This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$

Title: Dairy Doc, Michelle Schack on DairyKind, Social Media, & Being a Dairy Veterinarian

Host: Val Lavigne

@DairyGalVal

www.dairygalval.com

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.

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.

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."

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

Guest: Kimberly Tarvis

Professor at SUNY Cobleskill

[email protected]

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:  From City Girl to Farm Babe: Advocate Michelle Miller!

Host: Val Lavigne @DairyGalVal

Guest: Michelle Miller “The Farm Babe”

Summary

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 $$

Title: Balancing Motherhood and Farming! With Jaime Mowry

Host: Val Lavigne

Guest: Jaime Mowry

Summary

This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$

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

• Kourtney is a fifth-generation farmer involved in cow-calf pairs and crop farming.

This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$

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:  https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1Y2Y5EC8BXGFF?ref_=wl_share

• Farm safety is crucial for preventing accidents.

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!

Title: Empowering Women: Monica Massey's Journey from Dairy to Consulting

Guest: Monica Massey (@MonicaMassey www.monicainc.com)

Host: Val Lavigne ( @dairygalval www.dairygalval.com )

Episode Description:

Episode Takeaways:

• Monica Massey is a motivational speaker and consultant in the medical food space.

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.

• Transitioning from veterinary practice to managing a family dairy farm requires careful planning and open communication among family members.

00:00 - Introduction and Background