
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
Learn dairy nutrition from the brightest minds of the global dairy industry – in 9 minutes.If you are a dairy nutritionist who wants to stay up to date with all that is working in the industry, but doesn’t know how to start, doesn’t have the time, or feel most courses out there don’t deliver, then you have come to the right place.The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is specially designed by and for professionals just like yourself. With it, you can effortlessly have access to the thoughts of the most brilliant minds in our industry – all while going about your routine and saving your time.
Latest episodes

Oct 10, 2024 • 10min
Dr. Katherine Swanson: Byproducts in Dairy Nutrition | Ep. 51
Hello there!In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Katherine Swanson, from Cal Poly, shares her insights into using byproducts in dairy cattle nutrition. Dr. Swanson discusses her research on how various agricultural byproducts, like almond hulls and rice bran, are used in California's livestock industry, focusing on their availability, variability, and economic impact. Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform."Price, variability, and availability were ranked as the top concerns by nutritionists when considering the use of byproducts."Meet the guest: Dr. Katherine Swanson, lecturer at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo, specializes in dairy science. She holds a Ph.D. from Oregon State University and an M.S. from UC Davis. With over five years of postdoctoral research at UC Davis and industry experience, Dr. Swanson excels in dairy cattle nutrition.What will you learn: (00:00) Highlight(01:20) Introduction(01:58) Byproducts in California(03:20) Regional distribution(05:26) Nutrient variability concerns(06:36) Economic impact of byproducts(07:31) Year-round availability(09:26) Closing thoughtsThe Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:* Adisseo- Evonik- Volac- Virtus Nutrition𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: Dairy Nutrition Podcast ShowInstagram: Dairy CampusLinkedIn: Dairy Campus

Oct 3, 2024 • 12min
Dr. Daniel Rico: Omega-3 & Vitamin D3 for Cow Health - Part 2 | Ep. 50
Hello there!In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Daniel Rico continue the discution on the importance of optimizing omega-3 and vitamin D3 supplementation to enhance dairy cow health and production. He explores how these nutrients can improve cows' ability to manage stress while maintaining optimal milk quality. Dr. Rico also highlights key research outcomes and emphasizes the need for future research to refine nutrient strategies for various production scenarios. Tune in to gain valuable insights into optimizing nutrient requirements and the impactful role of omega-3 during stress periods. Listen now on all major platforms."Omega-3 supplementation isn't just about providing more; it's about finding the optimal dose that maximizes benefits while protecting the rumen and ensuring positive production outcomes."Meet the guest: Dr. Daniel E. Rico is the Research Director and Scientist at CRSAD in Quebec, where he has been leading innovative research since 2017. With a Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Animal Nutrition from Penn State University, Dr. Rico's work focuses on lipid regulation and nutritional strategies to enhance dairy cow health. His experience includes a postdoctoral fellowship at Université Laval and extensive research on lipid synthesis in ruminants.Click here to read the full research article!What will you learn: (00:00) Highlight(01:19) Introduction(01:53) Nutrient requirements(02:54) Immune challenges(03:50) Omega-3 research(05:08) Nutritional strategies(07:30) Future research directions(11:20) Closing thoughtsThe Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies: Virtus Nutrition* Adisseo- Volac- Evonik

Sep 26, 2024 • 12min
Dr. Daniel Rico: Vitamin D3 & Omega-3 Effects on Cattle Stress - Part 1 | Ep. 49
Hello there!In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Daniel Rico explores some challenges of dairy cattle nutrition, mainly focusing on mitigating stress in cows. Dr. Rico discusses the importance of glucose during stress periods and how targeted nutritional strategies, including vitamin D3 and omega-3 fatty acids, can enhance immune response and mitigate the effects of heat stress. Tune in to explore cutting-edge research and practical solutions for optimizing dairy cow productivity and health."Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in synthesizing molecules that regulate the immune response, which can be pivotal during stress."Meet the guest: Dr. Daniel E. Rico is the Research Director and Scientist at CRSAD in Quebec, where he has been leading innovative research since 2017. With a Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Animal Nutrition from Penn State University, Dr. Rico's work focuses on lipid regulation and nutritional strategies to enhance dairy cow health. His experience includes a postdoctoral fellowship at Université Laval and extensive research on lipid synthesis in ruminants.Click here to read the full research article!What will you learn: (00:00) Highlight(01:21) Introduction(04:34) Nutrition & cow health(05:48) Addressing heat stress(06:29) Glucose during stress(07:45) Vitamin D3 benefits(10:21) Omega-3 fatty acids(10:58) Closing thoughtsThe Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies: Virtus Nutrition* Adisseo- Volac- Evonik

Sep 19, 2024 • 10min
Dr. Jacquelyn Boerman: Video Analytics in Dairy | Ep. 48
Hello there!In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Jacquelyn Boerman from Purdue University explores the cutting-edge application of video analytics in dairy cattle nutrition. She discusses how video systems can monitor and evaluate the uniformity of Total Mixed Rations (TMR) and assess individual cow feeding behaviors. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform."Our goal is to provide information in near real-time to improve the uniformity of Total Mixed Rations on farms."Meet the guest: Dr. Jacquelyn Boerman completed her BS from Cornell University before continuing on to the University of Illinois for her MS, and Michigan State University for her PhD. Since 2017, Dr. Boerman has been at Purdue University, where she holds a three-way appointment in research, teaching, and extension focused on dairy nutrition and management.What will you learn: (00:00) Highlight(01:06) Introduction(01:42) What is video analytics?(02:59) Practical applications for farmers(04:21) Ensuring uniformity in TMR(07:06) Future research directions(08:56) Evaluating sorting in cows(09:49) Closing thoughtsThe Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:* Adisseo- Evonik- Virtus Nutrition- Volac

Sep 12, 2024 • 11min
Dr. Paul Kononoff: Energy Value of NDF | Ep. 47
Hello there!In this special rerun episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, we revisit a conversation with Dr. Paul Kononoff, Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Dairy Science. He discusses the vital importance of Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) in dairy cattle nutrition, offering insights on how to assess the energy value of NDF. Dr. Kononoff highlights that research in this field is key for the dairy industry to create more effective and customized feeds. Don’t miss the opportunity to catch this important discussion—tune in now on your favorite podcast platform!"We did expect some variation depending on the composition of that NDF, and in those feeds high in lignin, we expected the heat of combustion to be higher."Meet the guest: Dr. Paul Kononoff earned his M.S. from the University of Saskatchewan and his Ph.D. in Dairy and Animal Science from Pennsylvania State University. After completing his doctorate, he joined the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he serves as a professor and extension specialist. Dr. Kononoff also holds the position of Editor-in-Chief at the Journal of Dairy Science. His research has impacted the dairy industry by improving the nutritional knowledge of dairy producers and nutritionists to allow the formulation of more effective and efficient diets.What will you learn: (00:00) Highlight(01:13) Introduction(01:27) Energy value of NDF(03:37) Analyzing feed samples(06:24) Heat of combustion variation(07:58) Implications for dairy nutrition(08:58) Future research plans(10:11) Closing thoughtsThe Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:* Adisseo- Volac- Virtus Nutrition- Evonik

Sep 5, 2024 • 12min
Dr. Jeffrey Firkins: Isoacids in Dairy Nutrition | Ep. 46
Hello there!In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Jeffrey Firkins, a professor of animal science at OSU, discusses the latest insights on isoacids and their role in dairy cattle nutrition. The conversation covers fiber digestibility, microbial protein synthesis, and the impact of isoacids across different lactation stages. Tune in to explore how these factors contribute to improved feed efficiency and overall dairy production—listen now on your favorite platform!"The most consistent benefits we see from isoacids are improvements in fiber digestibility and feed efficiency across different stages of lactation."Meet the guest: Dr. Jeffrey Firkins, a professor at Ohio State University, has over 35 years of experience in rumen microbiology and microbial protein synthesis. His research focuses on optimizing dairy nutrition through improved protein efficiency. Dr. Firkins has contributed significantly to advancements in microbial protein modeling. What will you learn: (00:00) Highlight(01:18) Introduction(02:08) Overview of isoacids(03:28) Feed efficiency and lactation stages(04:58) Modes of action of isoacids(07:03) Adaptation of rumen bacteria(09:21) Future research directions(10:58) Closing thoughtsThe Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:* Adisseo- Volac- Virtus Nutrition- Evonik

Aug 29, 2024 • 11min
Dr. Kirby Krogstad: Managing Acidosis | Ep. 45
Hello there!In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Kirby Krogstad, from Ohio State University, explores the impacts of acidosis and systemic inflammation, comparing different acidosis challenge models and examining practical methods for monitoring and reducing acidosis in dairy cattle. Dr. Krogstad shares valuable insights into future research directions, including the importance of maintaining a healthy gut barrier and the implications of long-term high-starch diets. Tune in now!"When thinking of acidosis, always stick to fundamentals: watch your milk fats and manure scores."Meet the guest: Dr. Kirby Krogstad, an Assistant Professor of Dairy Nutrition and Health at Ohio State University, specializes in improving dairy cow health through advanced nutritional strategies. His research focuses on gut physiology and inflammation, exploring how diet affects dairy cattle's immune response and sustainability. Dr. Krogstad has a rich background in dairy science, holding a Ph.D. from Michigan State University and a Master’s from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.Click here to read the full research article.What will you learn: (00:00) Highlight(01:12) Introduction(02:28) Model explanation(04:50) Measuring systemic inflammation(06:26) Monitoring acidosis(06:38) Large intestine acidosis(07:34) Reduce acidosis risk(10:50) Closing thoughtsThe Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:* Adisseo- Evonik- Volac- Virtus Nutrition

Aug 22, 2024 • 11min
Dr. Marcos Marcondes: Protein Requirements of Gestating Cows | Ep. 44
Hello there!In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Marcos Marcondes from Washington State University, discusses his study about protein requirements for gestating dairy cows, comparing different models and their implications. Leran how these findings can optimize dairy nutrition strategies. Don't miss out – tune in now and keep your knowledge up-to-date!"We examined protein deposition in both the body and gestational components over time to determine nutrient requirements."Meet the guest: Dr. Marcos Marcondes is a professor of dairy cattle nutrition at Washington State University. He completed his Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate in Animal Science at the Federal University of Viçosa. With a postdoctoral period at the University of Florida, Dr. Marcondes has extensive experience in dairy cattle management and nutrition. His research focuses on feed evaluation, nutrient requirements, and sustainability in dairy operations.What will you learn: (00:00) Highlight(01:03) Introduction(02:00) Protein requirements study(03:43) Comparing nutrient systems(04:36) Gestation data points(05:33) Metabolizable protein requirements(08:31) Amino acids in dairy nutrition(09:60) Closing thoughtsThe Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:* Adisseo- Evonik- Volac- Virtus Nutrition

Aug 15, 2024 • 9min
Dr. Carla Bittar: Flint Corn Silage for Dairy Calves | Ep. 43
Hello there!In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Carla Bittar from ESALQ/USP discusses her research on using flint corn silage for dairy calves. She shares insights on the benefits, challenges, and practical applications of this feeding strategy. If you're looking to enhance your dairy calf nutrition strategy, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Tune in for some valuable insights! "Flint corn is the main corn harvested in Brazil, and it has a more dense and compact protein matrix, which leads to decreased digestibility."Meet the guest: Dr. Carla Maris Machado Bittar graduated in 1994 in agricultural engineering from ESALQ/USP. She earned her Master of Science from the University of Arizona in 1997 and completed her Ph.D. in Animal Science and Pastures from ESALQ/USP in 2002. Currently, she is a professor of dairy cattle management and nutrition at the Department of Animal Science at ESALQ/USP. Her research focuses on the nutrition and metabolism of growing dairy cattle, emphasizing the weaning phase. What will you learn: (00:00) Highlight(01:04) Introduction(01:53) Flint corn insights(03:36) TMR composition and results(05:13) Calf behavior and well-being(07:09) Extrapolation to U.S. practices(08:04) Management recommendations(08:54) Closing thoughtsThe Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:* Adisseo- Virtus Nutrition- Evonik- Volac

Aug 8, 2024 • 9min
Dr. Lucas Rebelo: Enhancing Milk Fat with Methionine | Ep. 42
Hello there!In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Lucas Rebelo discusses the impact of methionine on milk fat production. Dr. Rebelo elaborates on how methionine upregulates enzymes that promote fatty acid synthesis, particularly in Holstein cows. He also touches on the challenges and future research directions in this area. Tune in to explore cutting-edge insights into optimizing milk fat content through amino acid supplementation."Amino acids like methionine exert an effect on milk fat through the upregulation of transcription factors or enzymes associated with de novo fatty acid synthesis."Meet the guest: Dr. Lucas Rocha Rebelo is a Dairy Technical Manager at Adisseo with a strong background in dairy nutrition and environmental science. He earned his Ph.D. from The Ohio State University, where he researched amino acid metabolism in dairy cows. Dr. Rebelo also holds an M.Sc. in Ruminant Nutrition from Universidade Estadual Paulista and a B.Sc. in Animal Science from the Federal University of Mato Grosso.What will you learn: (00:00) Highlight(01:10) Introduction(01:56) Methionine's effect on milk fat(02:54) Supplementation rates and responses(04:16) Mode of action of methionine(06:41) Dietary interactions with methionine(08:10) Research on other amino acids(09:51) Closing thoughtsThe Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:* Adisseo- Virtus Nutrition- Evonik- Volac