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Your Dairy Checkoff
Your Dairy Checkoff
Author: Don Schindler
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© 2021 Dairy Management Inc.™ All Rights Reserved.
Description
The Your Dairy Checkoff podcast is a collaboration between national and local checkoff organizations to showcase examples of how dairy promotion programs are working together to build dairy sales and consumption as well as consumer trust in today's changing marketplace to maximize dairy farmers checkoff investment.
Each episode will be hosted by dairy farmers or industry experts. Listeners will hear dairy farmer conversations on local, national, and global dairy promotion including consumer research, dairy nutrition, science, and issues updates. Farmers will help guide the selection of topics through listener feedback.
To listen, subscribe to the Your Dairy Checkoff podcast on your favorite podcast platforms including Stitcher, Spotify and iTunes.
Each episode will be hosted by dairy farmers or industry experts. Listeners will hear dairy farmer conversations on local, national, and global dairy promotion including consumer research, dairy nutrition, science, and issues updates. Farmers will help guide the selection of topics through listener feedback.
To listen, subscribe to the Your Dairy Checkoff podcast on your favorite podcast platforms including Stitcher, Spotify and iTunes.
87 Episodes
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DMI's Kuda Lamin-Bangura, Senior Vice President of Scientific Affairs, and Katie Bambacht, Vice President of Nutrition Affairs at the National Dairy Council, chat with DMI's Scott Wallin about what the 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which strongly affirm dairy's role as an essential part of a healthy diet, recognizing milk, cheese, and yogurt at all fat levels—including whole milk—as beneficial. Kuda and Katie also talk about the impact of the signing of the "Whole Milk for Healthy Kids" act after being signed into law by President Trump, and what effect it could have on school lunch programs. To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com. Host & Guest: Host: Scott Wallin, Vice President of Farmer Communications & Media Relations, Dairy Management Inc. Guest: Kuda Lamin-Bangura, Senior Vice President of Scientific Affairs, National Dairy Council Guest: Katie Bambacht, Vice President of Nutrition Affairs, National Dairy Council
In this episode of Your Dairy Checkoff Podcast, economist Dr. Oral Capps of Texas A&M University breaks down more than a decade of independent research measuring the impact of the dairy checkoff. Speaking from the 2025 Joint Annual Meeting, Dr. Capps shares how checkoff investments across food service partnerships, fluid milk innovation, whole-fat dairy science and exports are delivering strong, measurable returns for U.S. dairy farmers. He explains the rigorous, peer-reviewed process behind his analysis, the role of third-party credibility and why programs like lactose-free milk, whole milk, butter and product innovation have contributed to a turnaround in fluid milk consumption. Dr. Capps also offers a farmer-focused perspective on what the checkoff means for the all-milk price and what the industry could look like without these efforts. This is a revealing look at the data, the methodology and the real-world outcomes demonstrating that checkoff investments are paying off—and strengthening dairy's future. To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com. Host & Guest Host: Scott Wallin, Vice President of Farmer Communications & Media Relations, Dairy Management Inc. Guest: Dr. Oral Capps, Executive & Regents Professor, Texas A & M University
DMI's Katie Bambacht, Vice President of Nutrition Affairs at the National Dairy Council, speaks with DMI's Scott Wallin about how the checkoff is working directly with schools to improve school lunches (with dairy being front and center) by collaborating with the School Nutrition Association. Katie explains that nearly 30 million students participate in school meal programs daily, with dairy providing significant nutrients, while emphasizing the critical role of school meals in addressing food insecurity and improving academic performance. She also covers the "Made with School Lunch" campaign, which aims to change perceptions of school meals, and the "Smart Swaps" initiative, which helps schools meet evolving USDA standards while maintaining dairy offerings. The discussion also touches on the potential of whole milk in schools and future projects with the School Nutrition Association. To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com. Host & Guest: · Host: Scott Wallin, Vice President of Farmer Communications & Media Relations, Dairy Management Inc. · Guest: Katie Bambacht, Vice President of Nutrition Affairs, National Dairy Council
In this Regional Rundown segment of the Your Dairy Checkoff Podcast, host Theresa Reps talks with Brooke Williams, Director of Communications for the American Dairy Association Indiana, about the deep connection between dairy farmers and the Indianapolis 500 tradition. Williams explains how the Indy 500's iconic "Winners Drink Milk" moment began in 1936 and sparked a beloved tradition that continues today. Each year, two Indiana dairy farmers are chosen to present milk to the winning driver, undergoing media training and public engagement to represent dairy farmers statewide. The partnership generates enormous visibility for dairy—over $7 million in media value and more than 8 million race-day viewers in 2025. This year's innovations included a collaboration with Prairie Farms, featuring special-edition milk bottles and school cartons with Indy 500 themes, which boosted milk sales and fan engagement. Williams emphasizes that the Indy 500 tradition not only celebrates the winning driver but also honors the dedication of dairy farmers everywhere—reminding listeners that "Winners drink milk." To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com. Host & Guest Host: Theresa Reps, Director of Farmer Outreach, Dairy Management Inc. Guest: Brook Williams, Director of Communications, American Dairy Association Indiana
Discover the Latest Milk Fat Research on Whole Milk and Dairy Foods DMI's Dr. Chris Cifelli, Senior Vice President of Nutrition Research at National Dairy Council, speaks with DMI's Scott Wallin about how the checkoff is expanding the body of science around whole milk, cheese, and yogurt. With more than 80 studies conducted over the last 20 years, the milk fat research shows that these foods not only help support childhood growth but may also reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and fit into heart-healthy diets. Cifelli explains how the unique makeup of dairy fat—especially components like oleic acid—plays a vital role in supporting better health. He also underscores the need to translate this science into clear messages for both consumers and health professionals and how the checkoff constantly shares these messages with nutrition professionals. Looking ahead, his research team will continue to explore how dairy contributes to lowering cardiometabolic disease risk and the benefits of dairy's unique fatty acids. To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com. Host & Guest: · Host: Scott Wallin, Vice President of Farmer Communications & Media Relations, Dairy Management Inc. · Guest: Dr. Chris Cifelli, Senior Vice President of Nutrition Research, Dairy Management Inc.
In this inaugural Regional Rundown segment of the Your Dairy Checkoff Podcast, DMI's Theresa Reps is joined by Nick DePalma and Kim Villani from the American Dairy Association Northeast (ADANE) to spotlight their impactful work with retailers. They discuss two major initiatives – the Dairy Aisle Performance Program and the Dairy Aisle Reinvention Program – and how these efforts drive sales, improve product availability and create better shopping experiences for consumers. From tackling out-of-stock challenges and enhancing dairy case hygiene to using data-driven insights to expand dairy shelf space, Nick and Kim share how these programs help prioritize milk and dairy products in more than 40 retail chains across the Northeast. Farmers will also hear how these strong retailer relationships benefit their bottom line and how consumer trends like protein snacking and local farm storytelling are shaping dairy's future in stores. Tune in to learn more! To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com Host & Guest Host: Theresa Reps, Director of Farmer Outreach, Dairy Management Inc. Guest: Nick Depalma, Vice President of Retail Services, American Dairy Association North East Guest: Kim Villani, Senior Director of Retail Services, American Dairy Association North East
Learn About The Top Global Markets Targeted by the U.S. Dairy Export Council DMI's Scott Wallin explores how your dairy checkoff resources are driving global demand for U.S. dairy with Becky Nyman, a fourth-generation California dairy farmer and chair of the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC), and Rick Ortman, USDEC's Senior VP of Strategic Insights. Rick highlights USDEC's mission to make U.S. dairy the supplier of choice worldwide—backed by rigorous market research and strategic insights while Becky shares the importance of uniting farmers, processors, and manufacturers under one global voice. With nearly 20% of all U.S. milk production already feeding international markets, they make it clear why exports are critical to sustaining dairy businesses and attracting the next generation to the farm. From boosting dairy demand in Mexico to building strong ties in Southeast Asia through USDEC's Center for Dairy Excellence in Singapore, the conversation reveals how mission trips, health research, and hands-on partnerships are strengthening trust in U.S. dairy across the globe. Tune in to find out! To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com Host & Guest: · Host: Scott Wallin, Vice President of Farmer Communications & Media Relations, Dairy Management Inc. · Guest: Becky Nyman, California dairy farmer and Chair, U.S. Dairy Export Council · Guest: Rick Ortman, Senior Vice President of Strategic Insights, U.S. Dairy Export Council
Barb O'Brien, CEO of DMI, discusses the State of the Industry report with its authors, Will Loux, analyst with NMPF and U.S. Dairy Export Council, and Mike McCully, DMI consultant. DMI commissioned the report in early 2024 and highlights the unprecedented $8-10 billion in new and expanded dairy infrastructure. Key findings include the significant impact of new cheese plant capacity, consumer recovery from high inflation, and structural changes in the dairy industry in China. The report emphasizes the checkoff's need to invest in strategies focused on new product innovations and research, new technologies, and a strong commitment to meeting global demand, as well as the ability to adapt to changing market dynamics. Tune in to find out! To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com Host & Guest: · Host: Barb O'Brien, CEO and President of Dairy Management Inc. · Guest: Will Loux, Senior Vice President, Global Economics Affairs of U.S. Dairy Export Council · Guest: Mike McCully, President of McCully Consulting
Domino's leaders, Jim Zimmer and Kris Holley, along with DMI's Rebecca MacKay Allen, speak with DMI's Scott Wallin about the success of the Domino's Smart Slice program with schools. They highlight the 16-year partnership, which has grown from 300 to 21,000 schools, serves over 59 million slices of pizza, and sells an additional 3 million pounds of cheese. They also discuss future goals, including international expansion and improving pizza crust to enhance cheese sales. The long-time partnership's success is attributed to shared values and community focus between dairy farmers and Domino's franchisees. Tune in to find out! To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com Host & Guest: · Host: Scott Wallin, Vice President of Farmer Communications & Media Relations, Dairy Management Inc. · Guest: Jim Zimmer, Marketing Manager for Domino's Strategic Sales. · Guest: Kris Holley, Director for Domino's Strategic Sales. · Guest: Rebecca MacKay Allen, Senior Vice President, Growth Platforms and Partnerships for Dairy Management Inc.
DMI's Anne Marie Splitstone, EVP for Growth Platforms and Partnerships, and Silvia Robles, VP for Growth Platforms and Partnerships, speak with DMI's Scott Wallin about the evolution of fluid milk innovation since 2015, emphasizing consumer insights and industry partnerships. They highlight the role of the Dairy Foods Research Center Network, which includes 150 R&D experts, in driving innovation. Key consumer trends identified include a preference for high-protein, low-sugar products and lactose-free options. Successful products like Fairlife, which surpassed $1 billion in sales, and DFA's Milk 50, launched with strategic packaging and positioning, are cited as examples. The conversation underscores the importance of consumer insights, industry collaboration, and ongoing innovation in driving growth in the fluid milk category. Tune in to find out! To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com Host & Guest: Host: Scott Wallin, Vice President of Farmer Communications & Media Relations, Dairy Management Inc. Guest: Anne Marie Splitstone, Executive Vice President, Growth Platforms and Partnerships for Dairy Management Inc. Guest: Silvia Robles, Vice President, Growth Platforms and Partnerships for Dairy Management Inc.
Minnesota dairy farmer Charles Krause and DMI's Jessica Learman speak with DMI's Scott Wallin about how the checkoff builds sales and consumer trust for dairy farmers and importers who fund the checkoff. They discuss the importance of transparency in dairy checkoff programs and highlight the "Making Every Drop Count" campaign, which aims to unify various checkoff initiatives and make them more visible to farmers. The new website, DairyCheckoff.com, is designed to provide farmers with easy access to financial information, annual reports, and contact details for board members. Tune in to find out! To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com. Host & Guest: · Host: Scott Wallin, Vice President of Farmer Communications & Media Relations, Dairy Management Inc. · Guest: Jessica Learman, Executive Vice President, Farmer Outreach for Dairy Management Inc. · Guest: Charles Krause, Minnesota Dairy Farmer, First Vice Chair of United Dairy Industry Association, Chair of Midwest Dairy
DMI's Chris Urban speaks with DMI's Scott Wallin about the new dairy product innovation, YoBark, created with General Mills. YoBark targets teens and tweens who tend to leave the yogurt category due to a desire for on-the-go, shareable snacks. The product was developed through consumer insights and testing, resulting in a stand-up pouch yogurt bark that is both indulgent and has a good nutrient profile. They will also discuss the overall partnership, including future innovations and premium yogurt offerings, emphasizing the importance of the checkoff's science through the National Dairy Council and checkoff's consumer insights in driving demand. To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com. Host & Guest: · Host: Scott Wallin, Vice President of Farmer Communications & Media Relations, Dairy Management Inc. · Guest: Chris Urban, Vice President of Global Growth Platforms & Partnerships, Dairy Management Inc.
DMI's Megan Maisano and Aris Georgiadis speak with DMI's Scott Wallin about how the checkoff is sharing dairy's impact on children with the "First 1000 Days". She also explains how the checkoff is promoting this research through our nutrition and health professionals and to consumers via trusted online resource centers. Tune in to find out! Host & Guest: Host: Scott Wallin, Vice President of Farmer Communications & Media Relations, Dairy Management Inc. Guest: Megan Maisano, MS, RDN, Director of Nutrition & Regulatory Affairs, Dairy Management Inc. Guest: Aris Georgiadis, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Dairy Management, Inc.
DMI's Nancy Gannon speaks with DMI's Scott Wallin about the dairy checkoff's international strategies for increasing U.S. cheese exports globally, focusing on partnerships with pizza chains like Pizza Hut. In Indonesia, Pizza Hut's innovative Limited Time Offers, such as the "Cheese Overflow" and culturally relevant Ramadan campaigns, have boosted cheese sales. In Japan, Pizza Hut's monthly "Hutto Day" and a 30% increase in cheese usage on pizzas highlight the growing demand for U.S. cheese. Tune in to find out more! To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com Host & Guest: · Host: Scott Wallin, Vice President of Farmer Communications & Media Relations, Dairy Management Inc. · Guest: Nancy Gannon, Vice President of Global Growth Platforms & Partnerships, Dairy Management Inc.
Barb O'Brien, CEO of Dairy Management Inc., and Marilyn Hershey, a Pennsylvania dairy farmer and Chair of DMI, discuss the "dairy renaissance" in US, driven by increased consumer engagement, health professional recommendations, and innovative social media campaigns. O'Brien emphasizes the "Now, Next, Future" strategy, with the "Now" focus on immediate results, "Next" on ongoing science and partnership investments, and "Future" of long-term industry growth strategies. They also stressed the importance of national and local collaboration, ensuring efficient use of funds and maximizing impact. Tune in to find out more! To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com Host & Guest: · Host: Marilyn Hershey, Pennsylvania dairy farmer and Chair of Dairy Management Inc. · Guest: Barb O'Brien, President and CEO of Dairy Management Inc.
Listen as Erin Walter, Vice President of Brand Marketing for Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, shares how Midwest Dairy's local partnership helps drive new dairy product innovations through Limited Time Offers (LTOs). With over 500 restaurants and growing, Freddy's loves using LTOs to grab customers' attention and get them into their expanding regional chain. This three-year partnership has produced several successful items including the Grilled Cheese Steakburger and the pumpkin pie and caramel apple pie concretes. Tune in to find out! To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com Host & Guest: Host: Stephanie Onken, Midwest Dairy Corporate Communications Manager Guest: Erin Walter, Vice President of Brand Marketing, Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers Guest: Beth Bruck-Upton, Vice President of Business Unit Operations-West, Midwest Dairy
Listen as Katie Bambacht, Vice President for Nutrition Affairs, shares how the National Dairy Council educates, innovates, and supports the School Nutrition Association in getting kids to understand and consume healthy meals at school. They discuss the strength of our relationship with the School Nutrition Association, the new collaboration for the "Made With School Lunch" campaign, lactose education, and the success of the new flavored milk and lactose-free shelf-stable school milk pilots. Tune in to find out! To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit dairycheckoff.com. Host & Guest: · Host: Scott Wallin, Vice President, Farmer Relations and Media Relations for Dairy Management Inc. · Guest: Katie Bambacht, RDN, SNS, Vice President, Nutrition Affairs for National Dairy Council
Listen in as California dairy farmer and United Dairy Industry Association board member Arlene Vander Eyk has a conversation with Mike Ciresi, Vice President and On-site Dairy Scientist for Dairy Management Inc. about working at Taco Bell's test kitchen. They discuss into Taco Bell's approach to dairy product innovation, the performance of dairy products since partnering, and what future dairy offerings may look like. Tune in to find out! To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit www.usdairy.com. Host & Guest: · Host: Arlene Vander Eyk, California Dairy Farmer and United Dairy Industry Association Board Member · Guest: Mike Ciresi, Vice President of Product Research for Dairy Management Inc. and On-Site Dairy Scientist at Taco Bell
Listen as Sarah Hetke, Director of Farmer Outreach, interviews Tyler Beck, owner of Beck Farms in New York, about his family's experience in hosting Vanessa Bayer, a comedian and actress, on the farm for the filming of the Dairy Diaries. This video series follows Vanessa as she is thrust into the unfamiliar world of dairy farming. Through Bayer's experiences, viewers get an up-close look at the realities of modern dairy farming and the innovative sustainability and animal care practices shaping the industry's future. Tune in to find out! To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit www.usdairy.com. Host & Guest: · Host: Sarah Hetke, Director of Farmer Outreach · Guest: Tyler Beck, Owner of Beck Farms
Listen as Scott Wallin, Vice President of Farmer Relations, chats with Beau Hayden, vice president of strategic intelligence, about his work with online retailers such as Instacart and Amazon. They will also discuss promotional partnerships with both local checkoffs and retailer, Dollar General, as well as international partnerships with U.S. Dairy Export Council. Tune in to find out! To learn more about the national dairy checkoff and your local dairy checkoffs, please visit www.usdairy.com. Host & Guest: · Host: Scott Wallin, Vice President of Farmer Relations and Media Relations, Dairy Management Inc. · Guest: Beau Hayden, Vice President of Strategic Intelligence, Dairy Management Inc.




