International Dairy Federation Podcast

IDF
  • 5.0 (1)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE

Topics of interest to the international dairy community such as farming, nutrition, animal health and welfare, school milk programmes, among others.

Episodes

  1. 10/23/2025

    Methane, problem or solution?

    Methane: Problem or Solution Hosts: Wilco Brouwer de Koning (Netherlands) & Lynda McDonald (Australia) In this episode, we dive into the complex and often misunderstood role of methane in the climate conversation—especially as it relates to livestock. Farmer Wilco Brouwer de Koning and sustainability advocate Lynda McDonald guide a global discussion that moves beyond headlines to explore the real-life facts behind greenhouse gas emissions. Joining them are two leading voices in agricultural methane: Frank Mitloehner, Ph.D., Professor and Air Quality Extension Specialist at UC Davis, whose research focuses on sustainable livestock systems, air quality, and climate mitigation.John Tauzel, Associate Vice President for Global Agricultural Methane at the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), who brings expertise in environmental policy, agribusiness innovation, and farmer-centered climate solutions.Together, they unpack the science, the challenges, and the opportunities—asking whether methane is truly a problem, or part of the solution. More resources here: https://openknowledge.fao.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/6375fc42-d57e-40db-93cc-9614fbb538c7/content  https://www.edf.org/ https://www.fil-idf.org Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the host and guests in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the International Dairy Federation (IDF).

    51 min

  2. 07/09/2025

    Too Hot to Moo: Beating the Heat in the Barn

    🎧 "Too Hot to Moo: Beating the Heat in the Barn" 🔥 About: Are your cows feeling the summer sizzle? 🐄☀️ If milk yields are dropping, feed intake is down, and fertility’s taking a hit, heat stress might be the culprit. In this episode, we dive into the telltale signs of heat stress in dairy cattle and share practical strategies to keep your herd cool, healthy, and productive. From barn ventilation to hydration hacks, we’ve got the tips to help your cows chill out and your milk stats bounce back. In this globe-trotting episode, hosts Wilco Brouwer de Koning (NL) and Lynda McDonald (AU) are joined by world-renowned experts Israel Flamenbaum (IL) and Snorri Sigurdsson (DK) to unpack the physiological and economic toll of heat stress on dairy cattle. 🌍 Tune in for real-world experiences from farms across different regions, plus practical, science-backed strategies to help your cows stay cool and productive. For more information on the International Dairy Federation, please visit our website: www.fil-idf.org and follow us on social media. Dr. Israel Flamenbaum’s website: https://www.cool-cows.com/IDF Bulletin N°534/2025: Managing Heat Stress in Dairy Cattle: https://shop.fil-idf.org/collections/publications/products/bulletin-of-the-idf-n-534-2025-managing-heat-stress-in-dairy-cattle Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the host and guests in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the International Dairy Federation (IDF).

    41 min
  3. Pathways to Dairy Farming

    03/26/2025

    Pathways to Dairy Farming

    What does it take to start a career in dairy farming? In this first podcast of the International Dairy Federation's (IDF) podcast, we explore the diverse journeys into dairy farming, from family succession to unconventional career changes. Hosts Wilco Brouwer de Koning (Netherlands) and Sam Tennent (New Zealand) are joined by farmers Sophie Gregory (UK) and Richard McIntyre (New Zealand), who share their unique experiences in building successful dairy operations. Whether you're from a farming background or entering the industry with no prior experience, this episode offers valuable insights into different farming models, challenges, and opportunities across the globe. For more information on the International Dairy Federation, please visit our website: www.fil-idf.org and follow us on social media. Guest bios Sophie Gregory (UK) – Tenant Dairy Farmer Sophie didn’t plan to be a farmer, but after supporting her husband’s dream, she fell in love with dairy farming. Now, she runs a successful operation in the UK under a farm business tenancy model and advocates for new entrants in farming. Follow her on Instagram instagram.com/farmer_in_training Richard McIntyre (NZ) – Herd Owning Sharemilker Originally set on a career in accounting, Richard’s gap year on a dairy farm changed everything. Now a herd-owning sharemilker in New Zealand, he uses split calving and land leasing to build resilience in his operation. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the host and guests in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the International Dairy Federation (IDF).

    35 min
  • 3 Episodes

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Topics of interest to the international dairy community such as farming, nutrition, animal health and welfare, school milk programmes, among others.

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