Gut Check: Microbiomes in Agriculture and Health with Dr. Sue Ishaq

Gut Check: Microbiomes in Agriculture and Health with Dr. Sue Ishaq

In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, host Colt W. Knight sits down with Sue Ishaq, associate professor and microbiome researcher at the University of Maine, to explore the fascinating world of microbes and their role in animal and human health. From her nonfarm upbringing and path through animal science to building a dynamic research lab, Ishaq shares how curiosity and a few career pivots led her into the rapidly evolving field of microbiome science. The conversation dives into cutting-edge research on how microbes interact with diet, including the surprising health benefits of foods such as broccoli sprouts and the role of gut microbes in producing anti-inflammatory compounds. Along the way, they connect microbiome science back to livestock production, comparing human digestion to ruminant systems and discussing probiotics, diet shifts and microbial resilience. Whether you’re a farmer, student or just curious about what’s happening inside your gut, this episode offers an engaging and practical look at the invisible world shaping health and agriculture. * Learn more about Dr. Sue Ishaq [https://sueishaqlab.org/team/sue-ishaq/] University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination [https://extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination].

Robots on the Dairy Farm

In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, Dr. Glenda Pereira celebrates June Dairy Month with a solo episode on how robotics are shaping dairy farm management. She discusses the benefits and considerations of milking robots, including milk production, labor, cow traffic, facility design and the importance of consistency in daily routines. Dr. Pereira also takes a closer look at manure robots and how they can support cleaner walkways, improved hoof and udder hygiene, reduced labor needs and fewer disruptions to cow behavior, especially in robotic milking systems. Listeners will hear about practical considerations such as floor type, maintenance, internet and power needs, winter weather challenges and backup plans. A June 30, 2026 field day [https://extension.umaine.edu/livestock/event/technology-tuesday-series-june-30-2026/] will give participants the opportunity to see milking robots and manure robots in action. Episode Resources * Victor Cabrera. 2026. “Making the Switch to Robots: A New Budgeting Tool for Transitioning to Automatic Milking Systems.” [https://dairy.extension.wisc.edu/articles/making-the-switch-to-robots-a-new-budgeting-tool-for-transitioning-to-automatic-milking-systems/] * Doerfler, Martin and Bernhardt. 2017. “Implications of Robotic Walkway Cleaning for Hoof Disorders in Dairy Cattle.” [https://www.ijera.com/papers/Vol7_issue1/Part-4/Q07010498104.pdf] University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination [https://extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination].

Don’t Do This: Farming Mistakes We’ve All Made with Dr. Richard Brzozowski

In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, host Colt W. Knight is once again joined by Richard Brzozowski, professor emeritus and former Extension livestock specialist, for a practical and story-driven discussion on common mistakes new farmers make and how to avoid them. Drawing from decades of experience in Extension and agriculture, Brzozowski shares insights from working with beginning farmers, along with reflections from his travels observing agricultural systems around the world. The conversation covers critical topics such as starting too big, failing to keep records, making poor equipment decisions and relying on a single market outlet. Listeners will hear real-world examples, from livestock purchasing mistakes to infrastructure design flaws, and learn why building a strong network of trusted advisers is essential. Whether you are just getting started or looking to refine your operation, this episode delivers practical, no-nonsense advice to help you avoid costly pitfalls and build a more resilient farm business. University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination [https://extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination].

Little Boots, Big Lessons: Parenting on the Farm

Raising kids on a farm comes with a unique mix of challenges, responsibilities and rewards. In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, we dive into what it really means to parent in an agricultural setting. From chore schedules and safety considerations to balancing farm work with family life, our conversation explores how farm families pass along values such as work ethic, resilience and stewardship while navigating the realities of modern agriculture. We discuss the benefits of growing up around livestock and land, the lessons children learn through hands-on experiences, and how farm parents adapt as operations, expectations and family dynamics change over time. Whether you are raising the next generation on a working farm, considering how to safely involve kids in daily chores or simply curious about farm family life, this episode offers thoughtful insights, practical perspectives and a few relatable moments along the way. University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination [https://extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination].

From Barns to Biotech: The IDEXX Story and the Power of Diagnostics with Rick Linscott

In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, Glenda and Colt sit down with Rick Linscott, a retired senior scientist from IDEXX Laboratories, based in Westbrook, Maine. Rick reflects on his 35-year career with the Maine-based diagnostics company, tracing its evolution from early livestock and poultry testing to its global work in companion animal, water quality and biomedical diagnostics. Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at how diagnostic tools are developed, why livestock testing remains critical despite representing a smaller share of the market, and how Maine has become a hub for biotech innovation. * Learn about IDEXX [https://www.idexx.com/en/] * Livestock SNAP tests [https://www.idexx.com/en/livestock/livestock-tests/ruminant-tests/idexx-pregnancy-tests/pregnancy-and-diagnostic-tests/] This episode was recorded at the 2026 Maine Agricultural Trades Show in Augusta, Maine. University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination [https://extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination].