In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen interviews Dr. Jacey Benzing, a large animal veterinarian from St. Anna's Veterinary Clinic in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. Dr. Benzing shares her path from a childhood fascination with veterinary medicine, sparked by an unforgettable experience with her backyard pony, to her present role where she helps dairy farms achieve their goals. She discusses her passion for calf health and employee training, the challenges she faced in her early career, and the importance of a strong support network. Benzing also talks about the physical and mental demands of being a large animal vet, the critical role of colostrum management for calves, and the importance of regular data analysis and team collaboration in dairy practice. Additionally, she emphasizes the value of mentorship and her aspiration to become fluent in Spanish to better connect with farm workers.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jacey Benzing

00:38 Welcome to the Uplevel Dairy Podcast

01:10 Heritage Vet Partners Overview

01:33 Dr. Benzing's Journey to Veterinary Medicine

01:52 From Horses to Dairy Cows

06:23 Challenges and Rewards in Veterinary Practice

11:24 Support Systems and Mentorship

13:54 Focus on Calf Health

19:59 Employee Training and Teamwork

22:43 Reflections and Future Goals

31:03 Conclusion and Farewell

This episode is brought to you by Heritage Vet Partners
Heritage Vet Partners is the nation’s leading veterinary partnership, specializing in mixed and large animal practices.  Heritage Vet Partners provides a unique partnership model that preserves local practice legacies, serving dairy and other livestock producers and companion animal owners through shared services, data, and strategic growth. Learn more at HeritageVetPartners.com.

From a childhood farm in the Philippines to dairy operations worldwide with Dr. Mike Catangui.

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy interviews Dr. Mike Catangui, the first entomologist and parasitologist to feature on the show. Dr. Mike discusses the critical role of entomology and parasitology in the dairy industry, highlighting the impact of insects like stable flies on dairy cattle health and milk production. He shares his professional journey from growing up on a farm in the Philippines to achieving advanced degrees and conducting significant research in the U.S. The conversation delves into the economic impacts of pests, the benefits of natural insecticides, and ongoing efforts to discover sustainable, effective solutions for pest control in agriculture. Dr. Mike also touches on his personal experiences and enduring passion for agricultural research.

This episode is sponsored by MWI Animal Health

At MWI Animal Health, we are your partner in animal health. Our people drive us to think forward every day. We are committed to working with you to identify cutting-edge solutions to your common challenges. We unite with innovators and manufacturers to provide access to products and solutions designed to help you find success in each aspect of your animal health business.

Visit www.MWIAH.com

• 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Mike
• 00:15 The Role of Entomology and Parasitology in Dairy
• 02:03 Dr. Mike's Journey from the Philippines to the US
• 03:33 Research on Stable Flies and Their Impact
• 09:36 Transition to Dairy and Natural Solutions
• 15:53 Global Perspective on Insect Control
• 19:09 Future Directions in Entomology
• 23:41 Balancing Work and Life in Agriculture
• 25:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy is joined by Marinus Noordam as they dive into the dynamics of his business partnership at AJ Dairy, emphasizing their complementary skill sets and responsibilities. We explore his rich history, from being born in the Netherlands to immigrating to the United States, and the eventual establishment of the dairy farm. The story highlights the challenges and successes faced, including the crucial role of technology in modern dairy farming. The episode concludes with reflections on family, faith, and the importance of efficient farm management for long-term success.

This episode is part of the High-Performance Mindset Series powered by Nedap.

Nedap is future-proofing dairy farming with smart technologies in activity monitoring, cow locating, milk metering, sort gates, and AI-powered camera systems. Nedap is improving life on the farm by putting the right cow in the right place at the right time, every time.

• 00:59 Journey from the Netherlands to the US
• 04:02 Challenges and Adaptations in Dairy Farming
• 15:35 The Role of Technology in Modern Dairy Farming
• 25:33 Future Challenges and Strategies
• 30:08 Navigating the Dairy Industry's Challenges
• 31:24 The Importance of Financial Discipline
• 34:26 Family and Farming: A Personal Insight
• 37:50 Faith and Legacy in Dairy Farming
• 46:22 Embracing Technology in Dairy Farming
• 54:20 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen catches up with Jack Pirtle, a dairyman and farmer with P7 Dairy and Pirtle Farms in New Mexico, whose journey from business and personal hardships led to a profound transformation through faith.
 
Jack updates us on his dairy, farming and now cattle enterprise. However, the heart of the conversation lies in Jack's awakening via the Rise Up Kings organization, which helped him realign his life according to four pillars: faith, family, fitness, and finance. 
Jack discusses the impact of this transformation on his personal life and business, and his mission to guide his Spanish-speaking employees and others in their spiritual journeys. Through powerful testimonies and actionable insights, this episode offers a compelling narrative of obedience, surrender, and leadership rooted in faith.

Reach out to Jack Pirtle:
(575) 626-7766
[email protected]
Learn more about Rise Up Kings programs in both English and Spanish:
https://riseupkings.com/

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen welcomes back Jordan Matthews, an ultra-endurance athlete and dairy farmer at Rosy-Lane Holsteins in Watertown, Wisconsin. They discuss how genetics, environment management, and feed technology at the rumen microbial level are unlocking the full potential of dairy cows.

Jordan shares his recent endeavors on the farm and in the trail, including running a 100-mile race to support cancer research, and the introduction of a new and novel calf barn designed for optimal calf socialization and cleanliness.

This episode is sponsored by Native Microbials, the makers of Galaxis Frontier, powered by advanced microbiome technology proven to help cows perform to their full potential. Learn more at nativemicrobials.com.

• 00:00 Meet Jordan Matthews: Dairy Farmer and Ultra Endurance Runner
• 01:49 Jordan's Inspiring Story: Running for a Cause
• 04:16 Updates on Jordan's Brother and Personal Achievements
• 06:43 The Vision and Values at Rosy-Lane Holsteins
• 07:52 Innovations in Calf Care at Rosy-Lane
• 11:14 The Legacy and Culture of Innovation at Rosy-Lane
• 13:39 Pioneering Barn Designs and Genetic Advancements
• 19:05 Focus on Feed Efficiency and New Technologies
• 20:23 Evaluating New Feed Products
• 20:59 Understanding Rumen Microbiome
• 21:45 Economic and Environmental Impact
• 24:39 Human and Animal Nutrition Parallels
• 30:08 Technological Innovations in Dairy Farming
• 36:35 Future Goals and Personal Insights
• 38:08 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, we are traveling to Colorado's dairy country as Peggy visits with Dr. Blaine Nicks, Director of Herd Operations at Jager Ag, and Joshua Stroud, Director of Calf Care at Bower Ag, as they share their strategies for managing large-scale dairies while emphasizing milk quality. They discuss the importance of team leadership, daily execution, and the role of trust and communication in overcoming challenges. The episode also touches on their personal journeys in the industry, the significance of cow care, and the integration of new technologies. This insightful conversation highlights the critical role of people and processes in achieving dairy success.
Bower Ag is the parent company uniting The Dairy Solutions Group (TDSG), Dairy Specialists and Ag Property Solutions. Together, they strive to elevate farm operations through out-of-the-box thinking and problem solving, new technology and a network of locations positioned for growth.
For more information, visit BowerAg.com

00:00 Introduction to Dairy Management Challenges

00:10 Meet the Experts: Dr. Blaine Nicks and Joshua Stroud

02:23 Blaine's Journey: From Vet School to Dairy Operations

03:59 Joshua's Path: From Service Work to Milk Quality Management

05:09 The Power of Teamwork in Dairy Management

07:44 Overcoming Challenges Together

09:51 Managing Multi-Site Dairy Operations

13:55 The Importance of People in Dairy Success

30:21 Future of Dairy: Technology and AI

36:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen visits Steve Abel of Abel Dairy Farms in Wisconsin to discuss strategic growth and leadership in the dairy industry. Steve shares insights on expanding their operations, managing personnel, and maintaining a values-driven approach. He also highlights the importance of technology and teamwork in modern dairy farming. This episode delves into the challenges and successes of scaling a family dairy farm while ensuring team cohesion and operational effectiveness.

This Episode is brought to you by Milc Group

Milc Group is a dairy software company that brings real-time, actionable data to dairy farms across the world. They are dedicated to revolutionizing the dairy industry with their user-friendly cloud-based software. ONE™ by Milc Group is our all-in-one app that brings together all the important aspects of your dairy together in one place. With products such as feed and animal management software, people training, dairy facility monitoring, and scale management, Milc Group is committed to providing producers with tools they need to succeed.

• ONE™ Feed: https://www.milcgroup.com/product/feed
• ONE™ Scale: https://www.milcgroup.com/product/scale
  

00:00 Introduction to Growing Leaders and Scaling a Team

01:19 Steve Abel's Journey and Dairy Farm Expansion

03:08 Strategic Growth and COVID Challenges

05:38 Scaling People and Management

09:23 Developing Middle Managers

20:10 Technology in Dairy Farming

25:54 Future of Dairy Farming: Risks and Opportunities

30:08 Advice for the Next Generation

33:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, farm efficiency and profitability expert Pauly Paul from Complete Management Consulting discusses strategies to help dairy producers navigate through the anticipated low milk prices in 2026. He highlights the importance of labor efficiency, reproduction management, and optimized feeding practices.

Through real-world examples and farm audits, Pauly shares how streamlining operations, improving employee productivity, and refining reproductive protocols can result in significant cost savings and increased profitability. The discussion also touches on the value of having an external perspective to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement. This episode is packed with actionable insights for dairy managers and owners preparing for the financial challenges ahead.
This Episode is Brought to you by Complete Management Consulting

About Complete Management Consulting

• www.CompleteManagementConsulting.com
• [email protected]
• 920-418-3135

00:00 Introduction: Navigating Low Milk Prices in 2026

00:38 Starting the Discussion: Preparing for 2026

02:08 Key Focus Areas: Labor, Reproduction, and Feeding

02:28 Labor Efficiency: Streamlining Workforce

15:59 Reproduction Strategies: Enhancing Preg Rates

24:14 Feeding and Rations: Optimizing Nutrition

34:43 Conclusion: Final Thoughts and Word of the Year

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy sits down with Greg Bethard, CEO of High Plains Ponderosa Dairy, to catch up on his progress and leadership strategies. Highlighting topics such as stress management, the development of new leaders, and Greg's personal approach to health and longevity, the conversation also explores the importance of effective people management and the future role of AI in the dairy industry. Greg shares insights on building resilience through experience and maintaining a healthy mind and body as a cornerstone of effective leadership. The episode also touches on the potential challenges and opportunities in expanding large-scale dairy operations globally.This Episode is brought to you by AdisseoThis episode is sponsored by Uplevel Dairy Podcast Founding Partner Adisseo, a global leader in nutritional solutions and premier provider of rumen-protected methionine for dairy producers who want to optimize milk production, capture more value from components, and maintain the health of their high-performing herds. Learn more at https://www.adisseo.com/en/00:00 Welcome Back Greg Bethard: CEO of High Plains Ponderosa Dairy01:36 Reflecting on Past Episodes and Impact02:33 High Plains Ponderosa: Leadership and Team Dynamics03:26 Employee Relations and Work Environment05:51 Succession of Leadership at High Plains08:26 Challenges and Growth in Dairy Operations11:28 Managing Stress and Building Resilience14:37 Personal Health and Longevity17:34 Diet and Exercise for Optimal Performance20:15 Structured Simplicity in Nutrition and Movement20:23 Running Routine and Fitness Insights22:08 The Importance of Mental Engagement22:57 Health Awareness in the Next Generation26:26 AI and Technology in Dairy Management34:17 Future Aspirations and Reflections36:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy continues her series from Hornstead Dairy in Brillion, Wisconsin, featuring an in-depth conversation with Brian Horn. Brian shares the journey of transforming a simple 4-H project into a cutting-edge dairy operation driven by technology and innovation. The episode highlights how the multi-generational farm utilizes advanced monitoring tools like the smaXtec Health Management System to boost efficiency and proactive care. Touching on the evolution of dairy farm technologies, challenges, and the crucial role of family, this episode provides insights into progressive dairy farming practices.This Episode is Brought to you by smaXtecsmaXtec is the internal health management system for dairy cows. The unique bolus technology measures internal temperature, rumination, drinking cycles, activity, and more. smaXtec helps dairy farmers of any size make confident, data-driven decisions that lead to healthier cows, fewer treatments, and better performance. With early detection and 24/7 monitoring, dairies can stay ahead of herd health issues and focus on long-term herd success. Find out more: https://smaxtec.com/us/00:00 Introduction to Hornstead Dairy's Journey01:01 Brian Horn's Early Days and Family Legacy02:29 Technological Evolution in Dairy Farming04:54 Adopting Advanced Monitoring Systems08:30 Impact of Technology on Farm Management15:58 Future Generations and Technological Integration21:58 Conclusion and Reflections