Uplevel Dairy Podcast

Peggy Coffeen

What does it take to be a successful, profitable and competitive dairy farm business? This is the podcast for dairy owners, managers and advisors who are after their next level of success. Join Uplevel Dairy host Peggy Coffeen each week as she sits down with the industry’s leading dairy producers and thought leaders for real conversations about business, management and leadership.

  1. 1D AGO

    313 | Partnering for Success: Positioning and Transitioning for the Next Generation at Sheadview Dairy

    In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen is on-site at Sheadview Dairy in Berlin, Wisconsin, to talk farm transition and the partnership with a non-family member that will carry this dairy farm forward. Kevin Krentz, his son Marcus and partner Cory Biely, share insights on what it takes to redefine ownership and create a partnership that will allow this dairy to continue on successfully.The conversation covers key aspects of transitioning the farm, including challenges, communication strategies, long-term goal setting, and the importance of legal structuring. This episode also highlights the significance of shared vision, respect, and continuous improvement in achieving a thriving 700-cow dairy farm.We also hear from Sheadview's dairy nutritionist and consultant, Eric Staudinger, with NutriQuest.This episode is brought to you by NutriQuest The NutriQuest Dairy Nutrition Team is a group of experienced nutritionists committed to serving dairy producers by partnering with them to develop an un-biased, customized nutrition program that delivers maximum profitability, achieved through a holistic approach, engaging in all aspects that influence nutrition program success. The NutriQuest Dairy Team is committed to serving the dairy industry and delivering their customers’ consistent results with a high return. Learn more at nutriquest.com/dairy-nutrition-solutions 00:47 Welcome to the Uplevel Dairy Podcast01:54 Shead View Dairy: A Family Legacy03:45 Kevin's Vision for the Farm07:42 Partnerships and Expansions16:56 Communication and Decision Making32:08 Legal Steps to Forming a Partnership33:25 Transitioning to an LLC34:23 Share Structure and Ownership36:19 Personal Growth and Financial Literacy38:27 Operational Goals and Team Dynamics40:26 Challenges and Successes in Dairy Farming42:25 Forage Quality and Nutrient Management54:44 Future Goals and Expansion Plans01:01:48 Eric Staudinger: Advisor's Perspective on Dairy Success

    1h 5m

  2. 4D AGO

    312 | Cultivating Global Genetics with Dr. Scott Armbrust

    In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy sits down with Dr. Scott Armbrust, president and owner of Paradocs Embryo Transfer, to delve into his impactful career in dairy cattle genetics and veterinary medicine. Dr. Armbrust shares his journey from growing up on a Nebraska farm to becoming a pioneer in bovine embryo transfer. He discusses his early inspirations, significant contributions through embryo transfer, and his global influence in training veterinarians and advancing dairy genetics. The episode also highlights Dr. Armbrust's ethos on mentoring the next generation of veterinarians and his ongoing contributions to the dairy industry. This episode is brought to you in partnership with the National Dairy Shrine Award applications: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/awards/⁠Scholarship applications: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/youth/#scholar⁠Donate to Dairy Shrine: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/donate/⁠YouTube channel: ⁠https://youtube.com/@dairyshrine⁠Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Scott Armbrust00:56 Early Life and Inspiration02:02 Journey into Veterinary Medicine04:09 Pioneering Embryo Transfer05:48 International Impact and Mentorship11:06 Legacy and Future Plans15:09 Conclusion and Reflections

    17 min

  3. 5D AGO

    311 | Bridging Generations in Dairy and Education with Bonnie Ayars

    In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen sits down with Bonnie Ayars, an energetic and deeply passionate cattle breeder, teacher, coach and advocate for agriculture. Bonnie shares her path from developing a Guernsey herd and teaching for over 50 years to her impactful role at Ohio State as a dairy program specialist. Bonnie also delves into her family's community outreach through their own ice cream and cheese business. She reflects on her career, the importance of seizing opportunities, and her deep passion for mentoring students. With anecdotes about hosting a Luke Bryan concert and winning national baking contests, Bonnie Ayars' story is a testament to dedication, resilience and the power of giving back. This episode is brought to you in partnership with the National Dairy Shrine Award applications: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/awards/⁠Scholarship applications: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/youth/#scholar⁠Donate to Dairy Shrine: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/donate/⁠YouTube channel: ⁠https://youtube.com/@dairyshrine⁠Chapters 00:23 Bonnie Ayars' Background and Achievements01:15 Community Engagement and Unique Experiences03:15 Early Life and Career Beginnings09:02 Transition to Teaching and Mentorship11:48 Impact of Teaching and Personal Reflections16:56 Guiding Students and Emphasizing Opportunities19:50 Balancing Life and Personal Endeavors21:43 Winning the Pie Contest22:40 Competing at the Grand Bake Opry25:02 From Pies to Ice Cream26:33 Building a Family Business30:03 Teaching and Mentoring Youth33:54 Reflecting on Achievements35:51 Future Aspirations38:29 Honored with the Pioneer Award41:20 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

    42 min

  4. 6D AGO

    310 | Dr. Joe Lineweaver: A Lifetime of Innovation in Dairy Reproduction

    In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen interviews Dr. Joe Lineweaver, a distinguished figure in the field of reproductive physiology and embryo transfer. Dr. Lineweaver shares his remarkable journey from his roots in Virginia to his academic and professional accomplishments, including his work at Virginia Tech and the founding of Blue Ridge Embryos. He discusses the early challenges and triumphs in embryo transfer technology, his contributions to the development of industry standards, and his dedication to mentoring the next generation. Joe's passion for improving dairy cattle genetics, particularly in Jersey cows, shines through, culminating in his recognition as the 2025 Dairy Shrine Pioneer of the Year. In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy sits down with Dr. Scott Armbrust, president and owner of Paradocs Embryo Transfer, to delve into his impactful career in dairy cattle genetics and veterinary medicine. Dr. Armbrust shares his journey from growing up on a Nebraska farm to becoming a pioneer in bovine embryo transfer. He discusses his early inspirations, significant contributions through embryo transfer, and his global influence in training veterinarians and advancing dairy genetics. The episode also highlights Dr. Armbrust's ethos on mentoring the next generation of veterinarians and his ongoing contributions to the dairy industry. This episode is brought to you in partnership with the National Dairy Shrine Award applications: https://dairyshrine.org/awards/Scholarship applications: https://dairyshrine.org/youth/#scholarDonate to Dairy Shrine: https://dairyshrine.org/donate/YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@dairyshrineChapters 01:11 Joe's Early Life and Education02:57 Journey into Embryo Transfer03:45 Challenges and Innovations in Embryo Transfer04:48 Career at Virginia Tech07:28 Founding Blue Ridge Embryos10:37 Leadership and Mentorship13:41 Scholarship Programs and Giving Back15:39 Reflections and Achievements20:04 Recognition and Final Thoughts

    22 min

  5. FEB 11

    309 | A Dairy Genomics Pioneer: Dr. George Wiggans

    In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen sits down with Dr. George Wiggans to discuss his extensive career in dairy cattle genetics and genomics. Dr. Wiggans shares his journey from growing up on a dairy farm to working closely with Dr. Paul Van Radden, leading to significant contributions in genetic evaluations that propel the dairy industry. He highlights the transformative role of genomics in doubling genetic progress and improving dairy cattle productivity. Dr. Wiggans also touches upon his international experiences, including his time with the Peace Corps and the USDA, and reflects on the recognition he received as a Pioneer Award winner from the National Dairy Shrine. Throughout the conversation, the emphasis is on the importance of innovation, data accuracy, and continuous improvement in dairy genetics.This episode is brought to you in partnership with the National Dairy ShrineAward applications: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/awards/⁠Scholarship applications: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/youth/#scholar⁠Donate to Dairy Shrine: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/donate/⁠YouTube channel: ⁠https://youtube.com/@DairyShrine00:50 Early Life and Influences01:43 Academic Journey and Mentorship05:01 International Experience and Career Decisions08:59 Return to Academia and USDA Career10:27 Advancements in Dairy Genetics12:39 Impact of Genomics24:43 Future of Dairy Genetics27:46 Recognition and Reflections

    30 min

  6. FEB 10

    308 | Lesson from a Legend: Elite Cows, High-Flyers and Business Savvy with Peter Vail

    In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen interviews Peter Vail, a prominent figure in the dairy cattle show world and the fertilizer business.  Vail recounts his career journey from starting CaroVail Fertilizer Company in 1964 to his significant investments in various dairy cattle breeds. He shares personal anecdotes about his childhood on a commercial dairy farm, his ventures in fertilizer, and his return to dairy cattle in the 1990s. Vail highlights key milestones, including the success of his family business now in its third generation, and his achievements in dairy cattle showing. At 86 years old, Vail reflects on his career, the importance of knowledge, and his enduring passion for the dairy industry.01:09 Peter Vail's Early Life and Introduction to Dairy 03:10 First Experiences in Dairy Showing 07:29 Transition to Fertilizer Business 08:39 Challenges and Successes in the Fertilizer Industry 11:18 Career Growth and Relocation 15:26 Starting a New Venture 18:16 The Start of CaroVail 18:26 Building a Family Business 19:43 Returning to Cattle 19:55 High-Flying Investor Days 20:45 Adventures in Cow Trading 23:38 Success with Jerseys 26:39 Memorable Cows and Achievements 29:49 Reflections and Future Goals 30:42 Conclusion and GratitudeLink to award applications: https://dairyshrine.org/awards/Link to scholarship applications: https://dairyshrine.org/youth/#scholarLink to donate to Dairy Shrine: https://dairyshrine.org/donate/Link to YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@dairyshrine?si=dS_EVxaA1XhUXBhzInformation about webinar Topic: “Avoiding Burnout in a 24/7 Industry”Date: February 11, 2026Time: Noon CentralClick here to register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_eTGV4PLeTe2gI4np7Lrlzg

    33 min

  7. FEB 9

    307 | From Dairy Legends to Next-Gen Leaders: How the National Dairy Shrine is Honoring Pioneers and Recognizing Emerging Leaders with Mike Opperman

    This episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast features a partnership with the National Dairy Shrine to present interviews with the winners of the Pioneer Award. Executive Director Mike Opperman introduces the series, sharing insights about the organization's history, mission, and contributions to the dairy industry. Mike details his own journey within the dairy sector and discusses the various awards and initiatives hosted by the National Dairy Shrine, including scholarships, youth outreach, and the newly introduced Emerging Leader Award. The episode previews interviews with notable figures like Bonnie Ayars, George Wiggins, Scott Armbrust, and others who have significantly impacted genetics, genomics, and dairy advancement.00:00 Introduction to a Special Series 00:40 Meet Mike Opperman: A Dairy Industry Veteran 02:51 The National Dairy Shrine: History and Mission 05:58 Supporting Young Dairy Professionals 08:00 Introducing the Emerging Leader Award 12:20 Honoring Dairy Industry Pioneers 20:30 Conclusion and How to Get Involved Link to award applications: https://dairyshrine.org/awards/Link to scholarship applications: https://dairyshrine.org/youth/#scholarLink to donate to Dairy Shrine: https://dairyshrine.org/donate/Link to YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@dairyshrine?si=dS_EVxaA1XhUXBhzInformation about webinar Topic: “Avoiding Burnout in a 24/7 Industry”Date: February 11, 2026Time: Noon CentralClick here to register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_eTGV4PLeTe2gI4np7Lrlzg

    21 min

  8. FEB 5

    306 | Earning the Reins: Education, Experience and the Next Chapter with Nathan Abel, Abel Dairy Farms

    In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen interviews Nathan Abel, the next-generation dairyman at Abel Dairy Farms. Nathan shares insights on how his hands-on experience, education, and incorporation of technology are helping him prepare for future leadership and ownership roles. He discusses his educational journey, the importance of learning both the technical and business aspects of dairy farming, and the challenges and strategies for implementing new technologies. Nathan also highlights the value of community involvement and ongoing learning as essential components for the farm's sustainable growth. This episode emphasizes the pivotal role of modern software solutions in revolutionizing dairy operations.This Episode is Brought to you by Milc Group Milc Group is a dairy software company that brings real-time, actionable data to dairy farms across the world. They are dedicated to revolutionizing the dairy industry with their user-friendly cloud-based software. ONE™ by Milc Group is our all-in-one app that brings together all the important aspects of your dairy together in one place. With products such as feed and animal management software, people training, dairy facility monitoring, and scale management, Milc Group is committed to providing producers with tools they need to succeed.00:00 Introduction to the Next Generation of Dairy Farming 00:38 Sponsorship Message from Milc Group 01:11 Nathan Abel's Journey Back to the Family Farm 01:56 Educational Path and Early Decisions 05:59 Hands-On Experience and Internships 08:03 Integrating Technology into Dairy Farming 14:25 Leadership and Team Dynamics 19:18 Community Involvement and Future Vision 22:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    23 min
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About

What does it take to be a successful, profitable and competitive dairy farm business? This is the podcast for dairy owners, managers and advisors who are after their next level of success. Join Uplevel Dairy host Peggy Coffeen each week as she sits down with the industry’s leading dairy producers and thought leaders for real conversations about business, management and leadership.

Information

  • Creator
    Peggy Coffeen
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    309
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 868329
  • Show Website
    Uplevel Dairy Podcast