The Hoard's Dairyman Podcast

Sponsored by: Zoetis

In this episode, Kylene Anderson visits with third-generation California dairy producer Jared Fernandez of Legacy Ranches. Fernandez shares his family's century-long dairy legacy and how he and his brothers manage a 4,500-cow operation. They discuss sustainability investments, industry involvement, California's water challenges, and the opportunities ahead as demand for dairy protein grows. Fernandez also offers advice for the next generation of dairy producers on leadership, farm management, and building a lasting family business.

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In this episode, Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads the FARM-approved article, "Every sick day matters to a calf," by Abby Bauer, previous managing editor of Hoard's Dairyman.

The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management, or FARM, Program, created by the National Milk Producers Federation in partnership with Dairy Management, Inc, helps ensure the success of U.S. dairy farmers by providing assurances to dairy customers and consumers. The FARM Animal Care Program helps to demonstrate dairy farmers’ commitment to providing excellent care of their dairy cattle and producing safe, wholesome milk.

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Big decisions can come with big responsibilities, especially when you're young and choosing your future. In this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman podcast, New York dairy farmer Julia Fouts shares her journey back to her family’s fourth-generation dairy farm, the challenges of finding her path in agriculture, and the changes she’s helped implement along the way. Recently recognized with the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets’ Rising Star Award, Julia discusses leadership, agricultural advocacy, community involvement, and her vision for the farm’s future. Hear her advice for young people navigating their own paths in dairy f...

In this episode, Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads the FARM-approved article, "Building strong immunity in calves," by Abby Bauer, previous managing editor of Hoard's Dairyman.

The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management, or FARM, Program, created by the National Milk Producers Federation in partnership with Dairy Management, Inc, helps ensure the success of U.S. dairy farmers by providing assurances to dairy customers and consumers. The FARM Animal Care Program helps to demonstrate dairy farmers’ commitment to providing excellent care of their dairy cattle and producing safe, wholesome milk.

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In Part 2 of our conversation with David Elliott of Drumgoon Dairy, we discuss dairy genetics, advice for the next generation, and the lessons learned from 20 years of farming in South Dakota. Elliott shares what keeps him connected to the industry and the importance of holding on to the spark that started it all.

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1

Website: https://hoards.com/

In this episode, Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads the FARM-approved article, "Take a look at transition milk," by Mike Hutchens, professor emeritus of animal sciences at the University of Illinois, Urbana.

The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management, or FARM, Program, created by the National Milk Producers Federation in partnership with Dairy Management, Inc, helps ensure the success of U.S. dairy farmers by providing assurances to dairy customers and consumers. The FARM Animal Care Program helps to demonstrate dairy farmers’ commitment to providing excellent care of their dairy cattle and producing safe, wholesome milk.

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Sponsored by: IFF Animal Nutrition & Health

In this episode, we sit down with David Elliott of Drumgoon Dairy to hear about his family’s journey from Northern Ireland to South Dakota and the growth of their dairy operation to 12,000 cows. David shares insights on herd management, transitioning from robotic milking to a parlor system, and raising calves in Kansas. We also discuss his passion for technology, including how he’s using AI and developing custom apps to improve farm communication, data collection, and day-to-day dairy management.

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In this episode, Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads the FARM-approved article, "Always use enough gun," by Paul R. Biagiotti, DVM.

The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management, or FARM, Program, created by the National Milk Producers Federation in partnership with Dairy Management, Inc, helps ensure the success of U.S. dairy farmers by providing assurances to dairy customers and consumers. The FARM Animal Care Program helps to demonstrate dairy farmers’ commitment to providing excellent care of their dairy cattle and producing safe, wholesome milk.

👉 Please follow us on your favorite podcast app, and don't forget to li...

Farm accidents can happen in an instant — and when you’re working in a field, around equipment, or miles from the farm, help may not arrive for 20 minutes or more. In those critical first few minutes, knowing what to do and having the right supplies within reach can make a difference.

In this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, Jenna Byrne talks with Katie Hammock, an ER nurse, dairy farmer’s wife, and founder of The Dairy Wife, about preparing for serious farm emergencies. Katie shares what she has seen in the emergency department, why uncontrolled bleeding...

In this episode, Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads an article exploring the benefits and limitations of storing frozen colostrum for dairy calves. Research shows that while frozen colostrum remains a valuable backup when fresh colostrum is unavailable, some important components decline during extended storage. Learn why researchers now recommend using frozen colostrum within eight months and discover best practices for freezing and thawing it safely.

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1

Website: https://hoards.com/

Sponsored by: Zoetis

What does it take to operate a dairy in Southern California, just outside one of the nation's largest population centers? Fourth-generation dairy farmer Brad Scott joins us to share his family's remarkable journey, which began with six Guernsey cows in 1913.

Scott discusses the challenges and opportunities of farming near Los Angeles, including urban growth, water management, sustainability, and connecting with consumers. He also shares how his family's dairy and creamery have evolved over four generations and why he's optimistic about the future of the dairy industry.

From new technology and...

This episode explores the lasting impact early-life respiratory disease can have on beef-on-dairy calves. Hoard’s Dairyman Associate Editor Jessica Miller discusses research from Penn State’s Melissa Cantor showing that calves with lung consolidation at weaning experienced reduced growth and were more likely to receive lower carcass grades later in life. The findings highlight how respiratory disease may have economic consequences that extend well beyond the calf stage and why keeping beef-on-dairy calves healthy from the start matters.

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This webinar took place on Monday, August 10, at noon (Central Time). Victor E. Cabrera from the University of Wisconsin-Madison presented: Introducing RuFaS: A Digital Twin for a Sustainable Dairy Future.

RuFaS (Ruminant Farm System model) is an integrated simulation platform designed to capture how decisions in one part of the dairy farm affect the whole system. This webinar will provide a high-level introduction to the model, include a visual walkthrough, and highlight published applications that show how RuFaS can be used to evaluate economics, performance, and sustainability together.
If you would like to watch the complete...

In this episode, Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads “A barn-building plan for animal welfare,” which she also wrote. This episode explores a vision for the dairy barn of the future centered on animal welfare. Jessica highlights a proposed housing system designed to support natural cow behavior, stable herd structures, indoor and outdoor access, cow-calf bonding, and greater animal autonomy while incorporating technology and automation.

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1

Website: https://hoards.com/

In this episode, Associate Editor, Jessica Miller, reads the FARM-accredited article, "Colostrum: A proven solution" written by Mark Hardesty, D.V.M.

Colostrum is one of the most powerful tools dairy producers have for getting calves off to a healthy start. Veterinarian Mark Hardesty, D.V.M., explains why timing, cleanliness, and proper feeding are critical for successful passive transfer and shares practical management changes that can reduce scours and calf death loss. He also discusses the “cuddle box” approach and how delivering clean colostrum within minutes of birth can make a major difference.

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Sponsored by: Zoetis 

In this episode of the Hoard's Dairyman Podcast, host Jenna Byrne sits down with Jim Van Patter, dairy manager at Nehls Brothers Farms and an internationally recognized dairy consultant, to discuss the management principles that have shaped every dairy operation he's worked on.

Drawing on decades of experience leading large dairy farms across the United States, Turkey, Australia, and Indonesia, Van Patter shares the strategies he uses to improve herd performance, develop employees, and create systems that drive long-term success. From identifying "low-hanging fruit" to prioritizing cow comfort, team communication, and data-driven d...

In this episode, Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads the article titled, "Calves that count," written by Managing Editor, Kylene Anderson.

Listen to this episode to explore why every replacement heifer matters more than ever. Learn how preventing calfhood respiratory disease and scours can improve lifetime performance, reduce costly losses, and set calves up for long-term success through proven management practices like excellent colostrum care and a clean calving environment. 

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In this episode, Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads the article titled, "Tip the scale of calf health in your favor," written by former Senior Editor at Hoard's Dairyman, Katelyn Allen. 

Managing livestock is complex. A dairy farmer is constantly trying to move the seesaw of health and disease in favor of animal health. For young calves with an incomplete immune system, this battle is even more important. To avoid a calf veering toward the pit of disease, we have two strategies: minimizing infectious disease triggers and maximizing immunity. Listen to the episode to learn more. 

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Where is the Holstein breed headed next? Holstein Association USA CEO Lindsey Worden joins us to discuss the organization's recent growth, highlights from the 2026 National Holstein Convention, and the opportunities she sees ahead for dairy producers and Holstein breeders.

Worden also shares insights into several exciting innovations, including the new Holstein Conformation Composite (HCC), updates to the Total Performance Index (TPI), and the AI-powered Build a Better Cow project. From genomic testing and individual animal identification to developing the next generation of dairy leaders through junior programs, this episode explores how technology, genetics, and...

In this Express Episode, Associate Editor, Jessica Miller reads the FARM-accredited article titled, "Start smart: calf and maternity care." The article was written by Kylene Anderson, Managing Editor at Hoard's Dairyman.

👉 Please follow us on your favorite podcast app, and don't forget to like and subscribe on YouTube. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1

Website: https://hoards.com/

This episode of the podcast first aired as a Hoard's Dairyman Webinar in April of 2025. 

Jimena Laporta from the University of Wisconsin-Madison will presented, “Beyond summer heat stress: Understanding its impacts on dairy cattle across generations.”

This presentation explored how environmental stressors, including heat stress, influence dairy cattle health, productivity, and resilience across generations. Mitigating heat stress in youngstock as also highlighted.

👉 Please follow us on your favorite podcast app, and don't forget to like and subscribe on YouTube. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1

Website: https://hoards.com/

Welcome to the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, your source for science-based information you can use on your dairy. Hoard's Dairyman Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads the FARM-accredited article titled, "Pair calves early to garner benefits" by Maggie Gilles, Kansas Dairy Farmer.

The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management, or FARM, Program, created by the National Milk Producers Federation in partnership with Dairy Management, Inc, helps ensure the success of U.S. dairy farmers by providing assurances to dairy customers and consumers. The FARM Animal Care Program helps to demonstrate dairy farmers’ commitment to providing excellent care of thei...

Sponsored by: Journal of Nutrient Management

In this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, host Jenna Byrne sits down with Dr. Frank Mitloehner, professor and air quality specialist at UC Davis, to discuss the future of dairy sustainability and the evolving conversation around methane emissions.

Drawing on decades of research in animal agriculture and environmental science, Mitloehner explains the differences between methane and carbon dioxide, the role dairy farms play in climate discussions, and why he believes producers are uniquely positioned to be part of the solution. He shares insights on emerging technologies, carbon ma...

Welcome to the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, your source for science-based information you can use on your dairy. Hoard's Dairyman Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads the FARM-accredited article from the magazine titled, "Cleanliness cannot be overstated for calves" by Maggie Gilles, Kansas Dairy Farmer.

The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management, or FARM, Program, created by the National Milk Producers Federation in partnership with Dairy Management, Inc, helps ensure the success of U.S. dairy farmers by providing assurances to dairy customers and consumers. The FARM Animal Care Program helps to demonstrate dairy farmers’ commitment to providing exce...

Sponsored by: Zoetis

From local dairy farms to global markets, the Dairy Checkoff plays a major role in creating demand for U.S. milk — and in this episode, host Kylene Anderson sits down with Becky Nyman to explore how those efforts are shaping the future of dairy.

Becky shares insights from her work as a Dairy Management Inc. board member, discussing how dairy promotion programs help connect farmers to consumers both in the United States and around the world. From export growth and international partnerships to consumer trust and innovation, this co...

Welcome to the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, your source for science-based information you can use on your dairy. Hoard's Dairyman Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads the FARM-accredited article from the magazine titled, "Is it time for a change?" by Robert James.

The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management, or FARM, Program, created by the National Milk Producers Federation in partnership with Dairy Management, Inc, helps ensure the success of U.S. dairy farmers by providing assurances to dairy customers and consumers. The FARM Animal Care Program helps to demonstrate dairy farmers’ commitment to providing excellent care of t...

El episodio explica que el bienestar del ganado lechero depende del manejo diario y no solo de evitar el sufrimiento, sino también de ofrecer experiencias positivas. 

Destaca el enriquecimiento animal como clave para mejorar la calidad de vida, siempre que los recursos realmente beneficien a las vacas. 

Se mencionan distintos tipos de enriquecimiento (físico, sensorial, alimenticio, cognitivo y social) y la importancia de reducir el estrés, como el calor. 

En resumen, un buen manejo mejora el bienestar, la resiliencia y el desarrollo a largo plazo...

En este episodio exploramos cómo reducir los brotes de diarrea en becerras lecheras mediante prácticas clave de manejo, nutrición e higiene. Basado en las recomendaciones de la especialista Melissa Cantor de la Universidad Estatal de Pensilvania, hablamos sobre la importancia de la vacunación de las vacas antes del parto, el manejo adecuado del área de maternidad, el papel fundamental del calostro y cómo identificar correctamente los casos de diarrea. También analizamos la relevancia de la capacitación del personal y la consistencia en los protocolos de crianza para mejorar la salud y el desarrol...

En este episodio analizamos las ventajas y desventajas de alimentar a las becerras con leche de descarte o sustituto de leche. Exploramos investigaciones recientes que comparan el crecimiento, la salud y el desarrollo de las becerras bajo ambos sistemas, así como los factores económicos y de manejo que influyen en la decisión dentro de cada establo. También discutimos la importancia de la pasteurización y cómo elegir la mejor estrategia de alimentación para el éxito de la operación lechera.

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The Hoard's Dairyman Express Podcast is available for listening below in Spanish for any Spanish-speaking employees you have on your farm. This podcast is a direct English to Spanish translation of the original podcast in which Associate Editor, Jessica Miller, reads the article titled, "Diagonal lying, is the symptom not the culprit."

The Hoard’s Dairyman’s Express podcast episodes in Spanish are direct translations produced by the Hoard's Dairyman en Español editorial staff, with the translated scripts subsequently narrated using AI-generated voice technology.

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The Hoard's Dairyman Express Podcast is available for listening below in Spanish for any Spanish-speaking employees you have on your farm. This podcast is a direct English to Spanish translation of the original podcast in which Associate Editor, Jessica Miller, reads the article titled, "Is it time for a change?"

👉 Please follow us on your favorite podcast app, and don't forget to like and subscribe on YouTube. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1

Website: https://hoards.com/

This podcast is sponsored by Alltech.

From five generations of dairy tradition in northern Utah to shaping the future of dairy promotion across the globe, this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast is packed with insight, innovation, and real talk from the farm. Utah dairyman Daniel Buttars of Butter-Dell Holsteins joins us to share what it takes to keep a family dairy thriving in the Mountain West while balancing leadership roles that influence the entire U.S. dairy industry.

Daniel opens up about managing a 270-cow Holstein herd, farming under challenging western ir...

In this episode of the Hoard's Dairyman Podcast, listeners learn how to recognize the early signs of dehydration in dairy calves and why quick action is critical during cases of calf diarrhea. Veterinarian Amelia Willems explains the importance of water and electrolytes in maintaining normal body function and shares practical tips for evaluating calf health, including checking for sunken eyes and reduced skin elasticity. The episode also highlights the value of working closely with a herd veterinarian and using hands-on experience to identify dehydration before it becomes severe.

The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management or Farm...

If you’ve ever felt like nutrient management is getting more complicated and more expensive than it should be, this episode is worth your time.

We sit down with Professor Dan Kaiser from the University of Minnesota, and he brings a really practical, no-nonsense perspective. He talks about how farming has shifted from simple programs to a flood of data, products, and opinions and how that’s actually making decisions harder, not easier.

One of the biggest takeaways? A lot of growers might be overthinking (and overspending). Kaiser explains why you don’t always need to rep...

In this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, host Kylene Anderson visits with Tyler Hendriks of Hendriks Dairies to discuss building an efficient, high-performing Jersey herd.

Tyler shares how he grew the operation from a young start into a family-run dairy, focusing on feed efficiency, reproduction, and genetic progress. He also offers practical insight on calf care, whole milk feeding, and fine-tuning herd management to improve performance.

With an emphasis on continuous learning and strong teamwork, Tyler highlights what it takes to stay profitable and progressive in today’s dairy industry. 

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In this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, host Jessica Miller explores the critical topic of fitness for transport and what it means for dairy cattle welfare beyond the farm gate. 

Listeners will learn how proper transport decisions play a key role in maintaining animal health, reducing stress, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. The episode outlines essential factors producers should evaluate before transporting cattle, including overall health, mobility, body condition, stage of lactation, and calving status.

Special attention is given to vulnerable groups such as calves and compromised animals, which face hig...

Barb Petersen, D.V.M., of Sunrise Veterinary Service PLLC, presents, “Start smart: Maternity pen and newborn calf care tips.”

The goal of this webinar is to share perspectives, ideas farms have implemented, and recent research that supports a strong start for both calf and dam. On dairies of any size, herd health starts with the humans providing care to the animals.

👉 Please follow us on your favorite podcast app, and don't forget to like and subscribe on YouTube. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1

Website: https://hoards.com/

In this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, host Jessica Miller reads the FARM-accredited article: Encourage positive animal interactions.

The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management, or FARM, Program, created by the National Milk Producers Federation in partnership with Dairy Management, Inc, helps ensure the success of U.S. dairy farmers by providing assurances to dairy customers and consumers. The FARM Animal Care Program helps to demonstrate dairy farmers’ commitment to providing excellent care of their dairy cattle and producing safe, wholesome milk. 

FARM Animal Care Standards require annual continuing education for stockmanship, pre-weaned calve...

In this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, host Kylene Anderson takes us to Kentucky to visit with Elizabeth Lunsford of Chaney’s Dairy Barn. As a third-generation member of the Chaney family, Lunsford shares how their farm has evolved from a traditional dairy into a destination that blends milk production, on-farm processing, and agritourism.

The conversation highlights the family’s journey to become “price makers” by adding value to their milk through ice cream, bottled milk, and direct-to-consumer sales. Lunsford explains how starting with ice cream in the early 2000s laid the foundation for later investing...

In this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, host Jessica Miller explores the critical role of cow comfort, specifically resting time, in dairy herd performance.

Drawing on insights from Rick Grant, listeners will learn why lying time is a non-negotiable biological need for dairy cows and how it directly impacts milk production, rumination, lameness, and longevity.

The episode highlights how cows prioritize rest even over feed, and why proper stall design, bedding management, and monitoring tools like the Stall Standing Index are essential for maximizing both animal welfare and farm profitability.

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