288 | Leadership, Culture, and Next-Gen Growth at Vir-Clar Farms with JR Boyke
Description
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 Financial
Compeer 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.
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00:00 Introduction to JR Boyke's Journey
01:12 Early Life and Family Farm Evolution
03:59 Returning to the Farm and Gaining Experience
07:23 Career Development and Responsibilities
08:05 Leadership and Team Building
19:59 Expanding the Farm and New Opportunities
24:45 Advice and Reflections
26:31 Closing Thoughts and Rapid-Fire Questions




