Dairy News & Views from ISU

In this episode, Dr. Tian discusses the current crop market outlook, key factors affecting agricultural markets and what producers can keep in mind as they make decisions for the season ahead. https://www.extension.iastate.edu/agdm/authors/gtian.html

Tune in to Episode #169 of Dairy News & Views for the latest updates, insights, and perspectives from the dairy industry. Hear what's happening across the industry and stay informed on the issues that matter to dairy producers and professionals.

Iowa Dairy Farm Survey can be found using the link below: https://www.extension.iastate.edu/dairyteam/iowa-dairy-industry

Understanding why a task matters is just as important as knowing how to do it. In Episode 2 of this three-part series, Michelle Shack explores how explaining the purpose behind daily responsibilities helps employees stay engaged, make better decisions, and build confidence in their work. Discover practical ways to create a culture where employees understand the impact of their role on the success of the dairy operation.

https://dairykind.com/

What does the future hold for the dairy industry? In this episode, Karen Bohnert explores the key trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping dairy in 2026. From evolving consumer expectations and technology adoption to workforce needs and long-term industry outlook, this conversation offers valuable insights for dairy producers and industry professionals looking ahead.

Every dairy operation is unique, and finding the right size and production system is key to long-term success. In this episode of Dairy News & Views, Dr. Larry Tranel, Dairy Field Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, shares insights on evaluating future dairy opportunities, transitioning between production systems, and making financial decisions that support sustainable growth.

Cash flow and profitability are often used interchangeably, but they tell two very different stories about a dairy operation. In this episode of Dairy News & Views, we break down the differences between cash flow and profitability, explain why both are essential for financial decision-making, and discuss how understanding these metrics can help dairy producers build a more resilient business.

Addational Resources can be found here: https://shop.iastate.edu/extension/farm-environment/animals-and-livestock/dairy-cattle/da3130.html

In this episode of Healthy Herds, Healthy Minds, we sit down with Larry Tranel to discuss the importance of mental health in agriculture. Farming comes with long hours, financial pressures, unpredictable challenges, and emotional stress that often go unseen. Larry shares insight on recognizing burnout, supporting farm families, building resilience, and creating healthier conversations around mental wellness in rural communities. This episode highlights the importance of caring for the people behind the operation just as much as the herd itself.

In this episode of the ISU Dairy News & Views Podcast, we sit down with Liz Brock to explore the powerful connection between herd health and human well-being in agriculture. While dairy production often focuses on animal performance and efficiency, this conversation shifts attention to the people behind the cows—the farmers, students, and professionals who carry the emotional and physical weight of the industry.

Together with voices from Iowa State University, we discuss the pressures facing agricultural communities, the importance of mental health awareness in rural spaces, and practical ways to build resilience and support systems within dairy and livestock production.

Additional Resources:

https://health.extension.wisc.edu/mental-well-being/wecope/ https://extension.umn.edu/get-help/resources-difficult-times#coping-with-stress-or-crisis-1250210

Join ISU Dairy Science seniors Jadyn Beland, Anne Simpson, Ryan Wolf, Emily Zilisch, and Nathan Brumm as they reflect on their time at Iowa State University Dairy Science Program. In this senior edition podcast, they share memorable experiences from their college journey, discuss their plans after graduation, and offer practical advice for current and future Dairy Science students preparing for careers in the dairy industry.

In this episode of the ISU Dairy News and Views Podcast, we explore the impact of the North American Intercollegiate Dairy Challenge, a hands-on learning experience that connects students with real dairy operations and industry professionals. Through teamwork, data analysis, and communication, students develop the skills needed to make informed decisions that support dairy herd health and farm success.

Hear student perspectives on what makes Dairy Challenge unique, how it prepares future dairy leaders, and why programs like this matter to producers and the dairy industry.

To learn more about the North American Intercollegiate Dairy Challenge and how to get involved, visit: https://www.dairychallenge.org/