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This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$
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Title: Dairy Doc, Michelle Schack on DairyKind, Social Media, & Being a Dairy Veterinarian
Host: Val Lavigne
@DairyGalVal
www.dairygalval.com
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Guest:
Summary
In this episode of the Dairy Hour Podcast, host Val Lavigne interviews Michelle Schack, a veterinarian specializing in dairy cattle. Michelle shares her journey from growing up in San Francisco to becoming a dairy vet in Arizona. She discusses her childhood experiences, her passion for animals, and her career path that led her to co-own a dairy education company called DairyKind. The conversation also touches on the importance of training in the dairy industry and how Michelle uses social media to share her insights and connect with the community. In this engaging conversation, Michelle discusses her journey in utilizing social media to promote agriculture, particularly through TikTok and Instagram. She shares insights on the varying responses from farms regarding filming, the unpredictability of viral content, and the balance between her family life and her online presence. Michelle also reflects on the challenges of her veterinary career, emphasizing the importance of connecting with people to succeed in her field. The discussion wraps up with rapid-fire questions revealing her personal preferences and a deep thought on the significance of collaboration and understanding in achieving success.
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Takeaways
Michelle Schack is a veterinarian for dairy cattle.
She co-owns a dairy education company called DairyKind.
Raised nine guide dogs for the blind as a child.
Initially wanted to be a vet but disliked small animal practice.
Cows became her favorite animals during vet school.
Family was supportive of her career choice in dairy.
DairyKind addresses training needs in the dairy industry.
Training is crucial for preventing animal abuse in dairy farming.
Michelle started sharing her story on social media in 2021.
Community engagement is important for sharing knowledge and experiences. Michelle started using social media for agriculture because it's easier to create videos than write.
Different farms have varying levels of comfort with being filmed.
Viral content is unpredictable; sometimes the simplest videos succeed.
Family activities take up a lot of Michelle's spare time.
Michelle enjoys spending time with her kids and supporting their activities.
She prefers the mountains over the beach for relaxation.
Teleportation would be her ideal superpower to save travel time.
Michelle loves baking, especially cookies, and enjoys sharing desserts.
Podcasts are her go-to for entertainment during long drives.
Being a people person has been crucial to her success in veterinary work.
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Sound Bites
"I am a veterinarian for dairy cattle."
"I co-own a dairy education company."
"We raised nine guide dogs for the blind."
"I thought I wanted to be a vet."
"Cows became my favorite animals."
"We created Dairykind for training modules."
"Nobody wants any cows to be abused."
"I started Dairy Doc in 2021."
"It's so unpredictable."
"I love that stuff."
"I really like cookies."
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Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Dairy Doc
01:56
Michelle's Journey to Becoming a Dairy Vet
06:12
Childhood Experiences and Early Interests
09:49
Exploring Different Animal Medicine
14:05
Career Path and Specialization in Dairy Cattle
17:52
Family Support and Life in Arizona
21:51
DairyKind: Addressing Training Needs in Dairy Farming
25:56
Sharing Stories and Building Community
28:11
The Rise of Social Media in Agriculture
32:19
Balancing Family Life and Social Media
35:00
Rapid Fire Fun: Personal Preferences
45:12
The Unpredictability of Veterinary Work
48:57
Connecting with People: The Key to Success
This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$
Title: Dairy Farms to the Classroom: Kim Tarvis & Her Journey in Agriculture Education
Host: Val Lavigne
@DairyGalVal
www.dairygalval.com
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Guest: Kimberly Tarvis
Professor at SUNY Cobleskill
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Summary
In this episode of the Dairy Hour Podcast, host Val Lavigne speaks with Kim Tarvis, an associate professor of dairy cattle management at SUNY Cobleskill. They discuss Kim's journey in dairy farming, her experiences with the Dairy Challenge, and her educational background. Kim shares insights into her family's dairy farming legacy, her passion for teaching, and the importance of hands-on learning in agriculture. The conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities in pursuing a career in agriculture and the impact of personal choices on one's path. In this conversation, Kim shares her journey from her early career in agricultural research to her current role as a professor. She discusses the opportunities that shaped her career, the transition to teaching, and the impact she aims to have on her students. Kim also reflects on her personal interests, including her passion for sewing and quilting, and offers valuable advice for students about embracing challenges and personal growth.
Takeaways
Kim Tarvis shares her background in dairy cattle management and education.
The Dairy Challenge provides students with practical experience in evaluating dairy farms.
Kim's family history in dairy farming highlights the importance of legacy in agriculture.
The cost of land and farming in Rhode Island presents challenges for new farmers.
Kim's early love for cows was nurtured by her mother, who wanted to be a vet.
Involvement in 4-H and showing cattle shaped Kim's passion for agriculture.
Kim's educational journey included exploring various agricultural fields before settling on animal science.
The importance of making informed career choices is emphasized throughout the conversation.
Personal relationships can significantly influence educational and career decisions.
Kim's early career was influenced by a mentor who encouraged her to pursue research opportunities.
She transitioned from a management role at GenX to a teaching position at SUNY Cobleskill.
Both Kim and Val emphasize the importance of hands-on experience in teaching agricultural methods.
Recognition from the Dairy Girl Network was a significant milestone in her career.
She believes in the power of collaboration and support from peers and mentors.
Kim's passion for sewing and quilting is a significant part of her personal life.
She encourages students to take risks and try new things, even if they fear failure.
Kim stresses the importance of small, incremental changes for success.
Her favorite quote, 'Inches make champions,' reflects her belief in gradual progress.
Kim values the relationships she builds with her students and colleagues.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to the Dairy Hour Podcast
01:52 Meet Kim Tarvis: Dairy Cattle Management Expert
04:14 The Dairy Challenge: A Unique Learning Experience
12:09 Kim's Dairy Farming Roots
22:51 Navigating Education and Career Choices
30:34 Reflections on Life Choices and Opportunities
31:31 Career Beginnings and Opportunities
36:30 Transition to Teaching and Educational Experiences
41:25 Recognition and Impact in Agriculture
49:07 Personal Interests and Hobbies
56:05 Advice for Students and Personal Growth
This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$
AND
The Farm Cruise http://www.farmcruise.com use Code DAIRYGALVAL to save $50!
Title: Â From City Girl to Farm Babe: Advocate Michelle Miller!
Host: Val Lavigne @DairyGalVal
Guest: Michelle Miller “The Farm Babe”
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Summary
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Takeaways
Sound Bites
Chapters
This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$
Title: Mini Mindset: 5 Quick Ways to Re-charge Yourself!
This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$
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Title: Balancing Motherhood and Farming! With Jaime Mowry
Host: Val Lavigne
Guest: Jaime Mowry
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Summary
This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$
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Title: From Farm to Nutrition: Kourtney Talkington on Empowering Women, Mindful Eating, and Agriculture
Host: Val Lavigne
Guest: Kourtney Talkington
   Find her @Kourtney.Talkington on Instagram
This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$
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Title: Farm First Aid- With Katie Hammock, RN
Host: Val Lavigne
Guest: Katie Hammock, RN
   Find her @TheDairyWife on Instagram
Episode First Aid Kit link:Â https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1Y2Y5EC8BXGFF?ref_=wl_share
This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$
AND
Dairy Girl Network- The Forward TogetHER Conference! Join me and many other amazing women in dairy at the conference this November, http://www.dairygirlnetwork.com for more information!
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Title: Empowering Women: Monica Massey's Journey from Dairy to Consulting
Guest: Monica Massey (@MonicaMassey www.monicainc.com)
Host: Val Lavigne (Â @dairygalval www.dairygalval.com )
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Episode Description:
Episode Takeaways:
Chapters:
In this episode of the Dairy Hour podcast, host Val Lavigne sits down with Megan Schrupp, a third-generation dairy farmer and veterinarian from Minnesota. Megan shares her inspiring journey of transitioning from a career in veterinary medicine to running her family’s dairy farm. Along the way, she embarked on new ventures like opening a farm market and starting beekeeping, adding fresh dimensions to her family’s legacy.
Megan emphasizes the importance of family support throughout the transition and the unique challenges and rewards of being a dairy farmer. She also shares how creativity and continuous learning have been key to her success, helping her adapt to challenges and explore exciting new opportunities. Tune in to hear Megan’s insights on maintaining a positive mindset, focusing on doing your best, and finding fulfillment in farming.
00:00Â - Introduction and Background
From the publisher's feed
🎙️ Welcome to the Pull Up a Bale Podcast
Hosted by Val Lavigne | www.pullupabale.com
Pull Up a Bale is where real stories from rural life meet bold, unfiltered conversations about the future of agriculture. Hosted by dairy farmer, homeschooling mom, and agvocate Val Lavigne, this podcast invites farmers, ranchers, educators, and everyday rural changemakers to pull up a bale and share what’s really going on — the challenges, the purpose, the grit, and the heart behind the work.
From legacy and leadership to motherhood, mental health, and the power of storytelling, this show is a seat at the table for voices that often go unheard — and it’s all about building community through conversation.
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