Uplevel Dairy Podcast

Latest Episodes:

312 | Cultivating Global Genetics with Dr. Scott Armbrust Feb 14, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy sits down with Dr. Scott Armbrust, president and owner of Paradocs Embryo Transfer, to delve into his impactful career in dairy cattle genetics and veterinary medicine. Dr. Armbrust shares his journey from growing up on a Nebraska farm to becoming a pioneer in bovine embryo transfer.
He discusses his early inspirations, significant contributions through embryo transfer, and his global influence in training veterinarians and advancing dairy genetics. The episode also highlights Dr. Armbrust's ethos on mentoring the next generation of veterinarians and his ongoing contributions to the dairy industry.

This episode is brought to you in partnership with the National Dairy Shrine

Award applications: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/awards/⁠
Scholarship applications: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/youth/#scholar⁠
Donate to Dairy Shrine: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/donate/⁠
YouTube channel: ⁠https://youtube.com/@dairyshrine⁠

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Scott Armbrust
00:56 Early Life and Inspiration
02:02 Journey into Veterinary Medicine
04:09 Pioneering Embryo Transfer
05:48 International Impact and Mentorship
11:06 Legacy and Future Plans
15:09 Conclusion and Reflections

311 | Bridging Generations in Dairy and Education with Bonnie Ayars Feb 13, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen sits down with Bonnie Ayars, an energetic and deeply passionate cattle breeder, teacher, coach and advocate for agriculture. Bonnie shares her path from developing a Guernsey herd and teaching for over 50 years to her impactful role at Ohio State as a dairy program specialist. Bonnie also delves into her family's community outreach through their own ice cream and cheese business. She reflects on her career, the importance of seizing opportunities, and her deep passion for mentoring students. With anecdotes about hosting a Luke Bryan concert and winning national baking contests, Bonnie Ayars' story is a testament to dedication, resilience and the power of giving back.

This episode is brought to you in partnership with the National Dairy Shrine

Award applications: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/awards/⁠
Scholarship applications: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/youth/#scholar⁠
Donate to Dairy Shrine: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/donate/⁠
YouTube channel: ⁠https://youtube.com/@dairyshrine⁠

Chapters

00:23 Bonnie Ayars' Background and Achievements
01:15 Community Engagement and Unique Experiences
03:15 Early Life and Career Beginnings
09:02 Transition to Teaching and Mentorship
11:48 Impact of Teaching and Personal Reflections
16:56 Guiding Students and Emphasizing Opportunities
19:50 Balancing Life and Personal Endeavors
21:43 Winning the Pie Contest
22:40 Competing at the Grand Bake Opry
25:02 From Pies to Ice Cream
26:33 Building a Family Business
30:03 Teaching and Mentoring Youth
33:54 Reflecting on Achievements
35:51 Future Aspirations
38:29 Honored with the Pioneer Award
41:20 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

310 | Dr. Joe Lineweaver: A Lifetime of Innovation in Dairy Reproduction Feb 12, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen interviews Dr. Joe Lineweaver, a distinguished figure in the field of reproductive physiology and embryo transfer. Dr. Lineweaver shares his remarkable journey from his roots in Virginia to his academic and professional accomplishments, including his work at Virginia Tech and the founding of Blue Ridge Embryos.

He discusses the early challenges and triumphs in embryo transfer technology, his contributions to the development of industry standards, and his dedication to mentoring the next generation. Joe's passion for improving dairy cattle genetics, particularly in Jersey cows, shines through, culminating in his recognition as the 2025 Dairy Shrine Pioneer of the Year.

He discusses his early inspirations, significant contributions through embryo transfer, and his global influence in training veterinarians and advancing dairy genetics. The episode also highlights Dr. Armbrust's ethos on mentoring the next generation of veterinarians and his ongoing contributions to the dairy industry.

This episode is brought to you in partnership with the National Dairy Shrine

Award applications: https://dairyshrine.org/awards/
Scholarship applications: https://dairyshrine.org/youth/#scholar
Donate to Dairy Shrine: https://dairyshrine.org/donate/
YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@dairyshrine

Chapters

01:11 Joe's Early Life and Education
02:57 Journey into Embryo Transfer
03:45 Challenges and Innovations in Embryo Transfer
04:48 Career at Virginia Tech
07:28 Founding Blue Ridge Embryos
10:37 Leadership and Mentorship
13:41 Scholarship Programs and Giving Back
15:39 Reflections and Achievements
20:04 Recognition and Final Thoughts

309 | A Dairy Genomics Pioneer: Dr. George Wiggans Feb 11, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen sits down with Dr. George Wiggans to discuss his extensive career in dairy cattle genetics and genomics. Dr. Wiggans shares his journey from growing up on a dairy farm to working closely with Dr. Paul Van Radden, leading to significant contributions in genetic evaluations that propel the dairy industry. He highlights the transformative role of genomics in doubling genetic progress and improving dairy cattle productivity. Dr. Wiggans also touches upon his international experiences, including his time with the Peace Corps and the USDA, and reflects on the recognition he received as a Pioneer Award winner from the National Dairy Shrine. Throughout the conversation, the emphasis is on the importance of innovation, data accuracy, and continuous improvement in dairy genetics.This episode is brought to you in partnership with the National Dairy ShrineAward applications: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/awards/⁠Scholarship applications: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/youth/#scholar⁠Donate to Dairy Shrine: ⁠https://dairyshrine.org/donate/⁠YouTube channel: ⁠https://youtube.com/@DairyShrine00:50 Early Life and Influences01:43 Academic Journey and Mentorship05:01 International Experience and Career Decisions08:59 Return to Academia and USDA Career10:27 Advancements in Dairy Genetics12:39 Impact of Genomics24:43 Future of Dairy Genetics27:46 Recognition and Reflections

308 | Lesson from a Legend: Elite Cows, High-Flyers and Business Savvy with Peter Vail Feb 10, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen interviews Peter Vail, a prominent figure in the dairy cattle show world and the fertilizer business. Vail recounts his career journey from starting CaroVail Fertilizer Company in 1964 to his significant investments in various dairy cattle breeds. He shares personal anecdotes about his childhood on a commercial dairy farm, his ventures in fertilizer, and his return to dairy cattle in the 1990s. Vail highlights key milestones, including the success of his family business now in its third generation, and his achievements in dairy cattle showing. At 86 years old, Vail reflects on his career, the importance of knowledge, and his enduring passion for the dairy industry.
01:09 Peter Vail's Early Life and Introduction to Dairy

03:10 First Experiences in Dairy Showing

07:29 Transition to Fertilizer Business

08:39 Challenges and Successes in the Fertilizer Industry

11:18 Career Growth and Relocation

15:26 Starting a New Venture

18:16 The Start of CaroVail

18:26 Building a Family Business

19:43 Returning to Cattle

19:55 High-Flying Investor Days

20:45 Adventures in Cow Trading

23:38 Success with Jerseys

26:39 Memorable Cows and Achievements

29:49 Reflections and Future Goals

30:42 Conclusion and Gratitude
Link to award applications: https://dairyshrine.org/awards/Link to scholarship applications: https://dairyshrine.org/youth/#scholarLink to donate to Dairy Shrine: https://dairyshrine.org/donate/Link to YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@dairyshrine?si=dS_EVxaA1XhUXBhzInformation about webinar

Topic: “Avoiding Burnout in a 24/7 Industry”
Date: February 11, 2026
Time: Noon Central
Click here to register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_eTGV4PLeTe2gI4np7Lrlzg

307 | From Dairy Legends to Next-Gen Leaders: How the National Dairy Shrine is Honoring Pioneers and Recognizing Emerging Leaders with Mike Opperman Feb 09, 2026

Show notes

This episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast features a partnership with the National Dairy Shrine to present interviews with the winners of the Pioneer Award. Executive Director Mike Opperman introduces the series, sharing insights about the organization's history, mission, and contributions to the dairy industry. Mike details his own journey within the dairy sector and discusses the various awards and initiatives hosted by the National Dairy Shrine, including scholarships, youth outreach, and the newly introduced Emerging Leader Award. The episode previews interviews with notable figures like Bonnie Ayars, George Wiggins, Scott Armbrust, and others who have significantly impacted genetics, genomics, and dairy advancement.
00:00 Introduction to a Special Series

00:40 Meet Mike Opperman: A Dairy Industry Veteran

02:51 The National Dairy Shrine: History and Mission

05:58 Supporting Young Dairy Professionals

08:00 Introducing the Emerging Leader Award

12:20 Honoring Dairy Industry Pioneers

20:30 Conclusion and How to Get Involved

Link to award applications: https://dairyshrine.org/awards/Link to scholarship applications: https://dairyshrine.org/youth/#scholarLink to donate to Dairy Shrine: https://dairyshrine.org/donate/Link to YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@dairyshrine?si=dS_EVxaA1XhUXBhzInformation about webinar

Topic: “Avoiding Burnout in a 24/7 Industry”
Date: February 11, 2026
Time: Noon Central
Click here to register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_eTGV4PLeTe2gI4np7Lrlzg

306 | Earning the Reins: Education, Experience and the Next Chapter with Nathan Abel, Abel Dairy Farms Feb 05, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen interviews Nathan Abel, the next-generation dairyman at Abel Dairy Farms. Nathan shares insights on how his hands-on experience, education, and incorporation of technology are helping him prepare for future leadership and ownership roles. He discusses his educational journey, the importance of learning both the technical and business aspects of dairy farming, and the challenges and strategies for implementing new technologies.
Nathan also highlights the value of community involvement and ongoing learning as essential components for the farm's sustainable growth. This episode emphasizes the pivotal role of modern software solutions in revolutionizing dairy operations.
This Episode is Brought to you by Milc Group
Milc Group is a dairy software company that brings real-time, actionable data to dairy farms across the world. They are dedicated to revolutionizing the dairy industry with their user-friendly cloud-based software. ONE™ by Milc Group is our all-in-one app that brings together all the important aspects of your dairy together in one place. With products such as feed and animal management software, people training, dairy facility monitoring, and scale management, Milc Group is committed to providing producers with tools they need to succeed.
00:00 Introduction to the Next Generation of Dairy Farming

00:38 Sponsorship Message from Milc Group

01:11 Nathan Abel's Journey Back to the Family Farm

01:56 Educational Path and Early Decisions

05:59 Hands-On Experience and Internships

08:03 Integrating Technology into Dairy Farming

14:25 Leadership and Team Dynamics

19:18 Community Involvement and Future Vision

22:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

305 | Digital Disruption in Dairy: Aidan Connolly on AI, Precision, and Real-Time Decision Making Feb 03, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Uplevel Dairy Podcast, Peggy Coffeen interviews Aidan Connolly, president of AgriTech Capital, to discuss the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on dairy farming. Connolly highlights the importance of adopting technology to overcome challenges such as labor shortages, water conservation, and precision nutrition. He delves into the potential of real-time data and wearable technologies for cows to optimize production and health management.
Connolly also explores the future roles of AI, virtual reality, and robotics in dairy management, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and adaptation to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving industry. The episode underscores the significant changes AI will bring to dairy farming operations, making them more efficient and data-driven.
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/
00:00 Introduction to AI in Dairy Farming

02:04 Challenges in Dairy Farming

05:13 Technological Solutions and Wearable Technologies

09:02 Real-Time Data and Decision Making

13:39 Healthcare Innovations and Farm Applications

16:12 Virtual and Augmented Reality in Dairy

18:16 The Future of AI in Dairy Farming

29:38 Practical Steps for Embracing AI

36:42 Final Thoughts and Continuous Learning

304 | Setting Calves Up Right: Dr. Jacey Benzing on Calf Health, Teams and Dairy Success Jan 29, 2026

Show notes

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

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jacey Benzing

00:38 Welcome to the Uplevel Dairy Podcast

01:10 Heritage Vet Partners Overview

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

01:52 From Horses to Dairy Cows

06:23 Challenges and Rewards in Veterinary Practice

11:24 Support Systems and Mentorship

13:54 Focus on Calf Health

19:59 Employee Training and Teamwork

22:43 Reflections and Future Goals

31:03 Conclusion and Farewell

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

303 | He Studies Flies for a Living — And It’s Changing the Future of Dairy Jan 27, 2026

Show notes

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

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

This episode is sponsored by MWI Animal Health

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

Visit www.MWIAH.com

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

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