233 | Jon-De Farms: A New Spin on Legacy and Leadership
In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen speaks with Mikayla McGee of Jon-De Farms in Baldwin, Wisconsin. With dairy farming roots at Jon-De dating back to 1912, Mikayla shares her journey of returning to her family farm, challenging traditions, and making bold decisions to optimize operations. From right-sizing their dairy herd and adopting a rotary parlor to navigating human resources and maintaining the legacy, Mikayla discusses the blend of innovation and tradition that drives the farm today.
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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.
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00:00 Introduction to Bold Decisions at Jon-De Farms
01:15 Mikayla McGee's Return and Leadership Challenges
01:49 Historical Insights and Family Legacy
03:57 Transitioning and Finding Her Place
08:44 Innovative Changes and Right-Sizing the Dairy
14:40 Implementing the Rotary Parlor
16:57 Employee Well-being and Work Schedule Adjustments
18:29 Technology and Innovations in Dairy Farming
20:22 Right-Sizing Philosophy and Financial Decisions
22:45 Human Resource Management and Employee Relations
27:30 Future Plans and Personal Reflections
28:47 Rapid-Fire Questions and Final Thoughts
