Water represents a critical, yet often overlooked component in the nutrition and development of young calves. While significant attention is justifiably given to their milk or milk replacer intake, supplying water to neonatal calves should not be underestimated. In this episode, we had the privilege of hosting Dr. Ranga Appuhamy from Iowa State University as our distinguished guest. Dr. Appuhamy, a renowned researcher and educator in Dairy Science, shared valuable insights, including his research on water intake in young calves. His work underscores the pivotal role of water in calf development, shedding light on its influence on milk consumption, gut microbiome, and overall growth.

"We see that providing drinking water increases milk consumption of young calves." 

What you’ll learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (02:12) Introduction
• (19:24) Testing water's relevance in neonatal cows
• (24:20) Drinking water provides stimulus for rumen development
• (26:22) Relevance of water at the time of weaning
• (27:44) Observations on gut microbiota composition changes
• (30:55) Problem of providing drinking water to calves during winter
• (32:53) The final questions

Meet the guest: Dr. Ranga Appuhamy

Experience:

• Current: Assistant Professor at the Iowa State University
• Past: Post Doctoral Associate at the University of California

Background:

• Ph.D., Animal Science (Virginia State University)
• M.Sc., Dairy Science (Virginia State University)
• B.Sc., Agriculture (University of Peradeniya)

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𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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In today's dairy industry, achieving and sustaining optimal milk production and herd health depend on a strategic fusion of effective nutrition and management practices. This pivotal synergy maximizes milk yield, ensures cattle welfare, and drives overall success. In this episode, Dr. Steve Blezinger, a veteran with 30+ years in ruminant nutrition, discusses dairy triumph factors. He stresses farm efficiency, feed quality, and decisive choices during economic challenges. Highlighting collaboration between nutritionists and vets, he uses real-world data to optimize animal health. 

“The interlacing of nutrition, animal health, and reproduction is intricate; everything is tied together."

What you’ll learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (02:15) Introduction 
• (05:59) Discussion about the intersection of dairy and beef industries
• (08:04) Hot topics in the industry and challenges during downturns
• (13:00) Importance of quality in forage and selection processes
• (17:09) Yeast studies in beef and dairy production
• (22:23) The impact of supplements on dairy production
• (32:56) The final questions

Meet the guest: Dr. Steve Blezinger

Experience:

• Current: Owner of Reveille Livestock Concepts
• Past: Ruminant Product and Technical Manager in Trouw Nutrition USA

Background:

• Ph.D. in Ruminant Nutrition (Texas A&M University)
• M.Sc. (Texas A&M University)
• B.Sc. (Texas A&M University)

Connect with the guest!

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𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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Amino acids, often termed as the fundamental components of proteins, play a vital role in diverse physiological processes such as growth, reproduction, immune response, and milk synthesis. Their significance in the nutrition of dairy cattle is undeniable. In this episode, we welcome Dr. Chuck Schwab, a distinguished Professor Emeritus from New Hampshire University and a trailblazer in this domain. He guides us through his profound research expedition, which began with a deep fascination for amino acids during his undergraduate years. From there, he delves into their pivotal contribution to the overall well-being and productivity of dairy cattle, offering invaluable insights on his journey's progress and challenges.

“Amino acids represent essential nutrients, while protein is an approximate nutrient." - Dr. Chuck Schwab

What you’ll learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (02:16) Introduction 
• (18:27) Amino acid balancing
• (20:46) Observation of the impact of amino acid balancing in herds
• (26:02) Improvement of models and research challenges
• (29:16) Importance of essential and non-essential amino acids
• (34:58) Dr. Schwab's advice for dairy nutritionists
• (39:12) The final questions

Meet the guest: Dr. Chuck Schwab

Experience:

• Current: Independent Business Owner in Schwab Consulting, LLC
• Past: Assistant Professor at the University of New Hampshire

Background:

• Ph.D., Dairy Science and Nutritional Sciences (University of Wisconsin-Madison)
• M.Sc., Dairy Science (University of Wisconsin-Madison)
• B.Sc., Animal Sciences (University of Wisconsin-Platteville)

Connect with the guest!

The Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

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𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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Trace mineral nutrition is often underestimated in agricultural education, yet it remains indispensable for ensuring optimal livestock health and productivity. These minerals play a vital role in numerous physiological processes, and their deficiencies can give rise to severe health issues. In this episode, we engage in a conversation with Dr. Robert VanSaun, a distinguished Professor of Veterinary Science at Penn State University and a specialist in animal and mineral nutrition for ruminants. Dr. VanSaun underscores the significance of trace minerals in maintaining livestock health and emphasizes their role in nourishing cows during the dry period. 

"Optimal dry cow nutrition is essential for maximizing cow performance." - Dr. Robert VanSaun

What you’ll learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (02:57) Introduction 
• (16:50) Discussion about transition cow nutrition and trace mineral nutrition
• (17:30) Sharing practice experiences on mineral homeostasis
• (26:35) Discussing maternal-fetal transfer and its impact
• (30:18) The composition of the trace mineral
• (31:13) Common misconceptions among nutritionists regarding trace minerals
• (48:13) The final questions

Meet the guest: Dr. Robert VanSaun

Experience:

• Current: Professor at the Penn State University
• Past: Assistant Professor at the Oregon State University

Background:

• Ph.D. in Ruminant nutrition (Cornell University)
• M.Sc. in Large Animal Clinical Nutrition (Michigan State University)
• B.Sc. in Veterinary Medicine (Michigan State University)

Connect with the guest!

The Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

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𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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Feeding ruminants goes beyond just nourishing the animal itself. It heavily revolves around supporting the ruminal microbiota. The role of microorganisms in ruminants is crucial for obtaining the necessary nutrients and ensuring optimal performance. Dr. Todd Callaway, an expert from the University of Georgia, delves into the intricate microbial environment present in cattle's digestive system in this episode. His research journey focuses on understanding the functionalities of the gut microbiota in cattle nutrition. Here, he explores the complexities of the cattle gastrointestinal tract and its implications for food safety and production efficiency. 

“Over the years, we have invested significant effort in studying the typical carriage of pathogens, distinguishing what is considered normal from what isn't.” - Dr. Todd Callaway

What you’ll learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:58) Introduction 
• (07:11) Introduction to next-generation sequencing
• (13:29) The definition of microbiome
• (15:43) Understanding metagenomics
• (20:00) Interaction between the microbes and the animal
• (21:37) Applying microbiome knowledge to nutrition and management 
• (22:17) Effects of heat stress on microbes and animals
• (26:18) Understanding pathogens and managing the gut of an animal
• (30:31) The final questions

Meet the guest: Dr. Todd Callaway

Experience:

• Current: Associate Professor at the University of Georgia
• Past: Research Microbiologist in USDA-ARS

Background:

• Ph.D., Microbiology (Cornell University)
• M.Sc., Animal Science (University of Georgia)
• B.Sc., Animal Science (University of Georgia)

Connect with the guest!

The Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

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𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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While they may seem insignificant to the dairy industry at a first glance, flies do pose considerable challenges to dairy cattle that are already facing thermal and ambient stress, as they intensify stress levels and severely affect productivity. Our guest, Dr. Alex Sanchez from the University of New Mexico, sheds light on dairy farming and the role of fly control for milk yields and weight gain. We discuss the impact of fly infestations on dairy production and the adoption of scientific pest control solutions, along with the implications of fly pests and data-driven decision-making. All in all, Dr. Sanchez emphasizes the importance of focusing on small details for optimal outcomes. 

“I would say that the most successful producers are the ones who never neglect or diminish the potential effect that a single fly can have. They pay attention to the little details.” - Dr. Ulises Alex Sanchez Sandoval

What you’ll learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (00:00) Introduction 
• (04:39) Measuring responses and production parameters in a controlled chamber
• (07:30) Practical applications
• (09:41) Management of pests
• (12:48) Integrated pest management
• (15:16) The usage of traps in pest management
• (17:36) Discussing biological control tools
• (18:58) The importance of quick action tools in pest management
• (19:40) Understanding the problem of resistance
• (22:03) Explanation of environmental control strategies
• (25:14) Economic aspects connected to pest control
• (33:53) Impact of stress caused by flies on bacterial protein production in cows
• (37:36) The final questions

Meet the guest: Dr. Ulises Alex Sanchez Sandoval

Experience:

• Current: Manager of Operations at the New Mexico State University
• Past: Health Services Manager in Establo Don Reyes

Background:

• Ph.D., Ruminant Nutrition / Veterinary Entomology (the New Mexico State University)
• M.Sc. (the New Mexico State University)
• D.V.M. (Universidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio Narro)

Connect with the guest!

The Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

- AB Vista

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𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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The environment is one of the three fundamental pillars of sustainability, followed by the social and economic areas. Regarding this topic, dairy farmers have been doing a great job of tracking sustainability, but it is necessary to make more progress – more importantly, it is necessary to show this progress to the world, thus giving our cows a greener image than ever before. In this episode, with Tara Vander Dussen, we discuss all the challenges and future perspectives for environmental sustainability along with her experience with it and the importance of sharing a sustainable message and engaging on social media.

“I don’t think people realize what farmers do to be more sustainable.” - Tara Vander Dussen

What you’ll learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (02:03) Introduction 
• (08:02) Concerns over water sources on dairy farms
• (16:41) Future environmental concerns in the dairy industry
• (22:46) Sharing our successful stories from our farms
• (26:50) Engaging grad students in agriculture
• (30:30) Conveying messages for producers and consumers
• (34:08) The final questions

Meet the guest: Tara Vander Dussen

Experience:

• Current: Co-Host at Discover Ag Podcast
• Past: Environmental consultant for dairy farms in NM

• Background:Degree; Soil, Water and Environmental Science (the University of Arizona)

Connect with the guest!

The Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

- AB Vista

- Protekta

- DSM

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- ICC

- Phibro

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𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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Dairy farming has undoubtedly come a long way – and one aspect that stands out is the advent of the role of technology in the management of dairy farms. In this episode, we examine a key player in this scenario: precision technology. To analyze the way it's transforming the dairy industry by helping farmers streamline on-farm management based on significant data and towards a more precise approach, I talk with Dr. Joao Costa, who shares all his knowledge on precision feed and how technologies improve calf production.

“We can't forget the basics, but we can't be stuck in the past. Things are changing, and so we understand more and more how the investment on those 100 days is fundamental to the success of the calf throughout its life." - Dr. João H. Costa

What you’ll learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (02:11) Introduction
• (05:00) Precision feeding for dairy calves
• (07:11) Opportunities of precision technology for calves
• (11:56) Challenges in the implementation of precision technology in farms
• (13:57) Auto feeders challenges and opportunities
• (23:11) Feeding forage to calves and the role of total diet
• (30:19) Recommendations for the development of calves as they grow
• (34:56) Auto feeders adoption on farms
• (40:05) Predictions for the future of the calf industry
• (42:53) Advice for dairy professionals working with calves
• (44:41) Three Final questions

Meet the guest: Dr. João H. Costa

Experience:

• Current: Associate Professor in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences of the University of Vermont
• Past: Assistant Professor in the Department of Animal Food and Sciences of the University of Kentucky

Background:

• Ph.D., Animal Sciences (the University of British Columbia)

Connect with the guest!

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

The Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

- AB Vista

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While perfection may not be possible, continuous improvement always is. When it comes to dairy cows, a key area to focus on is the fiber component of their diets, as a significant portion of it remains indigestible. In this episode, I talk with Dr. Elias Bungenstab, who enlightens us on various strategies to enhance fiber digestibility, including the utilization of NIR technologies; enzymes for fiber degradation, their positive impacts and viability; and effective strategies to improve overall fiber digestibility. Additionally, we delve into the use of live yeast to maintain a stable pH and optimize rumen function, thus further improving fiber digestibility and overall cow performance.

“I love ruminants because they can always do things that no other organism can.’’ – Dr. Elias Bungenstab

What you’ll learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:35) Introduction
• (04:53) NIR technologies for animal nutrition 
• (08:37) Enzymes in dairy nutrition 
• (12:31) Maximizing fiber digestibility 
• (20:44) Yeast benefits in fiber digestibility 
• (27:30) Effects of enzymes and yeasts on performance 
• (37:17) The final questions

Meet the guest: Dr. Elias Bungenstab

Experience:

• Current: Global Technical Manager for Ruminants at AB Vista
• Past: Technical Services Manager – Beef at Van Beek Natural Science

Background:

• Ph.D., Ruminant Nutrition (Auburn University)
• M.Sc., Feedlot Management (Texas A&M University)

Connect with the guest!

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

The Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

- AB Vista

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- Phibro

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With consumers raising concerns about dairy activities and seeking more sustainable dairy products, dairy farms have been placed under scrutiny. That is why developing more sustainable dairy operations isn’t just an option anymore, it's an obligation. To better understand sustainability and how to evaluate it, Dr. Michel Wattiaux discusses nitrogen efficiency and protein levels, concepts of system and sustainability, and evaluation tools. Also, in this episode, he goes into the challenges of such tools and the issues of implementing sustainability.

“My research program can be summarized as looking at the inefficiencies of dairy cows.” – Dr. Michel Wattiaux‬

What you’ll learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:40) Introduction 
• (10:21) Efficient nitrogen utilization
• (14:44) Sustainable dairy farms
• (26:09) Defining sustainability on farms
• (31:29) Tools to evaluate sustainability
• (44:56) Varying diet protein levels of cows
• (54:20) The final questions

Meet the guest: Dr. Michel Wattiaux

Experience:

• Current: Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison

Background:

• Ph.D. (the University of Wisconsin-Madison)
• M.Sc. (the University of Wisconsin-Madison)
• B.Sc., Agricultural Engineering

Connect with the guest!

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

The Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

- AB Vista

- Protekta

- DSM

- Diamond V

- ICC

- Phibro

- Berg + Schmidt

- Evonik

- Adisseo

- smaXtec