291 Part 2 | Generational Farm Transition Strategies: Galen Smith, Coldstream Farms
The long commitment of Nedap and GEA’s innovation partnership comes together to deliver performance that pays.
If you missed Part 1 of this episode, catch it here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1IHp5wV0E430zx27bOYpW6?si=4Lp91ZuORBqqMl6F4QZRDg
In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy continues the conversation with Galen Smith of Coldstream Farms. They discuss the complexities and strategies involved in transitioning a family farm business across generations. Galen shares insights into how his father-in-law integrated him into the business, the importance of financial success and passion for farming, and the approach to decision-making that drives profitability.
Galen also talks about preparing opportunities for his four sons to join the farm, emphasizing the value of open conversations, monthly financial meetings, and allowing the younger generation to take ownership of projects. They delve into the process behind adopting new technologies like CowScout collars and outline goals for 2026, including focusing on efficiency, animal health, and mental wellness. The episode highlights both the challenges and the innovative steps taken to ensure a successful family farm transition.
This episode is part of the High-Performance Mindset Series powered by Nedap.
Nedap is future-proofing dairy farming with smart technologies in activity monitoring, cow locating, milk metering, sort gates, and AI-powered camera systems. Nedap is improving life on the farm by putting the right cow in the right place at the right time, every time.
00:00 Introduction to Family Farm Transition
00:59 Galen Smith's Journey into the Family Business
01:38 Challenges and Strategies in Family Farm Transition
03:00 Financial Success and Passion in Farming
05:12 Generational Transition at Coldstream Farms
11:13 Collaborative Decision-Making and Technology Investments
17:19 Setting Up the Next Generation for Success
23:01 Goals and Reflections for the Future
28:55 Personal Goals and Family Time
32:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
