Advertise on podcast: Holstein Connections

From gliding around the colored shavings with a favorite Registered Holstein to competing in Dairy Bowl at National Holstein Convention, involvement in Junior Holstein activities has been a shared passion for brothers Jacob and Logan Harbaugh.  They recently wrapped up a very successful World Dairy Expo, competing in the Dairy Judging Contest, Youth Showmanship Competition, and the show. While their success at World Dairy Expo was a highlight, it represents just one of many experiences that have shaped them over the years. In this episode, they share about the lessons learned and friends and mentors gained through their Junior Holstein involvement.  Become a Junior Holstein member: https://www.juniorholstein.com/ Sign up for the Holstein Insider email newsletter: https://holsteinusa.jotform.com/253645344326963

As dairy farms increasingly rely on advanced technologies and data-driven decision-making, the industry needs individuals who can connect agriculture, technology, and analytics to solve complex challenges. The Dairy Data Academy was created with this in mind.  In this episode, Dr. Jeffrey Bewley, Executive Director of Genetics and Innovation at Holstein Association USA, and Jodi Hoynoski, Holstein Foundation Programs Director, discuss where the idea for the Dairy Data Academy came from and what participants can expect from the program.  Applications for the inaugural Dairy Data Academy, being held August 2-5, 2027 at the WKU SmartHolstein Lab, close December 1st.  Learn more or apply for the Dairy Data Academy: https://www.holsteinfoundation.org/data-academy Learn more or apply for an internship opportunity with Holstein Association USA or the Holstein Foundation: https://www.holsteinfoundation.org/internships

In this episode, we caught up with Junior Holstein member Justin Brandel of Lake Mills, Wisconsin. He’s had an unforgettable World Dairy Expo, winning Intermediate Youth Showmanship and going on to be named the Annette Ostrom Memorial Supreme Showman. Justin discusses the mentors and opportunities that helped grow his showmanship skills, what he does to prepare at home, and the little things that take your showmanship to the next level. He reflects on his journey as a Junior Holstein member, highlighting how participation in Junior Holstein programs have helped him build both responsibility and community.   To learn more about the Junior Holstein Association or become a member, visit: https://www.juniorholstein.com/  To learn more or apply for the Virtual Interview Contest, visit: https://www.juniorholstein.com/virtual-interview

How can classification data help improve your herd beyond the final score? Tim  Abrahamson, Senior Manager of Conformation Evaluation at Holstein Association USA, explains how breeders can use linear trait information to identify trends, guide breeding decisions, and enhance herd performance. He also shares insights on classification consistency, characteristics of successful herds, current Holstein trends, expanded services for other dairy breeds, and recent updates to how front-end capacity is evaluated.Learn more about classification or sign up today here.

Panelists Craig Carncross of Wargo Acres, Cuyler Johnson of Godfrey Dairy, and Ashley Swenson of Forest Lawn Holsteins explore strategies they use on their own farms to accelerate the genetic progress of their herds. Throughout the conversation, they gave timely insights on topics like milk components, longevity, and beef on dairy. Moderator Corey Geiger asks the panelists to reflect on how genomics and technology have helped shape their herds' genetic progress. This presentation was recorded during the Holstein Horizons Educational Speaker sessions at the 2026 National Holstein Convention. To watch all recorded Holstein Horizons presentations, visit our YouTube Channel.

In this episode, we hear from newly elected Holstein Association USA President Dwight Rokey of Rokeyroad Holsteins in Sabetha, Kansas. Dwight shares how a childhood visit to a Wisconsin dairy sparked his dream and how he and his wife Anita got their start in dairy farming. He describes their current 100-cow herd and the family-run creamery launched about a year ago. The Kansas Holstein Association member also reflects on his path from his local association to the Holstein Association USA Board of Directors. Dwight shares his priorities to serve members and innovate for the future during his time as President.  Learn more about the Virtual Interview contest: https://www.juniorholstein.com/virtual-interview

In this episode of Holstein Connections, Distinguished Leadership Award recipient Corey Geiger reflects on his journey growing up on a Wisconsin dairy farm to his career in the dairy industry. Corey shares stories of his family's Ranrose prefix, mentors who helped him along the way, aspirations as a young dairy enthusiast, service on the Holstein Association USA Board of Directors, and his career path. Along the way, he offers valuable insights on leadership, lifelong learning, and the opportunities the Holstein community offers. Sign up for the Holstein Insider email newsletter here: https://holsteinusa.jotform.com/253645344326963

Dairy producers are often inundated with technology promises that demand capital investments – yet some of the most impactful management tools require surprisingly modest commitments. In this episode, Dr. Jeffrey Bewley shares a practical framework for evaluating technology readiness, cost-benefit potential, and implementation strategies tailored to operations of varying size.  This presentation was recorded during the Holstein Horizons Educational Speaker sessions at the 2026 National Holstein Convention. To watch all recorded Holstein Horizons presentations, visit our YouTube channel.

What started as an FFA and Junior Holstein project has grown into a multi-generational dairy known around the world. Join 2026 Elite Breeder honorees Jeff and Kate Hendrickson of Jeffrey-Way Holsteins as they reflect on the cows, people, and values that shaped their success. From the influential Taffy cow family to their breeding goals and community involvement, Jeff and Kate tell the story of their farm and family over the years.

In this special episode, we share the 2026 Annual Meeting addresses from the National Holstein Convention. As the Association marks its 140th Annual Meeting, these remarks reflect on 2025 progress, recognize the people and cows at the heart of the organization, and look ahead. Hear from President John Burket in his final address and CEO Lindsey Worden with an update on priorities and momentum shaping the future. Watch more Convention coverage: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOcwUbANr1pFWlDym70NPQ52QCMcPaEXx&si=y0Sek027jdmASgXC

In this special National Dairy Month episode of Holstein Connections, Lolly Lesher, Way-Har Farms and chair of the National Dairy Board, and Katie Bambacht, Vice President of nutrition affairs for the National Dairy Council, share their insights on whole milk in schools. Lolly shares about her family’s multigenerational Registered Holstein farm and why telling the dairy story is important to her. Katie outlines how the Dairy Checkoff supports schools through research, education, innovation, and collaboration. They discuss the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025, the USDA’s final rule to expand milk options in child nutrition programs, early success stories, and more. This episode is brought to you in partnership with Dairy Management Inc. Find resources mentioned in the show notes: USDairy.comSmart-Swaps.comVisit dairycheckoff.com to learn more about how their investment is growing sales and building trust in dairy.

Hear from Holstein Association USA’s 2026 Distinguished Young Holstein Breeder, Curtis Vanden Berge. Growing up on his family’s California dairy, Curtis developed an early passion for breeding better cows. By focusing on genetic progress and continuous improvement, he has developed a high-performing herd. In this conversation, Curtis explains how he uses genetic tools and programs from Holstein Association USA to guide his herd forward.  Sign up for the Holstein Insider email newsletter here: holsteinusa.jotform.com/253645344326963

Get ready for Holstein Horizons! In this episode, Jodi Hoynoski shares what to expect from this year’s educational sessions at the 2026 National Holstein Convention in Orlando, Florida. Taking place Tuesday, June 23, Holstein Horizons offers a full day of learning designed to bring real value back to your farm or career. Centered around the theme Small Investments, Big Returns, attendees will gain practical tools, fresh perspectives, and timely insights. This event sets the stage for the Annual Business Meeting and National Convention Sale that evening—and is open to both adults and youth looking to learn, connect, and grow within the industry. Tune in for a preview of the schedule, featured speakers, and what you won’t want to miss. Learn more at https://www.holsteinconvention.com/holsteinhorizons.

The Holstein Conformation Composite (HCC) is a new selection tool designed to help breeders identify animals with the combination of conformation traits most closely associated with balance, functionality, and long-term durability. Directors Dwight Rokey and Jeff King share their perspectives as Holstein breeders who have both served on the Conformation Advisory Committee. They are joined by Holstein Association USA's Dr. Jeffrey Bewley and Dr. Jason Graham, who explain how they combined extensive conformation and performance data and breeder insights to design HCC.  Learn more about the Million Reasons Why Conformation Matters study: www.holsteinusa.com/typematters Learn more about Holstein Association USA Committees: www.holsteinusa.com/association/committees.html

The highest honor presented to a Registered Holstein, the Star of the Breed award recognizes a cow who excels in both type and production. Receiving the 2025 recognition from Holstein Association USA is Oakfield Solomon Sunset-ET EX-96 2E. Hear Sunset's story from the perspective of her breeders and owners, Jonathan and Alicia Lamb, of Oakfield Corners Dairy in New York, along with Jamie Black, Show Herd Manager who cares for Sunset daily.