Sheryl Meshke: Leading America’s Dairy Cooperative, One Block of Cheese at a Time

In this episode of the Get Deep Podcast, we sit down with Sheryl Meshke—President and CEO of AMPI (Associated Milk Producers Inc.), the nation’s largest farmer-owned dairy cooperative specializing in American-style cheese. From humble beginnings on a Good Thunder farm to leading an operation that markets 10% of the nation’s American cheese, Sheryl’s story is one of grit, generational values, and strategic leadership in the world of agriculture and food systems.

Sheryl reflects on her small-town upbringing, growing up alongside her brothers on the family farm—doing chores, operating equipment, and learning firsthand the work ethic that would shape her path. With deep roots in 4-H and public speaking, she credits her high school speech coach with instilling the confidence that carried her into journalism, communications, and ultimately, executive leadership.

We dive into Sheryl’s unique path from newspaper reporter to agricultural publisher, and how a timely connection launched her career at AMPI—an organization she’s helped lead through market volatility, innovation milestones, and literal fires. From creating the Dinner Bell Creamery brand to becoming a global exporter of processed cheese, Sheryl shares what it means to steward a farmer-owned cooperative through rapid change while keeping values at the center.

She also walks us through the realities of milk as a 365-day commodity, the importance of young leadership on AMPI’s farmer board, and the role cooperatives play in America’s food future.

Stick around for insights into rural leadership, food systems, and the “trophies” AMPI proudly puts on the mantle—from cheese competition medals to feeding families across the globe.

🎙️ Brought to you by our episode sponsors:

⁠Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery & Distillery⁠, Community Bank Mankato, South Central Small Business Development Center, and ⁠iWealth⁠.

#GetDeepPodcast #SouthernMinnesota #SherylMeshke #AMPI #DairyLeadership #WesOtto #AaronJones