From Graduate School to a Career in the Dairy Industry: A Conversation with a UGA PhD Candidate

From Graduate School to a Career in the Dairy Industry: A Conversation with a UGA PhD Candidate

In this episode of Dairy Good Dawgs, hosts Dr. Jillian Bohlen and Sophie Dupont sit down with Jing Gao, a Ph.D. student in the Animal and Dairy Science Department at the University of Georgia. Jing shares her journey into dairy science, what led her to pursue graduate school, and the research she is conducting as part of her doctoral program. We also discuss some of the most interesting lessons she has learned along the way, the challenges and rewards of graduate school, and her goals as she prepares for the next step in her career. Join us for a conversation highlighting the people and passion behind the research helping shape the future of the dairy industry.

Rethinking Lameness Detection: Greg Kowalewski on SmartSight Cameras in Action

In this episode of Dairy Good Dawgs, host Sophie Dupont sits down with Greg Kowalewski, manager of Aurora-Oakwood Dairy, to discuss how Nedap SmartSight camera technology is transforming hoof health monitoring and on-farm decision-making. Greg highlights how integrating data-driven tools with practical management strategies can enhance operational efficiency, improve labor utilization, and elevate animal care. He also shares his perspective on the evolving role of technology in dairy production, including the advancement of artificial intelligence and the potential shift away from reliance on wearable devices.

Balancing Innovation in Modern Dairying: A Conversation with Ken McCarty on Technology and Sustainability

In this episode of Dairy Good Dawgs, co-hosts Sophie Dupont and Dr. Jillian Bohlen sit down with Ken McCarty, co-owner of McCarty Family Farms, a fourth-generation dairy farming operation. Ken shares the history of his family’s farms, discusses the role technology plays in their operation, and explains how sustainability practices can be implemented with support to remain economical. He also offers insight into how innovation continues to shape the future of their farm and the dairy industry as a whole. This episode provides an experienced-based perspective on balancing technological innovation with mindful, long-term sustainability in today's industry.

A UGA Senior’s Journey Getting Involved and Building a Future in Dairy

Dairy Good Dawgs co-hosts Dr. Jillian Bohlen and Sophie Dupont sat down with Animal and Dairy Science senior Kayleigh Smith to share how she found community and purpose in the University of Georgia dairy program. From student activities and competitions to defining her career path, Kayleigh reflects on the experiences that shaped her college journey. She also offers thoughtful advice for incoming students about stepping outside your comfort zone, saying yes to opportunities, and discovering your place in dairy.

From Insight to Impactful Tools: How Dairy Management Inc. is Supporting Today's Producers Digitally

Dairy Good Dawgs host Sophie Dupont sits down with Jacqi Coleman and Bridgett Hilshey from Dairy Management Inc. to dig into how DMI is supporting dairy farmers today—and preparing for what’s next. This episode explores their roles at DMI, the visions and intentions behind DMI's Dairy Navigator Platform, and upcoming tools, initiatives, and priorities DMI has planned for 2026. Whether you’re a dairy producer, or part of an allied industry working to support farmers, this conversation promotes practical resources that are all designed to strengthen the dairy community and drive long-term success.   Jacqi Coleman - jacqi.coleman@Dairy.org Bridgett Hilshey - bridgett.hilshey@dairy.org