The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast

I'm Dr. Craig McConnel, and I’m thrilled to kick off my first episode as host on The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast! Very excited to embark on this journey with you. Celebrating National Farmer’s Day, our guest, Dr. Rik Hendriks, bovine practitioner and co-owner of veterinary practice Ell, explores the role of inflammation in metabolic diseases in dairy cows. He shares how physiology-centered veterinary care can improve treatment outcomes and reshape prevention strategies. Learn how inflammation impacts metabolism, longevity, and overall cow resilience. Listen now on all major platforms! "If you want to prevent post-calving complications, you need to understand if you’re dealing with metabolic, inflammatory, or combined issues." Meet the guest: Dr. Rik Hendriks https://www.linkedin.com/in/rik-hendriks-321a17128/ earned his veterinary degree from Utrecht University. He is a bovine practitioner and co-owner of the veterinary practice Ell in the Netherlands. With over three decades of field experience, he specializes in physiology-based advisory work, focusing on low-grade inflammation and metabolic disorders in dairy cows. He authored Pathways to Health and Disease for Dairy Cows and provides expert training to veterinarians and farmers. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (00:37) Introduction (01:40) Diseases and concerns (04:15) Diagnostic limitations (06:25) Treatment vs inflammation (08:09) Prevention strategy differences (09:37) Physiology-based coaching (12:12) Closing thoughts 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this part two episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Amanda Fischer-Tlustos, NSERC postdoctoral research fellow at UC Davis and the University of Guelph, continues the conversation, explaining how dry off strategies and dry period length influence colostrum quality and IgG transfer. She discusses regenerative involution, high milk production at dry-off, and management approaches to improve colostrum outcomes. Listen now on all major platforms! “The length of the dry period has been repeatedly associated with colostrum production, particularly when cows are managed appropriately before calving.” Meet the guest: Dr. Amanda Fischer-Tlustos https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-fischer-tlustos-21203932a/ is an NSERC postdoctoral research fellow at UC Davis and the University of Guelph, specializing in whole body and mammary metabolism. She completed her MSc at the University of Alberta, studying colostrum management, and her PhD at the University of Guelph, focusing on maternal and mammary factors affecting colostrum production and composition. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (00:49) Introduction (01:56) Milk production impact (02:49) Regenerative involution (03:27) IgG transfer timing (03:50) Once daily milking (04:57) Skip day method (08:39) Closing thoughts 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this part one episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Amanda Fischer-Tlustos, NSERC postdoctoral research fellow at UC Davis and the University of Guelph, explains how colostrum is produced and what drives its composition. She shares new findings on IgG accumulation, macronutrient synthesis, mammary activity during the dry period, and management factors influencing colostrum quality. Discover practical insights to improve dairy health outcomes. Listen now on all major platforms! “Higher milk yield at dry off was linked to greater mammary activity during the dry period and poorer colostrum outcomes.” Meet the guest: Dr. Amanda Fischer-Tlustos https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-fischer-tlustos-21203932a/ is an NSERC postdoctoral research fellow at UC Davis and the University of Guelph, specializing in whole body and mammary metabolism. She completed her MSc at the University of Alberta, studying colostrum management, and her PhD at the University of Guelph, focusing on maternal and mammary factors affecting colostrum production and composition. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (00:39) Introduction (01:39) Colostrum synthesis timeline (03:50) IgG accumulation patterns (05:44) Mammary activity effects (07:09) High-producing cows (07:43) Dry off practices (08:33) Closing thoughts 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Dave Renaud, Associate Professor at the University of Guelph and veterinary epidemiologist, discusses antibiotic use in treating calf diarrhea. He shares research showing that blanket antibiotic therapy at the onset of diarrhea can reduce performance and increase health risks. Dr. Renaud also explains selective treatment, supportive care, and practical strategies to improve calf health outcomes. Listen now on all major platforms! "Disruption of the gut microbiota during diarrhea, followed by antibiotic administration, may worsen dysbiosis and delay recovery." Meet the guest: Dr. Dave Renaud https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-renaud/?originalSubdomain=ca earned a PhD in Epidemiology and a DVM from the University of Guelph. As an Associate Professor in dairy cattle health and veterinary epidemiology, his research focuses on disease prevention, calf welfare, and antimicrobial stewardship. He works closely with producers to apply data-driven solutions that improve herd health and productivity. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (00:43) Introduction (01:44) Selective antibiotic use (03:49) Supportive therapy focus (06:07) On farm logistics (07:28) Microbiome impact (09:46) Treatment decisions (10:07) Final Questions 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Herman Barkema, Professor of Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases at the University of Calgary, explains why reducing antimicrobial use on dairy farms is both practical and necessary. He discusses mastitis prevention, dry-cow management, biosecurity, and antimicrobial resistance from a herd-health perspective. Listen now on all major platforms! “Every infection that does not occur does not have to be treated, and antimicrobial stewardship is actually biosecurity and prevention of transmission in the herd.” Meet the guest: Dr. Herman Barkema https://www.linkedin.com/in/herman-barkema-03315413/ is a Professor of Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases at the University of Calgary, with joint appointments in veterinary medicine and community health sciences. His work focuses on disease prevention, mastitis control, and antimicrobial resistance in dairy cattle systems. He leads national and international One Health initiatives and has published extensively on dairy herd health. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (00:35) Introduction (01:51) Reducing antibiotics (02:51) Resistance risks (04:22) Dry cow strategy (06:29) Prevention focus (07:41) Producer concerns (10:22) Final Questions 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this special episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, marking International Women’s Day, Dr. Jennifer Van Os, Associate Professor and Extension Specialist in Animal Welfare at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, discusses pair and group housing of preweaned calves. She explains behavioral needs, enrichment, cross-sucking, milk feeding methods, and upcoming Canadian housing expectations. Discover practical, science-based strategies to improve calf welfare and performance. Listen now on all major platforms! “Enrichment is a way to modify the environment for cattle so that behavioral needs are addressed, not just basic physiological requirements.” Meet the guest: Dr. Jennifer Van Os is an Associate Professor and Extension Specialist in Animal Welfare in the Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her research integrates applied science and outreach to improve dairy cattle welfare, focusing on calf social housing, behavioral needs, thermal comfort, and practical management solutions. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (01:00) Introduction (01:57) Pair housing benefits (04:37) Defining enrichment (06:26) Canada 2031 rule (08:25) Cross sucking concerns (10:15) Nipple feeding effects (13:29) Final Questions 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Tasia Kendrick, Associate Professor at Michigan State University, explains why bovine leukemia virus remains a major but often overlooked challenge in US dairy herds. She outlines prevalence levels, transmission routes, impacts on immunity and longevity, and practical management strategies to reduce spread. Dr. Kendrick highlights proactive approaches that protect animal welfare and herd performance. Listen now on all major platforms! “Animals with bovine leukemia virus often show reduced milk production, shorter herd life, and weaker immune responses that affect overall dairy herd performance.” Meet the guest: Dr. Tasia Kendrick https://www.linkedin.com/in/taxis/ is an Associate Professor in the Department of Animal Science at Michigan State University. Trained as a geneticist, her research focuses on bovine leukemia virus prevalence, transmission, and management in dairy and beef herds, alongside innovative diagnostic approaches. Her work supports evidence-based decision-making to improve dairy health and longevity. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (00:40) Introduction (01:53) Health impacts (02:52) Herd prevalence (04:40) Transmission routes (07:21) Research updates (08:03) Diagnostics advances (09:46) Final Questions 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Sabine Mann, Associate Professor at Cornell University, continues the discussion, now focusing on cow calf separation and the physiology behind delayed separation strategies. She explains current research on transition milk, calf health, and cow outcomes, while addressing common assumptions and management concerns. Listen now on all major platforms! “One major goal of this cow calf separation research was to separate nutritional effects from social contact effects, allowing a clearer understanding of how transition milk alone influences calf physiology.” Meet the guest: Dr. Sabine Mann https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabine-mann-52578767/ is an Associate Professor of Ambulatory and Production Medicine at Cornell University. Her research focuses on the intersection of metabolism, nutrition, and immunology, with emphasis on transition cows and newborn calf resilience. Her work connects physiology with practical dairy health decisions. Click here to read the full research article: https://doi.org/10.3168/jds.2025-27228 Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (00:40) Introduction (02:05) Separation rationale (04:15) Delayed separation (05:00) Transition milk (07:07) Facility challenges (09:51) Calf health (13:52) Final Questions 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Sabine Mann, Associate Professor at Cornell University, explains how colostrum volume influences passive immunity, digestion, and calf comfort. She discusses body weight-based feeding strategies, absorption efficiency, and behavioral responses linked to excessive volumes. Practical insights help refine colostrum programs for modern dairy systems. Strengthen your evidence-based colostrum management decisions for calves. Listen now on all major platforms! “Calves range in size and weight, and that variation raises important questions about whether one standard colostrum volume fits every newborn calf.” Meet the guest: Dr. Sabine Mann is an Associate Professor of Ambulatory and Production Medicine at Cornell University. Her research focuses on the intersection of metabolism, nutrition, and immunology, with emphasis on transition cows and newborn calf resilience. Her work connects physiology with practical dairy health decisions. Click here to read the full research article: https://doi.org/10.3168/jds.2025-27228 Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (00:42) Introduction (01:52) Colostrum questions (03:08) Body weight feeding (05:04) Absorption physiology (07:05) Volume responses (09:00) Calf behavior (10:44) Final Questions 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Stephen LeBlanc, Professor and Director of Dairy at the University of Guelph, explains why longevity should not be used as a simple indicator of dairy cow health, welfare, or profitability. He challenges common assumptions around culling rates, survivorship bias, and replacement economics, emphasizing data-driven, cow-specific decisions. Listen now on all major platforms! “Longevity should be a consequence of good decisions, not the objective guiding herd management strategies.” Meet the guest: Dr. Stephen LeBlanc https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-leblanc-6b626043/ is a Professor at the University of Guelph and Director of Dairy at the Centre for Dairy Research and Innovation. His research focuses on dairy cattle reproduction, transition cow health, and metabolic disease prevention, integrating epidemiology, physiology, nutrition, and management. His work supports applied, data-driven strategies that improve dairy health, productivity, and welfare. Click here to learn more: https://www.scielo.br/j/ar/a/B7SKBMnc4mthpfktCFbVPMC/?lang=en Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (00:56) Introduction (02:31) Longevity debate (03:51) Culling metrics (05:18) Heifer availability (07:19) Survivorship bias (10:09) Replacement costs (12:05) Final Questions 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Osvaldo Pascottini from University College Dublin shares his ongoing research on alternative approaches to supporting uterine health and fertility in dairy cows. He explains how studying the microbiome, metabolic pathways, and host interactions can help identify new ways to maintain reproductive efficiency after calving. Listen now on all major platforms! "We’re focusing on unraveling the composition of the healthy uterine microbiome in cows that get pregnant at first insemination." Meet the guest: Dr. Osvaldo Pascottini https://www.linkedin.com/in/osvaldo-bogado-pascottini-b869307a/?originalSubdomain=ie serves as an Astra Assistant Professor at the School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin. His research focuses on inflammation, immune response, and the role of the microbiome in uterine health and fertility of dairy cows. He is currently studying microbiome-based strategies that may complement traditional treatments. Click here to learn more: https://www.scielo.br/j/ar/a/B7SKBMnc4mthpfktCFbVPMC/?lang=en Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (00:39) Introduction (01:55) Uterine diseases focus (03:23) Microbiome composition (07:19) Multi-omics approach (08:39) Microbiome project (09:52) Antibiotic considerations (11:50) Closing thoughts 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Daryl Nydam from Cornell University explains how real-world herd dynamics drive semen decisions and long-term replacement planning on today’s dairies. He walks through the economic trade-offs between sexed and beef semen, how these choices influence milk flow, and why keeping the right number of heifers is key for a sustainable herd. Get practical insights to fine-tune herd structure and performance. Listen now on all major platforms. "Milk production remains the most important factor to consider when balancing replacement strategies and guiding efficient herd decisions." Meet the guest: Dr. Daryl Nydam https://www.linkedin.com/in/daryl-nydam-b925581/ is a Professor of Dairy Health and Production at Cornell University, where his work centers on transition cow health, infectious diseases, and the population-level factors shaping dairy system performance. His research helps producers refine herd strategies that strengthen productivity, efficiency, and sustainability across the dairy industry. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (00:59) Introduction (01:44) Semen selection choices (02:45) Replacement rate balance (03:55) Milk production impact (05:42) Long-term profitability (09:06) Sustainability strategies (10:02) Closing thoughts 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Christine Baes from the University of Guelph explores how genomic innovation is transforming dairy cattle breeding. She discusses the Resilient Dairy Genome and Net-Zero Dairy Genome Projects, highlighting new genetic traits improving efficiency, animal health, and environmental sustainability. Listen now on all major platforms! "We’re using genomic tools to identify animals that are naturally more resilient, so farmers can breed cows that stay healthy and productive." Meet the guest: Dr. Christine Baes https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-baes/?originalSubdomain=ca is a quantitative geneticist and the Canada Research Chair in Livestock Genomics at the University of Guelph, where she also serves as Acting Associate Dean of External Relations at the Ontario Agricultural College. Her work focuses on genetic strategies that improve sustainability, animal health, and production efficiency. Click here to learn more: The Resilient Dairy Genome Project—A general overview of methods and objectives related to feed efficiency and methane emissions - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022030223006173 Review: Opportunities and challenges for the genetic selection of dairy calf disease traits - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1751731124000727 Estimation of genetic parameters and genome-wide association study for enzootic bovine leukosis resistance in Canadian Holstein cattle - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022030224011639 Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (00:47) Introduction (02:23) Genomic resilience (04:31) Resilient cow (06:23) Feed efficiency traits (08:59) Excitement for dairy’s future (10:17) Industry collaboration (12:11) Closing thoughts 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Ronaldo Cerri from the University of British Columbia joins us again to continue our conversation on dairy cow reproduction. He shares insights into understanding and reducing embryonic and fetal losses in dairy herds, explaining how better nutrition, management, and genetics work together to support healthier pregnancies and more efficient reproduction. Learn how small, consistent improvements can make a big difference in herd fertility. Listen now on all major platforms! "Know the demographics of your herd before comparing reproduction numbers; it completely changes what’s considered good performance." Meet the guest: Dr. Ronaldo Luis Aoki Cerri https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronaldo-cerri-78537026/ is a Professor of Animal Reproduction at the University of British Columbia, where he leads research in the Applied Biology Program. He earned his DVM in Brazil and completed his M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Animal Biology at the University of California, Davis, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Florida. His work focuses on improving reproductive efficiency in dairy and beef cattle by linking health, inflammation, and fertility. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (00:55) Introduction (02:03) Nutritional influence (04:25) Herd management (05:25) Reproduction dynamics (08:45) Reproductive technologies (12:18) Genetic selection (13:50) Closing thoughts 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Ronaldo Cerri from the University of British Columbia discusses how dairy cow health plays a key role in reproductive performance. He breaks down how metabolic stress and health challenges can impact fertility and shares how data-driven management can make a difference. Learn practical ways to improve herd reproduction through smarter health monitoring and sustainable strategies. Listen now on all major platforms! "The idea that reproduction has improved overall is true, but the next frontier for continued progress is in cow health." Meet the guest: Dr. Ronaldo Luis Aoki Cerri https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronaldo-cerri-78537026/ is a Professor of Animal Reproduction at the University of British Columbia, where he leads research in the Applied Biology Program. He earned his DVM in Brazil and completed his M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Animal Biology at the University of California, Davis, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Florida. His work focuses on improving reproductive efficiency in dairy and beef cattle by linking health, inflammation, and fertility. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (01:03) Introduction (02:43) Health and reproduction (04:45) Data-driven fertility (07:17) Sensor-based monitoring (09:39) Pregnancy loss factors (11:44) Reproduction efficiency (13:13) Closing thoughts 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Christine Baes from the University of Guelph shares how genetics and genomics are transforming the way we think about sustainability in dairy herds. She explains how using genomic tools in breeding programs can help cut methane emissions, strengthen herd health, and keep dairies running efficiently. Tune in now to hear how genomic selection is helping producers breed cows that perform better, last longer, and support a more sustainable dairy industry. "When we talk about breeding or genetic selection, we’re talking about how to make cows better: healthier, more efficient, more environmentally friendly." Meet the guest: Dr. Christine Baes https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-baes/?originalSubdomain=ca is a quantitative geneticist and the Canada Research Chair in Livestock Genomics at the University of Guelph, where she also serves as Acting Associate Dean of External Relations at the Ontario Agricultural College. Her work focuses on genetic strategies that improve sustainability, animal health, and production efficiency. Click here to learn more: The Resilient Dairy Genome Project—A general overview of methods and objectives related to feed efficiency and methane emissions: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022030223006173 Review: Opportunities and challenges for the genetic selection of dairy calf disease traits: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1751731124000727 Estimation of genetic parameters and genome-wide association study for enzootic bovine leukosis resistance in Canadian Holstein cattle: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022030224011639 Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (00:47) Introduction (01:56) Breeding for sustainability (04:37) Genetics versus genomics (06:02) Genomic selection tools (07:02) Reducing methane emissions (08:45) Global genetic impact (09:55) Closing thoughts 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Jimena Laporta from the University of Wisconsin–Madison discusses how heat stress affects calves before and after birth. She shares findings on multi-generational effects, calf cooling strategies, and the long-term benefits of thermal management. Learn how early-life cooling can improve future performance and herd health. Listen now on all major platforms! "Heat stress during late gestation affects both the dry cow and her unborn calf, creating long-term impacts on productivity and health." Meet the guest: Dr. Jimena Laporta https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimena-laporta-444802230/ earned her bachelor’s in Biology and master’s in Animal Sciences before completing her Ph.D. in Dairy Science at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Now an Associate Professor of Lactation Physiology, her research explores how environmental and nutritional factors shape mammary development and lactation in dairy cattle. Click here to learn more: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40818677/ Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (00:57) Introduction (02:02) Heat stress impact (04:18) Calf cooling systems (06:37) Housing challenges (07:32) Research insights (09:27) Practical applications (12:14) Closing thoughts 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Paul Fricke from the University of Wisconsin–Madison discusses reproductive management strategies for dairy heifers and how synchronization protocols can improve fertility and profitability. He shares new findings on timed insemination, sexed semen, and the economic value of reducing days on feed. Learn how to optimize your herd’s reproductive efficiency. Listen now on all major platforms! "Heifers are often overlooked in reproductive programs, yet their management directly influences the long-term productivity and efficiency of the entire dairy herd." Meet the guest: Dr. Paul Fricke https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-fricke-82a37a8/ is a Professor of Dairy Science and Extension Specialist at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. His research focuses on improving reproductive efficiency in dairy cattle through advanced reproductive technologies and data-based management. With more than 100 peer-reviewed papers and a global speaking record, Dr. Fricke’s work has shaped dairy reproductive programs worldwide. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (00:32) Introduction (01:22) Heifer fertility management (02:50) Synchronization protocols (06:32) Sexed semen timing (09:12) Economic efficiency (10:09) Reproductive technology trends (12:07) Closing thoughts 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Paul Fricke, Professor of Dairy Science at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, explores how timed AI protocols and activity monitoring systems can boost reproductive efficiency in dairy herds. He explains what recent research reveals about insemination timing, the pitfalls of common practices like “Co-Synch,” and how data-driven monitoring improves fertility outcomes. Listen now on all major platforms! "Delaying insemination by 16 hours after the final injection increased conception from 36% to 46%, a 28% increase in pregnant animals." Meet the guest: Dr. Paul Fricke https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-fricke-82a37a8/ is a Professor of Dairy Science and Extension Specialist at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. His research focuses on improving reproductive efficiency in dairy cattle through advanced reproductive technologies and data-based management. With more than 100 peer-reviewed papers and a global speaking record, Dr. Fricke’s work has shaped dairy reproductive programs worldwide. Click here to learn more: https://www.journalofdairyscience.org/article/S0022-0302(25)00396-0/fulltext Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (01:10) Introduction (02:00) Timed AI protocols (03:27) Insemination timing (05:54) Activity systems (08:11) Fertility optimization (09:10) Future integration (11:13) Closing thoughts 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/

In this episode of The Dairy Health Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Maria Jose Fuenzalida from the University of Wisconsin–River Falls explores how mastitis prevention and employee training improve milk quality and cow welfare. She shares findings from her research and explains why not every mastitis case needs treatment. Listen now on all major platforms! "Training is important, but continuing training and making sure that everybody’s on the same page is also very important." Meet the guest: Dr. Maria Jose Fuenzalida https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-jose-fuenzalida-96579575/ , DVM, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Dairy Health and Management at the University of Wisconsin–River Falls. Her research focuses on milk quality, mastitis control, and antimicrobial resistance in dairy cows. She brings extensive experience from her time at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and Chile. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love! https://www.wisenetix.com/dairyhealthblackbelt What you will learn: (00:00) Highlight (00:57) Introduction (03:17) Mastitis treatment findings (04:52) Disease interconnection (06:27) Employee training value (09:17) Human factor challenges (12:45) Continuous education (13:35) Closing thoughts 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺. Website: https://dairyhealthblackbelt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dairycampus/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/dairycampus/