The Hoard's Dairyman Podcast

Hoard's Dairyman
  • 4.3 (6)
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  • UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY

The Hoard's Dairyman Podcast hosts trusted, educational, informative, and entertaining content all at the convenience of the smartphone. Listen at home, in your tractor, or on the go as producers and dairy industry professionals chat about the latest occurring in the dairy world.

  1. 3D AGO

    Express Episode 22: There's no wiggle room when it comes to rest

    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. With practical recommendations and research-backed insights, this episode reinforces a simple truth: investing in cow comfort delivers measurable returns. 👉 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/

    3 min

  2. MAR 19

    From San Francisco suburbs to dairy vet

    In this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, host Jenna Byrne connects with Michelle Schack, D.V.M., also known as the Dairy Doc. As a veterinarian working across all areas of the dairy industry, Schack brings a unique perspective that bridges the gap between research, on-farm practices, animal welfare, and consumer understanding. The conversation explores Schack’s journey from the San Francisco suburbs into a career in dairy veterinary medicine, and how that path shaped her role as a trusted resource for farmers. She shares insights on employee training, animal care standards, and the importance of clear communication across every level of the dairy supply chain. Schack also discusses the evolving relationship between farmers and consumers, highlighting how veterinarians play a key role in building trust and ensuring transparency in today’s dairy industry. From on-farm protocols to public perception, her work connects science and real-world application in meaningful ways. Subscribe for more conversations with dairy leaders and industry experts. This episode is sponsored by IFF Animal Nutrition and Health. 👉 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/

    37 min

  3. MAR 12

    Express Episode 21: A Lesson on the Madigan Squeeze

    In this episode of the Hoard's Dairyman Podcast, Associate Editor, Jessica Miller, reads "A lesson on the Madigan squeeze," by Associate Editor of Hoard's Dairyman, Jenna Byrne.  We explore the Madigan squeeze technique, a simple rope method that can help certain newborn calves “wake up” when they seem dull or slow after birth. University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension educator Heather Schlesser explains how gentle pressure around a calf’s chest can mimic the natural squeeze of labor, helping some calves transition neurologically and become more alert. She emphasizes that it’s not a replacement for good newborn management, and careful technique is critical. Learn how this low-cost approach fits into broader calf care practices and when it might be the right tool for your farm. 👉 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/

    3 min

  4. MAR 6

    Producer Profile: Corey Lutz of Piedmont Jerseys and Riverbend Creamery

    In this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, host Kylene Anderson travels virtually to North Carolina to visit with Corey Lutz of Piedmont Jerseys and Riverbend Creamery. Lutz shares how his family combined a passion for Jersey cattle with on-farm processing to build a thriving dairy business that connects directly with consumers. The conversation explores the journey from milking cows to producing value-added dairy products, including ice cream made right on the farm. Lutz explains why the family chose to create their own ice cream mix rather than purchasing one and how that decision helped shape the identity of Riverbend Creamery. With a focus on quality and transparency, the Lutz family welcomes visitors to the farm to learn more about dairy production and experience their products firsthand. Lutz also discusses the role of pasture-based management in their herd and how their philosophy — “From our grass to your glass” — guides both their farming practices and their creamery brand. By combining strong cow care, direct marketing, and agritourism, the family has created a model that highlights both the tradition and innovation found in today’s dairy industry. Whether you’re interested in Jerseys, on-farm processing, or building stronger connections with consumers, this episode offers an inside look at how one dairy family is bringing the story of milk straight to the public. 👉 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/

    44 min

  5. FEB 26

    Express Episode 20: Are you a calf feeder or a calf manager?

    In this episode, Hoard's Dairyman Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads the FARM-accredited article from the magazine titled, "Are you a calf feeder or a calf manager?" by Robert E. James. The calf program has often been relegated to a lower priority for the dairy business, seen as a current expense with delayed impact on future income. However, with the use of genomics, sexed semen, and the increased value of dairy-beef animals and replacement heifers, there’s greater incentive to feed calves better to improve income and farm profit, whether from beef sales or improved health and production of females. The episode explores the difference between a calf feeder and a calf manager. A calf feeder performs essential daily tasks, but a calf manager sets goals, analyzes data, evaluates resources, and allocates them successfully to raise calves that meet the farm’s economic needs. They identify bottlenecks, monitor performance, and may also perform feeder tasks but take responsibilities to the next level. Key topics include setting goals using the Dairy Calf and Heifer Association Gold Standards, colostrum management, tracking health and growth, measuring daily gains, and adopting technology such as RFID tags and calf autofeeders to capture real-time data. Emphasis is placed on using timely, objective information to make decisions that improve calf health, survival, and long-term farm profitability. The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) Program helps to demonstrate dairy farmers' commitment to providing excellent care of their dairy cattle and producing safe, wholesome milk. Supported by Dairy Management, Inc. and managed by the National Milk Producers Federation, the FARM program details animal care guidelines using the latest science and the best management practices. FARM Animal Care standards outline annual continuing education requirements for family and non-family employees. Listening to these podcasts meets the continuing education standards. Farms can document their continuing education by using templates found on FARM's website. Visit nationaldairyfarm.com to learn more. 👉 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/

    6 min

  6. FEB 19

    The future of dairy is YOUth: The Hoard's Dairyman Podcast

    In this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, host Kylene Anderson is joined by Peggy Coffeen founder of Uplevel Dairy to discuss developing leaders and strengthening people on today’s dairy farms. From youth involvement in agriculture to mentoring and preparing the next generation for management roles, the conversation focuses on how leadership growth supports long-term industry success. Coffeen shares perspectives on building confidence in young people, creating meaningful opportunities, and fostering a culture where individuals can grow alongside the dairy business. The discussion highlights how communication, intentional leadership, and investing in people are becoming just as important as production metrics on modern farms. Whether you’re working to develop your team, encourage young leaders, or grow in your own role, this episode offers practical insight into why people development is essential to dairy’s future. Subscribe for more conversations with dairy leaders and farm families. 👉 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/

    48 min

  7. FEB 12

    Express Episode 19: Consider other methods of euthanasia

    In this episode, Hoard's Dairyman Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads the FARM-accredited article from the magazine titled, "Consider other methods of euthanasia" by Keith Poulsen, D.V.M., of the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine Rendering companies are tightening policies on animals euthanized with barbiturate-based injections, leaving some dairy producers wondering about their options for end-of-life care and disposal. Keith Poulsen explains why pentobarbital residues have become a concern, how federal regulations influence rendering practices, and what alternative euthanasia and disposal methods may be available. He also shares the importance of working with veterinarians to ensure humane procedures, proper training, and compliance with local regulations. The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) Program helps to demonstrate dairy farmers' commitment to providing excellent care of their dairy cattle and producing safe, wholesome milk. Supported by Dairy Management, Inc. and managed by the National Milk Producers Federation, the FARM program details animal care guidelines using the latest science and the best management practices. FARM Animal Care standards outline annual continuing education requirements for family and non-family employees. Listening to these podcasts meets the continuing education standards. Farms can document their continuing education by using templates found on FARM's website. Visit nationaldairyfarm.com to learn more. 👉 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/

    4 min

  8. FEB 5

    Feed Management Across The Map

    In this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, host Jenna Byrne is joined by dairy nutritionist Steve Martin of DNMC Milk explore how feed management strategies vary across the U.S. — and what producers in every region can learn from one another. Drawing on his experience working with herds nationwide, Martin breaks down the practical differences between feeding cows in the North versus the South and why margin management matters regardless of milk price. The conversation dives into how climate, forage availability, and regional feed resources shape rations, with a close look at heat stress, forage quality, and the growing role of byproducts in Southern dairies. Martin emphasizes the importance of consistency, precision, and adaptability, noting that while feed costs may rise and fall with milk prices, disciplined nutrition management is what ultimately protects margins. Martin and Byrne also discuss how data, communication, and on-farm decision-making influence feed efficiency and cow performance across diverse production systems. From managing variability in forage supplies to adjusting rations for environmental stress, the episode highlights strategies that help dairies stay resilient in volatile markets. Whether you’re feeding cows in a cold northern winter or a hot southern summer, this episode offers practical insights into sharpening the pencil on feed costs and building rations that support long-term profitability. 👉 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/

    51 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.3
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

The Hoard's Dairyman Podcast hosts trusted, educational, informative, and entertaining content all at the convenience of the smartphone. Listen at home, in your tractor, or on the go as producers and dairy industry professionals chat about the latest occurring in the dairy world.

Information

  • Creator
    Hoard's Dairyman
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    56
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Hoard's Dairyman Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Hoard's Dairyman Podcast

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