Video

211 | Raising Winners with Ysabel Jacobs, Ferme Jacobs

International Women in Dairy Series: Ysabel Jacobs, Ferme Jacobs, Quebec, Canada We’ve been celebrating women around the world this month with the International Women in Dairy Series here on the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, and today I’m joined by a Canadian dairy woman who knows a thing or two about what it takes to win. Ysabel Jacobs has stood center of the ring at the world’s most competitive cows shows and with her family at Ferme Jacobs in Quebec, developed iconic cows with household names like Shakira. But when I sat down with this mother of 3, what I discovered was that while raising the next World Dairy Expo champions in the barn certainly excites her, what drives her passion more than anything these days is raising the next generation of her family with the mindset it takes to be champions far beyond the show ring. Episode Sponsor: Quali-T | Branding Solutions Learn more about how Quali-T | Branding Solutions provides branding solutions, work wear, reflective gear and other customized merchandise for farms and agribusinesses: https://qualitinc.espwebsite.com/ 00:00 Introduction to Isabel Jacobs and Her Dairy Journey 01:01 Isabel's Family and Farm Operations 02:52 Daily Life and Responsibilities on the Farm 04:48 Challenges and Triumphs in Dairy Farming 08:42 Raising the Next Generation of Champions 15:22 Balancing Family and Farm Life 20:52 Reflections and Future Aspirations 24:50 Advice for High-Performing Moms and Dairy Farmers 28:14 Closing Thoughts and Wisdom from Sue Heim

210 | Navigating March Dairy Market Dynamics

Join us at Central Plains Dairy Expo for Happy Hour! If you are heading to Sioux Falls, stop by the Sheraton Hotel Atrium (party deck) on Wednesday, March 26 from 4-7 p.m. Enjoy a complimentary cocktail with some of the familiar faces and voices from Uplevel Dairy Podcast and chat with the sponsors that make this podcast possible including: Adisseo Compeer Complete Management Consulting HighGround Dairy Milc Group Nedap In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy is joined for the Monthly Market Update by Curtis Bosma from High Ground Dairy to chat about current trends and forecasts in the global dairy market for March. They discuss the decline in dairy farm profitability and the impact of varying regional conditions on milk production. The episode also covers key products affecting milk pricing such as cheese, butter, and milk powders, highlighting concerns over domestic and export demand, especially with potential tariffs. The conversation is rounded off with winter crop forecasts affecting the market outlook for 2025 and risk management strategies for producers. 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 March 17 at 3 p.m. CST and only represent the views of the speaker and not those of HighGround Trading, unless otherwise expressly noted. 00:00 Welcome to the Uplevel Dairy Podcast 00:10 Join Us at Central Plains Dairy Expo 00:53 Introduction to High Ground Dairy 02:21 Market Update: March Overview 02:34 Dairy Farm Profitability Insights 07:28 Milk Production Trends 11:13 Cheese Market Volatility 16:54 Butter Market Challenges 18:44 Milk Powders and Export Dynamics 22:24 Grain Market Projections 27:31 Strategic Planning for Dairy Producers 29:26 Conclusion and Upcoming Events

209 | Dairy Farming from Iowa to New Zealand with Jan Winke

International Women in Dairy Series: Jan Winke In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, host Peggy Coffeen sits down with Jan Winke, a dairy farmer and professional with Nedap, who moved from Iowa to New Zealand 17 years ago. She discusses her family’s transition from struggling on a small farm in Iowa to today being proud owners of their own dairy farm in New Zealand. Jan shares her compelling journey of relocating with her husband Chad and young family halfway around the world to take advantage of better opportunities in the dairy industry. Jan also touches upon the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry, the differences in dairy farming practices between the US and New Zealand, and the importance of establishing work-life boundaries. Tune in to this inspiring conversation about resilience, adaptation, and the pursuit of dreams in unfamiliar territory. 00:00 Introduction to the International Women in Dairy Series 01:07 Meet Jan Winke: From Iowa to New Zealand 02:23 The Big Move: Challenges and Opportunities 06:28 Navigating the New Zealand Dairy Industry 12:26 Differences Between US and New Zealand Dairy Farming 20:46 Overcoming Gender Barriers in the Dairy Industry 28:06 Presenting Our Business: A Team Effort 29:03 Milestones in Our Farming Journey 30:19 Learning to Code for Work 31:29 Reflecting on Our Progress 32:44 Implementing Effective Farming Processes 35:05 Balancing Work, Family, and Personal Growth 49:31 Encouraging Youth in Dairy Farming 53:23 Final Thoughts and Reflections Episode Sponsor: Quali-T | Branding Solutions Learn more about how Quali-T | Branding Solutions provides branding solutions, work wear, reflective gear and other customized merchandise for farms and agribusinesses: https://qualitinc.espwebsite.com/

207 | The Pursuits of a Global Dairy Professional

International Women in Dairy: Fernanda Lopes, Global Ruminant Strategy Manager, Adisseo We are celebrating International Women's Day and Women's History Month by bringing on global dairy industry leader Fernanda Lopes. Originally from Brazil, she first found her passion for dairy at 12 years old, spending Saturday mornings with a local embryo transfer veterinarian.. Her pursuit for personal challenge brought her to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she earned her masters and doctorate and also met one of her greatest mentors, Dr. David Combs. Today, as Global Ruminant Strategy Manager with Adisseo, Fernanda discusses her professional challenges and achievements, and the cultural adaptability required in her global role. She emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself, continuous learning, and advice for younger women in their dairy careers. 00:00 Introduction to International Women's Day and Guest Fernanda Lopes 00:58 Fernanda's Background and Journey into Dairy 01:48 Educational Path and Early Influences 02:37 Discovering a Passion for Dairy 07:11 Challenges and Mentorship 14:49 Cultural Adaptation and Communication 21:43 Achievements and Future Goals 27:22 Advice for Young Women in Dairy 32:03 Q&A and Final Thoughts 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/

206 | Dairy Farming with Perseverance in Puerto Rico

Kritzia López Arvelo, a third-generation dairy farmer from Puerto Rico, shares her life journey, encompassing her roles as a lawyer, a dairy farmer, and a new mother. She discusses the challenges faced by dairy farmers in Puerto Rico, including high costs, the impact of hurricanes, and the struggle for sustainability. Kris reflects on the resilience built during Hurricane Maria and its aftermath, which taught her valuable lessons in self-assurance and adaptability. She emphasizes the importance of family, her profound faith, and the balance between professional and personal life. Kris also highlights her involvement in leadership roles within the Puerto Rican dairy and legal communities and shares insights for young women pursuing similar multifaceted career paths. This episode is sponsored by Quali-T | Branding Solutions Learn more about how Quali-T | Branding Solutions provides branding solutions, work wear, reflective gear and other customized merchandise for farms and agribusinesses: https://qualitinc.espwebsite.com.

205 | Dairy Heifer Raisers Talk Challenges and Triumphs in 2025

Two heifer growers from two different parts of the country join us today: TJ McClure joins us from southwest Kansas, and Kendall Wassenaar from northwest Iowa, to chat about the strategies they have been using to overcome challenges in their heifer development operations, including: ➡️ Recruiting labor in a county with only 1,200 people, ➡️ Problem-solving pink eye in heifers ➡️ Strategies for increasing operational efficiency and reducing man hours ➡️ And the organization through which these two connected a few years back, the Dairy Calf and Heifer Association. As current DCHA President, Kendall gives highlights for the 2025 annual conference, set for April 8-10 in Westminster, Colorado, and TJ, a past president and DCHA board member, shares what he is looking forward to at this year’s premier event. This episode is sponsored by the Dairy Calf and Heifer Association and Zoetis. Register for the DCHA Annual Conference: https://calfandheifer.org/ Zoetis' Calf Wellness solutions are pivotal in ensuring your calves receive the best start possible. By focusing on prediction, prevention, treatment, and expertise, Zoetis helps you raise healthy, productive cows, securing a prosperous future for our herds. Visit www.calfwellness.com 00:00 Introduction to the Uplevel Dairy Podcast 01:47 Meet Kendall Wassner: From Orange City to Leadership 04:18 TJ McClure's Journey: From Oklahoma to Kansas 11:32 Challenges in Heifer Raising: Water, Labor, and Bird Flu 17:59 Animal Health Issues: Breeding Performance and Pink Eye 22:55 Addressing Pink Eye Challenges 25:54 Labor Issues in Rural Areas 29:54 Strategies for Efficiency and Cost Reduction 34:54 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Goals 36:21 Networking and Conferences 42:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

204 | The “T” Words: Trump, tariffs and trade agreements: February Monthly Market Update

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, hosted by Peggy Coffeen, Curtis Bosma from High Ground Dairy provides a comprehensive February monthly market update. Key topics include: - The current state of tariffs and their potential impact on the dairy industry - Insights from the World Ag Expo - Trends in milk production across various U.S. states - And the global dairy supply Curtis also discusses the significance of understanding true production costs and effective risk management strategies while highlighting recent price movements in the futures market for whey, butter, cheese, and nonfat dry milk. Catch your own February Market Report here: https://marketing.highgrounddairy.com/producer-market-update-february-2025 00:00 Introduction to Tariffs and Market Update 00:38 Insights from the World Ag Expo 01:30 The Impact of Tariffs on Dairy Markets 05:58 US Milk Production Trends 08:09 Global Dairy Market Overview 10:39 Commodity Price Movements 16:48 Producer Conversations and Future Outlook 23:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 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 February 21 at 2:30 p.m. CST and only represent the views of the speaker and not those of HighGround Trading, unless otherwise expressly noted.

203 | Connecting Community, Culture and the Future: Ideal Dairy Farm

“Where quality and service meet” was the brand promise Ideal Dairy was founded upon more than 100 years ago, as not only a dairy farm but a local supply of door-to-door fresh milk delivery in Hudson Falls, New York.  Well, fast forward to today, and this dairy farm and the families who operate it continue to live out that motto with their 3,800-cow herd, known widely for excellence in their genetics program, Cookie Cutter Holsteins. And while there are many people behind the scenes of Ideal Dairy’s success, today we visit with a woman who is intensely passionate about people, connecting with the community and creating opportunities for the next generation of this multi-family dairy operation, while honoring the traditions of the past: Crystal Grimaldi, along with her father, John Dickinson. BONUS: Sponsor Spotlight featuring Steve Chuhta from Zoetis Meet Steve and hear why he nominated Ideal Dairy to be featured in Zoetis’s celebrated Born of the Bond video series. Watch Season 2, Episode 1 here: ⁠https://www.zoetisus.com/cattle/born-of-the-bond/⁠ This episode is brought to you by Zoetis. As the world’s leading animal health company, Zoetis is dedicated to helping producers achieve healthy animals, healthy dairies and healthy food through their world-class portfolio. For more information, visit ⁠DairyWellness.com.⁠

202 | 7 Lessons from 200 Episodes

We just dropped episode number 200 of the Uplevel Dairy podcast, that’s 200 conversations with dairy leaders - from CEOs to high-performing managers, immigrants, industry icons, entrepreneurs, influencers, and even an Olympian. Today I’m summarizing for you the top 7 lessons from these incredible leaders, 7 key themes you can apply today at work and at home to increase your energy, clarify your focus, and amplify your impact. When you take yourself to a higher level, you bring those around you to a higher version of success and service too. Let’s get into it today on the Uplevel Dairy Podcast.

201 | How to Gain Access to Farmland without Paying Top Dollar

$18,000 an acre for farmland? Today, we talk about hot trends in land values and rental prices with Jade Kruschke from Compeer Financial. And from Compeer’s dairy team, Senior Ag Lending Specialist Curtis Gerrits shines some light on land acquisition strategies he sees dairy farmers implementing to gain access to acres for feed, cropping and manure without paying premium prices. 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 .

200 | Farm Partnerships: Protect Yourself from These Pitfalls with Menn Law

“There’s nothing more painful than having to watch a farmer go to an auction to bid on their own land.” - Will McKinley, Menn Law Today we talk with Will about farming partnerships: - What to know before you get into a partnership - How to protect yourself and the farm should one party want to get out - Buy-sell agreements - Operating agreements - Shareholder agreements Contact Will McKinley at Menn Law: William-McKinley@mennlaw.com (920) 731-6631 https://mennlaw.com/ Do you have a question on succession and farm transition you would like to hear Will answer on the Uplevel Dairy Podcast? Send your questions to peggy@upleveldairy.com

199 | Young Leader: Sarah Thomas

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast Young Leader Series, Sarah Thomas shares her journey from growing up in North Carolina to her current role at Select Sires in Ohio. Sarah discusses her involvement in dairy judging and mentorship, emphasizing mental health and the importance of advocating for oneself. She reflects on the significant impact of mentors in her life and how she's now giving back by guiding and inspiring the next generation through the Ohio Junior Holstein Association. Make sure to tune in to catch all her tips on dairy judging and career development for young leaders in the dairy industry!

198 | Big Dreams, Bold Prayers and Brave Actions with Marissa Hake, DVM

You may know Dr. Marissa Hake from her online following as the @Calfvet, but what you may not know are the big dreams, bold prayers, and brave actions that led to her career of now five years with Fairlife and the recent opening of their direct-to-consumer farm store for Black Label Beef. Get ready to laugh with us, cry with us and be inspired on the Uplevel Dairy Podcast. 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/ Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here: https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe

197 | Driven by a Dream: Dutch Dairy

25 years ago, a twenty-year-old Dutchman left his homeland in pursuit of a dream - the American dream - and a dairy farm that would allow him to live out his passion. This quest led Sander Penterman to Jon-De Farms in northern Wisconsin, where he met who would be some of his greatest mentors, Dean and Todd Doorninck. This became a stepping stone to eventually owning his own dairy farm in Thorp, Wisconsin, Dutch Dairy. This 15th-generation dairyman shares with us today a journey of starting from scratch, optimizing efficiency and being an early adapter to technology - and also heartbreaking challenges - including the tragic loss of a child. This is a story of hard work, dedication and the positive attitude that has persevered and continues to keep Sander looking forward to each new day, right here on the Uplevel Dairy Podcast. This Episode is Brought to you by Milc Group Milc Group is a dairy software company that brings real-time, actionable data to dairy farms across the world. They are dedicated to revolutionizing the dairy industry with their user-friendly cloud-based software. ONE™ by Milc Group is our all-in-one app that brings together all the important aspects of your dairy together in one place. With products such as feed and animal management software, people training, dairy facility monitoring, and scale management, Milc Group is committed to providing producers with the tools they need to succeed. ONETM Feed: https://www.milcgroup.com/product/feed ONETM Scale: https://www.milcgroup.com/product/scale

196 | Diary of a Dairy CEO: Greg Bethard

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, host Peggy Coffeen interviews Greg Bethard, CEO of High Plains Ponderosa Dairy, who shares his unconventional journey into the dairy industry. Greg discusses the challenges he faced transitioning from a consultant and CFO to managing and owning a dairy farm in Kansas. Despite initial hardships and the unexpected loss of a key partner and friend, John Pagel, he pushed through to establish a successful business and master the role of CEO. This conversation also delves into Greg's upbringing, career choices, and the importance of hard work, passion, and the infinite business model that emphasizes sustainability in profitability, cow comfort, people, community, and the environment.

Deleted video

This video is unavailable.

Deleted video

This video is unavailable.

195 | How to Maximize Dairy Farm Profitability in 2025 | Dairy Farmers | Dairy Farming

Today, we’re talking about managing your heifer inventory, cutting down your cull rate, and making more milk and more money without purchasing pricey replacements as we sit down with Pauly Paul from Complete Management Consulting on the Uplevel Dairy Podcast. This Episode is Sponsored by Complete Management Consulting Contact Pauly Paul ⁠www.CompleteManagementConsulting.com⁠ ⁠completemanagementconsulting@gmail.com⁠ 920-418-3135 Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here: https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe

194 | FMMO Updates, Yield Adjustments, and 2025 Dairy Insights: January Monthly Market Update

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Curtis Bosma from HighGround Dairy provides an in-depth analysis of key market factors affecting the dairy industry in 2025. Topics covered include: - The finalized rulings on Federal Milk Marketing Orders, - Supply and demand shifts - And inventory trends in dairy commodities like cheese and butter. Curtis also emphasizes the importance of financial management for dairy farmers, highlighting the significance of balance sheets, cash flow statements, and margin management systems to maintain profitability and prepare for future industry changes. Grab your own copy of the January Market Report here: https://marketing.highgrounddairy.com/producer-market-update-january-2025. 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 January 17, 2025 at 1 p.m. CST and only represent the views of the speaker and not those of HighGround Trading, unless otherwise expressly noted.

193 | Using Trusts in Farm Transition Planning

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy is sitting down with Will McKinley, President of Menn Law Firm, to discuss the importance of trust and estate planning for farm families. Will explains three different types of trusts, including Medicaid, revocable, and irrevocable trusts, and their relevance in asset protection, probate avoidance, and tax planning for farms. He shares insights into the legal and practical aspects of transition planning and succession for agribusiness, emphasizing the importance of updating and funding the trust. Real-life stories illustrate successful trust implementations and the challenges of equitable asset distribution among family members. The episode underscores the necessity of early planning and communication to ensure a smooth transition of farm operations to the next generation. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:14 Menn Law's Legacy and Services 02:01 Will McKinley's Background 02:45 Understanding Trusts: An Overview 04:11 Medicaid Trusts Explained 05:10 Revocable Trusts: Essential for Farms 06:57 Irrevocable Trusts: Advanced Planning 16:19 Practical Applications and Case Studies 25:46 Challenges in Trust Planning 28:57 Success Stories and Final Advice 35:23 Conclusion and Contact Information This Episode is Brought to you by Menn Law Firm Contact Will McKinley at Menn Law, Appleton, Wisconsin: William-McKinley@mennlaw.com (920) 731-6631 https://mennlaw.com/ Do you have a question on succession and farm transition you would like to hear Will answer on the Uplevel Dairy Podcast? Send your questions to peggy@upleveldairy.com

192 | Lessons from a Lifelong Dairyman with Tom McCarty, McCarty Family Farms

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy is sitting down with Tom McCarty to hear about his journey as the patriarch of McCarty Family Farms. Moving his family from Pennsylvania to Northwest Kansas nearly 25 years ago, Tom discusses the strategic steps they took to grow their dairy business. He emphasizes the values of hard work, forward-thinking, and resilience that have guided his family's success. Tom also reflects on the future growth opportunities for the farm and offers advice to younger generations entering the dairy industry. Make sure to tune in to catch this conversation with Tom! Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here: https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe

191 | Put Your ‘Why’ into Words with Jared Kurtz, Kurtland Farms

Meet fourth-generation Pennsylvania dairyman Jared Kurtz, and listen alongside as I help him put his “why” into words. I’ll be opening the morning session of the Pennsylvania Dairy Summit on Feb. 5, with a conversation inspired by the book “Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action” by Simon Simek. Get a preview here as find out Jared’s “why” - why he chose to come back to the dairy after seeking to get away from it, why he and his wife wanted farm life for their six children, why the transition planning has been challenging but worth it, why he takes his responsibility seriously to engage with his community and educate others about their farming practices, and why he believes his farm serves a greater purpose. Register for the Pennsylvania Dairy Summit: https://center-for-dairy-excellence.mailchimpsites.com/

190 | Make 2025 Your Best Year Yet: 3 Simple Steps

Want to end 2025 better than you started it? Ever struggle with New Year’s resolutions that stick? Today I’m walking you through three steps that I do at the beginning of each year to gain the clarity and momentum to make each year better than the last, while creating more margin in your day to make room for habits that will get you where you want to be. Are you implementing these steps? Let me know! Send an email to peggy@upleveldairy.com or DM Uplevel Dairy on Facebook or Instagram!

189 | The ‘One Words’ that Transformed Our Lives in 2024

Impact Farming Podcast host Tracy Burnet jumps on from Manitoba to join Uplevel Dairy Podcast host Peggy Coffeen as they reflect on the one word they each chose to live by in 2024, and how they are preparing to uplevel and creating an impact in 2025! Check out the Impact Farming Podcast: https://www.farmmarketer.com/impact_farming_show/season-one-episodes Impact Farming Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@farmmarketer3270 Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here: https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe

188 | Overcoming Unexpected Obstacles in 2024

Best of 2024: We are catching back up with some of our top guests from the past year, and today we chat with Idaho dairyman Hans Nederend, Nederend Dairies. In Episode 92, Hans shared his secrets to achieving world-class milk quality, and then expanded upon that as we talked about his roles as not only a dairyman, but also a dad and a leader. In this episode, Hans talks about the challenge of dealing with avian influenza on his dairies, how it impacted his herd and also how it brought out the dedication of his team. And find out the word that he is choosing to live by in the coming year. See more from Hans in Episode 92 Part 1: ⁠⁠https://pod.link/1687111792/episode/96bd60b7365b6ffd01d1a618a16163f4⁠⁠ Part 2: ⁠⁠https://pod.link/1687111792/episode/c61c5c6b1462e6f7cb6f2fc77ac5d3ee⁠

187 | Catching up with Katie Coyne

186 | Back on the Showbox with Tim Abbott

Welcome to the Best of Uplevel 2024, where we are catching up with some of our top guests from the past year, including Tim Abbott, who joined us back in Ep. 143: Sitting on the Showbox with Tim Abbott. We pull up a seat again today to hear how 2024 challenged him changed him, his greatest wins, and the word he has chosen to live by in 2025. Catch more episodes with Tim below! 165 | Showbox Stories with Tim Abbott, featuring Jim Ostrom, John Vosters and Steve Briggs: https://pod.link/1687111792/episode/a27e08505ee234f6417366d1d8df038f 164 | Showbox Stories with Tim Abbott, featuring Tom Morris and Ernie Kueffner: https://pod.link/1687111792/episode/a27e08505ee234f6417366d1d8df038f 143 | Sitting on the Showbox with Tim Abbott: https://pod.link/1687111792/episode/969acac6456d7268546f30174f3e00d4

185 | Unlocking Dairy Profit Potential: A Systems Approach

We sit down with Manuel Soares, CEO of Milc Group, to discuss how applying manufacturing principles to dairy farming can identify and eliminate bottlenecks to improve revenue. Manuel highlights the importance of real-time data for making quick, informed decisions, and the need for an integrated system like ERP to connect all aspects of dairy operations. He emphasizes the role of accurate data, proper data entry, and data ownership in ensuring financial success in the dairy industry. 00:00 The Pivotal Moment in Dairy Management 00:53 Understanding Dairy as a Manufacturing Process 02:57 Key Metrics for Dairy Efficiency 06:21 Challenges and Solutions in Dairy Data Management 09:26 The Importance of Timely and Accurate Data 20:50 Data Ownership and Profitability 22:09 Future of Dairy Management This episode is sponsored in partnership with the Milc Group. Milc Group is a dairy software company that brings real-time, actionable data to dairy farms across the world. They are dedicated to revolutionizing the dairy industry with their user-friendly cloud-based software. ONE™ by Milc Group is our all-in-one app that brings together all the important aspects of your dairy together in one place. With products such as feed and animal management software, people training, dairy facility monitoring, and scale management, Milc Group is committed to providing producers with the tools they need to succeed. ONETM Feed: https://www.milcgroup.com/product/feed ONETM Scale: https://www.milcgroup.com/product/scale Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here: https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe

184 | Young Leaders: Kiley Pagel and Emily McGowty

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast's Young Leader Series, co-host Kiley Pagel leads a conversation with Emily McGowty from 2020 Consulting. Emily transitioned from an equine background to the dairy industry, where she focuses on financial consulting and building trust with dairy farm clients. The conversation covers Emily's journey, the importance of trust and flexibility in her role in the finance sector, and the mentorship and support she has received along the way. You will also hear about the challenges Emily faced and the strategies she used to overcome them, helping her become a trusted advisor in the dairy industry. Make sure to share this episode with a Young Dairy Leader you know! This episode is sponsored by Quali T | Branding Solutions Learn more about how Quali-T provides branding solutions, work wear, reflective gear and other customized merchandise for farms and agribusinesses: https://qualitinc.espwebsite.com/ Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here: https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe

183 | Markets, Margins & Macro Economics: December Monthly Market Update | Dairy Market

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy podcast, Peggy Coffeen is back for a monthly market update with Curtis Bosma from HighGround Dairy. This month they discuss the current state of dairy markets, including price volatility and the impacts of political headlines such as the bird flu on milk production in states like California versus expansion in others. Curtis highlights butter and cheese markets' dynamics, touching on trends in butterfat production and export opportunities for cheese due to price adjustments. The conversation also covers economic challenges like consumer credit card debt impacting consumer spending and food service traffic, and policy discussions surrounding the Farm Bill and programs such as cooperatives working together (CWT) and USDA purchasing assistance. The episode dives into the importance of managing margins and choosing the right advisors for dairy producers while reflecting on market intelligence insights and the critical role of merchandisers in the supply chain. Snag your own December Market Update here: https://marketing.highgrounddairy.com/producer-market-update-december-2024. 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 December 18, 2024 at 12 p.m. CST and only represent the views of the speaker and not those of HighGround Trading, unless otherwise expressly noted

182 | Leading a 3rd-Generation Family Business | Dairy Industry | Dairy Products | Dairy Business

Ted Jacoby III, CEO of TC Jacoby Inc., is back to talk about what he has learned over the past 35 years as the third generation at the helm of his family’s St. Louis-based dairy marketing business. In this episode, Ted shares his experiences as a leader of the family dairy business, including: ✅ Succession ✅ Culture ✅ Leadership ✅ Communication Hear more from Ted Jacoby on Ep. 181!

181 | Dairy Marketing Milestones with Ted Jacoby III

Today we venture into the middle ground of what happens to milk when it leaves your dairy and before it lands on a restaurant table or store shelf. And who better to share these insights than the third-generation leader of St. Louis-based dairy marketing company T.C. Jacoby, Ted Jacoby. Ted discusses the significant milestones in dairy marketing over his 35 years in the business, from the advent of refrigerated bulk tanks post-WWII to the skyrocketing international demand for U.S. dairy products. Discover the biggest opportunities and challenges facing dairy farmers today, the pivotal role of risk management, and how the industry is adapting to changes in sustainability and labor markets. 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.

180 | Transforming Dairy Farming with Cutting-Edge Genetics at McCarty Family Farms | Dairy Genetics

One thing I love about the dairy industry is that we are always looking for ways to improve on what we are already doing… And the McCartys are no different. In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, we are heading back to McCarty Family Farms to explore the significant role of genetic advancements in their dairy operations. Ken McCarty shares insights on how the partnership with Zoetis and the use of genetic evaluations from Zoetis Clarifide Plus have helped the farm enhance productivity, sustainability, and genetic progress. The discussion covers the farm's focus on traits like feed efficiency, reproductive efficiency, and health while addressing parentage accuracy and the long-term importance of sustainability in dairy farming. This episode is brought to you by Zoetis. As the world’s leading animal health company, Zoetis is dedicated to helping producers achieve healthy animals, healthy dairies and healthy food through their world-class portfolio. For more information, visit ⁠DairyWellness.com⁠ and ⁠Clarifideplus.com⁠.

179 | Navigating Family Farm Transition Planning with Will McKinley, Menn Law

Why do family farm transition plans stall before they are completed? Today, we uncover two root reasons that hold families back from taking the next step with attorney Will McKinley, president of Menn Law in Appleton, Wisconsin. Will, who grew up on the farm fields of Illinois, has been spending his time in the field with well-known agriculture attorney George Twohig since the principal office of Twohig Rietbrock Schneider Halbach S.C. affiliated with Menn Law last year. Today, Will shares stories and expertise on navigating the early stages of transition planning and how to keep the process moving forward. Contact Will McKinley at Menn Law: William-McKinley@mennlaw.com (920) 731-6631 https://mennlaw.com/ Do you have a question on succession and farm transition you would like to hear Will answer on the Uplevel Dairy Podcast? Send your questions to peggy@upleveldairy.com

178 | Scaling the Vision: 10,000 Cows by 2032 with Tommy Oesch

Tommy Oesch from Swiss Lane Farms in Michigan is back with us today, and we are going to hear about a transition he has personally made in the past 6 months. The transition from operations manager to full-time visionary for Swiss Lane Farms. And find out how that original vision has scaled from 7,000 cows to a 10,000 cow business model by 2032, and how Swiss Lane plans to get there. Listen to past episodes with Tommy Oesch here: Ep 35 | ⁠https://pod.link/1687111792/episode/4289e434864d0a31682ebbcc894c7a55⁠ Ep 55 | ⁠https://pod.link/1687111792/episode/4e0a13795d769abad852b9592cc66c39⁠ ⁠Ep 54 | https://pod.link/1687111792/episode/8bbf69c14c287f7960044b792ad5f3bc⁠ Ep 101 | ⁠https://pod.link/1687111792/episode/b690cf3193efb046a08fa5e3b44dc175⁠ 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/⁠ Make sure to join the Uplevel Dairy email list to receive new podcasts, blogs, and offers from Uplevel Dairy in your inbox. To listen to more episodes, head over to Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Don’t forget to rate and review! Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here:⁠⁠https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe⁠⁠

Finding the Right Roles in Your Family Farm Business | Dairy Industry | Dairy Farming | Succession

Do you want to know the secret to optimizing family dynamics during a farm transition? Thoughtful and intentional interviewing. This conversation from the three-part series last week dives into the importance of finding the right roles within your family enterprise, highlighting how interviews can uncover hidden talents and fit. By exploring personal experiences and the impact of guided discussions, valuable lessons emerge about teamwork, communication, and leadership within the family context. Check out all three parts from last week starting with episode 175 or catch the full video on YouTube! #FamilyBusiness #Interviews #TeamDynamics #Leadership #Communication #BusinessSuccess #FamilyDynamics #RightRoles #NextGeneration #Entrepreneurship #FamilyValues

175 | How to Pass on a 7-Generation Dairy Farm | A Panel From World Dairy Expo 2024

In this special 3-part series, we are bringing you the Tanbark Talk held at World Dairy Expo, where we delved into the complexities of transitioning a farm to the next generation. Meet the Panelists: - Dennis, Jeni & Alan Oechscner, Oechsner Farms: This seventh-generation dairy farm is currently navigating a 10-year ownership transition plan. The Oechsners will share their firsthand experience managing multi-generational dynamics while embracing modern technologies. - Jared Holt, President & CEO, Ascent Financial: Jared brings deep financial expertise to the discussion, offering insights on estate planning, debt management and financial strategies for long-term success. - Steve Schwoerer, VP of Dairy Lending, Compeer Financial: With over 31 years in dairy lending, Steve will share his knowledge on financial planning for transitions and how Compeer supports dairy clients through the process.

173 | Dairy Managers: Use this tool to fine-tune your team

Are you looking for ways to up your management skill set, better understand your team members and what motivates them, and better understand yourself? In this episode, Dustin Wirt, site manager for Silver Streak’s dairy in Cottonwood, Minnesota. Cottonwood Dairy is the first stop for first-lactation cows that calve in Kansas and then make their way to Minnesota. Dustin, who has a background as a dairy herd analyst and repro consultant, cut his teeth managing dairies in Kansas, South Dakota and Colorado, before joining the Silver Streak group about three years ago. He tells us today about a tool that has not only helped him to further develop his own skills, but also how he is incorporating strengths-based leadership and management within his team of 20 employees to push for their next level of performance - whether it’s setting somatic cell count goals or covering the bunker in record time. Listen in for a bonus conversation at the end of this episode! Nedap Power Play featuring Steve Pavleski, large herd specialist with Nedap, talking about the latest advancements in dairy technology and large dairy management. This episode is part of the High Performance mindset series powered by Nedap, The High-Performance Mindset Series is powered by Nedap. Nedap is future-proofing dairy farms by revolutionizing cow-side care through technologies in activity monitoring, cow locating, milk metering and identification. Learn more: https://nedap-livestockmanagement.com/ Other resources: CliftonStrengths© Online Talent Assessment https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/252137/home.aspx Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here: https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe

172 | Becoming a Price Maker with Mike McCarty, McCarty Family Farms

When their bank laid out the challenge to McCarty Family Farms to become a price maker, not a price taker, the McCartys were determined to find a way to market their milk differently. Two years later, the family came back with a plan to expand their dairy, build an on-site milk condensing plant and enter into a direct marketing agreement with Danone. The eldest of the four McCarty brothers, Mike, shares the story of leaving their century farm in Pennsylvania nearly 25 years ago for a bare ground site in northwest Kansas that has served as a canvas from which the family could paint a vision for their future, and how they are continuing to make those strides forward , together, today. This episode is brought to you by the Milc Group. Milc Group is a dairy software company that brings real-time, actionable data to dairy farms across the world. They are dedicated to revolutionizing the dairy industry with their user-friendly cloud-based software. ONE™ by Milc Group is our all-in-one app that brings together all the important aspects of your dairy together in one place. With products such as feed and animal management software, people training, dairy facility monitoring, and scale management, Milc Group is committed to providing producers with tools they need to succeed. ONETM Feed https://www.milcgroup.com/product/feed ONETM Scale https://www.milcgroup.com/product/scale Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here: https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe

171 | Ultra-Endurance: Running for a Reason with Jordan Matthews, Rosy-Lane Holsteins

In this episode, Jordan Matthews from Rosy-Lane Holsteins shares how his brother's battle with stage four colon cancer motivated him to take on ultra-endurance running to support cancer research. He highlights the mindset, discipline, and structure required for managing a dairy farm and pushing personal limits to optimize his time, his health and his influence on those around him. Jordan's upcoming fundraising run, 'A Day in the Park,' aims to support the Carbone Cancer Center by running for 13 continuous hours and raising $10,000, showcasing his dedication not only to his career in dairy farming but also to meaningful causes. Make your gift to the “A Day in the Park” fundraiser for Carbone Cancer Center here: ​​https://give.wiscmedicine.org/fundraiser/5896507 Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here: https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe

170 | 5 Steps to Turn Your Dairy Farm into a Professional Brand with Susan Heim

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen and guest Susan Heim discuss pivotal steps to elevate your dairy farm into a professional business through strategic branding.  Peggy and Susan outline five key steps to create and sustain a brand that resonates with your employees, community, and consumers.  With real-life examples from local farms like the Eberts and Pagel's Ponderosa, they illustrate how effective branding fosters community engagement, employee loyalty, and an impactful market presence. Whether you're a dairy farmer looking to transform your business or maintain employee retention, this episode provides actionable insights and strategies designed to uplevel your dairy farm. Connect with Susan Hiem, owner and president of Quali-T: 920-845-1010 ext. 101 sheim@qualitinc.com Learn more about how Quali-T provides branding solutions, work wear, reflective gear and other customized merchandise for farms and agribusinesses: ⁠https://qualitinc.espwebsite.com/⁠ Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here: ⁠https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe⁠

169 | Two Year Anniversary of Episode 1 of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast with Jared Dueppengiesser

I can't believe it's been two years since hitting "publish" on my very first episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast. I'm resharing that very podcast with you today, so enjoy! Jared Dueppengiesser has worked his way up through the Milk Source organization, from a herdsman to now manager of Rosendale Dairy. He leads a team of 52 employees on one of Wisconsin’s largest dairies. In this podcast, Jared shares how he took on the challenge of upleveling the culture of this dairy to be a place where people want to work and want to stay … with nearly zero employee turnover for the past half year. And he’s done all this at just 26 years old. What you’ll learn: - Jared’s vision for the culture he wanted to create at Rosendale Dairy - What he does every day to create that culture - Who is the most important employee? - The tools that empowered him to take action - The results of culture on employee turnover - Jared’s best advice to others managing both cows and people Meet the guest: Jared Dueppengiesser has worked his way up through the Milk Source organization, from an intern to a herdsman to now herd manager of one of Wisconsin’s largest dairies. He leads a team of 52 employees at Milk Source’s Rosendale Dairy. A New York native, Jared grew up on his family’s 900-cow dairy before heading off to Cornell University. A natural leader and “people person,” he is proving his management skills at the young age of 26 years old. While people and building a culture for his team to thrive are his passion, Jared has never strayed from his love for being hands-on with cows. In fact, he and his family, along with partners Milk Source Genetics and Fischer, exhibited the Grand Champion Red & White cow at the 2022 World Dairy Expo, MS Ransom Rail Beth. 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.

168 | Determined to Dairy No Matter What: A Dutchman’s Dairy Farming Journey with Tony Golstine

Join me on a journey today as a Dutch dairyman shares his story of starting out with 34 cows on a rented farm in Germany and building from scratch what is a 1,600-cow dairy farm today in Indiana. Tony Golstine from Union-Go Dairy has faced extreme challenges with fierce determination and a “never give up” attitude, and you are about to find out why … even through times of financial hardship and fighting cancer … he continues to say he is the happiest guy in the world And hear why he believes investing in tools from Micro Technologies like Cubex and activity monitoring will position his dairy for the next generation of young, tech-savvy dairy farm employees. This episode is sponsored by Micro Technologies Micro Technologies innovates advanced, comprehensive & integrated technologies to help dairies produce a safe, wholesome product more efficiently and profitably. Learn more about Cubex QBud Health Inventory Management here: https://www.microtechnologies.com/dairy/cubex-qbud Subscribe to Uplevel Dairy Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClQ6xQHZ0A1vqHKjRkbtJJA Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here: https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe

California Bird Flu Update, Butter Slips and Cheese Stays Strong: HighGround Dairy Market Update

In this episode, Curtis Bosma from HighGround Dairy shares an update on the bird flu from California’s dairy-dense Central Valley, and distills these market movements: - Huge Crops Keeping Feed Costs Lower - Cheese Exports Holding Steady - Butter Prices Slip Grab your Monthly Market Update Here: https://www.highgrounddairy.com/october-2024-dairy-producer-market-update/ 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 Oct. 21 2024 at 3 p.m. CST and only represent the views of the speaker and not those of HighGround Trading, unless otherwise expressly noted.

166 | Exclusive Insights: H5N1 Biosecurity and Management Strategies for Dairy Farms

From World Dairy Expo 2024: If you missed this session live, get up to speed now on H5N1 as we hear from Dr. Jason Lombard from Colorado State University, who has been studying this virus since its early findings, Dr. Keith Poulson from the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, Miquela Hanselman, who leads the FARM program’s Biosecurity efforts and dairy producers Brent Wilson from Michigan who opens up on how H5N1 impacted his herd and what others can learn from this experience, alongside California producer Brian Pacheco, as he strategizes to protect his herd from the outbreak in his area that has not yet touched his dairy. Subscribe to Uplevel Dairy Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClQ6xQHZ0A1vqHKjRkbtJJA Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here: https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe

Showbox Stories with Tim Abbott, featuring Jim Ostrom, John Vosters and Steve Briggs

We gathered around the Showbox Sires showbox at World Dairy Expo to share with you stories from some of the most notable and influential people in the dairy cattle show business. In this episode, Peggy Coffeen and Tim Abbott sit down with Jim Ostrom and John Vosters from Milk Source to hear about their show ring memories, as well as their story of building a multi-site dairy, dairy goat and cheese business. Then, Steve Briggs from Brigeen Farms talks about the best mentors he has had in his lifetime - the next generation of dairy youth. If you enjoy this episode, head back in our list to Part 1, featuring guests Tom Morris and Ernie Kueffner. Thanks to Tim Abbott and Showbox Sires for this collaboration. Learn more about Showbox Sires here: https://www.showboxsires.com/

Showbox Stories with Tim Abbott, featuring Tom Morris and Ernie Kueffner | World Dairy Expo 2024

We gathered around the Showbox Sires showbox at World Dairy Expo to share with you stories from some of the most notable and influential people in the dairy cattle show business. In this episode, Peggy Coffeen and Tim Abbott sit down with Tom Morris and Ernie Kueffner, as they recount the early days of World Dairy Expo, the cows they will never forget and the stories that have stayed locked away inside their showboxes for years. And this is only Part 1! Join us on the next episode to hear from three more industry greats! Thanks to Tim Abbott and Showbox Sires for this collaboration. Learn more about Showbox Sires here: https://www.showboxsires.com/

163 | How Technology will Take McCarty Family Farms into the next 25 Years

Nearly 25 years ago, the McCarty family picked up from Pennsylvania and planted new roots in northwest Kansas. Now a multi-site dairy business, the most recent addition to McCarty Family Farms includes two adjoining 5,000-cow facilities. Clay McCarty talks about the technologies he believes will take this operation 25 years into the future. Clay delves into the strategic decisions that have shaped this family business, from adopting dairy management software solutions by Milc Group to optimizing feeding systems with innovative technology. He reflects on the dynamic environment that encourages growth and innovation while maintaining a strong focus on animal welfare and community ties in this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast. This episode is brought to you by the Milc Group. Milc Group is a dairy software company that brings real-time, actionable data to dairy farms across the world. They are dedicated to revolutionizing the dairy industry with their user-friendly cloud-based software. ONE™ by Milc Group is our all-in-one app that brings together all the important aspects of your dairy together in one place. With products such as feed and animal management software, people training, dairy facility monitoring, and scale management, Milc Group is committed to providing producers with tools they need to succeed. ONETM Feed https://www.milcgroup.com/product/feed ONETM Scale https://www.milcgroup.com/product/scale Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here: https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe

162 | Taking the Next Steps to Your Professional Dairy Career

In this episode, we bring you our panel and session from the National Dairy Shrine’s Young Professionals Luncheon at World Dairy Expo, held on Sept. 30, 2024. This panel includes three individuals who will share their personal career journeys, from when they were once college students themselves to the roles in which they serve the dairy industry today: Panelists: Rachel (Coyne) Kurth – MILC Group Jared Dueppengiesser-Acepsis Nick Randle - Zoetis Learn how to build your own professional network, seek out personal development, make big job decisions and step into leadership roles both at work and within the dairy community from this trio of dairy professionals. Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here: https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe

161 | Running Fast, Slowing Down and Backing Up Cattle Trailers like a Champ with Elle St. Pierre

Today we are catching up with a member of Team USA - the 2x Olympian who just placed 8th in the women’s 1500 m at the 2024 Summer Games in Paris, France. Olympic runner isn’t her only title. She is also a dairy farmer, alongside her husband Jamie, and his family at Pleasant Valley Farms in Vermont, where they are raising their little farm boy, Ivan. We’re catching up with Elle Purrier St. Pierre on setting records after becoming a mom, her most unforgettable moments from Paris, and life after the Olympics, back on the farm. 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/ Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here: https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe Olympic Athlete | Dairy Industry | Dairy Leader | Elle St. Pierre | Dairy Farmer

160 | Multi-Site Dairy Data Management Made Simple with Chris Szydel | Dairy Tech | Dairy Industry

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy podcast, host Peggy Coffeen sits down with Chris Szydel, the Herd Manager at Pagel's Ponderosa Dairy. Chris shares his journey and insights into how advanced technologies are revolutionizing dairy farming. From automated systems to track cow health and performance to integration tools that streamline operations, the episode delves into how these technologies are not only improving cow care but also enhancing efficiency and profitability. The conversation covers a range of dairy technologies, including DairyComp, Nedap cow collars, and Valley Ag Software, emphasizing how these tools collectively contribute to a more organized and efficient dairy operation. Chris highlights the benefits of the Nedap Smart Sort Gate, which has drastically improved labor efficiency and cow care by automating the identification and sorting of cows. This episode is a must-listen for dairy farm owners, managers, and advisors aiming to adopt a high-performance mindset and leverage cutting-edge technologies to propel their operations forward. The High-Performance Mindset Series is powered by Nedap. Nedap is future-proofing dairy farms by revolutionizing cow-side care through technologies in activity monitoring, cow locating, milk metering and identification. Learn more at Nedap.com

159 | Going from Good to Great at Woldt Farms LLC with Pauly Paul

Welcome to the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, hosted by Peggy Coffeen. In this insightful episode, Peggy visits Woldt Family Farms in Brillion, Wisconsin, as they prepare for their virtual farm tour at the World Dairy Expo. Joining her is Pauly Paul from Complete Management Consulting, who shares his expertise on how he helped take Woldt Family Farms from good to great. In this episode, you will hear about the transformative changes implemented at Woldt Family Farms. Pauly discusses how his team managed to run 200 more cows through the milking parlor daily without adding extra labor. Discover the significant reduction in fresh cow treatments from 40% to 5%, achieved through improved employee engagement and streamlined procedures. Pauly's hands-on, boots-on-the-ground approach is highlighted as crucial to these successes, illustrating crucial aspects of parlor efficiency and fresh cow management.

158 | Join Uplevel Dairy Live at World Dairy Expo! | World Dairy Expo 2024 | Dairy Industry | Dairy

If you are heading to the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin, next week, I want to invite you to a few Uplevel Dairy LIVE events! For a little sneak peek behind the scenes of this and more at WDE, make sure to follow Uplevel Dairy on FB or IG to see my stories! Here's a complete rundown of all the must-attend sessions and panels we're hosting: National Dairy Shrine Young Professionals Luncheon Monday, Sept. 30 Join me as I chat with Nick Randle, Rachel (Coyne) Kurth, and Jared Duppengiesser about Taking the Next Steps in Your Professional Dairy Career. Register here: ⁠https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfM2XjqPTbJjwjKzMdqvzieCOCxCZL1j-xnyuc7EHpHzNAidw/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawFassRleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHVP0hJEWgwm_UayuzSEL0OaMr8Ohh_m3cyNYpFel9MT5hjnEK9hUxHU46g_aem_hMul91SeqqV9FHN8YABu5g⁠ Tanbark Talk with Compeer October 1st, 9 a.m. to 11 am in the Tanbark Securing the Future: A candid conversation about dairy farm transition planning. Sponsored by: Compeer Financial Panelists: The Oeschner Family; Steve Schweoer, Compeer Financial; Jared Holt, Ascent Financial. Join us live or virtually here: ⁠https://compeer.com/WorldDairyExpo2024.html⁠ Bonus: Attendees at the Tandbark will receive a free grilled cheese coupon courtesy of Compeer! Exclusive Insights: H5N1 Biosecurity and Management Strategies for Dairy Farms Thursday, October 3rd | 10:30 a.m. In this session, we are exploring how to address current H5N1 challenges to the industry with best practices for mitigating risk and preparing for the future. In partnership with FARM. Virtual Farm Tour of Woldt Farms Friday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m. in the Exhibition Hall, or tune in to Expo TV Featuring Woldt Family Farms & Sponsored by Complete Management Consulting LLC. Good to Great: How This Dairy Crushed Their Goals for Improved Efficiency and Profitability with the assistance of Complete Management Consulting. Subscribe to Uplevel Dairy Podcast on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClQ6xQHZ0A1vqHKjRkbtJJA⁠ Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here: ⁠https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe⁠

Record dairy markets + how to value corn silage: HighGround Dairy September Monthly Market Update

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, host Peggy Coffeen dives into the current landscape of dairy markets with Curtis Bosma from HighGround Dairy. The episode starts by giving listeners an overview of recent trends in dairy futures, including notable gains in Class III and Class IV prices and the implications for dairy producers. Curtis shares insights on the influence of managed money in the commodity markets and what this indicates about future market movements. Throughout the episode, Curtis discusses the critical impact of diseases such as the Blue Tongue virus in Europe and the H5N1 avian influenza in California. He highlights how these events affect global and local dairy production and what dairy farmers need to watch for regarding their milk supply and pricing. Curtis also offers advice on how dairy producers can navigate these tumultuous times by leveraging risk management strategies. The episode wraps up with an in-depth conversation about valuing corn silage, especially during the current harvest season. Curtis breaks down the various factors that should be considered, from managing shrinkage to understanding the financial implications of either growing or purchasing corn silage. This timely discussion is aimed at helping dairy farmers make informed decisions about their feed strategy to ensure financial stability and operational efficiency. Grab your September Market Report Here:  ⁠https://marketing.highgrounddairy.com/producer-market-update-september-2024⁠. 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 September 18, 2024 at 10 a.m. CST and only represent the views of the speaker and not those of HighGround Trading, unless otherwise expressly noted.

155 | FMMO Reform: What Could It Mean for Your Future Milk Check?

If you are wondering how proposed changes to the Federal Milk Marketing Order could impact your milk check, or perhaps you have asked yourself, would we be better off without a federal order system altogether? Well, today we are taking an in-depth look at making allowances, component changes, and the logistical and financial implications of these recommendations. Our guest today is Sara Dorland. As managing partner with Ceres Risk Management, she joins us to share her insights on the Federal Milk Marketing Order (FMMO) hearings, emphasizing five priority items impacting milk markets and your future milk check. Based in Sun Valley, Idaho, Sara brings 25 years of studying milk markets and assisting dairy producers and manufacturers with market education, forecasts, and risk management. Her background includes serving as the director of risk management for Darigold, Inc. the fourth-largest dairy cooperative in the United States. In fact, she has lived through the dissolution of the federal order system in parts of Utah and Idaho. Get ready to hear about this and more with Sara Dorland. Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to FMMO and Priority Items00:32 Understanding the Make Allowance01:21 Class One Differential Changes02:59 Impact of Recommendations on Milk Pricing12:25 USDA's Role and Producer Involvement14:46 Voting and Future Implications16:59 Life Without FMMO21:20 Risk Management and Final Thoughts Join us at World Dairy Expo for this Tanbark Talk: “Securing the Future: A candid conversation about dairy farm transition planning” Tuesday, Oct. 1, 9 a.m. to 11 am., in the TanbarkHosted by: Peggy Coffeen, Uplevel Dairy Podcast Sponsored by: Compeer Financial Panelists: The Oeschner Family; Steve Schweoer, Compeer Financial; Jared Holt, Ascent Financial. Tune in LIVE virtually! Register now: ⁠Compeer.com/WDE2024⁠ Featured guest: Sara Dorland, managing partner, Ceres DRMsara.dorland@ceresdrm.com⁠www.ceresdrm.com⁠ The 60-day comment period ends on September 13th. Make your comments and find more information ⁠here⁠. This episode is sponsored by 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 ⁠. Subscribe to Uplevel Dairy Podcast on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClQ6xQHZ0A1vqHKjRkbtJJA⁠ Want to get new episodes in your inbox? Subscribe here: ⁠https://www.upleveldairy.com/subscribe

154 | Young Leader: Lexie Nunes

Are you a young professional or college student who is looking to make connections and hear stories of others and their paths to successful careers in dairy? If so, I have a special invitation for you: Join me at World Dairy Expo in Madison WI on Monday, Sept 30 for the National Dairy Shrine and Young Professionals Luncheon and Career Connection to hear a panel of three young professionals who will share their experiences and how you can prepare for your next steps in the dairy industry. This panel features Rachel Kurth, MILC Group, Jared Dueppengiesser, Acepsis and Nick Randle, Zoetis. Reserve your spot here: https://forms.gle/nrvTQDpn91my6Vgb6

Job Opportunities in the Dairy Industry for Young Leaders | Dairy Industry | Podcast | Young Leader

This last week, I had the chance to sit down with Young Leader, Brianna Meyer to talk about all things dairy.... If you want to catch more of this conversation, you can give it a listen here: https://loom.ly/iqHxZuE