The Hoard's Dairyman Podcast

Producer Profile: Daniel Buttars of Butter-Dell Holsteins

This podcast is sponsored by Alltech [https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fwww.alltech.com%2fen%2four-services%2falltech-on-farm-support&c=E,1,pQ4jwunjMdMVNpvKP7npCe9JHqJpxbmRKErVSA4NMavXjY6kj75ZOkiw0zVhH-534qCZ97X7yEbRoaI2yMBdtSPFObmh5w7cxB2VolAgcEfU3A7q6GiAI6ShqQ,,&typo=1]. From five generations of dairy tradition in northern Utah to shaping the future of dairy promotion across the globe, this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast is packed with insight, innovation, and real talk from the farm. Utah dairyman Daniel Buttars of Butter-Dell Holsteins joins us to share what it takes to keep a family dairy thriving in the Mountain West while balancing leadership roles that influence the entire U.S. dairy industry. Daniel opens up about managing a 270-cow Holstein herd, farming under challenging western irrigation conditions, breeding for longevity and efficiency, and preparing the next generation for the future of dairy. He also takes listeners behind the scenes of dairy checkoff, exports, and farmer leadership, explaining how global dairy markets directly impact the success of farms back home. From World Dairy Expo memories to the future of dairy innovation, this conversation highlights the passion, resilience, and community that unite dairy producers across the country. Whether you milk 50 cows or 5,000, this episode offers valuable perspective on where the dairy industry is headed and why producer voices matter now more than ever. Topics include: * Five generations of dairy farming in Utah * Western dairy production and irrigation challenges * Breeding goals for modern Holsteins * Dairy exports and global market growth * The value of dairy promotion and checkoff programs * Leadership opportunities for young dairy producers * The future of dairy innovation and research * Why relationships and service matter in agriculture If this episode resonates with you, share it with a fellow dairy producer, farm family member, or ag leader who cares about the future of the dairy industry. 👉 Please follow us on your favorite podcast app, and don't forget to like and subscribe on YouTube.  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1 [https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1] Website: https://hoards.com/ [https://hoards.com/]

Express Episode 24: These simple signs point to dehydration

In this episode of the Hoard's Dairyman Podcast, listeners learn how to recognize the early signs of dehydration in dairy calves and why quick action is critical during cases of calf diarrhea. Veterinarian Amelia Willems explains the importance of water and electrolytes in maintaining normal body function and shares practical tips for evaluating calf health, including checking for sunken eyes and reduced skin elasticity. The episode also highlights the value of working closely with a herd veterinarian and using hands-on experience to identify dehydration before it becomes severe. The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management or Farm Program helps to demonstrate dairy farmers commitment to providing excellent care of their dairy cattle and producing safe, wholesome milk. Supported by Dairy Management, Inc. and managed by the National Milk Producers Federation. The farm program details animal care guidelines using the latest science and best management practices. Farm animal care standards outline annual continuing education requirements for family and non-family employees. Listening to these podcasts meets the continuing education standards. Farms can document their continuing education by using templates found on Farms website, as at National Dairy Farm to learn more. 👉 Please follow us on your favorite podcast app, and don't forget to like and subscribe on YouTube.  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1 [https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1] Website: https://hoards.com/ [https://hoards.com/]

Soil Strategies with Professor Dan Kaiser

If you’ve ever felt like nutrient management is getting more complicated and more expensive than it should be, this episode is worth your time. We sit down with Professor Dan Kaiser from the University of Minnesota, and he brings a really practical, no-nonsense perspective. He talks about how farming has shifted from simple programs to a flood of data, products, and opinions and how that’s actually making decisions harder, not easier. One of the biggest takeaways? A lot of growers might be overthinking (and overspending). Kaiser explains why you don’t always need to replace every pound of nutrients, why soil testing matters more than ever, and how focusing on the basics can save serious money without hurting yields. It’s not theory. It’s straight from years of field research and working with real farms. If you’re trying to make smarter decisions going into 2026, or just want to cut through all the noise in ag right now, this one’s definitely worth a listen. 👉 Please follow us on your favorite podcast app, and don't forget to like and subscribe on YouTube.  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1 [https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1] Website: https://hoards.com/ [https://hoards.com/]

Producer Profile: Tyler Hendriks of Hendriks Dairies

In this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, host Kylene Anderson visits with Tyler Hendriks of Hendriks Dairies to discuss building an efficient, high-performing Jersey herd. Tyler shares how he grew the operation from a young start into a family-run dairy, focusing on feed efficiency, reproduction, and genetic progress. He also offers practical insight on calf care, whole milk feeding, and fine-tuning herd management to improve performance. With an emphasis on continuous learning and strong teamwork, Tyler highlights what it takes to stay profitable and progressive in today’s dairy industry.  Subscribe for more conversations with dairy leaders and farm families. 👉 Please follow us on your favorite podcast app, and don't forget to like and subscribe on YouTube.  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1 [https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1] Website: https://hoards.com/ [https://hoards.com/]

Express Episode 23: Caring for animals beyond the farm gate

In this episode of the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast, host Jessica Miller explores the critical topic of fitness for transport and what it means for dairy cattle welfare beyond the farm gate.  Listeners will learn how proper transport decisions play a key role in maintaining animal health, reducing stress, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. The episode outlines essential factors producers should evaluate before transporting cattle, including overall health, mobility, body condition, stage of lactation, and calving status. Special attention is given to vulnerable groups such as calves and compromised animals, which face higher risks during transport. The episode also highlights best practices like adhering to antibiotic withdrawal times, ensuring animals are properly milked or dried off, and avoiding transport of non-ambulatory or severely lame cattle. Additionally, the discussion reinforces the importance of the National Dairy FARM Program’s animal care standards, including continuing education requirements and the development of farm-specific transport protocols. This episode provides practical, science-based guidance to help dairy producers make responsible transport decisions that prioritize animal welfare, food safety, and industry integrity. 👉 Please follow us on your favorite podcast app, and don't forget to like and subscribe on YouTube.  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1 [https://www.youtube.com/@HoardsDairyman1] Website: https://hoards.com/ [https://hoards.com/]