239 | Navigating Risk and Opportunity in Dairy Farming with Preston Fernandes
In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Preston Fernandes shares his extraordinary journey from California's Central Valley to managing multiple distressed dairies. Rooted in his family's legacy, Preston's story highlights his innovative lean management style, risk-taking appetite, and the tough lessons learned about leadership and growth.
Listeners will gain insights into scaling a dairy business sustainably in today’s competitive industry and marvel at Preston's bold vision for the future, including the potential use of bipedal robots.
Sponsored by AHV, this episode offers valuable lessons in resilience, strategic thinking, and the relentless pursuit of opportunity.
This Episode is Brought to you by AHV
AHV (Animal Health Vision) helps empower their customers as entrepreneurs who embrace innovations in animal health. As a knowledge center, they are a leader in the field of quorum sensing innovations and advisory services for optimal animal health, with programs that focus on improving key areas such as udder health, uterine health, reproduction, and more. AHV celebrates the health and success of the dairy cow and is also proud to honor and celebrate dairy farm moms who are making a difference, today and every day.
Find more information at: https://ahvint.com/
00:00 Introduction: Grit, Vision, and Risk
01:24 Meet Preston Fernandes: A Dairy Legacy
02:18 The Family History: From Immigrant Roots to Dairy Success
05:02 Scaling Up: The Cigar Butt Method
08:21 Challenges and Growth: The Reality of Dairy Farming
13:27 The Turning Point: Starting Three Dairies in One Month
26:51 Future Ambitions: Vertical Integration and Innovation
35:04 Advice and Reflections: Lessons Learned
37:26 Conclusion: Bold Moves and Belief in the Future
