outro & Sponsor Message

AgEmerge Podcast 170 with Taylor Herren #podcast #farming #regenerativeagriculture #commoditymarket cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 170 with Taylor Herren #podcast #farming #regenerativeagriculture #commoditymarket

Taylor Herren is a beach-loving Californian who traded Santa Barbara for Cotton Plant, Arkansas, to pursue her dream of becoming a farmer and agricultural entrepreneur. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Hear from another entrepreneur, Taylor Henry sharing his farming story: https://youtu.be/rt2V_YnBfsI Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ *** *** More about Taylor Herren: After 15 years working in regenerative agriculture—including roles with Green America, Kiss the Ground and Chico State —Taylor made the leap into farming last year. Her first crop year in 2025 marks a significant milestone as one of the few women entering large-scale row crop agriculture, farming 400 acres of corn, soybeans, and rice with a USDA crop loan while building a pasture livestock operation starting with 600 birds. The transition from one of California's most beautiful coastal cities to the hot, swampy Mississippi Delta has been challenging but transformative, connecting her to both the land and her farming partner Adam Chappell. Taylor's mission goes beyond building a successful agricultural business—she's driven by those meaningful moments in nature where life abounds in the plants, birds, bugs, and the passionate farmers who tend the land. Currently at Soil & Climate Initiative, she leads the farm transition program and regenerative crop market development work, including the Delta Regen Rice project. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. Her ultimate goal: to become a successful "chicken baroness" while proving that regenerative agriculture can create profitable, resilient farming operations. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-herren-590196107/ FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/taylor.herren.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlsfarmhard/

259 | The Power of Language and Leadership in Dairy Farming with Elsie Gonzalez-Leach cover art

259 | The Power of Language and Leadership in Dairy Farming with Elsie Gonzalez-Leach

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen engages with Elsie Gonzalez-Leach of Motiva Consulting to discuss her inspiring journey from Puerto Rico to the United States. Elsie shares how her experiences have fueled her mission to support Spanish-speaking dairy farm employees through leadership development and tailored Dairy English language courses. With a focus on personal growth, leadership training, and communication, Elsie’s programs have helped numerous farm workers progress in their careers and contribute positively to their farms and communities. The episode delves into her motivations, challenges, and the impact she aims to achieve, making it a must-listen for those interested in elevating their dairy farming operations and cultivating a motivated workforce. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview 00:40 Elsie's Journey to the US 03:41 Starting Motiva Consulting 12:26 Leadership and Personal Development 23:37 Mentors and Inspirations 34:35 The Impact of Danielle's Leadership 38:21 Elsie's Leadership Program Explained 41:26 Personal Development and Overcoming Challenges 48:58 The Launch of Dairy English Academy 58:59 Future Goals and Reflections 01:02:23 Elsie's Journey and Lessons Learned 01:13:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Learn more about the Dairy English Academy here: https://www.motivadairy.com/dairy-english-academy Contact Elsie González-Leach Motiva Consulting Cell: 262.388.9096 Email: elsie.gonzalez@motiva.consulting Visit Motiva Consulting on Facebook! This Episode is Brought to you by Adisseo This episode is sponsored by Uplevel Dairy Podcast Founding Partner Adisseo, a global leader in nutritional solutions and premier provider of rumen-protected methionine for dairy producers who want to optimize milk production, capture more value from components, and maintain the health of their high-performing herds. Learn more at https://www.adisseo.com/en/

AgEmerge Podcast 170 with Taylor Herren cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 170 with Taylor Herren

Taylor Herren is a beach-loving Californian who traded Santa Barbara for Cotton Plant, Arkansas, to pursue her dream of becoming a farmer and agricultural entrepreneur. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Hear from another entrepreneur, Taylor Henry sharing his farming story: https://youtu.be/rt2V_YnBfsI Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ *** *** More about Taylor Herren: After 15 years working in regenerative agriculture—including roles with Green America, Kiss the Ground and Chico State —Taylor made the leap into farming last year. Her first crop year in 2025 marks a significant milestone as one of the few women entering large-scale row crop agriculture, farming 400 acres of corn, soybeans, and rice with a USDA crop loan while building a pasture livestock operation starting with 600 birds. The transition from one of California's most beautiful coastal cities to the hot, swampy Mississippi Delta has been challenging but transformative, connecting her to both the land and her farming partner Adam Chappell. Taylor's mission goes beyond building a successful agricultural business—she's driven by those meaningful moments in nature where life abounds in the plants, birds, bugs, and the passionate farmers who tend the land. Currently at Soil & Climate Initiative, she leads the farm transition program and regenerative crop market development work, including the Delta Regen Rice project. What she cares most about is regenerative agriculture that works for real farmers and can be scaled on millions of acres—she's not interested in perfection, but in progress that helps farmers benefit from soil health through on-farm savings, increased market opportunities, and more time with their families. Her ultimate goal: to become a successful "chicken baroness" while proving that regenerative agriculture can create profitable, resilient farming operations. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-herren-590196107/ FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/taylor.herren.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlsfarmhard/

258 | World Dairy Expo’s Dairy Producers of the Year: McCarty Family Farms cover art

258 | World Dairy Expo’s Dairy Producers of the Year: McCarty Family Farms

This collaboration episode between Uplevel Dairy and World Dairy Expo features the McCarty Brothers—Mike, David, Ken, and Clay—as they discuss their family's legacy and milestones that led to being named World Dairy Expo's Dairy Producers of the Year. They reflect on their family's history from northeastern Pennsylvania to their significant growth in Kansas, their partnerships with large companies like Danone, and their commitment to sustainability and innovation in dairy farming. They share insights into working as a family, their passion for sustainable practices, and their excitement for the future. The episode also offers advice to aspiring young farmers, underscoring the importance of hard work, taking risks, and maintaining a forward-thinking vision. The McCarty family's story is one of resilience, innovation, and community impact. Be sure to start planning your trip to World Dairy Expo, September 30th through October 3rd. Get your passes now worlddairyexpo.com.  This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Dairy Show and World Dairy Expo.  00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:37 The McCarty Family History 03:36 The Move to Kansas 07:59 Partnerships and Growth 11:47 Sustainability Efforts 18:38 Community Outreach and Learning Centers 23:54 Technological Advancements and Cow Comfort 28:27 Reflections on the Recognition Award 53:26 Advice for the Next Generation 57:48 Final Thoughts and Future Vision

Beef cow slaughter is down 17% from 2024 | Weekly Livestock Market Update cover art

Beef cow slaughter is down 17% from 2024 | Weekly Livestock Market Update

Market highlights -Markets opened the week processing last Friday’s cattle-on-feed report and the news of a human case of New World Screwworm in the US. -The 5-market average fed steer price was essentially unchanged at $243.58 per cwt in today’s report. -October live cattle futures gained roughly $2 per cwt this week, settling Friday at $239.80. -Choice boxed beef price was up almost $9 compared to last week, coming in today at $415.41. -September feeder cattle futures gained almost another $3 per cwt on the week, closing today at $365.48. -The national base hog carcass price was down about $1 this week at $100.80 per cwt. -Pork cutout values were up by more than $3 this week at $116.68 per cwt. -October lean hog futures gained almost $4 per cwt this week, closing at $95 today. Weekly Slaughter: -Cattle slaughter for the week is projected at 565,000 head, which is about 3% higher than last week. Year-to-date, cattle slaughter is running 6.9% below last year. -Hog slaughter was down about 1% from last week, estimated at 2.391 million head. Year-to-date, hog slaughter is down 2.4% from last year. Beef Cow Slaughter Trends -Beef cow slaughter continues to run 17% below 2024 levels. The industry is on track to harvest almost 500,000 fewer beef cows than last year. -This continues to suggest a slightly smaller cowherd is likely going into 2026. USDA Quarterly Trade Outlook - August: -Beef and veal export forecasts for this fiscal year (Oct 2024 to September 2025) were largely unchanged from May (slight value decrease). But value is expected to drop by roughly 7% for the 2026 fiscal year. -Similar to beef, pork export value estimates were lowered slightly for the current fiscal year. Export volumes are expected to be steady for the upcoming fiscal year for pork. -Beef and veal import forecasts were raised for the current FY from May, but projected to decrease by a bit in the upcoming fiscal year. -Imports are much less significant for pork, but value estimates were raised slightly for the current fiscal year. Projections for the 2026 fiscal year were essentially the same as 2025. -Not surprisingly, live cattle imports are forecast to be lower in the 2026 fiscal year. Learn more about what's happening in the agriculture markets here: https://brownfieldagnews.com/markets/ Find more agriculture news here: https://brownfieldagnews.com/ Connect with Brownfield Ag News: » Get the latest ag news: https://www.brownfieldagnews.com/ » Subscribe to Brownfield on YouTube: @BrownfieldAgNews » Follow Brownfield on X (Twitter): https://x.com/brownfield » Follow Brownfield on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrownfieldAgNews Subscribe and listen to Brownfield Ag News: ➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/dz/podcast/brownfield-ag-news/id1436508505 ➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4qoIHY9EYUV9sf5DXhBKHN?si=a4483aaa1afd445e Brownfield Ag News creates and delivers original content across multiple media platforms. Brownfield is the largest and one of the oldest agricultural news networks in the country carrying agricultural news, markets, weather, commentary and feature content.

AgEmerge Podcast 169 with Waldo Moraga and ECO2MIX #CO2 #podcast #water #sustainability #farming cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 169 with Waldo Moraga and ECO2MIX #CO2 #podcast #water #sustainability #farming

Waldo Moraga, founder of ECO2MIX, talks with Monte about the huge strides carbonic acid has taken in farming, and even the golf industry as sustainable water pH control. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Watch another outstanding educator, Dr. Dwayne Beck, here: https://youtu.be/1JlTPcoKB0M Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ Got questions you want answered? Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers. Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? Send your questions or suggestions to contactus@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you. *** Show notes and Links *** Learn how carbonic acid is a safer alternative to sulfuric acid, and plays a significant role in soil health by breaking down minerals in the soil and releasing essential nutrients plants need to grow. Carbonic acid also improves soil structure by promoting the formation of soil aggregates, which enhances water retention and infiltration, ultimately supporting healthy plant growth. Join Monte and Waldo as they uncover the science behind this innovative solution and its promising future. Waldo Moraga: Waldo earned his B.S. of Agriculture and has a passion for water related topics, from conservation to treatment. More than 30 years in irrigation, fertigation, and water pH control in Chile, Peru, Mexico and since 2016 fully committed to change the paradigm on how farmers deal with water pH in the Central Valley of California and the US. ECO2MIX: https://www.eco2mix.com We decided to find a better solution, specifically designed for agriculture, to reduce pH in irrigation water with a more sustainable process. That’s when we designed a system that uses carbonic acid to acidify water, mimicking nature. CO2 is not new to the world of agriculture. There’s plenty of research and publications about its biological and soil benefits and yields improvements. With this in mind, we decided to design a highly efficient system using this natural compound. Our mission is to provide a sustainable solution for water pH control, using an eco-friendly technology that helps the plant and soil biology by replacing the use of toxic and dangerous mineral acids with innocuous carbonic acid (CO2 + water). We are the only carbon pH control designed with the grower’s problem in mind.

256 | Leading Through Legacy: Jim Mulhern on Shaping the Future of Dairy cover art

256 | Leading Through Legacy: Jim Mulhern on Shaping the Future of Dairy

This collaboration episode between Uplevel Dairy and World Dairy Expo features Jim Mulhern, a seasoned dairy policy expert, who shares his journey from growing up in small town Wisconsin to leading the National Milk Producers Federation. Jim talks about his early exposure to politics and policy in seventh grade, which led to his interest in agricultural policy during his college years. He also discusses his career trajectory, significant industry challenges, such as workforce and trade policy, and the major changes in the dairy sector over the last four decades. Jim reflects on the importance of staying connected to the people he serves, the value of meaningful work, and his philosophy of balancing change with core values. As he receives the World Dairy Expo's Industry Person of the Year award, Jim fondly remembers the people who've impacted his career and offers advice for young professionals in the dairy industry. Be sure to start planning your trip to World Dairy Expo, September 30th through October 3rd. Get your passes now worlddairyexpo.com. This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Dairy Show and World Dairy Expo. 00:00 Introduction to Jim's Journey in Dairy 00:57 Early Influences and Education 02:30 First Steps in Dairy Policy 03:43 Internship and Early Career Challenges 05:29 Balancing Supply and Demand in Dairy 07:23 Realizing the Impact of Policy Work 10:04 Career Growth and National Milk Producers Federation 18:40 Changes and Challenges in the Dairy Industry 28:09 Future Challenges for Dairy Producers 34:27 The Importance of Middle Ground in Politics 38:22 Engaging in Industry Organizations 41:09 Advice for Young Professionals 43:41 Receiving the World Dairy Expo Honor 45:54 Reflecting on a Career in Dairy 49:17 Personal Reflections and Future Plans 01:01:40 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

Placements drop 6% in Cattle on Feed report | Weekly Livestock Market Update for August 22, 2025 cover art

Placements drop 6% in Cattle on Feed report | Weekly Livestock Market Update for August 22, 2025

Market highlights: Live cattle prices closed $241.95/cwt, which is down 6 cents from last week. October live cattle prices ($237.87) were up $7.22 compared to a week ago, and September feeder cattle future prices ($362.67) finished down $15.32 compared to last week. Choice box beef was at $ 406.61 end of this week, which is up $15.22 from last week. Select box beef was at $ 381.46 end of this week, which is up $15.29 from last week. National Base Hog Carcass was $102.20, which is down 3% from last week. Nearby lean hog futures close at $ 91.2,0 which is up $1.10 from a week ago. Weekly Slaughter: Cattle slaughter for the week is at 547,000, up 17,000 head compared to last week and down approximately 61,984 compared to the previous year. Year-to-date cattle slaughter is down 6.9% Hog slaughter for the week is at 2.41 million head, up 11,000 compared to last week and down about 88,400 compared to a year ago. Year-to-date hog slaughter is down 2.4% Livestock Slaughter: Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 4.36 billion pounds in July, down 4 percent from the 4.55 billion pounds produced in July 2024. Beef production, at 2.18 billion pounds, was 4 percent below the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.54 million head, down 7 percent from July 2024. The average live weight was up 30 pounds from the previous year, at 1,410 pounds. Pork production totaled 2.16 billion pounds, down 4 percent from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 10.3 million head, down 4 percent from July 2024. The average live weight was down 1 pound from the previous year, at 282 pounds Cattle on Feed: United States Cattle on Feed Down 2 Percent with 10.9 million head on August 1, 2025. The inventory was 2 percent below August 1, 2024. Placements in feedlots during July totaled 1.60 million head, 6 percent below 2024. Net placements were 1.55 million head. Marketings of fed cattle during July totaled 1.75 million head, 6 percent below 2024. Next week’s reports: Outlook for U.S. Trade Learn more about what's happening in the agriculture markets here: https://brownfieldagnews.com/markets/ Find more agriculture news here: https://brownfieldagnews.com/ Connect with Brownfield Ag News: » Get the latest ag news: https://www.brownfieldagnews.com/ » Subscribe to Brownfield on YouTube: @BrownfieldAgNews » Follow Brownfield on X (Twitter): https://x.com/brownfield » Follow Brownfield on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrownfieldAgNews Subscribe and listen to Brownfield Ag News: ➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/dz/podcast/brownfield-ag-news/id1436508505 ➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4qoIHY9EYUV9sf5DXhBKHN?si=a4483aaa1afd445e Brownfield Ag News creates and delivers original content across multiple media platforms. Brownfield is the largest and one of the oldest agricultural news networks in the country carrying agricultural news, markets, weather, commentary and feature content.

254 | Record Corn Crops, Cattle Market Updates & Commodity Trends: August Market Update cover art

254 | Record Corn Crops, Cattle Market Updates & Commodity Trends: August Market Update

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen and Curtis Bosma from HighGround Dairy provide an extensive market update for August 2025. The discussion covers key areas such as the continual year-over-year growth in US milk production, including a 3.3% increase reported in June, which is attributed to genetic improvements and enhanced cow comfort. The podcast also highlights a record-breaking corn crop forecast, favorable for dairy producers in terms of feed costs. Additionally, the episode explores the state of cattle markets, emphasizing the impacts of past droughts and current efforts to rebuild herds. Further insights are provided into dairy commodity markets, particularly cheese and butter, with projections on future pricing and supply-demand balances. The episode wraps up with strategic advice for dairy producers on planning and managing margins for a profitable future. Grab your market report here: https://marketing.highgrounddairy.com/august-2025-producer-market-update 00:00 Introduction and Market Overview 00:41 US Milk Production Insights 03:39 Corn Crop and Feed Costs 05:19 Soybean Market and Trade Negotiations 11:13 Cattle Market Trends 14:30 Dairy Commodity Market Analysis 21:35 Forecast and Strategic Planning for Dairy Producers 24:49 Conclusion and Call to Action This episode is brought to you by: HighGround Dairy provides global dairy market intelligence, insurance services, futures & options brokerage, and advisory programs to a diverse range of dairy market participants throughout the supply chain. Information shared in this podcast is for educational purposes and is not a solicitation to buy or sell commodities. Opinions expressed are current opinions as of August, at 1 p.m. CST and only represent the views of the speaker and not those of HighGround Trading, unless otherwise expressly noted.

AgEmerge Podcast 169 with Waldo Moraga and ECO2MIX #CO2 #podcast #water #sustainability #farming cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 169 with Waldo Moraga and ECO2MIX #CO2 #podcast #water #sustainability #farming

Waldo Moraga, founder of ECO2MIX, talks with Monte about the huge strides carbonic acid has taken in farming, and even the golf industry as sustainable water pH control. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Watch another outstanding educator, Dr. Dwayne Beck, here: https://youtu.be/1JlTPcoKB0M Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ Got questions you want answered? Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers. Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? Send your questions or suggestions to contactus@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you. *** Show notes and Links *** Learn how carbonic acid is a safer alternative to sulfuric acid, and plays a significant role in soil health by breaking down minerals in the soil and releasing essential nutrients plants need to grow. Carbonic acid also improves soil structure by promoting the formation of soil aggregates, which enhances water retention and infiltration, ultimately supporting healthy plant growth. Join Monte and Waldo as they uncover the science behind this innovative solution and its promising future. Waldo Moraga: Waldo earned his B.S. of Agriculture and has a passion for water related topics, from conservation to treatment. More than 30 years in irrigation, fertigation, and water pH control in Chile, Peru, Mexico and since 2016 fully committed to change the paradigm on how farmers deal with water pH in the Central Valley of California and the US. ECO2MIX: https://www.eco2mix.com We decided to find a better solution, specifically designed for agriculture, to reduce pH in irrigation water with a more sustainable process. That’s when we designed a system that uses carbonic acid to acidify water, mimicking nature. CO2 is not new to the world of agriculture. There’s plenty of research and publications about its biological and soil benefits and yields improvements. With this in mind, we decided to design a highly efficient system using this natural compound. Our mission is to provide a sustainable solution for water pH control, using an eco-friendly technology that helps the plant and soil biology by replacing the use of toxic and dangerous mineral acids with innocuous carbonic acid (CO2 + water). We are the only carbon pH control designed with the grower’s problem in mind.

Live steer prices up more than $53 from a year ago | Weekly Livestock Market Update cover art

Live steer prices up more than $53 from a year ago | Weekly Livestock Market Update

In this episode, Meghan Grebner and Josh Maples discuss the latest trends in the livestock market, focusing on cattle prices, beef production, and slaughter numbers. They analyze the impact of corn yields on feed costs and the implications of cattle imports on future price forecasts. They talk about the importance of risk management strategies for producers as they navigate the current market dynamics and prepare for the future. Takeaways: » Cattle prices have shown significant increases compared to last year. » The beef market is experiencing strong values due to lower production. » Weekly cattle slaughter numbers are at their lowest non-holiday levels this year. » Corn yield revisions indicate a positive outlook for feed costs. » USDA forecasts suggest optimistic prices for cattle in 2026. » Cattle imports from Mexico have significantly decreased this year. » Producers are encouraged to adopt risk management strategies. » The livestock market is currently favorable for producers, but caution is advised. » Producers should not overlook the benefits of risk management tools Learn more about what's happening in the agriculture markets here: https://brownfieldagnews.com/markets/ Find more agriculture news here: https://brownfieldagnews.com/ Connect with Brownfield Ag News: » Get the latest ag news: https://www.brownfieldagnews.com/ » Subscribe to Brownfield on YouTube: @BrownfieldAgNews » Follow Brownfield on X (Twitter): https://x.com/brownfield » Follow Brownfield on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrownfieldAgNews Subscribe and listen to Brownfield Ag News: ➡︎ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/dz/podcast/brownfield-ag-news/id1436508505 ➡︎ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4qoIHY9EYUV9sf5DXhBKHN?si=a4483aaa1afd445e Brownfield Ag News creates and delivers original content across multiple media platforms. Brownfield is the largest and one of the oldest agricultural news networks in the country carrying agricultural news, markets, weather, commentary and feature content.

AgEmerge Podcast 168 with Black Hawk College #podcast #farming #education cover art

AgEmerge Podcast 168 with Black Hawk College #podcast #farming #education

No matter the generation, it's a pretty common complaint about the next set of kids who arrive onto the scene. Farming and higher education are no different. Or are they? Meet Drew Cotton and Andrew Larson. Mr. Larson is fresh into the retirement scene but together, the two men served as professors at Black Hawk College in Galva, Illinois. They've seen it all. And they confidently say, we're all in good hands. *** Show notes and Links *** Subscribe to AgEmerge here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AgSolutionsNetwork Watch another outstanding educator, Dr. Dwayne Beck, here: https://youtu.be/1JlTPcoKB0M Ag Solutions Network Socials: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/agemergepodcast https://www.facebook.com/ASN.farm https://www.linkedin.com/company/agsolutionsnetwork https://twitter.com/POWER2GRO https://www.instagram.com/agsolutionsnetwork/ Ag Solutions Network website: https://www.agsolutionsnetwork.com/ Got questions you want answered? Send them our way and we’ll do our best to research and find answers. Know someone you think would be great on the AgEmerge stage or podcast? Send your questions or suggestions to contactus@asn.farm we’d love to hear from you. *** Show notes and Links *** Monte Bottens hosts interns and classes from Black Hawk multiple times throughout the year. The three guys talk all about the unique learning approach Black Hawk provides and the depth of experience students have under their belts by graduation. Drew Cotton is the Co-Department Chair for the Agriculture Department at Black Hawk College. He focuses on agribusiness education. Prior to Black Hawk, Mr. Cotton studied Animal Sciences at the University of Florida and completed undergrad at Kansas State University. Mr. Cotton leads the Agribusiness Club and coaches the Agricultural Business and Horse Judging teams. With his peers and students, Mr. Cotton has coached and guided wins with the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) Judging Conference Sweepstakes Awards. Andrew Larson: We thank Mr. Larson for his military service, prior to becoming an instructor. He recently retired after teaching at Black Hawk College for 27 years. He earned a Master's of Science in Nutrient Management and Crop Production from the University of Illinois in 1998 after completing his undergrad from the Illinois State University in Environmental Sciences and Protection in 1994. While at Black Hawk, Mr. Larson served as a full-time instructor in the agriculture department of Black Hawk College. He taught production, marketing and management of agriculture curriculums. He's secured places of employment for over 500 graduates in the agriculture industry. And provided leadership to place and supervise over 100 internships. Mr. Larson managed a 25-acre college agronomy lab, coached college soil and crop judging teams, and also served as Advisor for the Trap Shooting Club. He was the lead Investigator for Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity grant that supported a four-acre sustainable agriculture research plot and conducted numerous field trials annually in the agronomy lab. He designed subsurface drainage system in the agronomy lab to implement nutrient management study; facilitated installation of a bio-reactor.

252 | Capitalizing on Cashflow Opportunities cover art

252 | Capitalizing on Cashflow Opportunities

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, hosted by Peggy Coffeen, financial expert Steve Schwoerer from Compeer Financial shares nearly four decades of lending experience to provide insights on maximizing returns from beef on dairy cattle and strategic long-term herd planning. Discussions include short-term strategies to take advantage of high beef prices, the long-term outlook for dairy operations, and key considerations such as labor, facilities, and manure management. The conversation also broaches risk management and the potential for leveraging lower commodity prices. Steve offers practical advice for both immediate income opportunities and sustainable operational growth in the dairy industry. About Compeer Financial Compeer 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 . 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:21 Guest Introduction: Steve Schwoerer 01:25 Historical Perspective on Dairy Lending 02:14 Economic Shifts in Dairy and Beef Markets 06:26 Strategic Approaches to Beef on Dairy 07:23 Short-Term vs Long-Term Planning 09:28 Risk Management Strategies 12:44 Operational Costs and Considerations 15:31 Long-Term Dairy Operation Planning 18:54 Market Speculations and Future Outlook 23:13 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts 30:03 Conclusion and Farewell

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