Uplevel Dairy Podcast

Latest Episodes:

263 | Dairy Leadership: Managing Growth and Generational Success on the Dairy Sep 12, 2025

Show notes

In the final installment of the Country Aire Farms series, brothers Craig and Nick Gerrits reflect on stepping into leadership roles within their family’s dairy operation. They discuss the challenges of earning respect, building trust with employees, and maintaining a healthy leadership mindset, even during tough times.

The episode highlights the importance of confidence, open communication, and continuous learning, as well as the legacy and values passed down through generations. Both brothers share advice they would give their younger selves, emphasizing the need for self-trust, motivation, and a focus on personal well-being to lead effectively. The story of Country Aire Farms is ultimately one of family, tradition, and progressive growth in the dairy industry.

This episode is brought to you by DeLaval. DeLaval provides integrated solutions designed to improve dairy producers’ production, animal welfare, and overall quality of life. To learn more, visit Delaval.com/en-us/.

262 | Innovation in Action: How Country Aire Farms Uses Technology to Succeed Sep 11, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, we are back with the third episode of the Country Aire Series, brought to you by DeLaval.

Today, Peggy Coffeen is back with the Gerrits to explore how technology is transforming modern dairy operations. Cousins Craig and Matt Gerrits share their experiences implementing advanced tools—from automated rotary parlors and precision cow sorting systems to biosolid bedding management and high-tech dashboards—that have improved cow comfort, milk quality, and labor efficiency.

The discussion highlights the farm’s transition to biosolids, the challenges and solutions in maintaining milk quality, and the importance of consistent management. On the cropping side, Matt describes how data-driven decision-making and innovations like GPS-guided planting and variable rate technology are optimizing fieldwork and margins. The episode underscores the value of embracing new technology while balancing tradition, teamwork, and a forward-thinking mindset to ensure the farm’s continued success.

261 | Passing the Torch: Next-Generation Dairy Leadership at Country Aire Farms Sep 10, 2025

Show notes

In this next episode of the Uplevel Dairy Country Aire Series, the focus shifts to the next generation at Country Aire Farms, where four cousins—Matt, John, Nick, and Craig—each find their way back to the family dairy after exploring different career paths. Influenced by family values and the encouragement of their grandfather, the cousins embrace the challenges and opportunities of running a modern dairy operation.

The conversation delves into their unique roles, from crop management and finance to equipment and employee relations, highlighting how their diverse skills contribute to the farm’s success. The cousins share candid reflections on the difficulties of stepping into leadership at a young age, earning respect from employees, and balancing family dynamics with business responsibilities. Mentorship from the older generation, a strong workplace culture, and a commitment to sustainability and community involvement emerge as central themes.

As they navigate the complexities of a family-run business, the cousins emphasize the importance of trust, communication, and adaptability. The episode concludes with a sense of gratitude for the foundation laid by previous generations and a shared commitment to carrying the family legacy forward, blending tradition with innovation at Country Aire Farms.

260 | Building a Legacy: How Country Aire Farms Grew a Generational Dairy in Wisconsin Sep 09, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen launches a four-part series in partnership with DeLaval, spotlighting the multi-generational story of Country Aire Farms in Greenleaf, Wisconsin. Brothers Mike and Tom Gerrits share their journey from growing up on a small 80-cow dairy to leading a thriving, innovative operation.

The episode explores how their father, Bud, instilled a strong work ethic and forward-thinking mindset, guiding the family through pivotal decisions—like building the area’s first rotary parlor in 1998—that set the stage for major growth. Mike and Tom discuss the division of responsibilities (cows vs. crops), the importance of embracing new technology, and the challenges and rewards of bringing the next generation into the business.

Listeners hear about the transition of leadership, the value of learning from mistakes, and the family’s commitment to core values, community, and continuous improvement. The episode closes with reflections on legacy, pride in the next generation, and optimism for the future of Country Aire Farms.

259 | The Power of Language and Leadership in Dairy Farming with Elsie Gonzalez-Leach Sep 04, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen engages with Elsie Gonzalez-Leach of Motiva Consulting to discuss her inspiring journey from Puerto Rico to the United States. Elsie shares how her experiences have fueled her mission to support Spanish-speaking dairy farm employees through leadership development and tailored Dairy English language courses.

With a focus on personal growth, leadership training, and communication, Elsie’s programs have helped numerous farm workers progress in their careers and contribute positively to their farms and communities. The episode delves into her motivations, challenges, and the impact she aims to achieve, making it a must-listen for those interested in elevating their dairy farming operations and cultivating a motivated workforce.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview

00:40 Elsie's Journey to the US

03:41 Starting Motiva Consulting

12:26 Leadership and Personal Development

23:37 Mentors and Inspirations

34:35 The Impact of Danielle's Leadership

38:21 Elsie's Leadership Program Explained

41:26 Personal Development and Overcoming Challenges

48:58 The Launch of Dairy English Academy

58:59 Future Goals and Reflections

01:02:23 Elsie's Journey and Lessons Learned

01:13:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Learn more about the Dairy English Academy here: https://www.motivadairy.com/dairy-english-academy

Contact Elsie González-Leach

Motiva Consulting

Cell: 262.388.9096

Email: elsie.gonzalez@motiva.consulting

Visit Motiva Consulting on Facebook!

This Episode is Brought to you by Adisseo

This 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/

258 | World Dairy Expo’s Dairy Producers of the Year: McCarty Family Farms Sep 02, 2025

Show notes

This collaboration episode between Uplevel Dairy and World Dairy Expo features the McCarty Brothers—Mike, David, Ken, and Clay—as they discuss their family's legacy and milestones that led to being named World Dairy Expo's Dairy Producers of the Year. They reflect on their family's history from northeastern Pennsylvania to their significant growth in Kansas, their partnerships with large companies like Danone, and their commitment to sustainability and innovation in dairy farming. They share insights into working as a family, their passion for sustainable practices, and their excitement for the future. The episode also offers advice to aspiring young farmers, underscoring the importance of hard work, taking risks, and maintaining a forward-thinking vision. The McCarty family's story is one of resilience, innovation, and community impact.

Be sure to start planning your trip to World Dairy Expo, September 30th through October 3rd. Get your passes now worlddairyexpo.com.

This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Dairy Show and World Dairy Expo.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:37 The McCarty Family History

03:36 The Move to Kansas

07:59 Partnerships and Growth

11:47 Sustainability Efforts

18:38 Community Outreach and Learning Centers

23:54 Technological Advancements and Cow Comfort

28:27 Reflections on the Recognition Award

53:26 Advice for the Next Generation

57:48 Final Thoughts and Future Vision

257 | Global Dairy Leadership with Juan Moreno: Honoring WDE’s International Person of the Year Aug 28, 2025

Show notes

In this special episode, Peggy Coffeen, host of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, partners with World Dairy Expo to interview Juan Moreno, CEO and Founder of STgenetics and recipient of the 2025 International Person of the Year award. Juan shares his inspiring journey from growing up on a dairy farm in Colombia to pioneering reproductive technologies that have transformed dairy cattle breeding. He discusses his motivations, the pivotal moments in his career, and the importance of individual animal care in modern dairy farming. Juan also reflects on the role of artificial insemination technology in advancing the global dairy industry and emphasizes the collective effort required to feed the world. Be sure to start planning your trip to World Dairy Expo, September 30th through October 3rd. Get your passes now worlddairyexpo.com. This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Dairy Show and World Dairy Expo. 00:00 Introduction to the Dairy Show Special Edition00:47 Juan Moreno's Early Life and Career Beginnings04:27 Pivotal Moments and Academic Pursuits07:32 The Birth and Growth of STgenetics10:40 Challenges and Breakthroughs in Sexed Semen Technology20:36 Global Impact and Future Vision26:36 Reflections and Personal Insights44:29 Conclusion and Upcoming Events

256 | Leading Through Legacy: Jim Mulhern on Shaping the Future of Dairy Aug 26, 2025

Show notes

This collaboration episode between Uplevel Dairy and World Dairy Expo features Jim Mulhern, a seasoned dairy policy expert, who shares his journey from growing up in small town Wisconsin to leading the National Milk Producers Federation. Jim talks about his early exposure to politics and policy in seventh grade, which led to his interest in agricultural policy during his college years. He also discusses his career trajectory, significant industry challenges, such as workforce and trade policy, and the major changes in the dairy sector over the last four decades.

Jim reflects on the importance of staying connected to the people he serves, the value of meaningful work, and his philosophy of balancing change with core values. As he receives the World Dairy Expo's Industry Person of the Year award, Jim fondly remembers the people who've impacted his career and offers advice for young professionals in the dairy industry.

Be sure to start planning your trip to World Dairy Expo, September 30th through October 3rd. Get your passes now worlddairyexpo.com.

This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Dairy Show and World Dairy Expo.

00:00 Introduction to Jim's Journey in Dairy

00:57 Early Influences and Education

02:30 First Steps in Dairy Policy

03:43 Internship and Early Career Challenges

05:29 Balancing Supply and Demand in Dairy

07:23 Realizing the Impact of Policy Work

10:04 Career Growth and National Milk Producers Federation

18:40 Changes and Challenges in the Dairy Industry

28:09 Future Challenges for Dairy Producers

34:27 The Importance of Middle Ground in Politics

38:22 Engaging in Industry Organizations

41:09 Advice for Young Professionals

43:41 Receiving the World Dairy Expo Honor

45:54 Reflecting on a Career in Dairy

49:17 Personal Reflections and Future Plans

01:01:40 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

255 | Family Farm Transition Strategies with Will McKinley Aug 21, 2025

Show notes

In this live episode from Wisconsin Farm Technology Days, Will McKinley of Menn Law Firm delves into the legal intricacies of managing and transitioning family dairy farms.

From partnership structures to succession planning, Will shares essential strategies for ensuring the longevity and success of dairy operations. He also highlights common challenges, such as finding interested successors and managing financial transitions, while sharing examples of creative solutions for keeping family farms thriving.

This conversation emphasizes the importance of clear planning, family discussions, and understanding legal tools like revocable and irrevocable trusts. Tune in for expert advice and practical insights on upleveling your dairy.

Contact Will McKinley at Menn Law:

William-McKinley@mennlaw.com

(920) 731-6631

https://mennlaw.com/

Do you have a question on succession and farm transition you would like to hear Will answer on the Uplevel Dairy Podcast?

Send your questions to peggy@upleveldairy.com

254 | Record Corn Crops, Cattle Market Updates & Commodity Trends: August Monthly Market Update Aug 19, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen and Curtis Bosma from HighGround Dairy provide an extensive market update for August 2025. The discussion covers key areas such as the continual year-over-year growth in US milk production, including a 3.3% increase reported in June, which is attributed to genetic improvements and enhanced cow comfort. The podcast also highlights a record-breaking corn crop forecast, favorable for dairy producers in terms of feed costs. Additionally, the episode explores the state of cattle markets, emphasizing the impacts of past droughts and current efforts to rebuild herds.

Further insights are provided into dairy commodity markets, particularly cheese and butter, with projections on future pricing and supply-demand balances. The episode wraps up with strategic advice for dairy producers on planning and managing margins for a profitable future.

Grab your own monthly market update here: https://marketing.highgrounddairy.com/august-2025-producer-market-update

This episode is brought to you by: HighGround Dairy provides global dairy market intelligence, insurance services, futures & options brokerage, and advisory programs to a diverse range of dairy market participants throughout the supply chain.

Information shared in this podcast is for educational purposes and is not a solicitation to buy or sell commodities. Opinions expressed are current opinions as of August, at 1 p.m. CST and only represent the views of the speaker and not those of HighGround Trading, unless otherwise expressly noted.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected