The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Jennifer Spencer, Assistant Professor and Dairy Extension Specialist at Texas A&M AgriLife, unpacks key strategies for optimizing heifer reproductive management. From body condition scoring to puberty timing and the use of precision tools, Dr. Spencer highlights practical benchmarks that enhance breeding efficiency and herd productivity. Tune in now on all major platforms!"First-lactation reproductive performance influences future productivity, so heifer management is crucial."Meet the guest: Dr. Jennifer Spencer, Assistant Professor and Dairy Extension Specialist at Texas A&M AgriLife, earned her Ph.D. and M.S. in Dairy Reproductive Physiology and Endocrinology and her B.S. in Animal Science from the University of Idaho. She has expertise in dairy reproduction and nutrient management and provides practical solutions to improve heifer management and herd productivity. What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:13) Introduction(04:43) Reproductive programs(07:35) Heifer breeding(09:03) Body condition scoring(13:40) Precision technologies(17:29) Estrus detection(25:46) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Adisseo- Natural Biologics- dsm-firmenich- ICC- Diamond V- Volac- SmaXtec- Acepsis- Berg + Schmidt- Trouw Nutrition- Protekta𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: 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 the differences between mineral sources like sulfates, organics, and hydroxy trace minerals, focusing on their bioavailability and interactions in the rumen. He explains how hydroxy trace minerals not only reduce antagonism but also enhance lactation performance. Tune in to this episode on your favorite platform!"Hydroxy chloride tends to be inert in the rumen due to the typical pH, resulting in minimal solubility and dissociation."Meet the guest: Dr. José Eduardo P. Santos, Professor in the Department of Animal Sciences at the University of Florida, specializes in dairy cattle nutrition and reproduction. He earned his DVM from São Paulo State University in Brazil, completed his M.Sc. and Ph.D. at the University of Arizona, and pursued a clinical residency in Dairy Production Medicine at UC Davis. Dr. Santos has dedicated his career to improving dairy production efficiency through innovative research.What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(00:54) Introduction(05:39) Transition cow minerals(08:23) Rumen mineral interactions(10:42) Hydroxychloride vs. sulfates(14:34) Disease reduction benefits(19:49) Copper toxicity risks(24:55) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:Trouw Nutrition* Adisseo- Protekta- Natural Biologics- dsm-firmenich- ICC- Diamond V- Volac- SmaXtec- Acepsis- Berg + Schmidt𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Enrique Schcolnik, Dairy Nutritionist and Management Consultant at Progressive Dairy Solutions, Inc., breaks down key factors impacting feed efficiency, from nutrient formulation to herd health, reproduction, and feed management. Dr. Schcolnik shares actionable insights into the role of energy-corrected milk, region-specific forage challenges, and strategic byproduct feeding, offering dairy producers practical ways to fine-tune their operations for better performance. Listen now on all major podcast platforms!"Energy-corrected milk is essential for comparing year-over-year efficiency across dairies."Meet the guest: Dr. Enrique Schcolnik earned his DVM in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and has since built a career in dairy nutrition and herd management. Currently, as a consultant with Progressive Dairy Solutions, Inc., he leverages over 15 years of experience to help dairy producers optimize feed efficiency, health, and profitability.What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:04) Introduction(04:25) Feed efficiency(06:26) Energy-corrected milk(08:04) Profit-focused nutrition tips(13:49) Impact of forage quality(22:39) Byproduct feeding(27:44) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:Berg + Schmidt* Adisseo- Acepsis- Trouw Nutrition- Protekta- Natural Biologics- dsm-firmenich- ICC- Diamond V- Volac- SmaXtec𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

Hello there!In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Kraig Peel, from Adisseo, explores the role of amino acid balancing—especially methionine—in enhancing reproductive health and boosting production efficiency in dairy cows. Dr. Peel breaks down how optimizing methionine levels can significantly impact fertility and overall herd performance, offering practical strategies to improve herd health and productivity. Listen now!"We see immediate results in dairy cattle when we add protected methionine to their diets, which can impact milk protein production right away."Meet the guest: Dr. Kraig Peel, currently a Technical Support Specialist at Adisseo, holds a master’s and Ph.D. in animal science from Texas A&M University. With expertise in animal nutrition, reproduction, health, and welfare—especially in cattle—Dr. Peel’s extensive background spans academic roles and field consulting, where he advises on scientific applications for dairy cattle health and production.What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(00:38) Introduction(01:05) Professional background(06:52) Bypass amino acids(09:40) Methionine’s role(11:37) Reproductive health(13:33) Consulting challenges(19:11) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Adisseo- SmaXtec- Acepsis- Trouw Nutrition- Protekta- Natural Biologics- dsm-firmenich- ICC- Berg + Schmidt- Diamond V- Volac𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

Hello there!Join us for the fourth episode of the Animal Protein Sustainability Series, where Julie Anna Potts, President & CEO of the Meat Institute, explores the importance of sustainability in the meat industry. From food safety to environmental impact and animal welfare, Potts discusses the comprehensive efforts the Meat Institute is spearheading to meet evolving consumer expectations. Tune in to learn about the industry’s commitment to transparent, sustainable practices to ensure a responsible future for animal protein. Listen now on all major platforms!"There's room for us in each of these areas—food safety, animal welfare, environmental impact, nutrition, and labor practices—to connect with consumers and ensure everyone in the chain is doing a good job."Meet the host: David Dayhoff is the North America Sustainability Director for Animal Nutrition & Health at DSM-Firmenich. With over two decades of experience, David specializes in sustainability, strategic business development, and international business. He holds an MA from Johns Hopkins and a BA from Princeton University. His expertise includes improving sustainability in agriculture and fostering global partnerships.Meet the guest: Julie Anna Potts, President and CEO of the Meat Institute, brings a wealth of experience in agricultural policy and industry leadership. Since 2018, she has led the Meat Institute, including its efforts to enhance sustainability and consumer trust in animal protein. Previously, Potts served as Executive Vice President at the American Farm Bureau Federation and held key legal and policy roles with the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition & Forestry.What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:20) Introduction(01:59) Overview of the Meat Institute(08:05) Key sustainability priorities(12:07) Building consumer trust(24:55) Building trust economic benefits(31:00) Collaborative messaging(33:51) Closing thoughtsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by an innovative company like:dsm-firmenich𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

Dr. Sarah Morrison, a research scientist at the Miner Institute with a Ph.D. in Dairy Nutrition, dives into the role of positive biofilms and probiotics in enhancing calf health. She emphasizes how beneficial bacteria support intestinal integrity and fend off harmful pathogens. The conversation covers innovative strategies for incorporating kefir into calf diets and discusses the surprising correlation between starter intake and growth during weaning. Dr. Morrison shares practical management tips to bolster farm productivity and improve overall calf welfare.

Hello there!In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Roger Thomson, a milk quality consultant, discusses practices in dairy management, focusing on milk quality and the details of dairy equipment efficiency. Dr. Thomson offers practical advice on optimizing parlor routines, balancing milking speed with effective milk letdown, and the importance of proper cow prep. Listen in now on all major podcast platforms!"Leaving milk in these glands when our prep isn’t right – that’s just a lost opportunity."Meet the guest: Dr. Roger Thomson holds a DVM from Michigan State University, specializing in large animal medicine. With over a decade as a milk quality consultant at MQ-IQ Consulting, Dr. Thomson brings extensive expertise in dairy cattle health and milk quality. What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(00:34) Introduction(01:02) Dairy veterinary path(06:34) Teaching and university roles(10:06) Modern dairy industry challenges(15:20) Steps for optimal milk letdown(23:33) Parlor efficiency and profits(33:26) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:Berg + Schmidt* Adisseo- Diamond V- Volac- SmaXtec- Acepsis- Trouw Nutrition- Protekta- Natural Biologics- dsm-firmenich- ICC𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

Hello there!In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Rebecca Meagher from Dalhousie University discusses the intricacies of animal welfare, focusing on dairy cattle. Dr. Meagher explores practical ways to enhance natural behaviors, reduce stress, and improve the well-being of dairy herds. Tune in now, available on all major platforms."We can’t ask animals directly what they feel, but we can tell a lot from their behavior. By offering choices, we can understand their positive or negative experiences."Meet the guest: Dr. Rebecca Meagher is an Associate Professor in Animal Welfare at Dalhousie University. With a BSc in Zoology from the University of Toronto and a Ph.D. in Animal Science from the University of Guelph, Dr. Meagher focuses on how housing and management affect the welfare and behavior of captive animals, particularly dairy cattle and farmed mink. Her research explores the impact of social environments and environmental enrichment on stress, cognition, and productivity, with a special focus on early-life management. What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(00:51) Introduction(02:51) Measuring welfare(04:55) Defining natural behavior(09:51) Social contact in calves(11:29) Enriching dairy environments(16:26) Benefits of animal welfare(24:07) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Adisseo- ICC- Diamond V- Volac- SmaXtec- Acepsis- Trouw Nutrition- Protekta- Natural Biologics- dsm-firmenich- Berg + Schmidt𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

Hello there!In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Conor McCabe from UC Davis shares insights into ways to cut methane emissions in dairy cattle. He explains how feed additives, better manure management, and new technologies can help meet sustainability goals. Conor also touches on the economic and environmental advantages of these methods. Tune in now on your favorite podcast platforms."Feed additives are the spices in a cow's diet; small amounts can make a big impact on emissions."Meet the guest: Conor McCabe is a PhD candidate at the University of California, Davis, specializing in dairy sustainability and methane reduction strategies. With a Master’s degree from Purdue University and a Bachelor’s degree from Cornell University, Conor is driven by a passion for sustainable livestock production, advancing the future of dairy sustainability.What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:44) Introduction(07:44) Methane reduction strategies(10:44) California dairy policies(16:22) Feed additives research(16:44) Carbon market dynamics(20:44) Long-term research goals(31:40) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Adisseo- Berg + Schmidt- ICC- Diamond V- Volac- SmaXtec- Acepsis- Trouw Nutrition- Protekta- Natural Biologics- dsm-firmenich𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

Hello there!In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Chris Chase from South Dakota State University highlights the importance of gut health in dairy cattle. He explains how the gut, the largest immune organ in cattle, influences overall health, immunity, and performance. Dr. Chase explores the complexities of microbiome interactions, inflammation, and the role of nutraceuticals in dairy cattle management. Listen now on all major platforms!"The gut is the largest immune organ in the body, and it plays a critical role in how the animal responds to challenges, both in the gut and systemically." Meet the guest: Dr. Chris Chase earned his DVM from Iowa State University and completed his M.S. and Ph.D. in virology and immunology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He is currently a professor of veterinary and biomedical sciences at South Dakota State University.What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:50) Introduction(04:11) Gut health overview(04:57) Microbiome and immunity(10:00) Feeding impacts(17:50) Nutraceuticals for gut health(21:48) Advancements in gut health research(25:09) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like: Natural Biologics* Adisseo- dsm-firmenich- Berg + Schmidt- ICC- Diamond V- Volac- SmaXtec- Acepsis- Trouw Nutrition- Protekta𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show