Dr. Miel Hostens: Sensors and Decision Power | Ep. 175

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Miel Hostens from Cornell University shares how data integration and AI are reshaping dairy herd management. He discusses key challenges in data systems, explains the role of sensors and cloud tools in farm-level decisions, and highlights how smarter data handling leads to more sustainable dairy production. Learn how digital tools are powering the future of dairy analytics. Listen now on all major platforms!"Everyday decision-making should be somehow driven by data to make sure choices are grounded in measurable insights and not assumptions."Meet the guest: Dr. Miel Hostens received his MSc and PhD in Veterinary Medicine from Ghent University. He is the Robert and Anne Everett Associate Professor of Digital Dairy Management and Data Analytics at Cornell University, Dr. Hostens leads a lab focused on precision dairy science and sustainable food systems.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:10) Introduction(09:06) Data integration challenges(12:48) Herd-level analytics(14:40) Sensor-based monitoring(16:20) AI and language models(24:20) Behavior and milk yield(35:37) Final questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Priority IAC* Lallemand* Adisseo* Afimilk* Evonik- dsm-firmenich- ICC- Protekta- AHV- Natural Biologics- Berg + Schmidt- SmaXtec𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Laura Hernandez from the University of Wisconsin-Madison shares groundbreaking insights on calcium regulation in dairy cows. She explains how serotonin, phosphorus, and prepartum management influence hypocalcemia outcomes and overall herd health. Listen now on all major platforms!"Serotonin moves calcium into the mammary gland through transporters to stimulate a hormonal signal that mobilizes calcium from the bone."Meet the guest: Dr. Laura Hernandez is a Professor of Lactation Biology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She earned her Ph.D. in Nutritional Sciences and Animal Science from the University of Arizona, following her M.S. and B.S. at New Mexico State University. Her research focuses on hormonal and metabolic pathways that regulate calcium homeostasis and mammary function in dairy cows.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:33) Introduction(02:19) Research on calcium(04:15) Serotonin’s calcium link(06:03) Hormonal regulation explained(14:33) Types of hypocalcemia(26:03) Future research areas(30:37) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:Volac* Priority IAC* Lallemand* Adisseo* Afimilk* Evonik- Berg + Schmidt- SmaXtec- dsm-firmenich- ICC- Protekta- AHV- Natural Biologics𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Jennifer Weber from Afimilk discusses how data-driven technology is transforming dairy management. She explains how feed efficiency algorithms and cow-level data are transforming breeding, replacement strategies, and sustainability strategies on farms. Discover how digital tools are redefining productivity and profitability in the dairy industry. Listen now on all major platforms!"We can confidently say now in the general market, we were able to get a 94% accuracy on individualized dry matter intake."Meet the guest: Jennifer Weber is the Director of Customer Success and Midwest Commercial Manager for Afimilk USA. She leads operations and customer success initiatives across North America. With a dual background in Dairy Science and Biochemistry from the University of Wisconsin–Platteville, Jennifer brings years of experience in integrating technology into dairy operations. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:41) Introduction(05:13) Feed efficiency innovation(07:31) Data and sensors(09:12) On-farm applications(11:41) Long-term strategy(18:06) Future technologies(01:41) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Afimilk* Evonik* Priority IAC* Lallemand* Adisseo- Berg + Schmidt- SmaXtec- dsm-firmenich- ICC- Protekta- AHV- Natural Biologics𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Megan Schrupp, veterinarian and owner of NexGen Dairy in Minnesota, shares how proactive fresh cow management and new technologies are improving animal health and performance. She discusses the tools she uses to monitor fresh cows, reduce post-calving challenges, and build efficient, data-driven protocols that prioritize prevention. Learn how being proactive can enhance health, longevity, and productivity in your herd. Listen now on all major platforms!"Our goal with fresh cows is to set the stage for success in the first few days of lactation."Meet the guest: Dr. Megan Schrupp is a veterinarian and co-owner of NexGen Dairy in Eden Valley, Minnesota, where she oversees herd health, reproduction, and team management. She also operates Dairy Performance Service, LLC, which provides veterinary consulting to dairy farms across central Minnesota. Known for combining sustainability, data-driven decisions, and strong leadership, Dr. Schrupp focuses on maximizing cow health, productivity, and longevity. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:33) Introduction(09:38) Fresh cow care(11:46) Genetics and management(15:57) Technology use(20:03) Proactive health assessment(23:08) Feeding behavior(31:01) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like: AHV* Afimilk* Evonik* Priority IAC* Lallemand* Adisseo- Natural Biologics- Berg + Schmidt- SmaXtec- dsm-firmenich- ICC- Protekta𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Tricia Wood from Lallemand Animal Nutrition explains how microbial balance impacts feed efficiency, health, and milk production in dairy cattle. She outlines practical strategies for improving silage quality, preventing dysbiosis, and enhancing gut integrity through the use of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics. Learn how to manage feed risks and optimize rumen function. Listen now on all major platforms!"Feeding spoiled forages can trigger inflammation by disrupting microbial balance and impairing gut barrier function."Meet the guest: Dr. Tricia Wood earned her B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in Animal Physiology from Iowa State University, focusing on calf immune development and nutritional support. With over 15 years of experience in dairy feed additives, she now works as a Ruminant Technical Services Rep and Field Services Support Manager at Lallemand Animal Nutrition. Her expertise supports dairy producers in the western U.S. with strategies to improve microbial balance and feed quality.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:34) Introduction(04:29) Silage audits and feed quality(06:07) Feed and dysbiosis link(08:18) Preventing poor feed inclusion(13:04) Planning for field challenges(18:21) Pre, pro, and postbiotics(23:14) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Lallemand* Evonik* Afimilk* Adisseo* Priority IAC- ICC- Natural Biologics- SmaXtec- Protekta- AHV- dsm-firmenich- Berg + Schmidt𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Manny Salcedo, President and Founder of Dairy Performance Network, explains how technology is transforming compliance, efficiency, and management in large-scale dairy operations. He shares examples of using data integration, automation, and monitoring tools to reduce errors, improve consistency, and optimize herd performance. Learn how technology bridges gaps between protocols and execution on farms. Listen now on all major platforms!"Now there are tools that can actually help you measure compliance, and then compliance eventually leads to better performance."Meet the guest: Manny Salcedo is the President and Founder of Dairy Performance Network, where he has spent nearly a decade developing innovative technology solutions for U.S. dairy farms. With a background in both herd management and computer science, he focuses on bridging agriculture and technology to improve efficiency, sustainability, and profitability. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:25) Introduction(01:47) Data integration(05:43) Compliance explained(08:47) Missed breeding impact(11:19) Workforce monitoring(21:25) Automation benefits(25:07) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Afimilk* Adisseo* Priority IAC* Lallemand* Evonik- Berg + Schmidt- ICC- Natural Biologics- SmaXtec- Protekta- AHV- dsm-firmenich𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Jill Nelson, co-owner and manager of Olmar Farms in Sleepy Eye, MN, tackles the critical issue of stray voltage—a hidden challenge with serious implications for cow behavior, milk production, and overall herd health. Jill explains how stray voltage impacts dairy operations and offers practical, research-backed solutions for identifying and resolving the issue. Tune in now on all major platforms to safeguard your herd and enhance productivity on your dairy farm!"Our milk production increased nearly 20 pounds per cow per day after addressing the stray voltage issue."Meet the guest: Jill Nelson, co-owner and manager of Olmar Farms in Sleepy Eye, MN, holds a BS degree in Animal Science from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. After working in international genetic sales, she transitioned to dairy nutrition consulting before returning to manage her family’s dairy farm. Jill now advocates for improvements in stray voltage testing and mitigation methods across U.S. farms.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:35) Introduction(02:10) Jill’s background in dairy(04:38) Stray voltage on farms(09:12) Testing recommendations(21:58) Corrective solutions(25:39) Impact on milk quality(38:57) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Priority IAC* Adisseo* Afimilk* Lallemand* Evonik- dsm-firmenich- Berg + Schmidt- ICC- Natural Biologics- SmaXtec- Protekta- AHV𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Michael Overton from Zoetis and Meagan Young from VAS bring a new perspective on cow replacement strategies. They discuss the economics of replacement timing, the impact of salvage value, and how keeping cows too long can reduce herd productivity. Learn how data-driven decisions impact profitability and sustainability on dairy operations. Listen now on all major platforms!"Keeping cows longer than necessary often hides economic losses through reduced milk production." - Dr. Michael OvertonMeet the guests: Dr. Michael Overton, Global Dairy Platform Lead at Zoetis, combines veterinary practice, academia, and industry expertise to advance data analytics and economic modeling in dairies. Meagan Young, Voice of Customer Program Manager at VAS, connects producer insights with software solutions like DairyComp to improve herd decision-making. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:19) Introduction(07:34) Herd replacements(08:24) Beef crossbreeding impact(10:19) Economics of heifers(12:28) Herd management choices(24:04) Genomic testing role(26:00) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:VAS* Evonik* Afimilk* Adisseo* Priority IAC- SmaXtec- Natural Biologics- dsm-firmenich- ICC- Berg + Schmidt- AHV- Protekta𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. MaryGrace Erickson discusses sustainability challenges and opportunities within modern dairy production. She explores how protein nutrition, manure management, and farm-level decisions intersect to shape greenhouse gas emissions and nutrient cycles. Dr. Erickson also highlights the importance of integrating economic, environmental, and social perspectives in dairy systems. Listen now on all major platforms!"Sustainability isn’t just about emissions; social and economic factors must be part of the equation too."Meet the guest: Dr. MaryGrace Erickson is a Dairy Nutritionist at CSA Animal Nutrition, specializing in sustainability, nutrient management, and precision feeding for dairy systems. She completed her PhD in Dairy Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison after earning her Bachelor's and Master's degrees at Purdue University.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:30) Introduction(08:05) Manure management(09:44) Solid-liquid separation(12:09) Protein nutrition & nitrogen(19:10) Management challenges(23:14) Sustainability impacts(34:37) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Evonik* Priority IAC* Adisseo* Afimilk- dsm-firmenich- Berg + Schmidt- Natural Biologics- SmaXtec- Protekta- ICC- AHV𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show

In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Patrick French, Principal Consultant and Founder of PF Bovidae, discusses the use of sorghum silage as a forage source for milk cows in the High Plains. He highlights the benefits of sorghum, such as water conservation and land efficiency. Dr. French also addresses the challenges and key considerations when feeding sorghum silage, outlining the research gaps that remain in understanding its full potential for dairy nutrition. Tune in on all major platforms!"The dairies in the High Plains are exploring sorghum not just for water conservation but for its potential to support sustainable dairy production."Meet the guest: Dr. Patrick French is the Principal Consultant and Founder of PF Bovidae, focusing on consulting for dairies in the High Plains region. With over a decade of experience, his work centers on enhancing dairy operations by introducing sustainable practices, such as the use of sorghum silage as a cost-effective and water-efficient forage alternative.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!Dr. Michael Hutjens: Buffer Benefits for Dairy Cows | Ep. 58Dr. Michael Steele: Colostrum Feeding Strategies | Ep. 104Dr. Miguel Morales: Transition Cows & Calcium Balance | Ep. 126What you'll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:12) Introduction(03:47) High Plains dairies(05:02) Sorghum silage(08:17) Practical sorghum applications(13:02) Starch content in sorghum(21:32) Advice for nutritionists(24:42) Final three questionsThe Dairy Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like: Protekta* Afimilk* Evonik* Priority IAC* Adisseo- ICC- AHV- dsm-firmenich- Berg + Schmidt- Natural Biologics- SmaXtec𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Dairy Podcast ShowInstagram: The Dairy Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Dairy Podcast Show