Shows
The BullvineE493 9.99% Inbreeding and Rising: How Blondin Sires Turned a Holstein Bottleneck into 75% GrowthThe day Dann Brady pulled his herd’s inbreeding report, the number on the page didn’t match the cows in his head. On paper, they were elite: high indexes, big genomic promise, all the “right” sires stacked three deep. In the barn, he was watching fertility slip, mastitis cases creep up, and young cows that never made it to the kind of mature cow he’d grown up loving. Everyone told him this was just the price of progress. Instead of accepting it, he did something that went against every “play it safe” instinct in dairy: he stopped trusting the c...
2026-02-1836 min
The BullvineE483 Robotic Milking Pays 13% More – After 7 Years of Red InkEveryone’s heard the sales pitch: robotic milking boosts production, cuts labor, and “pays for itself.” The latest USDA data even says robots can lift net returns by roughly 13% on average. But buried under that headline is a hard reality most dealers never mention — many herds spend the first seven years in the red just trying to climb out of the cash flow hole. In this episode, The Bullvine takes a scalpel to the numbers, challenging the industry’s robot narrative and laying out a rigorous, economics-first framework to decide whether automation will actually make your dairy more profitable — or just more...
2026-02-0635 min
The BullvineE479 Diane Hendricks: She Wasn’t Allowed to Milk Cows. Now She’s Worth Over $20 Billion.She grew up on a small Wisconsin dairy where the rules were clear: the boys milked cows and drove tractor—the girls did not. She watched decisions being made at the kitchen table, knew the numbers, understood the risk, and loved the business, but was never once treated like a future owner. Years later, that “farm daughter” would build a company worth more than many co-ops combined. This episode steps into that gap between what she could have been on the farm and what she became off it—and asks what your operation might be losing in the same blind sp...
2026-02-0227 min
The BullvineE477 Dairy Farmers Face a 3.5x Higher Suicide Risk Than Farm Accidents – What Your Cows See FirstFarmers are three-and-a-half times more likely to die by suicide than the general population, yet the industry still tracks every decimal of SCC while ignoring the metric that’s quietly taking out experienced operators. This episode cuts through the stigma and sentiment to look at farmer suicide as a hard business risk and a herd-health issue, not a side conversation. You’ll hear how stress shows up in your cows before it shows up in your charts, why the current economic math is pushing even strong dairies to the edge, and what a practical, numbers‑driven response actually looks like o...
2026-01-3030 min
The BullvineE476 Where the Robots Hum and the Cows Stay Calm: The Four Oak Farms WayIt's 2 a.m. in July 2020. Marcus and Paige Dueck are standing in their tie-stall barn in rural Manitoba, staring at a machine they've never seen before—a rail-mounted robot that just rolled in from Quebec. The instructions are in French. The factory technicians are stuck at home because of COVID travel restrictions. And their newborn daughter is crying in the house.This was supposed to be the moment that changed everything. Instead, it felt like the moment that might break them."I took a deep breath and hoped we'd make it through the night," Paige re...
2026-01-2948 min
The BullvineE475 38.8% Turnover Is Bleeding Dairies Dry. These Dairy Neighbours Turned Kitchen Tables into Labor Plans.Dairy labor turnover now averages 38.8% a year in the U.S., quietly stripping profit, stability, and succession options out of herds that otherwise look “fine” on paper. This episode pulls apart the real economics of churn and then does what most industry talk doesn’t—it shows how progressive producers are rebuilding their labor models from the kitchen table out. If you’ve ever felt one resignation away from crisis, this conversation will challenge your assumptions about robots, wages, immigration, and “just hiring better people,” and give you practical models you can adapt on your own farm.Key Takeaways
2026-01-2832 min
The BullvineE469 How Your Ketosis Cut‑Point Is Leaking $25,000 a Year – And the Fresh Cow Playbook to Stop ItMost herds still treat the 1.2 mmol/L ketosis cut-point as a hard line: if a fresh cow tests over 1.2, she gets drenched—no questions asked. The problem is, the economics and the latest research strongly suggest that this blanket rule is quietly draining $25,000–$35,000 a year from a typical 500-cow herd while still missing the cows that matter most. In this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, we unpack why the “treat every cow over 1.2” strategy is outdated, how timing, parity, body condition, and system type completely change what a BHB number means, and what a modern, data-driven ketosis playbook looks like for...
2026-01-2125 min
The BullvineE468 They Kept the Barn Lights OnThe drought had already taken the cows. Then came the day the office closed and thirteen people waited to hear if they still had jobs. In another barn, a wife’s empty chair at the kitchen table made the next milking feel heavier than any pail. Somewhere else, a young breeder was told, “You’re not good enough,” by the very people who were supposed to believe in him. This episode drops you into those moments—when walking away would’ve been easier, maybe even smarter on paper—and follows the people who chose to stay, persist, or show up for someone...
2026-01-2025 min
The BullvineE467 Stop Breeding by Color: Genomics, Heat Stress and Beef‑on‑Dairy Math That Can Add Over $4/cwt to Holstein MarginsMost of us were taught to trust our eye and our “kind” when picking Holstein heifers. But what if breeding by coat color and style is quietly costing you real money in 2025? In this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, we dig into genomic data, heat-stress research, and beef-on-dairy economics that challenge some of the most deeply held assumptions in dairy breeding. You’ll hear how the genes that control color are not the genes that drive milk and fertility, why genomic selection has doubled genetic gain while accelerating inbreeding, and how a smarter semen and replacement strategy can unlock more t...
2026-01-1922 min
The BullvineE466 Snowboots Wis Milky Way: From Gunny Sack Calf to Everyone’s Favorite Brood CowPicture this: a two‑month‑old heifer shoved into a gunny sack, riding home on the back seat of a car from a Kansas wheat farm. She’d just sold for seventy‑five dollars in a package deal, placed 21st out of 22 the first time she ever hit a show ring, and almost stayed a 4‑H project no one outside the county fair would remember. That calf became Snowboots Wis Milky Way—EX‑97‑3E‑GMD—and the brood cow behind one of the most influential sires of the 20th century. This episode walks through the decisions, risks, and near‑misses that turned “ju...
2026-01-1727 min
The BullvineE462 The Bullvine Dairy Curve: 15,000 U.S. Farms by 2035 and Under 10,000 by 2050 – Who’s Still Milking?By 2035, roughly 15,000 U.S. dairies will be doing the work that nearly 30,000 did a generation ago. By 2050? We're looking at well under 10,000 herds. This isn't worst-case speculation—it's the middle of the road, based on the same 4% annual decline USDA's Economic Research Service has tracked for over two decades. In this episode, we introduce the Bullvine Dairy Curve: a structural forecast and decision-making framework that shows exactly who survives consolidation—and who gets priced out. If you're running a dairy operation today, this episode lays out the math, the paths, and the five questions you need to answer before the...
2026-01-1338 min
The BullvineE461 Did Genomics Really Deliver What We Think It Did? $238,000 Says Yes – If You Steer It RightGenomics was supposed to revolutionize dairy breeding—but did it actually show up on your bottom line, or just in semen catalogs and sale flyers? This episode of The Bullvine Podcast digs into hard data from Canadian Holstein herds, modern LPI and Pro$ indexes, and real-world breeding strategies to answer a blunt question: are you truly cashing in on genomic progress, or quietly breeding yourself into higher inbreeding, fragile cows, and lost lifetime profit? Expect a data-driven, no‑fluff breakdown of what genomics has delivered, where it’s gone off-course, and how to redirect it toward cows that last longer...
2026-01-1235 min
The BullvineE459 438,000 Missing Heifers. $4,100 Price Tags. Beef-on-Dairy’s Reckoning Has Arrived.The math looked irresistible in 2023. Breed to beef, pocket $400-800 per calf, skip the $40 sexed semen straw. But biology operates on a 30-month timeline—and now that bill is coming due. U.S. dairy faces a structural deficit of 438,844 replacement heifers in 2026, heifer prices have doubled to over $4,100 per head, and the industry is accelerating toward a consolidation that will reshape who survives by decade's end. This episode breaks down exactly what happened, which strategies are actually working, and why the decisions you make in the next 6-12 months could determine your operation's future.Key Takeaways:Wh...
2026-01-0935 min
The BullvineE452 The Year Dairy Lost $6.7 Billion: The Bullvine’s Top 15+ Articles of 2025While you debated TPI rankings, inbreeding quietly climbed to 15.2%. While everyone celebrated beef-on-dairy premiums, replacement heifer costs hit a historic $2,870 per head—because there aren't enough dairy replacements left to go around. This special year-end episode pulls back the curtain on the 16 most consequential stories of 2025 and asks the question nobody wants to answer: Are you a survivor, or a statistic? The numbers don't lie, and the industry's biggest moves happened while most producers were arguing about the wrong things.3. Key TakeawaysWhy the $6.7 billion inbreeding cost isn't theoretical—and how it's already showing up in your...
2025-12-3133 min
The BullvineE448 Beef-on-Dairy’s $500,000 Swing: What 72% of Farms Know That’s Costing You $1,000/Cow Every YearDairy bull calves at $875. Beef-cross calves at $1,450. That $575 premium per head, multiplied across a 500-cow operation, creates an annual economics swing of $340,000 to $500,000+. This isn't speculation—it's the math that 72% of U.S. dairy farms have already acted on. In this episode, we break down why the traditional breeding playbook is costing operations real money, what the heifer shortage projections through 2027 mean for your replacement strategy, and the single metric that determines whether beef-on-dairy genetics will work for your operation—or expose a deeper problem you need to fix first.Key TakeawaysWhy dairy bull calves at $...
2025-12-2337 min
The BullvineE442 She Won’t Win Shows, But She Pays the Bills: The Rise of the $3,000 ‘System Cow.’The prettiest cow on your dairy might be your most expensive mistake. With replacement heifers hitting US$3,000+ and CoBank projecting tight supplies through 2027, the economics of "the ideal cow" have fundamentally shifted. This episode challenges decades of conventional breeding wisdom and asks a question every commercial dairy producer needs to answer: Are you breeding cows to win shows—or to pay bills? We break down the research, the math, and the practical playbook that forward-thinking operations are using to save six figures annually by breeding for system fit, not ribbons.Key Takeaways:Why University of Florida re...
2025-12-1631 min
The BullvineE439 2025 Dairy Year in Review: Ten Forces That Redefined Who’s Positioned to Thrive Through 2028Everyone's celebrating 2025's policy wins—FMMO passage, DMC extension, record processing investment. But almost nobody's connecting how the 800,000-head heifer deficit, $11 billion in underutilized processing capacity, and permanent component repricing to 3.3% protein interact to create strategic leverage that won't last. This comprehensive year-in-review reveals ten interconnected forces reshaping competitive positioning through 2028, three realistic pathways forward for different operational realities, and the narrow action window that closes as heifer inventories normalize after 2027. The biology is binding. The only variable is how you respond to it.Key Takeaways:Why the 27-month heifer constraint trumps capital and processor demand—and...
2025-12-1230 min
The BullvineE438 The 2025 Gift Guide Built on Four Hard QuestionsThat 150-piece tool kit looked impressive under the tree. Six months later, half the sockets are lost in the bedding and the ratchet stripped on its first real test. Sound familiar? This episode tackles a question that seems simple but gets complicated fast: what do dairy farmers actually want—and more importantly, what will they actually use? We break down a practical four-question framework that separates gear earning a permanent spot in a farmer's pocket from gear destined for the shop corner. Whether you're buying for someone who works 365 days a year or looking to upgrade your own kit, th...
2025-12-1237 min
The BullvineE435 The $775-Per-Cow Secret: Why This California Dairy's Hospital Pen Stays EmptyWhat if everything we've been taught about fighting mastitis is fundamentally wrong? One California dairy went from 20+ sick cows cycling through treatment to a consistently empty hospital pen—without using a single antibiotic. The result: $775 more profit per cow. This episode challenges the conventional wisdom that's costing the industry millions in hidden losses and explores why bacteria aren't getting stronger—they're getting smarter. If you've ever wondered why the same cows keep getting sick despite perfect protocols, this episode reveals the science behind chronic infections and the economics most producers never calculate.Key Takeaways:Why traditional anti...
2025-12-0936 min
The BullvineE426 Feed as Science: How the Penn State Particle Separator Turns TMR Consistency into Butterfat and ProfitWhat if the tool with the power to transform your herd’s butterfat and bottom line isn’t new software or a fancy sensor—but a plastic particle separator gathering dust in your feed room? In this episode, The Bullvine tackles one of the most persistent—and overlooked—profit leaks in modern dairying: feed particle size. We challenge industry norms and ask why nearly one in three farms are leaving substantial money on the table while striving for efficiency. Discover how a simple habit, backed by cutting-edge research and field evidence, can drive real, measurable gains in milk components and operat...
2025-11-2525 min
The BullvineE425 The Great American Dairy Heist – Who Really Owns Your Milk Check in 2025?Is the dairy industry working for you—or against you? In this hard-hitting episode, The Bullvine Podcast breaks down the true power structures shaping American milk markets. As thousands of family farms disappear and a handful of mega-corporations pull the strings, we dig into the cold, hard data driving tough choices about profitability and survival. Get ready to challenge everything you think you know about who sets prices, who takes the margins, and why the rules of dairy are changing fast.Key Takeaways:Discover why 834 mega-dairies now control 66% of US milk revenue, leaving over 23,000 farms to sc...
2025-11-2431 min
The BullvineE423 The Dairy Mirage: How the Industry’s ‘Fixes’ Are Finishing Off the FarmerIs the dairy industry truly broken, or is it working exactly as designed—but just not for you? In this explosive episode, we rip apart the illusion that co-ops, consultants, and premium programs are geared to save the family farm. Discover why the numbers say small and mid-size producers face mathematical extinction, and what the big players aren’t telling you about consolidation, genetics, and so-called “solutions.” Prepare for a data‑driven, brutally honest conversation that will challenge the very core of your farm’s strategy and the industry’s favorite narratives.Key Takeaways:Learn the real math behi...
2025-11-2124 min
The BullvineE420 Matching the Feed to the Calf: Birth to 120 Days – Practical Science for Dairy-Beef CalvesWhat if everything you thought you knew about calf feeding—and the benchmarks you measure success by—are actually limiting your herd’s true genetic and economic potential? In this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, we challenge the top-down, one-size-fits-all approach to calf nutrition and management, digging into new research and hard-won industry lessons that show why the first 120 days are a point of no return for calf health, growth, and future carcass quality. Think consistency is just another buzzword? Think again—because the science says it’s your most profitable management tool.Key Takeaways:Why “consistency”...
2025-11-1830 min
The BullvineE419 The 15:1 ROI Protocol: How Anti-Inflammatory Treatment is Cutting Transition Disease in HalfIs the industry’s approach to transition cow health sabotaging your bottom line? This episode delivers a bold challenge to conventional wisdom: inflammation—not energy balance—is the real culprit stealing 68 pounds of milk per cow. Cutting-edge research from Penn State and Iowa State reveals how targeted anti-inflammatory protocols can slash disease rates by 50% and drive profit margins most dairies never thought possible. Prepare to rethink the high-stakes transition period and discover a paradigm shift that rewards innovative management, not just old habits.Key Takeaways:Unmasking the true cost of transition disease—and the overlooked role of “invi...
2025-11-1713 min
The BullvineE416 Is Stray Voltage Stealing 20 Pounds Per Cow from Your Dairy?What if the greatest threat to your dairy operation is invisible—and backed by decades of flawed industry science? In this groundbreaking episode of The Bullvine Podcast, we challenge everything you think you know about herd health and production loss. Stray voltage isn’t just a rare nuisance; it’s a silent profit-drainer affecting up to 1 in 5 dairies. Standard testing protocols—trusted by utilities—are systematically underestimating risk, leading to avoidable losses, health crises, and sometimes, the bankruptcy of even the most progressive operations. If you’re focused on profitability, genetics, or the future of dairy innovation, this episode will show yo...
2025-11-1132 min
The BullvineE415 This Was Never About the Cattle: What the TD 4-H Classic Really Teaches at 5:47 AMHalf of today's dairy farms won't exist in 20 years. Yet Canada, with just 9,000 farms compared to America's 30,000, dominates global genetics markets, exporting $178 million annually. The secret isn't in our barns or our breeding programs—it's in what happens at 5:47 AM in a wash rack when teenagers think nobody's watching. This episode reveals how the 4-H Classic systematically builds the leaders who transformed Canadian dairy into a global powerhouse, and why the skills learned showing cattle at 14 determine who thrives when their industry disappears.Key Takeaways:Why rivals helping competitors at dawn creates the trust network that dr...
2025-11-1015 min
The BullvineE413 The $3,500 Calf Question: What Dairy Farmers Need to Know About April 2026’s New CDCB Calf Health EvaluationsCan a single decision alter the profitability of your dairy for years to come? In this episode, The Bullvine Podcast challenges the status quo in calf health by unpacking the real-world economics and science behind the CDCB's new genomic evaluations for calf disease resistance—rolling out April 2026. What if your biggest barrier to profitability isn't genomics or technology, but flawed management? Discover how a data-driven approach to selection could spell either a breakthrough or a costly distraction, depending on your operation’s readiness.Key Takeaways:Understand whether CDCB's genomic calf health evaluations will actually deliver ROI for...
2025-11-0745 min
The BullvineE412 China’s 500,000-Cow Farms and Lab-Grown Milk: Your Dairy’s 18-Month Decision WindowThe global dairy landscape is in upheaval—faster and more radically than most farmers, geneticists, or agribusiness leaders ever imagined. In this episode, The Bullvine Podcast challenges the belief that dairy progress is just about “growing a little bigger” or tweaking herd management. We’ll reveal why China’s mind-boggling 500,000-cow mega-farms and Silicon Valley’s leap into lab-grown milk aren’t just headlines—they’re urgent signals forcing every dairy operation to make tough, strategic decisions now. Listen for a data-driven, sometimes uncomfortable analysis designed to help you protect your equity, adapt your business model, and seize the most profitable pa...
2025-11-0651 min
The BullvineE410 The People Side of Profit: How Strong Communication Builds Better DairiesIs the biggest profit booster on your dairy operation really about more steel, software, or genetics? Or could the decisive edge be something as simple—and as hard—as getting your people on the same page? In this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, we challenge outdated assumptions, revealing research-driven insights that prove clear communication is now the most undervalued driver of dairy profitability and sustainable growth. If you think investing in equipment will naturally translate to better margins, you’ll want to hear what today’s data—and real producers—are saying.Key Takeaways:Discover why team communi...
2025-11-0457 min
The BullvineE405 The $50,000 Question: Why Smart Dairies Follow This 8-Point Protocol Before Any Big DecisionAre you making decisions that cost, or decisions that pay? In this episode, The Bullvine Podcast challenges the industry’s sacred cows—literally and figuratively—by exposing the high cost of guesswork and the unspoken advantage of a proven 8-point pre-decision protocol. Discover why the smartest dairies in North America are trading knee-jerk fixes for data-driven strategy—and why skipping this checklist could be your most costly mistake in 2025.Key Takeaways:Learn the specific questions and steps that separate the top profit-makers from the restUncover hidden losses that cost dairies $50,000–$200,000 per major decisionSee why transition cow management...
2025-10-2929 min
The BullvineE404 Your Repeat Mastitis Cows Have a 72-Hour Secret - Here's How to Break ItWhat if the real culprit behind repeat mastitis—and bloated hospital pen costs—isn’t your protocol, but your timing? In this episode, The Bullvine Podcast tackles one of dairy’s most stubborn challenges with a data-driven look at the “72-hour secret” that’s upending conventional thinking on infection control, animal health, and profit margins. Discover what Dutch and US researchers uncovered about bacterial biofilms, why even the best treatments often fail, and how real farms are reversing the pattern in record time.Key Takeaways:Why the “72-hour window” after infection decides if mastitis becomes chronic—or disappears for go...
2025-10-2833 min
The BullvineE403 Decide or Decline: 2025 and the Future of Mid-Size DairiesAcross North America, mid‑size dairies are standing at a crossroads that will define their future. 2025 isn’t just another tough year—it’s the year when hesitation can cost both equity and opportunity. While mega‑herds rely on scale and micro‑operations capture premiums through niche markets, mid‑size producers are under pressure to pick a path: expand, specialize, or optimize. In this episode, The Bullvine Podcast digs into the data, economics, and management strategies that separate survivors from those being silently squeezed out of the middle. What we uncover might challenge how you’ve measured success on your own dairy.
2025-10-2729 min
The BullvineE401 The $100 Per Cow You Never See: How Foreign Subsidies Are Reshaping American DairyEvery day, three U.S. dairy farms close their doors — not because they lack efficiency or innovation, but because foreign governments are quietly shifting the market from underneath them. In this hard-hitting episode, The Bullvine Podcast uncovers how European and Chinese subsidy systems have created a global trade imbalance that drains roughly $100 per cow from American milk checks each year. More than a policy problem, this is a profitability emergency that’s rewriting the future of U.S. dairy — and it’s time to face it head-on.3. Key Takeaways:Discover the global subsidy mechanisms devaluing American milk by...
2025-10-2434 min
The BullvineE400 $2 Milk or $20 Milk: The Simple Testing Strategy Creating 1000% PremiumsIs the future of dairy decided by transparency? In this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, we unravel how a simple $500 monthly testing protocol has turned $2 milk into $20-per-gallon profit centers. As 2,800 dairies shut down annually, 13 small producers in Delaware are defying the odds—not by scaling up, but by proving that verified safety and trust can be as valuable as butterfat. This isn’t another raw milk debate. It’s a blueprint for the next era of value-driven, evidence-based dairying.Key Takeaways:How one state’s “over-regulation” became a marketing goldmine for small-scale dairies.The exact ROI behind m...
2025-10-2338 min
The BullvineE399 Feed Quality and the Hidden Economics of Beef-on-Dairy ProgramsIn beef-on-dairy, big headlines focus on premiums, but the reality on the ground tells a much different story: 68% of producers chasing these profits are losing money. What’s going on? In this episode, The Bullvine Podcast pulls back the curtain on the hidden math and overlooked science separating true winners from those left wondering where the premium went. If you think profitability is just about better genetics or market timing, think again—today, we’re challenging every assumption you have about feed quality, investment, and operational success.Key Takeaways:Discover why spending more per calf can triple...
2025-10-2233 min
The BullvineE382 Drama, Dreams & Dynasty: Day 5 at World Dairy Expo Sparks a Showdown on the Colored ShavingsDay 5 at the World Dairy Expo 2025 delivered everything: heart-stopping drama, Cinderella stories, and the kind of legacy moments that shape dairy history. Join The Bullvine’s audio recap and relive the highlight reel from Madison—where sweat, adrenaline, and a stadium’s roar crowned new champions and honored the industry’s giants.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:An electrifying ringside retelling of Day 5’s headliners and upsets.How Golden-Oaks Temptres-Red-ET stamped her dynasty, driven by years of planning and grit.The true underdog story: How Emily Fisher and her 18-cow team stormed the big stage with M...
2025-10-0305 min
The BullvineE379 The Kids Aren’t Coming – They Already Own Dairy’s Future (World Dairy Expo Proves It)Think millennials and Gen Z are “the future” of dairy? Think again—at World Dairy Expo 2025, the new generation didn’t wait for their turn, they took control. In a year when juniors outperformed decades-long professionals in every metric that matters, this episode explores the data, the disruption, and what it means for profitability, talent, and the future of your herd. If you’re still betting that experience alone will keep you on top, you can’t afford to miss this bold, evidence-driven debrief.Key Takeaways:Discover how junior exhibitors outpaced seasoned pros to dominate open classes—and...
2025-09-3039 min
The BullvineE379 The Kids Aren’t Coming – They Already Own Dairy’s Future (World Dairy Expo Proves It)Think millennials and Gen Z are “the future” of dairy? Think again—at World Dairy Expo 2025, the new generation didn’t wait for their turn, they took control. In a year when juniors outperformed decades-long professionals in every metric that matters, this episode explores the data, the disruption, and what it means for profitability, talent, and the future of your herd. If you’re still betting that experience alone will keep you on top, you can’t afford to miss this bold, evidence-driven debrief.Key Takeaways:Discover how junior exhibitors outpaced seasoned pros to dominate open classes—and...
2025-09-3039 min
The BullvineE378 Marathon Night at Madison: Holstein Junior Show Crowns Fifth-Calf Champion in Epic 11-Hour BattleThe Bullvine Podcast delivers bold, unfiltered analysis of the global dairy industry. Host Andrew Hunt cuts through the noise to bring you what really matters in dairy farming - from genetics and technology to market trends and controversial topics others won't touch. Each episode features in-depth coverage of major dairy events, exclusive interviews with industry leaders, and actionable insights for progressive dairy operations. Whether you're milking 50 cows or 5,000, The Bullvine gives you the information you need to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving dairy industry. New episodes drop weekly, with special daily coverage during major events like World Dairy...
2025-09-2904 min
The BullvineE368 The New Math of Dairy Genetics: Why This Balanced Breeding Thing is Finally ClickingFor decades, dairy success was all about chasing single-trait stars—those top-ranking sires who promised record books and production glory. But what if those “best” bulls are quietly undermining your herd’s profitability and resilience? In this eye-opening episode of The Bullvine Podcast, we challenge the status quo and reveal how balanced, data-driven breeding is transforming the future of dairy herds. Get ready to reexamine what truly drives profitable, stress-free dairying in 2025.Key Takeaways:Discover why single-index and single-trait selection strategies can leave your herd—and your bottom line—exposed in today’s volatile industry.Unpack the power of L...
2025-09-1734 min
The BullvineE366 The Holstein Genetics War: What Every Producer Needs to Know About the Battle for Our Breed’s FutureAre you ahead of the genetics curve—or at risk of breeding your way into a bottleneck? In this must-listen episode of The Bullvine Podcast, we pull back the curtain on the high-stakes conflict shaping the future of Holstein cows and the fortune—or fallout—of your dairy. Genomics has turbocharged progress, but the industry’s laser focus on quick gains and elite sires may have a looming cost: soaring inbreeding, tightened gene pools, and billions in hidden losses. Discover what’s really on the line, and how top producers are flipping risk into resilience for the next generation.Key T...
2025-09-1544 min
The BullvineE363 The Feed Room Decision That Defines a Heifer’s Lifetime ValueWhat if the difference between a profitable heifer and an expensive disappointment comes down to something as simple as feed texture? In this game-changing episode of The Bullvine Podcast, we expose how the dairy industry's obsession with feed composition has blinded producers to the real driver of calf performance: physical feed structure. Armed with cutting-edge research from Cornell, Purdue, and international dairy leaders, we reveal why textured calf starters deliver up to 35% faster growth and add hundreds of dollars per heifer in lifetime milk production. This isn't just another nutrition discussion—it's a complete rethinking of how you build pr...
2025-09-1147 min
The BullvineE357 The $6 Billion Shock: How Nine Days in April Changed Everything for American DairyThe 2025 global dairy trade is in turmoil — tariffs skyrocket, markets shutter, and decades-old supply chains fracture overnight. If you think this is just another trade blip, think again. This episode unmasks the harsh realities behind the numbers, delivers deep dives on who's winning, losing, and why profitability now demands radical innovation and strategic agility. From record-breaking cheese exports to staggering collapses in whey and lactose, we dissect the data that's reshaping dairy farming at its core. Farmers, geneticists, and industry pros: Get ready for a perspective that challenges convention and empowers your bottom line.Key Takeaways:Ho...
2025-09-0437 min
The BullvineE356 More Than Policy: For Jim Mulhern, Legacy is Measured One More Season at a TimeIs dairy policy just paperwork, or can it mean the difference between going under and getting through one more season? In this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, we challenge the notion that Washington is too far removed from the parlor floor. We bring you a candid, inside look at the industry-changing leadership of Jim Mulhern, retiring President & CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation and World Dairy Expo’s 2025 Industry Person of the Year. Strap in as we dissect the critical moves that stabilized milk checks, cut through policy gridlock, and set a new benchmark for what real advocacy de...
2025-09-0355 min
The BullvineE354 How Dairy Farmers Are Finally Breaking Free From the 365-Day Grind – and Finding More Time and ProfitThe dairy industry faces a harsh reality: nearly 85% of family dairies don't make it past the third generation. In this ground-breaking episode, we challenge the status quo with compelling data that shows working harder isn't the answer. Discover how cutting-edge automation and smarter labor strategies are transforming farms, slashing labor costs by over $150,000 annually and boosting milk production by 5 pounds per cow. Tune in to hear how international innovations like flexible milking schedules from New Zealand are driving profit increases as high as 60%, and why these insights could be the key to your farm's survival and growth....
2025-09-0123 min
The BullvineE349 Fortnite, Instacart, and $600K in Sales: How Dairy MAX is Winning the Next Generation of Milk DrinkersIs dairy marketing stuck in the past, or is the industry on the verge of a seismic shift? This episode of The Bullvine Podcast tackles the question every progressive producer and industry leader is asking: How can you truly reach the next generation—and does going digital actually move real milk? Today’s episode challenges that common wisdom with real numbers, bold experiments, and a strategy that’s already paying off to the tune of over $600,000 in new product sales.Key Takeaways:Discover how Dairy MAX used gaming, esports, and online retail platforms to move over 400,000 pounds...
2025-08-2648 min
The BullvineE347 The “No-Holes Sire” Approach Makes Perfect Sense: A Scientific ValidationWhat if the secret to healthier, longer-living, and more profitable cows isn’t about chasing the highest single genetic index, but plugging the gaps left by old-school selection? In this episode, we challenge dairy’s “one-number” mindset and dive headfirst into the “No-Holes Sire” approach—a bold, research-backed strategy that’s redefining how progressive farmers, AI studs, and herd advisors breed for tomorrow’s bottom line. Expect tough questions, revealing data, and practical steps you won’t find in the average breed publication.Key Takeaways:Discover why single-trait and traditional total merit selection may be ruining long-term herd viabi...
2025-08-2550 min
The BullvineE331 Your Nutritionist Calculates the Ration. But Who Calculates Your Real Profit?Most dairy farms believe they're managing feed costs well, but what if you're unknowingly underestimating your true feed expenses by over $1,200 per cow each year? In this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, we challenge the notion that "good enough" feed costing suffices amid today's volatile markets. We reveal how systemic errors—from ignoring dry matter basis to excluding feed shrink and unaccounted animals—create a profitability illusion that masks financial instability. Get ready for authoritative insights armed with cutting-edge data and case studies that pinpoint where your profits are leaking and how to plug those holes with modern management and...
2025-07-3127 min
The BullvineE327 The Next Frontier: What's Really Coming for Dairy Cattle Breeding (2025-2030)What if everything you thought about herd profitability, milk value, and sustainability was about to be upended? This episode of The Bullvine Podcast digs into the biggest shift dairy has seen in a generation—one where gene-editing, smarter genomic selection, AI-driven herd management, and next-level sustainability aren’t just buzzwords, but the keys to bigger margins, better cows, and real global competitive advantage. Get ready to challenge the old “volume is value” playbook—and discover how the tools of tomorrow can deliver market-beating profits starting now.Discover why milk composition—powered by CRISPR and advanced genetics—matters more to your bottom...
2025-07-2440 min
The BullvineE258 The $4,250 Springer: Why Your Calf Nutrition Program Might Be Leaving Money on The TableHolstein springers are fetching $4,250, and the stakes for calf nutrition have never been higher. In this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, we rip the lid off outdated feeding strategies and show why your calves aren’t just livestock-they’re high-value assets that can make or break your dairy’s bottom line.What You’ll Learn:Why “nutritional cash flow management” is the new gold standard for heifer developmentHow penny-pinching on feed today could cost you $1,000+ in lost value per calfThe ROI math: See how investing $32 in premium antioxidants can return up to $625 at marketHow to build a diversifie...
2025-05-1223 min
The BullvineE239 Cash from Cow Burps: How Dairy Farmers Are Turning Climate Challenges Into $1,200/Head ProfitIn this eye-opening episode of The Bullvine podcast, we explore how forward-thinking dairy farmers are transforming methane reduction from a regulatory burden into a significant profit opportunity-boosting their bottom line by up to $1,200 per head while addressing climate concerns.Episode Highlights:IntroductionWelcome and overview of the $1,200/head profit opportunityWhy methane reduction represents both a challenge and opportunity for dairy farmersThe Dairy Industry at a CrossroadsCanadian dairy farmers have already reduced carbon footprint by 22% since 2011Industry-wide goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050Real farmer testimonial: Martin Brodeur's experience with...
2025-04-2615 min
The BullvineE237 Hearts of the Heartland: Young Dairy Farm Girls’ Extraordinary Battles for LifeThis episode of The Bullvine Podcast explores the powerful stories of three young women—Lexi Anderson, Reese Burdette, and Sydni Mell—who grew up on dairy farms and faced life-altering adversity at a young age. Lexi’s journey began with a rare heart condition that led to a community-driven fundraising effort and a life-saving heart transplant. Reese survived a devastating house fire, enduring nearly two years in intensive care and overcoming severe burns, multiple surgeries, and the loss of a limb, all while drawing strength from her family, community, and her special show cow, Pantene. Sydni’s life changed after a...
2025-04-1618 min
The BullvineE236 5 Powerful Stress-Busting Techniques Every Dairy Farmer Needs This SpringSpring is one of the most demanding times for dairy farmers, bringing a surge of stressors that can impact both mental health and farm productivity. In this episode, we break down five science-backed techniques that help dairy producers not just survive, but thrive during calving season and beyond. Backed by research and real-world farmer experiences, these strategies are practical, proven, and essential for protecting your most valuable asset—your wellbeing.Key Topics CoveredThe High Cost of Burnout:Suicide rates among farmers are 3.5x higher than the general population76% of farmers report moderate to high stress du...
2025-04-1619 min
The BullvineE235 Mystic Valley Dairy: The Secret Behind Their Jaw-Dropping 125-Pound ECM AverageDiscover how Wisconsin’s Mystic Valley Dairy achieves a jaw-dropping 125-pound energy-corrected milk (ECM) average through optimized cow comfort, strategic breeding, and 100 precision practices. In this deep-dive episode, we unpack the secrets behind their industry-leading metrics—4.5% fat, 3.4% protein, and 115 cows surpassing 150,000 pounds of lifetime production.Owner Mitch Breunig reveals why there’s no “magic bullet” in dairy success—just relentless attention to fundamentals. From their 70-30 corn silage and alfalfa forage mix to a 7-step fresh cow protocol that drives 152-pound peak milk yields, learn how this operation balances cutting-edge science with time-tested husbandry.Key Highlights:
2025-04-1529 min
The BullvineE230 2024 Holstein Canada Master Breeders: Excellence in Balance, Breeding, and LegacyDiscover how 19 Canadian dairy farms earned the elite 2024 Master Breeder title by mastering the art of balanced genetics, longevity, and innovation. From Quebec’s genomic pioneers to Ontario’s multi-generational dynasties, learn what it takes to breed Holsteins that excel in every category.Key Points CoveredThe Award’s Legacy: The Master Breeder shield’s 95-year history and its role in defining Canadian Holstein excellence.Regional Powerhouses: Why Quebec (9 winners) and Ontario (8 winners) dominated this year’s class.Generational Wisdom: How farms like Heather Holme (4th shield) and Kentville (100+ years registered) sustain success across decades.Innovation Meets Trad...
2025-04-1020 min
The BullvineE229 Dad at 80: How Murray Hunt Revolutionized Canadian Dairy GeneticsIn this special episode of The Bullvine Podcast, we celebrate the 80th birthday of Murray Hunt, a visionary whose contributions revolutionized dairy genetics in Canada and beyond. From his early days at Huntsdale Farm to his groundbreaking work with Holstein Canada, Murray’s innovations—like the Dollar Difference Formula and modernized Type Classification systems—helped shape global breeding practices. Told through the lens of his son Andrew, this heartfelt tribute explores how Murray bridged scientific precision with practical wisdom to create a lasting legacy in the dairy industry.Key Highlights:Huntsdale Farms Origins: How Murray’s early re...
2025-04-0922 min
The BullvineE227 BLACK HIDE BLINDNESS: Why Breeding Only for Color is Destroying Your Dairy-Beef ProfitsIn this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, we tackle a critical issue facing the dairy-beef industry: the obsession with black-hided calves. While black hide color has been a popular choice for beef-on-dairy crossbreeding, it’s costing producers thousands in lost potential profits.We’ll explore:The skyrocketing shift to beef-on-dairy breeding since 2017 and its economic impact.Why generic black crosses are often "Holstein steers in disguise."The performance gap between generic black calves and premium beef crosses.How strategic genetic selection can improve daily gain, feed efficiency, and carcass value.Practical steps to select sires that deli...
2025-04-0830 min
The BullvineE223 Genetic Shakeups & Dairy Breakthroughs: April 2025 Evaluation HighlightsPodcast Episode Notes: "Genetic Shakeups & Dairy Breakthroughs: April 2025 Evaluation Highlights" ---Key TopicsIntroduction - Overview of April 2025’s landmark genetic evaluations - Why this month’s base changes matter for global breeding strategies US Holstein Evaluations: The Great Genetic Reset - Production PTAs: Milk (-750 lbs), Fat (-45 lbs), Protein (-25 lbs) - Elite Survivors: RIPCORD (NM$1125) and DARTH VADR (NM$1118) retain top spots. - Inbreeding Alert: EFI up 28% since 2015—prioritize genomic relationship tools. Canadian Sire Shakeups: Balanced Breedi...
2025-04-061h 40
The BullvineE211 Cottonseed Showdown: How This Controversial Feed Could Boost Your Milk Check by 15%Is whole cottonseed (WCS) the secret weapon your dairy operation has been missing? In today's episode, we cut through the barnyard gossip and reveal how this controversial feed ingredient could be your profit game-changer in 2025's tight-margin dairy economy.Episode Highlights:The real story on WCS: New research from the University of Minnesota shows how strategic feeding can add $2.50/cow/day through improved milk componentsMeet Wisconsin's Schlitzer Dairy, where switching to WCS boosted milk fat by 0.3 percentage points, adding $1,200 daily to their 800-cow operationWe break down the impressive nutritional triple-threat of WCS: 21% fiber, 17% fat, and 24% proteinGossypol...
2025-03-2618 min
The BullvineE210 Making Dreams Come True: The Journey of Tom & Kelli CullIn this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, hosts Bella and Douglas explore the inspiring story of Tom and Kelli Cull, founders of Budjon Farms. Key highlights include: • Tom’s humble beginnings on a 50-cow farm in Pewaukee, Wisconsin • Kelli’s extensive experience in the AI industry, traveling 70,000 miles yearly • The development of Budjon Farms’ unique boarding business model • Tom’s receipt of the prestigious Klussendorf Award in 2024 • Kelli’s remarkable recovery from double hip replacement surgery • Innovative animal care practices, including sand recovery pens and on-farm blood analysis • The...
2025-03-2521 min
The BullvineE208 The Great Holstein Shakeup: How 16 Years Rewrote Breeding RulesIn this illuminating episode of The Bullvine Podcast, hosts Bella and Douglas dive deep into the revolutionary transformation of Holstein breeding over the past 16 years. Analyzing Holstein Canada registration data from 2008 to 2024, they explore how breeding philosophy has shifted from show-ring aesthetics to farm-level profitability and sustainability.Topics CoveredIntroductionHosts introduce the concept of Holstein breeding transformationOverview of the shift from conformation-focused selection to profitable, functional cowsGenetic Diversity: Death of the "Super-Sire" ModelAnalysis of registration data showing dramatic decrease in genetic concentrationDOORMAN, GOLDWYN, and BUCKEYE represented 12% of all registered...
2025-03-2415 min
The BullvineE198 Transforming Dairy Fertility: Machine Learning Isn’t Just the Future—It’s Here NowIn this cutting-edge episode of The Bullvine Podcast, hosts Bella and Douglas explore how machine learning and AI are revolutionizing reproductive management on dairy farms. Learn how these technologies are delivering unprecedented improvements in fertility while reducing hormone use, and discover practical steps for implementation that can dramatically improve your operation's bottom line.Episode HighlightsThe Current State of Reproductive Management• 51% of dairy farms still rely primarily on visual observation for heat detection• Visual observation misses more than half of all standing heats• According to Ricardo Chebel (University of Florid...
2025-03-1416 min
The BullvineE196 Dairy’s 81-Day Reckoning: 3 States That Win, 5 Facing Financial BloodbathThe USDA’s June 1, 2025 Federal Milk Marketing Order (FMMO) reforms will radically reshape dairy economics, reversing a flawed 2018 policy that cost farmers $725 million during the pandemic. While restoring the “higher-of” formula benefits some, controversial processor-friendly make allowances could strip $56,000 annually from 100-cow operations. Regional disparities will create clear winners (Northeast) and losers (Midwest, California), with urgent adaptation required as competitors already pivot strategies. The clock is ticking—81 days remain to restructure contracts, risk management, and production plans.Key Points 1. The “Higher-of” Formula Restoration • Reverses the 2018 Farm Bill’s flawed “average + $0.74” formula that transferred $725M from farmers to pr...
2025-03-1217 min
The BullvineE195 Lucky or Calculated? The Surprising Truth About Genomics and Luck in Dairy BreedingHosts Bella and Douglas explore whether modern genomic breeding tools have truly eliminated the role of luck in dairy breeding. They discuss fascinating historical “lucky breaks” that shaped Holstein genetics, examine the limitations of current genomic technology, and offer practical strategies for breeders navigating the upcoming April 2025 genetic evaluation updates. This episode reveals that despite scientific advances, chance still plays a significant role in breeding success.Topics Covered• The 75% Solution: The reliability limits of genomic prediction tools (2:15)• Historical Lucky Breaks: How chance events created legendary Holstein bloodlines (7:30)• The Missing Telephone: The Spring Bro...
2025-03-1121 min
The Bullvine191 The $4,300 Gamble That Reshaped Global Dairy Industry: The Pawnee Farm Arlinda Chief Storyn this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, Bella and Douglas explore the extraordinary life and legacy of Pawnee Farm Arlinda Chief, the Holstein bull whose genetics revolutionized global dairy farming. Born in 1962, Chief’s unprecedented influence reshaped milk production and fundamentally altered the Holstein breed. But his story is more than one of triumph—it’s also a cautionary tale about the risks of genetic concentration and the unforeseen consequences of selective breeding. From Chief’s humble beginnings in Nebraska to his lasting impact on modern genomics, this episode dives deep into one of dairy farming’s most influential chapters.
2025-03-0739 min
The BullvineE187 From Pasture to Powerhouse: The GenoSource Story The innovative journey of GenoSource, a family-owned dairy operation in Iowa, from its inception to becoming a global leader in dairy genetics. • Key Points: • Collaborative beginnings among eight farming families. • Revolutionary breeding strategies using genomic testing, sexed semen, and in vitro fertilization. • Balancing show ring success with practical farm economics. • Innovative recovery from a devastating storm. • Emphasis on sustainability and profitability. • Vision for the future of dairy farming.Main Points Covered 1. Genesis of GenoSource • Founded by eight farming families in twenty fourte...
2025-03-0321 min
The BullvineE178 The Show Ring Showdown—Why Bigger Isn’t Always Better The Bullvine Podcast: Episode 177 Title: The Show Ring Showdown: Why Taller Holsteins Are Costing You Thousands Release Date: August 2024 Duration: 45–60 minutes ---### Episode Description The dairy world is at a crossroads: do towering Holsteins truly win in the show ring and the parlor? In this bombshell episode, hosts Bella and Douglas expose the hidden costs of breeding for height, reveal CDN/USDA data threatening tall-cow dominance, and spotlight four sires revolutionizing balanced genetics. Key Takeaways: - 📉 $1.20/day feed bleed: Why every vertical inch drain...
2025-02-2215 min
The BullvineE174 Bob Hagenow: A Legacy Built on a HandshakeIn this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, hosts Bella and Douglas discuss the remarkable career of Bob Hagenow, Key points covered include:1. Bob’s background: Growing up on a registered Holstein dairy farm in Manitowoc County, Wisconsin, and his education at UW-Madison.2. Career at Vita Plus: Bob’s 38-year journey from nutritionist to regional business manager, impacting over 400 employee-owners.3. Industry contributions: Bob’s work in nutrition innovation, team development, and industry leadership.4. World Dairy Expo involvement: 40 years as a ring steward and his contributions to the event’s board and comm...
2025-02-1807 min
The BullvineE174 Bob Hagenow: A Legacy Built on a HandshakeIn this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, hosts Bella and Douglas discuss the remarkable career of Bob Hagenow, Key points covered include:1. Bob’s background: Growing up on a registered Holstein dairy farm in Manitowoc County, Wisconsin, and his education at UW-Madison.2. Career at Vita Plus: Bob’s 38-year journey from nutritionist to regional business manager, impacting over 400 employee-owners.3. Industry contributions: Bob’s work in nutrition innovation, team development, and industry leadership.4. World Dairy Expo involvement: 40 years as a ring steward and his contributions to the event’s board and comm...
2025-02-1807 min
The BullvineE174 Bob Hagenow: A Legacy Built on a HandshakeIn this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, hosts Bella and Douglas discuss the remarkable career of Bob Hagenow, a nominee for the 2025 World Dairy Expo Industry Person of the Year award. Key points covered include:1. Bob’s background: Growing up on a registered Holstein dairy farm in Manitowoc County, Wisconsin, and his education at UW-Madison.2. Career at Vita Plus: Bob’s 38-year journey from nutritionist to regional business manager, impacting over 400 employee-owners.3. Industry contributions: Bob’s work in nutrition innovation, team development, and industry leadership.4. World Dairy Expo involvement: 40 years...
2025-02-1807 min
The BullvineE172 Global Weekly Dairy Market Recap 17, 2025: Production Surges, Trade Tensions, and Consumer ShiftsIn this episode, hosts Bella and Douglas discuss the latest developments in the global dairy market: 1. Key Market Trends: • Cheese prices rising, butter and powder prices softening • U.S. milk surpluses contrasting with weather-affected Northeast production • New tariffs raising concerns about trade tensions 2. Production Forecasts: • USDA revises 2025 U.S. milk production forecast to 227.2 billion pounds • Global milk supply expected to increase by 0.8% in 2025 3. Regional Production Updates: • U.S.: Midwest experiencing surpluses, Northeast facing weather challenges • European Union: Slight growth expected with...
2025-02-1708 min
The BullvineE170 Weathering the Storm: A Dairy Farmer’s Guide to Blizzard SurvivalIn this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, hosts Bella and Douglas discuss essential strategies for dairy farmers to prepare for and manage severe winter weather. Key topics include: 1. Current statistics on dairy farms and winter storm frequency 2. Feed and bedding stockpile recommendations 3. Water system maintenance and backup strategies 4. Structural integrity considerations for barns 5. Power backup solutions 6. Staff preparedness and safety measures 7. Herd comfort and health management during storms 8. Impact of cold stress on milk production 9. Feed adjustments for extreme cold conditions
2025-02-1612 min
The BullvineE169 The Four Nations Cup of Holstein Genetics: A Global Dairy ShowdownIn this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, hosts Bella and Douglas dive into the exciting world of international dairy genetics, comparing it to the Four Nations Cup in ice hockey. Here’s what you’ll learn: 1. The Holstein Four Nations Cup concept: • Teams: Canada, USA, Europe, and World • Three “periods”: Offense (Showring Performance), Defense (Genetic Indexes), and Goaltending (Milk Production) 2. Offense (Showring Performance): • Key traits: udder quality, feet and legs, dairy strength, overall appearance • Standout sires mentioned: FARNEAR DELTA-LAMBDA, VAL-BISSON DOORMAN, BRAEDALE GOLDWYN • Judging criteria in the showring
2025-02-1511 min
The BullvineE168 Moo-ving Love Stories: A Dairy-Inspired Valentine’s Day CelebrationJoin hosts Bella and Doug for a heartwarming Valentine’s Day special, exploring love stories from the dairy farming world. Discover how romance blossoms amidst cow barns, county fairs, and milking parlors, proving that true love can flourish in the most unexpected places.Key Stories Covered: 1. Marie and Mark Canon: A love story that began at a Pennsylvania county fair 2. Lindy Feltmate and Scott Brown: College sweethearts who built a dairy farm together 3. Krista and Brett Swanson: Finding love at a farm machinery show 4. Erin Harris and Jared Beaton: A...
2025-02-1412 min
The BullvineE167 8 Creative Valentine’s Day Ideas for Dairy Farmers to Rekindle RomanceKey Topics Covered: 1. Unique challenges of romance in dairy farming 2. Creative Valentine’s Day ideas for farmers 3. Importance of strong partnerships in agricultural life 4. Practical tips for maintaining relationships on busy farmsHighlights: • Seek Support: Importance of reaching out to other farming couples, joining support groups, or seeking counseling when needed • Unique Love Stories: How dairy farming relationships are forged through shared experiences like early morning milkings and late-night calvings • Daily Connection: Commit to finding small ways to connect with your partner each day, eve...
2025-02-1324 min
The BullvineE164 Dairy’s Rollercoaster: Navigating 2025’s Peaks and ValleysIn this episode of The Bullvine Podcast, host Bella and dairy industry expert Douglas discuss the challenges and opportunities facing dairy farmers in 2025. Here’s a summary of the key topics covered:Market Overview • USDA projections for milk and dairy product prices • Risk management strategies for farmersHerd Management • Heifer shortage and its implications • Focus on longevity, efficiency, and geneticsIndustry Trends • Farm consolidation and geographic shifts • Opportunities for smaller operationsRegulatory Changes • New dietary guidelines and FDA classificati...
2025-02-1012 min
The BullvineE163 From Udder to Pizza: Blockchain’s Dairy Revolution Hits the Table – Are You Ready to Ride the Wave?Key Points Discussed: 1. Consumer demand for transparency in dairy products • 73% of consumers more likely to buy traceable dairy products 2. Blockchain technology in dairy industry • Digital ledger tracking milk from farm to table • Improves traceability, quality control, and fraud prevention 3. ROI of blockchain implementation • Traceability time reduced from 7 days to 2.2 seconds • Average recall costs down from $14 million to $6.5 million • Consumer trust increased from 62% to 89% 4. Real-world examples • FrieslandCampina’s ‘grass to glass’ transparency system • Gopal Enterprises’ contamination detection in India
2025-02-0908 min
The BullvineE161 TPI vs Net Merit: Why Tall, Pretty, and Infertile Cows Are Bleeding You DryIn this explosive episode of The Bullvine Podcast, host Bella and breeding expert Douglas expose the stark differences between TPI (Total Performance Index) and Net Merit, two competing dairy breeding indexes that are reshaping the industry.Key Points: 1. Index Evolution: TPI and Net Merit’s correlation has dropped from 0.80 to 0.44, signaling a major shift in breeding priorities. 2. Component Focus: Net Merit 2025 emphasizes butterfat (31.8%) over TPI (28.6%), reflecting market demands. 3. Longevity Impact: Net Merit cows average 4+ lactations vs TPI’s 2.5, translating to $3,000 savings per culled cow. 4. Global Perspective: While the US chas...
2025-02-0705 min
The BullvineE160 USMCA Termination Countdown: Will Your Farm Survive The North American Trade War?In this hard-hitting episode of The Bullvine Podcast, host Bella and dairy expert Douglas dive deep into the looming crisis facing North American dairy farms as the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) approaches its review date in 2026.Key Points Discussed:1. The Impending Crisis: - July 1, 2026: Potential "D-Day" for dairy industry - $1.2 billion in trade at risk - 25% tariffs threatening profits and farm survival2. The Butter Bloodbath: - U.S. dairy exports to Canada (2023): $1.09 billion - Butter exports: $118.9 million - Regional impacts: Wisconsin...
2025-02-0713 min
The BullvineE159 Revolutionizing Dairy Farming: How AI, Robotics, and Blockchain Are Shaping the Future of Agriculture in 2025In this debate-driven episode of The Bullvine Podcast, host Bella and dairy tech expert Douglas explore how cutting-edge technologies like AI, robotics, IoT sensors, and blockchain are reshaping dairy farming. From genomic breeding to methane reduction, discover how farmers balance tradition with innovation to survive—and thrive—in 2025.Actionable Takeaways • For Small Farms: A 100-cow farm using one robot saves $12,000 annually (see Robotics ROI Calculator). • Data Ownership: Blockchain ensures farmers—not Big Ag—control herd health and certification data. • Sustainability: AI-driven biogas digesters align with 2030’s 30% methane reduction targets.Listen Now: Embr...
2025-02-0605 min
The BullvineE157 Is the World Dairy Expo Really the Super Bowl of the Dairy Industry?Episode Notes: "Is the World Dairy Expo Really the Super Bowl of the Dairy Industry?" The Bullvine Podcast | February 5, 2025 | Hosts: Bella & Douglas ---Key Topics Covered 1. The Big Question: - Is the World Dairy Expo truly dairy’s equivalent to the Super Bowl? - Comparing global reach, economic impact, and cultural significance. 2. Global Showdown: - Shakira vs. Footloose: Relive the Holstein Grand Champion battle between the "undefeated queen" (Shakira) and the "dark horse" (Footloose), dissecting udder symmetry, dairy strength, and decades of breeding st...
2025-02-0505 min
The BullvineE156 Your 2025 Dairy Gameplan: Three Critical Areas Separating Profit from LossEpisode Notes: The Bullvine Podcast - Dairy Farming in 2025: Three Game-Changing StrategiesHost: Bella
Co-host: DouglasEpisode Summary:
This episode explores three critical areas that are revolutionizing dairy farming operations in 2025: forage quality, methionine supplementation, and transition cow management. Hosts Bella and Douglas discuss how these strategies can potentially boost profits by more than $500 per cow for dairy farms of all sizes.Key Topics Covered:1. Forage Quality• Importance of correct dry matter content• Optimal chop length for BMR (19 millimeters)• Packing density and its impact on feed budge...
2025-02-0511 min
The BullvineE155 Exposing the Eco-Facade: How Non-Dairy Brands Mislead with GreenwashingKey Exposés 1. Oatly’s Greenwashing Scandal • In January twenty twenty-one, Oatly falsely claimed its Barista Edition produced seventy-three percent less carbon dioxide equivalent versus dairy milk. • The UK Advertising Standards Authority received one hundred nine complaints about misleading ads featuring children shaming dairy consumption. • Excluded transportation emissions in calculations while counting full dairy production impacts. 2. California’s Almond Water Crisis • Almond farms expanded from six hundred forty thousand to one point six four million acres (twenty zero-four to twenty twenty-one). • Now use four point nine to five po...
2025-02-0411 min
The BullvineE154 Dairy Showdown: Canadian Quotas vs. American Free Market – Who's Right?In this episode of The Bullvine podcast, hosts Bella and Douglas dive into the complex world of North American dairy farming, exploring the stark differences between the Canadian and American dairy systems.Key Points:1. Canadian Dairy System:• Supply management system with production limits• High quota costs (up to $58,000 per cow in Alberta)• Guaranteed minimum prices and market protection• Challenges: aging farmers, high entry barriers, regional disparities2. American Dairy System:• Free-market approach with larger operations• Average U.S. dairy milks 225 cows vs. 85 in Canada
2025-02-0408 min
The BullvineE152 Is Canada's Supply Management System the new OPEC?In this hard-hitting episode of The Bullvine, hosts Bella and Douglas dive deep into the impending dairy trade war between the United States and Canada. With just 24 hours before Canada imposes retaliatory tariffs, we explore the far-reaching implications for farmers, consumers, and the entire North American dairy industry.Key Topics CoveredThe Impending Tariff Crisis • Canada’s 25% retaliatory tariff on U.S. dairy products • $856 million in cross-border dairy trade at stake • Comparison to the 1970s OPEC oil embargoEconomic Impact • Canadian dairy farmers facing $450 million in annual...
2025-02-0311 min
The BullvineE150 CAPTAIN: The Bull That Rewrote the Rules for Modern BreedingIn this groundbreaking episode of The Bullvine Podcast, hosts Bella and Douglas dive deep into the genetic revolution spearheaded by STgenetics® and Genosource, focusing on the game-changing bull, Genosource CAPTAIN.Key Points Discussed: 1. The “Charl Coup” and “Sabre Gambit”: How Genosource strategically engineered CAPTAIN’s pedigree 2. STgenetics®’ revolutionary approach to genetic deployment 3. Advanced IVF technology and the Donor Output Index 4. Strategic cloning and its impact on genetic dissemination 5. Rapid daughter deployment: 4,153 daughters in 24 months 6. The STrategy™ platform and integrated approach to breeding 7. Ultraplus™ technology and its...
2025-02-0312 min
The BullvineE150 CAPTAIN: The Bull That Rewrote the Rules for Modern BreedingEpisode Notes: The CAPTAIN Revolution - Redefining Dairy GeneticsIn this groundbreaking episode of The Bullvine podcast, hosts Douglas and Bella dive deep into the genetic phenomenon that is Genosource CAPTAIN. This isn't just another bull story - it's a tale of how one genetic lineage is reshaping the entire dairy industry.Key Points Discussed:1. CAPTAIN's Impressive Stats: - 7 consecutive #1 TPI rankings - Nearly 8,000 daughters across 494 herds worldwide - A2A2 milk commanding premium prices2. The Genomic Masterstroke: - STgenetics®' strategic approach t...
2025-02-0219 min
The BullvineE147 The 5000-Head Farm Blueprint: Secrets to Running a Large-Scale Dairy OperationIn this episode of The Bullvine, hosts Douglas and Bella dive deep into the world of large-scale dairy farming, exploring how modern technology and traditional wisdom are revolutionizing 5000-head operations. Key points discussed include: 1. The evolution of dairy farming: From hand-milking 50 cows to managing 5000-cow operations with advanced technology. 2. Impressive statistics: • Cows produce 30% more milk today than 50 years ago • New technology can increase milk production by up to 30% • Large-scale farms can reduce cost per ton of milk by up to 66% 3. Robotic Milking Systems (AMS): • Increase milking...
2025-01-3110 min
The BullvineE145 Balancing Borders and Barns: Protecting U.S. Dairy Farms Amid Immigration ReformsIn this episode of The Bullvine podcast, hosts Douglas and Bella delve into the critical issue facing the U.S. dairy industry: the potential impact of mass deportations on milk supply and the economy.Key Points Discussed:1. Current State of the Dairy Industry - 51% of dairy farm workers are immigrants - 79% of U.S. milk supply comes from immigrant-staffed farms2. Potential Economic Impact - $16 billion cost to economy if 50% of immigrant workforce is lost - 90.4% potential increase in retail milk prices without immigrant workers
2025-01-3009 min
The BullvineE128 The War on Milk: How Liberal Elites Are Trying to Destroy Your LivelihoodThe global war on milk is a growing threat to America’s dairy farmers, driven by liberal elites who promote plant-based alternatives. These elites argue that milk is sour for our health and the planet, but this seems more about control than truth. They want to replace family farms with big corporate farms. Plant-based drinks like almond and oat milk have risen by over 450% in the past decade, hurting sales for traditional dairy. These fake milks, pushed by urban elites, threaten small farms that have supported communities for generations. Real milk offers essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, cr...
2025-01-2110 min
The BullvineE124 Milk’s Hidden Superpower: Boosting Brain Health from Pregnancy to PreschoolDairy products are vital for brain health and development, especially during pregnancy and the first 1,000 days of life, when a baby’s brain grows the most. They are packed with nutrients like iodine, choline, and B12, which support brain function. Studies show that pregnant women who eat dairy have children with better thinking and language skills. While some people choose plant-based alternatives like nut milk or non-dairy yogurt, these might not have as much protein or iodine, which is essential for brain growth. It’s critical to include at least three servings of dairy daily or find other ways to g...
2025-01-1812 min
The BullvineE116 The Future of Dairy Breed Societies: Will Innovation or Irrelevance Prevail?The Bullvine audience has highlighted the importance of dairy cattle breed societies in the livestock industry, as we approach 2035. Breed societies are crucial in upholding cattle breeding standards, facilitating animal improvement, and offering marketing services. By 2050, precision in dairy farming is essential, with improvements in cattle breeds being a beacon of hope for the industry’s future. By 2035, dairy farmers will have access to twice as many genetic indexes for new traits covering animal function, health, welfare, and efficiency. Increased competition among companies offering advanced herd improvement technologies will require more data definition and industry standards. Advances in known ge...
2025-01-1312 min
The Bullvine114 Uncovering Ray Brewer’s $8.75 Million Cow Manure Scam: A Cautionary Tale for Dairy FarmersRay Holcomb Brewer pulled off a $8.75 million scam that shook the agriculture industry by promising green energy made from cow manure—a dream built on lies. Claiming to be an expert engineer, Brewer used fake documents and deals to fool investors and farmers. This deception didn’t just cost money; it also hurt trust in future green energy projects. Dairy farmers, known for being innovative and challenging, now need to be extra careful to avoid scams. Key tips include checking references, reviewing financial records, staying alert for warning signs, and getting expert advice to safeguard their farm’s future. https...
2025-01-1013 min
The BullvineE103 Top 12 Game-Changing News Stories of 2024This year’s top news in the dairy industry reveals a vibrant mix of triumphs, challenges, and significant transitions, from Oakfield Solomon Footloose’s prestigious recognition at the World Dairy Expo to the historic achievement by Apple-Red. The decommissioning of Lost Valley Mega-Dairy marks bold regulatory moves, while Hartford’s last dairy farmclosure signals poignant change. Economic shifts are evident with potential mergers like Pon Holding and URUS Group and the dramatic collapse of New Zealand’s Waitonui Group. A USDA study unveils ideal farming locations, and varying dairy prices present diverse scenarios for farmers across states. New records and heft...
2024-12-3115 min
The BullvineE102 Top 12 Most-Read Bullvine Articles of 2024: Insights and Controversies Reshaping the Dairy IndustryThroughout 2024, The Bullvine has been a beacon of insight, unraveling the dairy industry’s complexities with compelling narratives and analysis. From exploring the profitability of Jersey versus Holstein breeds to sharing Wijnand Pon’s inspiring rise from a dairy farm to industry prominence, these stories challenge traditional industry perceptions. They spotlight modern concerns such as the authenticity of cow imagery and uncover the industry’s shadowy figures, advocating for transparency and integrity. Articles also delve into strategic shifts like ABS’s acquisition of De Novo and Riverview Dairy’s expansion, which threatens small farms. With US dairy farmers tending Republican...
2024-12-3015 min
The BullvineE95 Eggnog Overload? Discover Why Cheddar is the Perfect Holiday RemedyAs the holiday season envelops us in its familiar warmth and cheer, eggnog emerges as a quintessential flavor, beloved by countless Americans yet an acquired taste to many. This rich, creamy concoction, complemented by hints of nutmeg and vanilla, has been a staple since colonial times. However, moderation remains key when partaking, especially in its boozy variant. For those indulging more liberally, an unlikely savior in the form of cheese awaits. Recent studies highlight probiotic-rich cheeses such as Cheddar for their ability to ameliorate the effects of alcohol. According to the Journal of Functional Foods, Cheddar might enhance alcohol...
2024-12-2012 min
The BullvineE94 Dairy Farmer Christmas Wishlist 2025The podcast offers a detailed guide to selecting the perfect Christmas gifts for dairy farmers, emphasizing ideas that complement their distinct lifestyle and profession. Highlighting aspects like practicality, wellness, personal touches, and eco-friendly options, it engages readers through a lively, conversational tone with relatable farming insights. Written with an expert voice, it encourages deep reflection on the values and requirements of dairy farmers, ensuring that every gift is thoughtful and meaningful. It’s a tribute to the resilience and dedication of the farming community, providing much to consider when choosing gifts for dairy farmer loved ones or clients. Dairy fa...
2024-12-1909 min
The BullvineE7 - Making History: Bullvine’s 2024 World Dairy Expo Coverage Features Team from Four ContinentsDiscover Bullvine’s 2024 World Dairy Expo coverage, featuring a historic, global team from four continents. Ready for a fresh perspective? https://www.thebullvine.com/the-bullvine/making-history-bullvines-2024-world-dairy-expo-coverage-features-team-from-four-continents/
2024-09-2314 min
The BullvineE4 - Why Fake Dairy Cow Photos are Hurting the Industry: Time for ChangeLearn the truth about edited dairy cow photos. Why is this unethical, and how can we set ethical standards in dairy photography? https://www.thebullvine.com/the-bullvine/why-fake-dairy-cow-photos-are-hurting-the-industry-time-for-change/
2024-09-2307 min
The BullvineE2 - Jersey vs. Holstein: Which Dairy Breed Delivers Greater Profitability for Farmers?Find out whether Jersey or Holstein cows are more profitable for farmers. Learn about differences in milk production, feed efficiency, and costs to help make a smart decision. https://www.thebullvine.com/the-bullvine/jersey-vs-holstein-which-dairy-breed-delivers-greater-profitability-for-farmers/
2024-09-2210 min