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 De Laval, 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, Amber Horn-Leiterman of Hornstead Dairy Farm delves into how innovative data collection and technology have transformed their dairy farm's management. She recounts overcoming a challenging reproductive issue through meticulous data tracking and nutrition adjustments. The episode also explores the integration of smaXtec’s monitoring system, which tracks crucial health metrics like temperature and rumination, leading to significant improvements in herd health, reproduction rates, and overall efficiency. Amber highlights the importance of adaptive management, learning from real-time data, and continuous improvement to ensure the farm's sustainability and success.This episode is brought to you by smaXtec.smaXtec 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, Peggy Coffeen sits down with Danielle Ware, a longtime team member at Shiloh Dairy, to discuss her journey from managing the office to leading a team.Over the years, she transitioned from handling administrative tasks to becoming the parlor manager, significantly improving milk quality and expanding the team while growing the herd. Danielle emphasizes the importance of respect, protocol-driven operations, and personal connections with employees. She discusses her approach to building a strong team culture, recognizing potential, and making tough decisions. Throughout the episode, Danielle highlights several success stories of team members who have grown and excelled under her leadership. 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 this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen interviews Casey Treloar, an Australian dairy farmer's daughter turned news journalist. Casey shares her journey of combining her passion for dairy farming and journalism, leading to her coverage of dairy shows like World Dairy Expo. They discuss Casey's impactful experiences, including her viral social media campaign for Australian dairy farmers and her work with Cosmopolitan's live Expo coverage. The episode highlights upcoming events at World Dairy Expo and underscores the importance of saying 'yes' to opportunities in the dairy industry.This episode is brought to you in partnership with Cowsmo PublicationsFind “Cowsmo on Cue” during World Dairy Expo week here: https://www.facebook.com/cowsmoCatch up with us at World Dairy Expo:National Dairy Shrine Young Professionals LuncheonMonday, Sept. 29, Noon-2 p.m. – Sign up hereTanbark Talk: No-Feed, Successful Results: A New Era in Robotic MilkingThursday, Oct. 2, 8-10 a.m.Hosted by: DeLaval

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Pauly Paul is back and sits down to discuss recent challenges and solutions in dairy farm management. Focusing on employee training, Pauly addresses common inefficiencies in farm operations and provides strategies for improving labor productivity. Additionally, he highlights the critical issue of fluctuating milk prices and shares methods to manage cash flow under these conditions. Pauly also delves into the importance of detailed management audits, illustrating how these reviews can uncover key areas for improvement across financials, feeding practices, and breeding protocols. The episode emphasizes the value of continual training and re-training to achieve optimal farm performance.This Episode is Sponsored by Complete Management ConsultingContact Pauly Paulwww.CompleteManagementConsulting.comcompletemanagementconsulting@gmail.com920-418-3135

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Curtis Bosma from HighGround Dairy provides an updated market report for September, outlining significant movements impacting milk, feed, and beef sectors. He explains the recent decline in dairy futures, the record-breaking cheese production and exports, and the persistent high milk production rates. Curtis discusses the elevated beef prices as a crucial revenue driver for dairy farmers, especially as milk prices decline, and highlights how global milk supply trends and grain commodity updates are influencing the market. The episode concludes with strategic advice on margin management and the importance of proactive decision-making for dairy producers.Grab your market report here: https://marketing.highgrounddairy.com/september-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 September 17 at 12pm 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, High Plains Ponderosa Dairy COO, Will Basham, discusses the importance of cultivating a positive culture and adapting technology in the dairy industry to enhance efficiency and performance. He emphasizes the significance of data-driven management in identifying issues before they become critical and highlights tools for improving operational efficiency. Basham also shares his experiences in managing people and processes during an expansion project, focusing on the integration of milking speed and breeding strategies to optimize productivity. Additionally, he explores the value of understanding communication and learning styles to foster a more effective work environment.

In this next episode of the Uplevel Dairy Country Aire Series, the focus shifts to the next generation at Country Aire Farms, where four cousins—Matt, John, Nick, and Craig—each find their way back to the family dairy after exploring different career paths. Influenced by family values and the encouragement of their grandfather, the cousins embrace the challenges and opportunities of running a modern dairy operation. The conversation delves into their unique roles, from crop management and finance to equipment and employee relations, highlighting how their diverse skills contribute to the farm’s success. The cousins share candid reflections on the difficulties of stepping into leadership at a young age, earning respect from employees, and balancing family dynamics with business responsibilities. Mentorship from the older generation, a strong workplace culture, and a commitment to sustainability and community involvement emerge as central themes. As they navigate the complexities of a family-run business, the cousins emphasize the importance of trust, communication, and adaptability. The episode concludes with a sense of gratitude for the foundation laid by previous generations and a shared commitment to carrying the family legacy forward, blending tradition with innovation at 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 engages with Elsie Gonzalez-Leach of Motiva Consulting to discuss her inspiring journey from Puerto Rico to the United States. Elsie shares how her experiences have fueled her mission to support Spanish-speaking dairy farm employees through leadership development and tailored Dairy English language courses. With a focus on personal growth, leadership training, and communication, Elsie’s programs have helped numerous farm workers progress in their careers and contribute positively to their farms and communities. The episode delves into her motivations, challenges, and the impact she aims to achieve, making it a must-listen for those interested in elevating their dairy farming operations and cultivating a motivated workforce.00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview00:40 Elsie's Journey to the US03:41 Starting Motiva Consulting12:26 Leadership and Personal Development23:37 Mentors and Inspirations34:35 The Impact of Danielle's Leadership38:21 Elsie's Leadership Program Explained41:26 Personal Development and Overcoming Challenges48:58 The Launch of Dairy English Academy58:59 Future Goals and Reflections01:02:23 Elsie's Journey and Lessons Learned01:13:11 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsLearn more about the Dairy English Academy here: https://www.motivadairy.com/dairy-english-academyContact Elsie González-LeachMotiva ConsultingCell: 262.388.9096Email: elsie.gonzalez@motiva.consultingVisit Motiva Consulting on Facebook! 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/

This collaboration episode between Uplevel Dairy and World Dairy Expo features the McCarty Brothers—Mike, David, Ken, and Clay—as they discuss their family's legacy and milestones that led to being named World Dairy Expo's Dairy Producers of the Year. They reflect on their family's history from northeastern Pennsylvania to their significant growth in Kansas, their partnerships with large companies like Danone, and their commitment to sustainability and innovation in dairy farming. They share insights into working as a family, their passion for sustainable practices, and their excitement for the future. The episode also offers advice to aspiring young farmers, underscoring the importance of hard work, taking risks, and maintaining a forward-thinking vision. The McCarty family's story is one of resilience, innovation, and community impact. Be sure to start planning your trip to World Dairy Expo, September 30th through October 3rd. Get your passes now worlddairyexpo.com. This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Dairy Show and World Dairy Expo. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:37 The McCarty Family History03:36 The Move to Kansas07:59 Partnerships and Growth11:47 Sustainability Efforts18:38 Community Outreach and Learning Centers23:54 Technological Advancements and Cow Comfort28:27 Reflections on the Recognition Award53:26 Advice for the Next Generation57:48 Final Thoughts and Future Vision

In this special episode, Peggy Coffeen, host of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, partners with World Dairy Expo to interview Juan Moreno, CEO and Founder of STgenetics and recipient of the 2025 International Person of the Year award. Juan shares his inspiring journey from growing up on a dairy farm in Colombia to pioneering reproductive technologies that have transformed dairy cattle breeding. He discusses his motivations, the pivotal moments in his career, and the importance of individual animal care in modern dairy farming. Juan also reflects on the role of artificial insemination technology in advancing the global dairy industry and emphasizes the collective effort required to feed the world. Be sure to start planning your trip to World Dairy Expo, September 30th through October 3rd. Get your passes now worlddairyexpo.com. This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Dairy Show and World Dairy Expo. 00:00 Introduction to the Dairy Show Special Edition00:47 Juan Moreno's Early Life and Career Beginnings04:27 Pivotal Moments and Academic Pursuits07:32 The Birth and Growth of STgenetics10:40 Challenges and Breakthroughs in Sexed Semen Technology20:36 Global Impact and Future Vision26:36 Reflections and Personal Insights44:29 Conclusion and Upcoming Events

This collaboration episode between Uplevel Dairy and World Dairy Expo features Jim Mulhern, a seasoned dairy policy expert, who shares his journey from growing up in small town Wisconsin to leading the National Milk Producers Federation. Jim talks about his early exposure to politics and policy in seventh grade, which led to his interest in agricultural policy during his college years. He also discusses his career trajectory, significant industry challenges, such as workforce and trade policy, and the major changes in the dairy sector over the last four decades. Jim reflects on the importance of staying connected to the people he serves, the value of meaningful work, and his philosophy of balancing change with core values. As he receives the World Dairy Expo's Industry Person of the Year award, Jim fondly remembers the people who've impacted his career and offers advice for young professionals in the dairy industry. Be sure to start planning your trip to World Dairy Expo, September 30th through October 3rd. Get your passes now worlddairyexpo.com. This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Dairy Show and World Dairy Expo. 00:00 Introduction to Jim's Journey in Dairy00:57 Early Influences and Education02:30 First Steps in Dairy Policy03:43 Internship and Early Career Challenges05:29 Balancing Supply and Demand in Dairy07:23 Realizing the Impact of Policy Work10:04 Career Growth and National Milk Producers Federation18:40 Changes and Challenges in the Dairy Industry28:09 Future Challenges for Dairy Producers34:27 The Importance of Middle Ground in Politics38:22 Engaging in Industry Organizations41:09 Advice for Young Professionals43:41 Receiving the World Dairy Expo Honor45:54 Reflecting on a Career in Dairy49:17 Personal Reflections and Future Plans01:01:40 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

In this live episode from Wisconsin Farm Technology Days, Will McKinley of Men Law Firm delves into the legal intricacies of managing and transitioning family dairy farms. From partnership structures to succession planning, Will shares essential strategies for ensuring the longevity and success of dairy operations. He also highlights common challenges, such as finding interested successors and managing financial transitions, while sharing examples of creative solutions for keeping family farms thriving. This conversation emphasizes the importance of clear planning, family discussions, and understanding legal tools like revocable and irrevocable trusts. Tune in for expert advice and practical insights on upleveling your dairy.Contact Will McKinley at Menn Law:William-McKinley@mennlaw.com(920) 731-6631https://mennlaw.com/Do you have a question on succession and farm transition you would like to hear Will answer on the Uplevel Dairy Podcast?Send your questions to peggy@upleveldairy.com 

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen and Curtis Bosma from HighGround Dairy provide an extensive market update for August 2025. The discussion covers key areas such as the continual year-over-year growth in US milk production, including a 3.3% increase reported in June, which is attributed to genetic improvements and enhanced cow comfort. The podcast also highlights a record-breaking corn crop forecast, favorable for dairy producers in terms of feed costs. Additionally, the episode explores the state of cattle markets, emphasizing the impacts of past droughts and current efforts to rebuild herds. Further insights are provided into dairy commodity markets, particularly cheese and butter, with projections on future pricing and supply-demand balances. The episode wraps up with strategic advice for dairy producers on planning and managing margins for a profitable future.Grab your own monthly market update here: https://marketing.highgrounddairy.com/august-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 August,  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, Peggy Coffeen interviews Jordan Leak, Vice President at High Plains Ponderosa in Kansas. Jordan shares his journey from growing up in Idaho as a fourth-generation dairyman to discovering his greater purpose of developing people. He discusses his defining moments, the importance of humility and gratitude in leadership, and his efforts to build an inclusive and opportunity-rich workplace culture. Additionally, Jordan highlights how the dairy's mission of creating infinite business opportunities extends beyond profits to positively impact employees and the community. Sponsored by Micro Technologies, this episode delves into leadership, growth, and the values that drive the dairy industry.Micro Technologies innovates advanced, comprehensive & integrated technologies to help dairies produce a safe, wholesome product more efficiently and profitably.For more information, visit: Microtechnologies.com00:00 Introduction to Jordan Leak's Journey01:07 Early Life and Family Background02:54 First Steps in the Dairy Business04:53 Realizing a New Passion06:43 Transition to Management08:30 Joining High Plains Ponderosa12:49 Leadership Philosophy and Development29:15 Personal Growth and Reflections33:04 Books That Shaped Jordan's Leadership38:12 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations41:07 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-UpThis episode is sponsored by Micro Technologies

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, hosted by Peggy Coffeen, financial expert Steve Schwoerer from Compeer Financial shares nearly four decades of lending experience to provide insights on maximizing returns from beef on dairy cattle and strategic long-term herd planning. Discussions include short-term strategies to take advantage of high beef prices, the long-term outlook for dairy operations, and key considerations such as labor, facilities, and manure management. The conversation also broaches risk management and the potential for leveraging lower commodity prices. Steve offers practical advice for both immediate income opportunities and sustainable operational growth in the dairy industry.

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy continues the conversation with Manuel Soares, CEO of Milc Group, diving into the mindset and mission driving one of the fastest-growing tech companies in the dairy industry. Manuel discusses the importance of creating a culture of trust, accountability, and innovation, and reveals his three key virtues for team building: character, passion, and faith. The episode also explores Milc Group's pioneering dairy software, which integrates real-time actionable data to enhance dairy farm operations globally. Manuel shares lessons learned from his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizes the importance of hiring and empowering good people, and describes Milc Group's approach to continuously innovating and adapting to meet the needs of the dairy industry.00:00 Introduction to Future-Proofing Dairy Business00:52 Sponsorship and Company Overview01:25 Leadership Principles and Hiring Philosophy03:06 Faith and Personal Beliefs in Business03:54 Early Team and Company Evolution06:07 Innovation and Product Development15:05 Challenges and Lessons Learned20:32 Empowering Teams and Leadership Advice26:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Genetics, Reproductive Technology and Family Farm TransitionAt the 2025 National Holstein Convention, we caught up with 6th-generation Minnesota dairy farmer and veterinarian Dr. Ashley Swenson.As a vet specializing in embryo transfer, Ashley owns Midwest Embryo Transfer Service and also has a seat on the Holstein Association’s International Marketing Committee.This conversation includes her tips for making genetic investment decisions, and we go beyond repro technology to talk about a topic near and dear to her heart: family farm transition and what it took for Ashley and her husband to make her home farm an opportunity for the seventh generation.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.⁠

As excitement builds for this year’s World Dairy Expo, we're bringing back a crowd favorite recorded live at the Showbox Sires showbox during last year’s event.In this episode, Peggy Coffeen and Tim Abbott sit down with industry icons Tom Morris and Ernie Kueffner. Together, they revisit the early days of Expo, reminisce about unforgettable cows, and unlock stories that have lived inside their showboxes for decades.Whether you're a longtime show ring veteran or gearing up for your first trip to Madison, this episode captures the history, heart, and humor that make World Dairy Expo so special.Make sure to check out Part 2 with Jim Ostrom, John Vosters, and Steve Briggs for even more Expo storytelling.To nominate the dairy story you’d like us to share, you can contact Peggy at peggy@upleveldairy.com, 608-558-1876 or Tim at tim@timabbottcows.com, (802) 238-1142.