Holstein Connections

Holstein Association USA, Inc.
  • 5.0 (1)
  • BUSINESS

Welcome to Holstein Connections – where we share the latest stories, insights, and news from Holstein Association USA and beyond. The largest dairy cattle breed association in the world, Holstein Association USA provides leadership, information, and services to help dairy producers worldwide be successful. Whether you’re in the barn, on the road, or just tuning in for your dose of dairy news – we’re glad you’re here! This is Holstein Connections.

  1. Leadership Starts Here: A YDLI Alumni Conversation with Nic Schoenberger

    JAN 29

    Leadership Starts Here: A YDLI Alumni Conversation with Nic Schoenberger

    Sit down with Nic Schoenberger, recipient of the Young Dairy Leaders Institute (YDLI) Distinguished Alumni Leader Award from the Holstein Foundation.  From dairy farmer to district sales manager, Nic’s career has spanned many different facets of the dairy industry. Today, Nic and his wife Christine are partners in Kansas Dairy Development, a calf ranch and heifer raising facility in Deerfield, Kansas. A YDLI Class 4 graduate, Nic reflects on how his YDLI experience shaped his passion for dairy advocacy, leadership, and mentoring the next generation.

    27 min
  2. A Look Back at 2025: CEO Lindsey Worden's Top 10

    JAN 15

    A Look Back at 2025: CEO Lindsey Worden's Top 10

    In this episode of Holstein Connections, CEO Lindsey Worden counts down her "Top 10" of 2025. The lively conversation with host Jodi Hoynoski spans from the the success of Holstein Association USA programs to new initiatives in 2025. Lindsey also gives us a peek at what's ahead in 2026. We don't want to give away any spoilers.... so tune in for the full list and additional insights from Lindsey.

    40 min
  3. Showring Spotlight: National Holstein Show Update with Tim Ziemba

    JAN 1

    Showring Spotlight: National Holstein Show Update with Tim Ziemba

    National Show Coordinator Tim Ziemba visits with Jacob Schaefer about updates to the National Holstein Show Program. Tim discusses how he works with the show committee to continue to improve National Holstein Shows. The episode covers show and class changes recently approved by the show committee. Tim also dives into the National and Qualified Judges list, the Judges Conference, and the new Judges Code of Conduct. Tim and Jacob also visit about the merits of Junior Holstein shows and what exhibitors have to look forward to in 2026. For more information about National Shows visit: https://www.holsteinusa.com/shows/openshow.html For more information about the National Judges List visit: https://www.holsteinusa.com/shows/judges.html

    43 min
  4. Innovation, Industry Leadership & the Future of Dairy with Nick Randle

    12/18/2025

    Innovation, Industry Leadership & the Future of Dairy with Nick Randle

    This episode of Holstein Connections features a diverse conversation with Nick Randle, a dairy industry leader whose career spans genetics, leadership, and youth development. The episode explores Nick’s upbringing, his lifelong passion for dairy cattle, and his unique professional journey at Zoetis. He discusses the impact of genomics on modern dairy management, the evolution of the Holstein-Zoetis collaboration, and why tools like Enlight serve as a roadmap for herd progress rather than just a snapshot of data.    Nick also reflects on his leadership with the Red & White Dairy Cattle Association, sharing how the breed and organization have grown in visibility, engagement, and momentum. The conversation rounds out with insights into his involvement with the Holstein Foundation, the lasting influence of mentors, the value of programs like Young Dairy Leaders Institute, and why investing time and resources into the next generation is essential for the future of dairy.

    45 min
  5. From First Draft to Finalist: The Distinguished Junior Member Journey with Keenan Thygesen & Kylie Konyn

    12/04/2025

    From First Draft to Finalist: The Distinguished Junior Member Journey with Keenan Thygesen & Kylie Konyn

    Rising Holstein leaders Keenan Thygesen and Kylie Konyn share a firsthand look at the Distinguished Junior Member journey, reflecting on the early experiences that sparked their passion for the breed, the months of preparation behind their binders and interviews, and the mentors who helped shape their paths. Established in 1922, the DJM contest is the longest-running Holstein youth program and the highest honor a Junior Holstein member can achieve. Their stories highlight the authenticity, confidence, community, and love for the Holstein cow that make this milestone so meaningful for those who pursue it. For more information on the Distinguished Junior Member program, visit: www.juniorholstein.com/djm

    27 min
  6. Meet Frank Conyngham: Holstein Breeder, Ice Cream Innovator, and Holstein Foundation Supporter

    11/20/2025

    Meet Frank Conyngham: Holstein Breeder, Ice Cream Innovator, and Holstein Foundation Supporter

    This episode features longtime Holstein enthusiast, Hillside Holsteins breeder, and ice cream entrepreneur Frank Conyngham as he reflects on a lifetime connected to dairy cattle, community service, and devoted support of the Holstein Foundation. From the early days of his family’s historic herd to pioneering on-farm ice cream processing, Frank shares how a love for cows grew into a passion for people, mentoring young leaders, and strengthening local organizations. The conversation explores the joys and challenges of preserving family legacy, adapting through change, and finding new ways to give back long after the cows leave the barn. Through stories of mentorship, fundraising, and lasting friendships, Frank reminds us that supporting the next generation is more than a responsibility. It is the foundation of a vibrant dairy community and the reason the Holstein Foundation’s mission continues to move the industry forward.

    29 min
  7. From Barn to Board Room: Our Journey to the Holstein Board with Directors Betsy Bullard, Andy Lenkaitis, and Scott Yocum

    11/06/2025

    From Barn to Board Room: Our Journey to the Holstein Board with Directors Betsy Bullard, Andy Lenkaitis, and Scott Yocum

    This episode features Holstein Association USA board members Betsy Bullard, Andy Lenkaitis, and Scott Yocum sharing their perspectives on leadership, service, and the future of the breed. From discovering unexpected opportunities to represent their regions, to balancing board responsibilities with life on the farm, to mentoring the next generation through youth programs and technology, each story reflects the shared purpose that drives Holstein USA forward. The conversation explores the rewards and realities of association governance proving that involvement at any level isn’t just about policy, but about people, progress, and shaping the future together.

    23 min
  8. Carrying the Legacy Forward: Farm Transition Insights from Betsy Bullard, Trent Hendrickson, and John Schoen

    10/23/2025

    Carrying the Legacy Forward: Farm Transition Insights from Betsy Bullard, Trent Hendrickson, and John Schoen

    This episode was recorded at Holstein Horizons during the 2025 National Holstein Convention and features Betsy Bullard, Trent Hendrickson, and John Schoen sharing their distinct paths through farm transition. From preserving a ten-generation legacy to launching a partnership from a handshake to leading a long-established operation into modernization. Moderated by Lisa Behnke, the panel explores the emotional and strategic realities of ownership transfer, including family dynamics, risk management, leaning on trusted advisors, and building a sustainable future. Their stories reveal that transitioning a farm is not just about passing assets; it is about vision, resilience, and preparing the next generation to carry the story forward.

    45 min
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About

Welcome to Holstein Connections – where we share the latest stories, insights, and news from Holstein Association USA and beyond. The largest dairy cattle breed association in the world, Holstein Association USA provides leadership, information, and services to help dairy producers worldwide be successful. Whether you’re in the barn, on the road, or just tuning in for your dose of dairy news – we’re glad you’re here! This is Holstein Connections.

Information

  • Creator
    Holstein Association USA, Inc.
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Holstein Connections
  • Show Website
    Holstein Connections

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