The Hoard's Dairyman Podcast

In this episode, Associate Editor, Jessica Miller, reads the FARM-accredited article, "Colostrum: A proven solution" written by Mark Hardesty, D.V.M.

Colostrum is one of the most powerful tools dairy producers have for getting calves off to a healthy start. Veterinarian Mark Hardesty, D.V.M., explains why timing, cleanliness, and proper feeding are critical for successful passive transfer and shares practical management changes that can reduce scours and calf death loss. He also discusses the “cuddle box” approach and how delivering clean colostrum within minutes of birth can make a major difference.

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Sponsored by: Zoetis 

In this episode of the Hoard's Dairyman Podcast, host Jenna Byrne sits down with Jim Van Patter, dairy manager at Nehls Brothers Farms and an internationally recognized dairy consultant, to discuss the management principles that have shaped every dairy operation he's worked on.

Drawing on decades of experience leading large dairy farms across the United States, Turkey, Australia, and Indonesia, Van Patter shares the strategies he uses to improve herd performance, develop employees, and create systems that drive long-term success. From identifying "low-hanging fruit" to prioritizing cow comfort, team communication, and data-driven decision-making, he explains the practical changes that can make a lasting impact on dairy profitability.

The conversation also explores emerging technologies in dairy management, the evolution of reproduction and calf-raising programs, and Van Patter's passion for improving the commercial potential of the Guernsey breed. Along the way, he offers valuable leadership advice for the next generation of dairy managers and reflects on the lessons he's learned from working with dairy producers around the world.

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Website: https://hoards.com/

In this episode, Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads the article titled, "Calves that count," written by Managing Editor, Kylene Anderson.

Listen to this episode to explore why every replacement heifer matters more than ever. Learn how preventing calfhood respiratory disease and scours can improve lifetime performance, reduce costly losses, and set calves up for long-term success through proven management practices like excellent colostrum care and a clean calving environment. 

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1

Website: https://hoards.com/

In this episode, Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads the article titled, "Tip the scale of calf health in your favor," written by former Senior Editor at Hoard's Dairyman, Katelyn Allen. 

Managing livestock is complex. A dairy farmer is constantly trying to move the seesaw of health and disease in favor of animal health. For young calves with an incomplete immune system, this battle is even more important. To avoid a calf veering toward the pit of disease, we have two strategies: minimizing infectious disease triggers and maximizing immunity. Listen to the episode to learn more. 

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Website: https://hoards.com/

Where is the Holstein breed headed next? Holstein Association USA CEO Lindsey Worden joins us to discuss the organization's recent growth, highlights from the 2026 National Holstein Convention, and the opportunities she sees ahead for dairy producers and Holstein breeders.

Worden also shares insights into several exciting innovations, including the new Holstein Conformation Composite (HCC), updates to the Total Performance Index (TPI), and the AI-powered Build a Better Cow project. From genomic testing and individual animal identification to developing the next generation of dairy leaders through junior programs, this episode explores how technology, genetics, and people are shaping the future of the Holstein breed.

To view Lindseys speech at the 2025 State of the Association referenced in the podcast, click here.

Subscribe for more conversations with dairy leaders and farm families.

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1

Website: https://hoards.com/

In this Express Episode, Associate Editor, Jessica Miller reads the FARM-accredited article titled, "Start smart: calf and maternity care." The article was written by Kylene Anderson, Managing Editor at Hoard's Dairyman.

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Website: https://hoards.com/

This episode of the podcast first aired as a Hoard's Dairyman Webinar in April of 2025. 

Jimena Laporta from the University of Wisconsin-Madison will presented, “Beyond summer heat stress: Understanding its impacts on dairy cattle across generations.”

This presentation explored how environmental stressors, including heat stress, influence dairy cattle health, productivity, and resilience across generations. Mitigating heat stress in youngstock as also highlighted.

👉 Please follow us on your favorite podcast app, and don't forget to like and subscribe on YouTube. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1

Website: https://hoards.com/

Welcome to the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, your source for science-based information you can use on your dairy. Hoard's Dairyman Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads the FARM-accredited article titled, "Pair calves early to garner benefits" by Maggie Gilles, Kansas Dairy Farmer.

The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management, or FARM, Program, created by the National Milk Producers Federation in partnership with Dairy Management, Inc, helps ensure the success of U.S. dairy farmers by providing assurances to dairy customers and consumers. The FARM Animal Care Program helps to demonstrate dairy farmers’ commitment to providing excellent care of their dairy cattle and producing safe, wholesome milk.

FARM Animal Care Standards require annual continuing education for stockmanship, pre-weaned calves, fitness to transport, non-ambulatory animals and euthanasia.

Listening to these podcasts meets the continuing education standards. Farms can document their continuing education by using templates found at nationaldairyfarm.com or contact your FARM evaluator for more information.

👉 Please follow us on your favorite podcast app, and don't forget to like and subscribe on YouTube. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1

Website: https://hoards.com/

Sponsored by: Journal of Nutrient Management

In this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, host Jenna Byrne sits down with Dr. Frank Mitloehner, professor and air quality specialist at UC Davis, to discuss the future of dairy sustainability and the evolving conversation around methane emissions.

Drawing on decades of research in animal agriculture and environmental science, Mitloehner explains the differences between methane and carbon dioxide, the role dairy farms play in climate discussions, and why he believes producers are uniquely positioned to be part of the solution. He shares insights on emerging technologies, carbon markets, and how sustainability efforts can create both environmental and economic opportunities for dairy operations.

The conversation also explores consumer perceptions of dairy, the importance of producer engagement, and what the next decade may hold for animal agriculture. From practical methane-reduction strategies to broader industry trends, Mitloehner offers a forward-looking perspective on how dairy producers can adapt, innovate, and prepare for the future.

👉 Please follow us on your favorite podcast app, and don't forget to like and subscribe on YouTube. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1

Website: https://hoards.com/

Welcome to the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, your source for science-based information you can use on your dairy. Hoard's Dairyman Associate Editor Jessica Miller reads the FARM-accredited article from the magazine titled, "Cleanliness cannot be overstated for calves" by Maggie Gilles, Kansas Dairy Farmer.

The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management, or FARM, Program, created by the National Milk Producers Federation in partnership with Dairy Management, Inc, helps ensure the success of U.S. dairy farmers by providing assurances to dairy customers and consumers. The FARM Animal Care Program helps to demonstrate dairy farmers’ commitment to providing excellent care of their dairy cattle and producing safe, wholesome milk.

FARM Animal Care Standards require annual continuing education for stockmanship, pre-weaned calves, fitness to transport, non-ambulatory animals and euthanasia.

Listening to these podcasts meets the continuing education standards. Farms can document their continuing education by using templates found at nationaldairyfarm.com or contact your FARM evaluator for more information.

👉 Please follow us on your favorite podcast app, and don't forget to like and subscribe on YouTube. 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1

Website: https://hoards.com/