The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Jeff Firkins from The Ohio State University explains how fatty acids interact with rumen bacteria and influence fiber digestion in dairy cattle. He discusses the evolution of microbiome research, methane mitigation strategies, and the role of saturated versus unsaturated fats. Learn how a moderate fat strategy can help improve energy efficiency and cow performance. Listen now on all major platforms!"Many microbes can pull in fatty acids from the environment, and providing palmitic acid saves the equivalent of producing eight acetates, significantly reducing energy costs for bacterial membrane synthesis."Meet the guest: Dr. Jeff Firkins earned his B.S., M.S., Ph.D., and postdoctoral in Ruminant Nutrition from the University of Illinois. As a Distinguished Professor at The Ohio State University, he researches dairy microbiology and nutrition, especially microbial protein synthesis and fiber degradation.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!Dr. Rik Hendriks: Transition Cows Strategies | Ep. 95Dr. Enrique Schcolnik: Feed Efficiency Tips | Ep. 120Dr. Corinna Brock: Fatty Acids & Dairy Cattle | Ep. 131What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:15) Introduction(04:39) Microbiome diversity(09:10) Fatty acids in the rumen(15:00) Fiber digestion insights(18:15) Palmitic vs. oleic(26:50) Methane reduction via fat(31:12) Final questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like: Berg + Schmidt* Priority IAC* Adisseo* Afimilk* Evonik- Natural Biologics- SmaXtec- ICC- Protekta- AHV- dsm-firmenich𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Enrico Casella, from Penn State University, discusses how artificial intelligence drives innovation in dairy farming. From using computer vision to estimate body weight to implementing sustainable water management and monitoring heat stress, Dr. Casella explains high-impact solutions advancing cattle health and boosting efficiency on the farm. Tune in on all major platforms!"Depth cameras use height data instead of color, enabling precise bodyweight estimation in dairy systems."Meet the guest: Dr. Enrico Casella, Assistant Professor of Data Science for Animal Systems at Penn State University’s Animal Science Department and Co-Hire of the Institute for Computational and Data Sciences, specializes in leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) for animal health and development. With a PhD in Computer Science from the University of Kentucky and postdoctoral experience at UW-Madison, his interdisciplinary research integrates AI, computer vision, and optimization techniques.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:15) Introduction(01:67) Dr. Casella’s career(06:58) AI & bodyweight(15:22) Sustainable water use(19:10) Group data analysis(27:46) Future opportunities(31:49) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Adisseo* Priority IAC* Evonik- dsm-firmenich- SmaXtec- Natural Biologics- Berg + Schmidt- ICC- Protekta- AHV𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Geoff Ackaert, Technical Director at AHV International, shares how quorum sensing inhibition is reshaping dairy cattle health management. By targeting microbial communication, this approach offers proactive strategies to improve animal health. He explains its impact on udder health, mastitis prevention, and lifetime milk production, as well as how it supports sustainable farming practices. Listen now on all major platforms!"Quorum sensing is simply communication between bacteria, enabling them to coordinate infection and biofilm formation."Meet the guest: Dr. Geoff Ackaert holds a DVM from Ghent University and an MBA from Vlerick Business School. His work bridges veterinary science, research, and market strategies to support animal health and sustainable dairy production. He currently serves as Technical Director at AHV International, and his expertise includes quorum sensing inhibition, immune modulation, and sustainable health practices.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!Dr. Johanna Fink-Gremmels: Biofilms & Dairy Health | Ep. 144What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:10) Introduction(04:29) Concept explained(06:30) Quorum sensing inhibition(08:20) Science and marketing(14:00) Sustainable farming tools(20:18) Lifetime milk gains(23:39) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like: AHV* Evonik* Adisseo* Priority IAC- dsm-firmenich- SmaXtec- Natural Biologics- Berg + Schmidt- ICC- Protekta𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Corwin Nelson from the University of Florida takes a closer look at hypocalcemia and how our understanding of it has changed. He explains what’s really driving calcium imbalances, how inflammation plays a role, and what producers can do with current feeding and management tools. Hear practical strategies to keep cows healthier after calving. Listen now on all major platforms!"Zeolite binders have been very effective at preventing hypocalcemia on farms, and the nutritionists using them seem genuinely satisfied with the results."Meet the guest: Dr. Corwin Nelson is an Associate Professor of Physiology at the University of Florida. He holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Immunobiology from Iowa State University and a B.S. in Biochemistry from the University of Minnesota-Duluth. His research focuses on improving cattle health and productivity through better nutritional and immune system strategies.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!Dr. Michael Hutjens: Buffer Benefits for Dairy Cows | Ep. 58Dr. Michael Steele: Colostrum Feeding Strategies | Ep. 104Dr. Miguel Morales: Transition Cows & Calcium Balance | Ep. 126What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:37) Introduction(04:50) Hypocalcemia insights(07:48) Effects on cow health(15:05) Calcium monitoring strategies(20:02) Prepartum feeding tools(23:10) Transition cow health tools(27:37) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like: Protekta* Priority IAC* Evonik* Adisseo- AHV- dsm-firmenich- SmaXtec- Natural Biologics- Berg + Schmidt- ICC𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. José Eduardo Santos from the University of Florida breaks down how dietary fat plays a role in dairy cow health and reproduction. He discusses the physiological effects of specific fatty acids, their anti-inflammatory roles, and the evolving strategies for fresh cow nutrition. Listen now on all major platforms!"Feeding fatty acids may benefit fresh cows by supporting immune function, without harming milk fat synthesis."Meet the guest: Dr. José Eduardo Santos is a Research Foundation Professor at the University of Florida, holding a DVM from São Paulo State University and a Ph.D. from the University of Arizona. His work focuses on enhancing dairy efficiency, especially during the peripartum period, through integrative research in cow health, reproduction, and nutrition.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!Dr. Eduardo Rico: Decoding Ketosis in Dairy Cows | Ep. 87Dr. Rik Hendriks: Transition Cows Strategies | Ep. 95Dr. Corinna Brock: Fatty Acids & Dairy Cattle | Ep. 131What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:18) Introduction(01:58) Academic sabbatical insights(08:11) Feeding fat strategies(14:29) Metabolic health pathways(19:48) Reproduction and fatty acids(26:59) Industry shifts(30:06) Closing thoughtsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like: Berg + Schmidt* Priority IAC* Evonik* Adisseo- ICC- Protekta- AHV- dsm-firmenich- SmaXtec- Natural Biologics𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Haylee Reisinger, a PhD student at Michigan State University, shares her research on using bioactive compounds in dairy cow diets to support the immune system. She explains the differences between bioactives and nutraceuticals, and how they influence immune and reproductive systems. Listen now on all major platforms!"Some phenolic compounds may support reproductive and metabolic health, not just immunity."Meet the guest: Haylee Reisinger is a PhD student in Animal Science at Michigan State University, researching how bioactive compounds influence immunity and metabolism in dairy cattle. She holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from Penn State University, where she developed her interest in dairy nutrition.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!Dr. Charlie Elrod: Viral Combat Strategies | Ep. 99Dr. Adrian Barragan: Managing Transition Period Inflammation | Ep. 106Dr. Chris Chase: Gut Health’s Impact on Cattle | Ep. 114What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:23) Introduction(05:52) Understanding bioactives(08:30) Nutraceuticals insights(12:23) Omega-3 in cattle(16:08) Benefits of bioactives(20:60) Future research outlook(25:20) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like: Natural Biologics* Adisseo* Priority IAC* Evonik- ICC- Berg + Schmidt- Protekta- AHV- dsm-firmenich- SmaXtec𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Paige Gott from dsm-firmenich Animal Nutrition & Health unpacks the complexities of mycotoxins in dairy cattle nutrition. She explains contamination risks, testing methods, and regional variability, offering practical guidance for dairy professionals preparing for harvest.  Get ahead of mycotoxin challenges before they impact herd health. Listen now on all major platforms!"Youngstock and heifers are highly susceptible to mycotoxins, even at low levels."Meet the guest: Dr. Paige Gott is the Sr. Technical Manager for Ruminants in North America at dsm-firmenich Animal Nutrition & Health. She earned her B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. from The Ohio State University, focusing on udder health, milk quality, and transition cow management.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!Dr. Gustavo Schuenemann: Mycotoxins & Dairy Feed | Ep. 125Ignacio Artavia: Vitamin D & Dairy Cows | Ep. 132What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:06) Introduction(05:43) Mycotoxin insights(07:43) Regional contamination differences(09:48) Analysis strategies(13:12) Sources of contamination(25:52) Risk to youngstock(29:09) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like: dsm-firmenich* Evonik* Adisseo* Priority IAC- SmaXtec- Berg + Schmidt- ICC- Protekta- AHV- Natural Biologics𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Brad Daigneault, from the University of Florida, unpacks the science behind bull fertility and semen quality. Dr. Daigneault talks about key factors like motility scoring and mitochondrial function, and how technologies are being used to improve fertility predictions and boost reproductive performance. Discover how new tools may enhance fertility screening and protect producers from costly reproductive failures. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!"Motility is still the best indicator of fertility, but it doesn’t always predict outcomes accurately."Meet the guest: Dr. Brad Daigneault is an Assistant Professor of Reproductive Biology at the University of Florida, focusing on improving livestock fertility through innovative reproductive technologies. With a Ph.D. in Animal Science from the University of Illinois and an M.S. in Biomedical Sciences from Colorado State University, his research explores sperm biology, gene-environment interactions, and embryo development. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:14) Introduction(01:45) Dr. Daigneault’s journey(05:22) Bull fertility evaluation(08:09) Sperm analysis(11:25) Mitochondria & sperm(22:19) Analysis technologies(28:30) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Priority IAC* Evonik* Adisseo- Natural Biologics- SmaXtec- Berg + Schmidt- dsm-firmenich- ICC- Protekta- AHV𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Mike Hutjens, Professor Emeritus at the University of Illinois, shares valuable tools to optimize calcium levels in transition cows. He breaks down how strategies like DCAD diets and zeolites can help prevent calcium-related health issues, ensuring cows stay healthy and productive through the critical early stages of lactation. Don’t miss his practical tips for better herd management. Listen now on all major platforms!"When blood calcium is low in fresh cows, it leads to a cascade of problems with milk production, reproduction, and immunity."Meet the guest: Dr. Mike Hutjens is a Professor Emeritus in Animal Sciences at the University of Illinois. With extensive experience in dairy nutrition and herd management, Dr. Hutjens has contributed to the development of educational materials for dairy professionals worldwide. He has worked extensively on improving transition cow health, focusing on blood calcium management to optimize dairy production.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!Dr. Michael Hutjens: Buffer Benefits for Dairy Cows | Ep. 58Dr. Michael Steele: Colostrum Feeding Strategies | Ep. 104Dr. Miguel Morales: Transition Cows & Calcium Balance | Ep. 126What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:15) Introduction(04:57) Calcium in fresh cows(07:28) DCAD diet best practices(10:13) Zeolite use in dairy(16:20) Boluses insights(21:25) Monitoring fresh cows(24:71) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like: Protekta* Priority IAC* Evonik* Adisseo- AHV- Natural Biologics- SmaXtec- Berg + Schmidt- dsm-firmenich- ICC𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Hinayah Rojas, from Purdue University, shares valuable insights into the rapidly evolving field of genomics in dairy cattle. Dr. Rojas breaks down the challenges and opportunities presented by longitudinal traits like milk production, discussing how genomic tools are helping to boost sustainability across the industry. Additionally, Dr. Rojas offers advice on balancing motherhood with a demanding professional life. Listen now on all major platforms!"The lactation curve is complex, but genomics allows us to select animals not only for higher milk production but also for better lactation persistence."Meet the guest: Dr. Hinayah Rojas de Oliveira is an Assistant Professor of Genomics and Animal Breeding at Purdue University. She holds a PhD in Animal Sciences, focusing on Genetics and Animal Breeding, from the Federal University of Viçosa in Brazil. Dr. Rojas has completed postdoctoral work at the University of Guelph and Purdue University and previously worked as a Geneticist at Lactanet Canada. Her research aims to develop statistical models that maximize genetic progress while preserving diversity in livestock species.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:30) Introduction(02:35) Dr. Rojas’s journey(08:52) Genomics in dairy cattle(11:55) Longitudinal traits(14:30) Genomic & efficiency(17:11) Sustainability & genomics(28:35) Final questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Adisseo* Lallemand* Priority IAC* Evonik- ICC- AHV- Protekta- Natural Biologics- SmaXtec- Berg + Schmidt- dsm-firmenich𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show