Uplevel Dairy Podcast

In the final installment of the Country Aire Farms series, brothers Craig and Nick Gerrits reflect on stepping into leadership roles within their family’s dairy operation. They discuss the challenges of earning respect, building trust with employees, and maintaining a healthy leadership mindset, even during tough times. The episode highlights the importance of confidence, open communication, and continuous learning, as well as the legacy and values passed down through generations. Both brothers share advice they would give their younger selves, emphasizing the need for self-trust, motivation, and a focus on personal well-being to lead effectively. The story of Country Aire Farms is ultimately one of family, tradition, and progressive growth in the dairy industry.This episode is brought to you by DeLaval. DeLaval provides integrated solutions designed to improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. To learn more, visit Delaval.com/en-us/.

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen launches a four-part series in partnership with DeLaval, spotlighting the multi-generational story of Country Aire Farms in Greenleaf, Wisconsin. Brothers Mike and Tom Gerrits share their journey from growing up on a small 80-cow dairy to leading a thriving, innovative operation.The episode explores how their father, Bud, instilled a strong work ethic and forward-thinking mindset, guiding the family through pivotal decisions—like building the area’s first rotary parlor in 1998—that set the stage for major growth. Mike and Tom discuss the division of responsibilities (cows vs. crops), the importance of embracing new technology, and the challenges and rewards of bringing the next generation into the business.Listeners hear about the transition of leadership, the value of learning from mistakes, and the family’s commitment to core values, community, and continuous improvement. The episode closes with reflections on legacy, pride in the next generation, and optimism for the future of Country Aire Farms.This episode is brought to you by DeLaval. DeLaval provides integrated solutions designed to improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. To learn more, visit Delaval.com/en-us/.

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen sits down on the showbox with Tim Abbott. Tim reflects on his 2025 word "focus," shares insights into the successes and challenges faced during the year, and reveals his new word for 2026. Tim's wife, Sharyn, joins the conversation to share her word too! The episode also highlights the Abbott family's new venture, Deep Canyon Guest Ranch in Montana, and touches on their upcoming dairy cattle sale event in Nashville. Listeners are encouraged to choose their own word for the year to guide their personal and professional growth.00:00 Introduction and Annual Word Challenge01:55 Catching Up with Tim Abbott04:53 Reflecting on 2025: Focus and Achievements10:19 Challenges and Lessons Learned16:01 New Ventures: Deep Canyon Guest Ranch22:06 Looking Ahead to 202622:20 Reflecting on Uplevel's Impact22:44 Choosing Words for 202623:54 Tim's Word: Explore28:54 Sharon's Word: Dream31:25 Family Business Aspirations34:02 Upcoming Nashville Event37:03 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, we hear from JR Boyke of Vir-Clar Farms in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, about coming back to join his family farm and growing into his roles as a manager and owner as the dairy has expanded and taken on a second site. JR discusses how his father insisted he gain experience working on other dairies, which shaped his skills and leadership abilities. He reflects on his journey back at age 23, starting from the bottom and rising to a managerial role. JR highlights the importance of employee engagement, cultural integration across expanded operations, and his personal passion for dairy cattle genetics. This Episode is Brought to you by Compeer FinancialCompeer Financial is a member-owned Farm Credit cooperative serving and supporting agriculture and rural America. Our dairy team brings world-class expertise and tailored solutions to support dairy producers’ financial goals and lending needs.For more information, contact the Compeer Dairy Industry Experts.  Dairy Industry Articles: Gain knowledge from subject matter experts00:00 Introduction to JR Boyke's Journey01:12 Early Life and Family Farm Evolution03:59 Returning to the Farm and Gaining Experience07:23 Career Development and Responsibilities08:05 Leadership and Team Building19:59 Expanding the Farm and New Opportunities24:45 Advice and Reflections26:31 Closing Thoughts and Rapid-Fire Questions

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Joe Kern of Ever Ag discusses critical market trends impacting the agricultural industry as we move towards 2026. Kern provides an in-depth analysis of global influences, margin pressures, and potential threats to farming businesses. The episode is sponsored by Uplevel Dairy Podcast, and it highlights how dairy producers can optimize their operations using tools like Milk Pay app. Joe Kern also shares his career journey, experiences, and the importance of adaptability and technological integration in the agriculture sector. Key discussions include the impact of government support programs, global protein demand, renewable energy trends, and challenges in the dairy market. The episode concludes with Kern's insights into strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) for dairy producers, emphasizing cautious optimism and the critical role of being open to change.This Episode is brought to you by AdisseoThis episode is sponsored by Uplevel Dairy Podcast Founding Partner Adisseo, a global leader in nutritional solutions and premier provider of rumen-protected methionine for dairy producers who want to optimize milk production, capture more value from components, and maintain the health of their high-performing herds. Learn more at https://www.adisseo.com/en/00:00 Introduction to Market Trends and Dairy Industry Insights00:37 Sponsor Message: Uplevel Dairy Podcast01:23 Joe Kern's Background and Career Journey04:13 Current Role and Industry Involvement05:55 Global Economic Outlook and Dairy Industry Impact15:33 Renewable Energy and Biofuels in Agriculture18:35 Grain, Beef, and Dairy Market Trends20:59 Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats for Dairy Producers24:20 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways26:50 Conclusion and Closing Remarks

In this special Thanksgiving Day episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy has a powerful conversation with Tim Peart, Senior Vice President of Production Animal at MWI, as they reflect on their 'Words of the Year' for 2025. Tim also shares how the impactful practice of selecting a 'Word of the Year' has been for himself and his team, sharing insights into his selected words for the past few years—'Engagement' and 'Embolden'. Looking ahead to 2026, his word is 'Devotion,' highlighting personal and professional growth, faith, and leadership. Tim's candid reflections on these themes offer inspiration on how to lead oneself and others toward meaningful progress and well-being.00:00 Introduction and Thanksgiving Gratitude01:05 Introducing Tim Peart and the Word of the Year02:28 Tim Peart's Journey with the Word of the Year05:14 The Impact of Choosing a Word: Engagement and Emboldenment 15:00 Acting with Urgency in 202525:42 Looking Ahead to 2026: Devotion27:03 Defining Devotion in Life and Work27:52 Personal and Professional Devotion29:19 Action Plans for 202629:40 Faith and Family Commitments30:47 Purpose and Professional Impact34:20 Connecting with Adult Children37:30 Choosing Words for the Year38:32 The Power of Stewardship41:08 Embracing the Word 'Prune'44:15 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, meet Michaela Bethard, the feed manager at High Plains Ponderosa Dairy in Kansas. Despite originally vowing never to work on a dairy, Michaela found her true passion in feed management. She shares her journey from interning in New Zealand to thriving in one of the most pivotal roles at a large-scale dairy operation. The conversation touches on her early aspirations, challenges faced, valuable lessons learned, and the importance of continued learning and human touch in agriculture. Additionally, Michaela talks about her leadership style and how her introverted nature has grown through managing a team. As she prepares for new personal milestones, Michaela reflects on the ever-evolving landscape of feed management and the potential future impacts of AI in the industry.00:00 Introduction to Michaela Bethard's Journey01:10 High Plains Ponderosa Dairy: A Family Affair02:22 From Vet Aspirations to Feed Management03:46 Discovering a Passion for Feed Management06:56 The Importance of Reading Bunks10:12 Challenges and Growth in Feed Management12:27 Managing People and Building a Team17:20 Key Lessons and Future Insights19:16 Influential Mentors and Supportive Parents20:21 Career Choices and Grad School Decisions21:51 Future Aspirations in Dairy Management23:46 The Role of AI in Feed Management29:13 Advice for Young Dairy Professionals32:01 Personal Growth and New Beginnings35:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Curtis Bosma from HighGround Dairy provides a comprehensive update on the current state of dairy and cattle markets. Following his participation in the CME and American Dairy Products Institute's seminar, Curtis discusses key market dynamics, including the Whey Boom, challenges in cheese and butter markets, and the impact of the September milk production report. The episode also covers the ongoing volatility in cattle markets, recent trends in feed commodities like corn and soybeans, and strategic recommendations for dairy producers as they look ahead to 2026. Curtis emphasizes the importance of staying proactive in risk management to navigate market challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities.Catch your copy of the November Market Update here: https://marketing.highgrounddairy.com/november-2025-producer-market-updateThis episode is brought to you by:HighGround Dairy provides global dairy market intelligence, insurance services, futures & options brokerage, and advisory programs to a diverse range of dairy market participants throughout the supply chain.Information shared in this podcast is for educational purposes and is not a solicitation to buy or sell commodities.  Opinions expressed are current opinions as of Nov 18, 2025 at 2:30  p.m. CST and only represent the views of the speaker and not those of HighGround Trading, unless otherwise expressly noted.

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Amanda Dolphin, a lifelong dairy farmer turned dairy tech expert, discusses the revolutionary impact of internal temperature monitoring on dairy cow health and operational efficiency. Amanda shares her experiences using smaXtec's bolus technology, which tracks cows' internal body temperature, water intake, drinking cycles, and activity levels. By providing early alerts for potential health issues like mastitis and ketosis, calving predictions, and precise monitoring of cows' well-being, this technology helps farmers transition from reactive to proactive herd management. Amanda emphasizes the transformative benefits for both her family farm and the wider dairy community, offering detailed insights into implementation, data utilization, and the resulting improvements in productivity and profitability.00:00 Unlocking the Potential of Internal Temperature Monitoring01:13 Introduction to Amanda Dolphin and Her Dairy Background02:54 Embracing Dairy Technology: From Collars to Bolus04:42 The Impact of Internal Temperature Monitoring06:22 Implementing smaXtec on the Farm09:12 Installation and Onboarding Process11:05 Supporting Dairy Farmers with smaXtec 13:06 Concluding Thoughts and Future Prospects18:08 Final Words and Episode Wrap-UpThis Episode is Brought to you by smaXtecsmaXtec is the internal health management system for dairy cows. The unique bolus technology measures internal temperature, rumination, drinking cycles, activity, and more. smaXtec helps dairy farmers of any size make confident, data-driven decisions that lead to healthier cows, fewer treatments, and better performance. With early detection and 24/7 monitoring, dairies can stay ahead of herd health issues and focus on long-term herd success. Find out more: https://smaxtec.com/us/

In this two-part episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, recorded live at World Dairy Expo, dairy producers and advisors discuss the transition and outcomes of robotic milking systems that operate without feed incentives. Matt Strickland from Double Creek and Jay Heeg from Heeg Dairy share their experiences, supported by advisors Kelli Hutchings and Jodi Erickson. They delve into the transition process, changes in cow behavior, and improvements in feed efficiency, milk production, and components. The panel also explores the challenges and successes, along with the support provided by DeLaval. This conversation offers valuable insights for dairy farmers considering similar transitions.Listen to part 1 here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1rvroeVR2BVlu6CRKxkrbB?si=wWbikgZ8TcGVC8wZ47atCAThis episode is brought to you by DeLaval. DeLaval provides integrated solutions designed to improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. To learn more, visit Delaval.com/en-us/.

In this special live-recorded episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast from the World Dairy Expo, sponsored by DeLaval, the discussion revolves around the revolutionary concept of using a VMS (Voluntary Milking System) without feed incentives. Dairy farmers Matt Strickland from Double Creek Dairy in California and Jay Heeg from Heeg Brothers Dairy in Wisconsin, along with their advisors Kelli Hutchings and Jodi Erickson, share their experiences and insights. The episode explores the motivation behind moving away from feeding pellets, the transition process, and the impact on labor, performance, productivity, herd health, and profitability. Key topics include the setup of VMS systems, the importance of feed management, and the novel no-feed system, with Kelly Hutchings explaining how a concept inspired by her ranching experience in Wyoming was adapted to robotic milking. The conversation provides a comprehensive look at the practical steps and benefits of implementing a no-feed VMS system in dairy farming.This episode is brought to you by DeLaval. DeLaval provides integrated solutions designed to improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. To learn more, visit Delaval.com/en-us/.

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, captured live at the World Dairy Expo, Manuel Soares, CEO of Milc Group, discusses how artificial intelligence and automation are transforming the dairy industry. Manuel shares insights into technologies that predict cow health, provide real-time employee guidance, and streamline operations like milking and feeding. The discussion highlights Milc Group's innovative solutions, including their new ID system and AI-driven tools that enhance precision and efficiency on dairy farms. Soares envisions a future where technology empowers dairy employees to perform at their best, rather than replacing them. The episode also explores the broader implications of these advancements and the potential for future developments in dairy technology.This episode is sponsored in partnership with the Milc Group.Milc Group is a dairy software company that brings real-time, actionable data to dairy farms across the world. They are dedicated to revolutionizing the dairy industry with their user-friendly cloud-based software. ONE™ by Milc Group is our all-in-one app that brings together all the important aspects of your dairy together in one place. With products such as feed and animal management software, people training, dairy facility monitoring, and scale management, Milc Group is committed to providing producers with the tools they need to succeed.ONETM Feed: https://www.milcgroup.com/product/feed  ONETM Scale: https://www.milcgroup.com/product/scale00:00 Introduction: Solving Dairy Challenges with Technology00:51 Sponsor Message: Milc Group's Revolutionary Software01:23 Live from World Dairy Expo: Conversations with Farmers02:17 Innovations in Dairy Management: ID Systems and Real-Time Data09:11 AI and Automation: Enhancing Dairy Operations16:51 Future of Dairy: Robotics and AI Integration32:05 Conclusion: Empowering Dairy Farmers with Technology

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen continues the conversation with Danielle Ware-Dreier from Shiloh Dairy in Brillion, Wisconsin. Danielle discusses her journey and philosophies on leading a high-performing team, managing 54 people, and ensuring top-tier milk quality from 2,900 cows. She shares insights into her leadership strategies, focusing on respect, protocol adherence, and team development. Danielle emphasizes the importance of understanding team members, setting clear protocols, and offering continuous training. She also highlights the significance of building a supportive culture and recognizing individual contributions. This Episode is Brought to you by AdisseoThis episode is sponsored by Uplevel Dairy Podcast Founding Partner Adisseo, a global leader in nutritional solutions and premier provider of rumen-protected methionine for dairy producers who want to optimize milk production, capture more value from components, and maintain the health of their high-performing herds. Learn more at https://www.adisseo.com/en/

In the second episode of the smaXtec series at Hornstead Dairy, Amber Horn Lieterman, Louisa Koch from smaXtec, and Steve Woodford discuss the transformative impact of precision cow monitoring. They delve into how real-time data from innovative monitoring boluses, including pH bolus technology, is enhancing decision-making in rations, transition protocols, and team communication. The episode highlights the integration of this technology into the farm's operations and examines the collaborative efforts between nutritionists, veterinarians, and farm managers to improve dairy efficiency. 00:00 Introduction to Precision Cow Monitoring01:10 smaXtec's Impact on Dairy Farming02:24 The Evolution of pH Bolus Technology03:53 Real-Time Data and Nutrition Management05:05 Actionable Insights from Data11:33 Team Collaboration and Integration20:41 Future of pH Monitoring in Dairy27:47 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThis Episode is Brought to you by smaXtecsmaXtec is the internal health management system for dairy cows. The unique bolus technology measures internal temperature, rumination, drinking cycles, activity, and more. smaXtec helps dairy farmers of any size make confident, data-driven decisions that lead to healthier cows, fewer treatments, and better performance. With early detection and 24/7 monitoring, dairies can stay ahead of herd health issues and focus on long-term herd success. Find out more: https://smaxtec.com/us/

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Dave McCarty discusses the evolution of McCarty Family Farms, from its humble beginnings with a tie-stall barn in Pennsylvania 25 years ago to becoming Dairy Producers of the Year at the World Dairy Expo. The conversation covers the implementation of precision management and complex KPIs to improve cow performance and profitability, the impact of key partnerships like those with Kansas State University and Danone, and the transition from basic accounting practices to advanced financial management. David emphasizes the role of resiliency and strategic planning in overcoming challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, financial hurdles, and market volatility. Additionally, he talks about the future of the dairy industry, highlighting the importance of genetics, health traits, sustainability, and opportunities for the next generation of McCarty family members.This episode is brought to you by Zoetis. As the world’s leading animal health company, Zoetis is dedicated to helping producers achieve healthy animals, healthy dairies and healthy food through their world-class portfolio. For more information, visit ⁠DairyWellness.com.⁠

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen sits down with Greg Kowalewski, manager of Aurora Oakwood Dairy in New York, to discuss how AI technology is transforming dairy management. They discuss the implementation of Nedap's SmartSight technology for early lameness detection, which allows the farm to identify and treat cow lameness before it becomes severe, thus improving animal welfare and operational efficiency. Greg shares his journey from growing up working on his uncle's farm to becoming a manager and a proponent of cutting-edge technology. They also delve into how this AI system fits into the broader goals of the dairy and its co-op, Cayuga Milk Ingredients, which markets its milk globally. The conversation covers Greg’s management philosophy, the integration of technology into daily farm operations, and his vision for the future of dairy farming.About NedapThe High-Performance Mindset Series is powered by Nedap. Nedap is future-proofing dairy farms by revolutionizing cow-side care through technologies in activity monitoring, cow locating, milk metering and identification. Listen for more episodes in this series throughout 2025 or catch past episodes in this series below! 4 High-Impact Actions to Create a Winning Farm Culture with Travis Speirs, Shiloh DairyDairy Tech in Texas: Managing 8,000 Cows with Activity Monitors featuring Nathan Moroney, Del Rio DairyProtecting His Price and Managing Risk with Nathan Moroney, Del Rio DairyManaging More Cows, More People and More Data with Derrick JosiFull-Potential Farming: Reaching the Highest Level of Performance with Cows and People through Technology with Megan Schrupp, NexGen DairyOlympic-level Business, Management and Mindset with Elle Purrier-St. Pierre and Jamie St. Pierre

This episode of the monthly market update from HighGround Dairy, with Curtis Bosma, delves into the recent announcement from the Trump administration regarding beef prices and its tumultuous impact on cattle markets. The discussion covers potential ramifications for cattle ranchers and dairy producers, especially considering the dairy industry's current reliance on beef revenue. Additionally, they examine the effects of the ongoing government shutdown on key agricultural reports, explore movements in dairy and commodity markets, and provide insights into the 2025 crop harvest. The episode wraps up with crucial updates on feed and grain markets and a reminder of the importance of risk management in these volatile times.Grab your own copy of the monthly market update here: https://marketing.highgrounddairy.com/october-2025-producer-market-updateThis episode is brought to you by:HighGround Dairy provides global dairy market intelligence, insurance services, futures & options brokerage, and advisory programs to a diverse range of dairy market participants throughout the supply chain.00:00 Market Chaos: Trump Administration's Impact on Cattle and Dairy00:43 Unpacking the Headlines: Beef Prices and Market Reactions03:24 Dairy Producers' Perspective: Profitability and Market Dynamics08:30 Government Shutdown: Effects on Market Reports and Data11:36 Monthly Market Update: Milk, Cheese, and Feed Commodities17:20 Class Four Futures and Risk Management Strategies25:44 Conclusion: Navigating Market Volatility and Future OutlookInformation shared in this podcast is for educational purposes and is not a solicitation to buy or sell commodities.  Opinions expressed are current opinions as of October 17, 2025 at 1  p.m. CST and only represent the views of the speaker and not those of HighGround Trading, unless otherwise expressly noted.

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Senior Vice President Tim Peart of MWI discusses his transition from Australian cattle ranches to leading one of the most innovative teams in animal health. Tim shares how his passion for technology and agriculture drives him to integrate advanced solutions like cattle sorting and dairy monitoring technologies to enhance efficiency and profitability. He highlights the importance of leadership by example, corporate responsibility, and the potential of precision feeding and artificial intelligence in modern dairy farming. Sponsored by Micro Technologies, the episode underscores the intersection of purpose, passion, and precision in transforming the dairy industry.00:00 Introduction to Tim Peart and MWI01:16 Tim's Journey from Australia to the US02:59 Embracing Technology in the Beef Industry04:23 Transitioning to the Dairy Industry06:14 Challenges and Innovations in Dairy Technology13:14 Precision Feeding and Methane Reduction20:15 Customer Experience and Corporate Responsibility28:41 Leadership and Personal Insights35:31 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThis episode is sponsored by Micro TechnologiesMicro Technologies innovates advanced, comprehensive & integrated technologies to help dairies produce a safe, wholesome product more efficiently and profitably.For more information, visit: Microtechnologies.comCatch more episodes sponsored by Micro Technologies below!Episode 264 with Will Basham: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2kHc3QlAqyMubap6nKnA02?si=KbdPESXdRgihqzUTgauJRQEpisode 253 with Jordan Leak: https://open.spotify.com/episode/54Fvnh8mzkRQvQpQFoxT4S?si=r-eBBLPLS0S4JVrPG-l3qAEpisode 214 with Doug Hubby: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5YlZsgAnB9jrgcCoof8afG?si=yyMxGZiARs2jnjxnw6X9sg

In this episode of our special Showbox Stories series, sponsored by CowManager, Peggy Coffeen and Tim Abbott delve into the life and career of Larry Schirm, an industry icon in the dairy world. The conversation touches on pivotal moments, influential mentors, and the evolution of genetic tools like genomics in the industry. Larry also emphasizes the importance of consistency in breeding and cow families. The episode wraps up with heartfelt reflections on family and the cherished connections Larry has made throughout his career.This series is brought to you by CowManager.CowManager delivers 24/7 real-time data to help producers enhance herd health, fertility and nutrition. At World Dairy Expo, the company unveiled its latest innovation — Find My Cow Flash — designed to help producers save time, reduce labor costs, and increase daily efficiency. To learn more, contact your CowManager Specialist at Select Sires or visit CowManager.com.Website: https://www.cowmanager.com/Contact: https://www.cowmanager.com/contact/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CowManagerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cowmanagers/#LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cowmanager-bv/posts/?feedView=allYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/cowmanager

This episode of Showbox Stories, recorded at World Dairy Expo and presented by CowManager, features Denton Ross, Hadley Ross, and Justin Stewart from Arizona Dairy Company as they share their journey in dairy farming and show cattle, highlighting their focus on genetics, dairy management, and the importance of cultivating a culture of respect and excellence within their operations. The Ross family also reflects on some memorable moments, including Hadley’s achievement of winning the Supreme Champion of the junior show at World Dairy Expo 2021.This series is brought to you by CowManager.CowManager delivers 24/7 real-time data to help producers enhance herd health, fertility and nutrition. At World Dairy Expo, the company unveiled its latest innovation — Find My Cow Flash — designed to help producers save time, reduce labor costs, and increase daily efficiency. To learn more, contact your CowManager Specialist at Select Sires or visit CowManager.com.Website: https://www.cowmanager.com/Contact: https://www.cowmanager.com/contact/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CowManagerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cowmanagers/#LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cowmanager-bv/posts/?feedView=allYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/cowmanager