- Dr. Jorge Barrientos Blanco: Strategies to Improve Feeding Accuracy in Dairy Farms | Ep. 157
Every productive dairy starts with the decisions farmers make each day. As we celebrate National Farmers Day this month, The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast welcomes Dr. Jorge Barrientos Blanco, Dairy Nutritionist at Progressive Dairy Solutions, to explain how feeding accuracy, forage sampling, mixer performance, feed delivery, and cow grouping help match nutrient supply with cow requirements. Celebrate the work behind efficient, sustainable, and profitable dairy production. Listen now on all major platforms!
Click here to read the full research articles:
Improving nutritional accuracy and economics through a multiple ration-grouping strategy
Partitioning of nutrient variation in alfalfa and corn silage by source on New York dairy farms
“Greater feeding accuracy improves dairy efficiency, supports economic and environmental sustainability, and strengthens profitability by reducing differences between nutrient requirements and actual nutrient supply.”
Meet the guest: Dr. Jorge Barrientos Blanco is a Dairy Nutritionist and Nutrition Consultant at Progressive Dairy Solutions, Inc. He earned a PhD in Dairy Science from Cornell University and a master’s degree in Dairy Science from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Learn more from Dr. Jorge Barrientos Blanco on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms.
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Dr. Eduardo Rico: Omega-3 & Inflammation Control | Ep. 128
Dr. Mike Van Amburgh: What is Limiting Milk Components? | Ep. 147
What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (01:56) Introduction
- (03:13) Feeding accuracy and precision
- (06:00) Forage variability
- (08:15) Sampling frequency
- (10:31) Mixer loading and delivery
- (15:11) Accuracy priorities
- (16:15) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Fortiva
* Barentz
* Kemin
* Adisseo
* Vetagro
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E157 - 15m - Oct 15, 2026 - Dr. Andres Contreras: Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation During Transition | Ep. 156
In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Andres Contreras, Professor at Michigan State University, explains how adipose tissue supports dairy cows during negative energy balance. He discusses omega-3 fatty acids, inflammation, insulin sensitivity, fatty acid mobilization, and the differences among fish, algae, and canola sources. Learn why selecting the right fatty acid source can help transition cows manage circulating fatty acids more efficiently. Listen now on all major platforms!
Click here to read the full research article!
“Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce adipose tissue inflammation while supporting mitochondrial function, creating important metabolic effects during the transition into early lactation.”
Meet the guest: Dr. Andres Contreras is Professor of Large Animal Clinical Sciences at Michigan State University. He earned his DVM from the National University of Colombia, followed by an MS and Ph.D. at Michigan State University and postdoctoral training at Wayne State University. His research focuses on adipose tissue metabolism, inflammation, and targeted fatty acid supplementation in dairy cows, with significant contributions to understanding metabolic adaptations during negative energy balance. Learn more from Dr. Contreras on the Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms.
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Dr. Eduardo Rico: Omega-3 & Inflammation Control | Ep. 128
Dr. Mike Van Amburgh: What is Limiting Milk Components? | Ep. 147
What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (02:26) Introduction
- (03:28) Adipose tissue function
- (04:58) Fatty acid supplementation
- (07:10) Omega-3 sources
- (08:30) Transition cow effects
- (10:59) Practical sources
- (12:10) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Fortiva
* Barentz
* Kemin
* Adisseo
* Vetagro
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E156 - 11m - Oct 8, 2026 - Dr. Alexander Hristov: Rumen Methanogenesis and Mitigation Options | Ep. 155
In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Alexander Hristov, Distinguished Professor of Dairy Nutrition at Penn State, discusses rumen methane formation and practical mitigation strategies for dairy cattle. He explains how fiber, starch, diet formulation, and feed additives influence hydrogen flow in the rumen, why production trade-offs matter, and why producers should evaluate methane-reduction claims through independent science. Listen now on all major platforms!
"Feed additives can produce the most practical methane reduction, but producers need to look at the science behind each product."
Meet the guest: Dr. Alexander Hristov is a Distinguished Professor of Dairy Nutrition in the Department of Animal Science at Penn State. He earned his Ph.D. in Animal Nutrition in Bulgaria and has worked with USDA-ARS, Ag Canada, the University of Idaho, and Penn State. His research focuses on dairy cattle protein and amino acid nutrition, nutrient losses, and gaseous emissions. He has given over 120 invited presentations and published over 230 books, book chapters, and peer-reviewed journal articles. Learn more from Dr. Alexander Hristov on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms.
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What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (02:12) Introduction
- (02:52) Methanogenesis
- (03:40) Feed effects
- (05:12) Starch trade-offs
- (07:12) Diet tools
- (08:23) Additive science
- (11:24) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Vetagro
* Fortiva
* Barentz
* Kemin
* Adisseo
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E155 - 10m - Oct 1, 2026 - Dr. Victoria Asselstine and Dr. Lance Baumgard: B Vitamins in Transition Cow Nutrition | Ep. 154
In this special roundtable episode of The Dairy Nutrition Black Belt Podcast, Dr. Victoria Asselstine, Ruminant Technical Team Manager at Jefo Nutrition, and Dr. Lance Baumgard, Distinguished Professor at Iowa State University, discuss transition cow health and challenge long-held assumptions about its management. They explore B vitamins, inflammation, ketones, subclinical hypocalcemia, feed intake, and stress management. Discover why the same metabolic marker can reflect either high production or hidden illness. Listen now on all major platforms!
“B vitamins support major pathways involving carbohydrate, lipid, and protein metabolism, making nutritional support especially relevant during substantial metabolic shifts around calving.”
Meet the guests:
Dr. Victoria Asselstine earned her Ph.D. in Animal Genetics and Immunology from the University of Guelph and serves as Ruminant Technical Service Manager at Jefo Nutrition. She collaborates with industry and academic partners to evaluate nutritional strategies supporting transition cow health, calf development, productivity, and sustainability.
Dr. Lance Baumgard is a Distinguished Professor and Norman L. Jacobson Endowed Professor in Dairy Nutrition at Iowa State University. His research focuses on nutritional and environmental physiology, including metabolism, inflammation, heat stress, nutrient partitioning, and transition cow biology. His work supports nutritional strategies for dairy cow health and performance.
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What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (02:17) Introduction
- (03:16) Transition cow dogmas
- (04:21) Targeted nutrition
- (06:17) Metabolic markers
- (08:55) Ketones and inflammation
- (12:17) Stress management
- (14:19) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E154 - 14m - Sep 24, 2026 - Megan Lauber: Semen Type and Farm Profitability | Ep. 153
In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Megan Lauber, Ph.D. Candidate at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, explains how reproductive performance shapes herd structure, milk flow, replacement needs, and farm profitability. She discusses insemination eligibility periods, sexed semen, beef semen, dairy-beef calf value, and the financial impact of improving 21-day pregnancy rate. Listen now on all major platforms!
Click here to read the full research article!
"Effective reproductive management shapes herd structure by influencing pregnancy status, milk production, replacement needs, and overall farm profitability across different stages of lactation."
Meet the guest: Megan Lauber is a PhD student in the Department of Animal and Dairy Science at the University of Wisconsin Madison. Her research focuses on dairy reproduction, herd structure, reproductive management, and decision-support models that improve profitability and support practical management decisions for modern dairy farms. Listen to Megan Lauber on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms.
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What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (01:56) Introduction
- (02:36) Herd structure
- (04:06) Eligibility period
- (05:26) Semen type returns
- (07:34) Model limits
- (09:56) Profitability gains
- (12:10) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Adisseo
* Vetagro
* Barentz
* Fortiva
* Kemin
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E153 - 11m - Sep 24, 2026 - Dr. Marcos Marcondes: Growth Models for Dairy Calves | Ep. 152
In this special rerun episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Marcos Marcondes from the William H. Miner Agricultural Research Institute discusses key insights into calf and heifer nutrition. He shares findings on feed intake modeling, pre- and post-weaning transitions, and how feeding strategies influence mammary gland development and long-term milk yield. Listen now on all major platforms!
"Adequate body weight alone does not guarantee future milk production; mammary development also needs time."
Meet the guest: Dr. Marcos Marcondes is a Dairy Research Scientist at the William H. Miner Agricultural Research Institute. He earned his M.S. and Ph.D. in Animal Science from the Federal University of Viçosa in Brazil and completed postdoctoral research at the University of Florida. His work focuses on feed evaluation, nutrient requirements, and methane mitigation in dairy cattle. Hear Dr. Marcos Marcondes on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms!
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What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (01:55) Introduction
- (03:31) Model accuracy
- (05:48) Starter intake bias
- (07:50) Feeding strategies
- (11:10) Mammary gland growth
- (12:55) Weaning transition
- (16:31) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Kemin
* Adisseo
* Vetagro
* Barentz
* Fortiva
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E152 - 16m - Sep 17, 2026 - Dr. Efstathios Sarmikasoglou: Feeding Potential of Short Corn Silage | Ep. 151
In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Efstathios Sarmikasoglou from Michigan State University explains how short-stature corn hybrids may affect dairy silage systems. He discusses plant morphology, fiber digestibility, cow intake, milk yield, methane emissions, and field yield considerations for producers evaluating this emerging forage option. Listen now on all major platforms!
Click here to read the full research article!
"Short stature corn hybrids provide an alternative genetic approach that improves plant architecture while maintaining characteristics important for forage production and dairy nutrition."
Meet the guest: Dr. Efstathios Sarmikasoglou is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Michigan State University. He earned a Ph.D. in Animal Science from the University of Florida and a B.S. in Animal Sciences from the Agricultural University of Athens, in Greece. His work includes dairy cattle nutrition, ruminal fermentation, and research on short-stature corn. Learn more from Dr. Efstathios Sarmikasoglou on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms.
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What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (01:50) Introduction
- (02:46) Short stature corn
- (04:49) Nutritional value
- (07:08) Cow performance
- (09:04) Fiber levels
- (10:37) Yield potential
- (14:50) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Barentz
* Fortiva
* Kemin
* Adisseo
* Vetagro
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E151 - 13m - Sep 10, 2026 - Dr. Joseph McFadden: Methyl Donor Nutrition for Dairy Cattle | Ep. 150
In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Joseph McFadden from Cornell University explains how methyl donors support transition cow nutrition. He discusses methionine, choline, omega-3 fatty acids, bioavailability, oxidative stress, and liver function, and examines why nutrient interactions matter beyond individual supplementation strategies. Listen now on all major platforms!
"You feed a methyl donor like methionine or choline, and you think everything is going to be great in terms of liver health. But if you’re missing another key component, like omega-3 fatty acids, then you can limit the expected metabolic response."
Meet the guest: Dr. Joseph McFadden is Professor of Dairy Cattle Biology at Cornell University, where he also serves as a Northeast Agribusiness & Feed Alliance and Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability Faculty Fellow. He is the Founder and CEO of NuParadym, Inc. His career combines dairy cattle biology, nutrition, metabolism, sustainability, and industry innovation. Listen to Dr. Joseph McFadden on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms.
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Dr. Richard Paratte: Lysine and Milk Production | Ep. 133
Dr. Susanna Räisänen: Histidine and New Amino Acid Trends | Ep. 141
What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (01:57) Introduction
- (02:27) Transition cow metabolism
- (04:16) Methyl donor interactions
- (06:31) Choline and methionine
- (08:16) Nutrient bioavailability
- (09:03) Research findings
- (10:33) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Vetagro
* Barentz
* Fortiva
* Kemin
* Adisseo
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E150 - 9m - Sep 3, 2026 - Dr. Clarissa Strieder-Barboza: Adipose Tissue Biology in Transition Cows | Ep. 149
In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Clarissa Strieder-Barboza, Assistant Professor of Veterinary Sciences at Texas Tech University, explains how adipose tissue influences metabolic adaptation, inflammation, ketosis risk, and transition cow performance. She discusses emerging research on adipose tissue remodeling, cellular specialization, and biomarkers that may improve health and productivity during early lactation. Listen now on all major platforms!
"Adipose tissue from cows with subclinical ketosis can be metabolically different before clinical signs appear."
Meet the guest: Dr. Clarissa Strieder-Barboza is an Assistant Professor of Veterinary Sciences at Texas Tech University. Her research focuses on adipose tissue biology, immunometabolism, metabolic disease, and transition cow physiology. She investigates how adipose tissue remodeling, inflammation, and metabolic adaptation affect dairy cattle health and productivity. Hear more from Dr. Strieder-Barboza on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms.
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What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (02:12) Introduction
- (02:50) Adipose importance
- (05:12) Ketosis regulation
- (08:17) Sequencing tools
- (10:53) Cell subtypes
- (11:46) Metabolic resilience
- (15:12) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Barentz
* Adisseo
* Vetagro
* Kemin
* Fortiva
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E149 - 14m - Aug 27, 2026 - Ben Moitoso: Water Quality and Herd Health | Ep. 148
In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Ben Moitoso, Dairy Solutions Specialist supporting customers through Veterinary Service Inc., discusses why water quality deserves more attention in dairy systems. He explains how storage tanks, older pipelines, trough contamination, biofilm, and bacterial loads can affect herd health, and how chlorine dioxide can help sanitize water lines, reduce pathogen pressure, and support better somatic cell outcomes. Listen now on all major platforms!
"When animals drink contaminated water, somatic cell counts can rise, and cleaner water can help bring them back down."
Meet the guest: Ben Moitoso serves as a Dairy Solutions Specialist supporting customers through Veterinary Service Inc. (VSI), a leading distributor of animal health products. He works closely with Kemin and dairy producers to evaluate on-farm challenges and implement practical, results-driven solutions, particularly in water quality, disinfection, and pathogen control. Learn more from Ben Moitoso on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms.
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Dr. José Eduardo Santos: Choline & Dairy Cows - Part 1 | Ep. 106
Dr. José Eduardo Santos: Rumen-Protected Choline - Part 2 | Ep. 107
Dr. Frank Mitloehner: Nitrogen Excretion & Amino Acid Balancing | Ep. 111
What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (01:55) Introduction
- (02:48) Water challenges
- (05:10) Chlorine dioxide
- (07:37) Somatic cell counts
- (09:50) Herd impact
- (12:53) Farm installation
- (16:44) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Kemin
* Fortiva
* Barentz
* Adisseo
* Vetagro
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E148 - 16m - Aug 20, 2026 - Dr. Mike Van Amburgh: What is Limiting Milk Components? | Ep. 147
In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Mike Van Amburgh, Professor at Cornell University, explores what truly limits milk components in modern dairy cows. He discusses the roles of amino acids and fatty acids in milk fat synthesis, the biological factors contributing to increasing milk fat levels, and the nutritional considerations affecting milk protein production. Listen now on all major platforms.
"The way requirements are evaluated needs to move beyond net nitrogen and consider the metabolic machinery needed to make milk fat and protein."
Meet the guest: Dr. Mike Van Amburgh is a Professor at Cornell University with long-standing expertise in dairy cattle nutrition, animal science, and the Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System. He earned his Ph.D. in Animal Science from Cornell University and his B.S. in Dairy Science from The Ohio State University. Hear more from Dr. Mike Van Amburgh on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms.
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Victoria Ramos: Fatty Acids in Dairy Cow Diets | Ep. 103
Dr. Eduardo Rico: Omega-3 & Inflammation Control | Ep. 128
What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (01:47) Introduction
- (02:27) Milk fat gains
- (03:47) Amino acid responses
- (05:20) Fat synthesis
- (07:08) Enzyme requirements
- (10:30) Protein response
- (13:22) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Vetagro
* Barentz
* Fortiva
* Kemin
* Adisseo
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E147 - 12m - Aug 13, 2026 - Dr. Tadeu Silva: CalfSim and Smarter Calf Nutrition | Ep. 146
In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Tadeu Silva, Postdoctoral Research Associate at the University of Vermont, discusses CalfSim, a tool designed to help dairy professionals create and evaluate calf milk feeding programs. He explains the science behind the model, its practical applications, current limitations, and future opportunities using farm data and predictive technologies. Listen now on all major platforms!
Click here to read the full research article!
"Disease, environment, and daily farm practices can explain gaps between model predictions and field results."
Meet the guest: Dr. Tadeu Silva is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Vermont with extensive experience in ruminant nutrition. He earned his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. from the Federal University of Viçosa in Brazil and previously worked with Cargill Animal Nutrition. His work focuses on nutrition models, calf performance, and practical tools that support dairy management decisions. Listen to Dr. Tadeu Silva on the Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms.
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What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (02:03) Introduction
- (02:37) CalfSim basics
- (05:21) Model foundations
- (07:04) Farm variation
- (08:53) Tool limitations
- (10:26) Future models
- (11:55) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Adisseo
* Vetagro
* Barentz
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* Kemin
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E146 - 11m - Aug 6, 2026 - Dr. Pedro Melendez: Abdominal Adiposity in Dairy Cows | Ep. 145
In this special rerun episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Pedro Melendez, Clinical Full Professor at City University of Hong Kong, explains how abdominal adiposity and hypocalcemia affect transition cow health. He discusses genetic links to internal fat, risks of metabolic disease, urine pH monitoring, anionic diets, and the use of calcium boluses for older cows. Listen now on all major platforms!
"Excess abdominal adiposity can trigger lipolysis, inflammation, mastitis, ketosis, and fatty liver while reflecting an important genetic component."
Meet the guest: Dr. Pedro Melendez is a Clinical Full Professor in Bovine Production Medicine at City University of Hong Kong. He earned his DVM from the University of Chile and his MS and PhD from the University of Florida, with work focused on dairy production medicine, nutritional management, and metabolic disease. Learn more from Dr. Pedro Melendez on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms.
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What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (01:44) Introduction
- (02:14) Guest background
- (03:30) Abdominal adiposity risks
- (06:41) Genetic factors role
- (08:14) Preventing hypocalcemia
- (10:49) Calcium bolus use
- (12:08) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Fortiva
* Adisseo
* Vetagro
* Barentz
* Kemin
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E145 - 11m - Jul 30, 2026 - Dr. James Spain: Thermal Balance for Dairy Cattle - Part 2 | Ep. 144
In this special episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. James Spain, Professor at the University of Missouri, continues to discuss practical strategies for managing heat stress in dairy cattle as summer temperatures approach. He explains the importance of ventilation, airflow, cow behavior, rumination monitoring, and thermal balance in maintaining feed intake, milk production, and reproductive performance during hot weather. Prepare your operation for summer and listen now on all major platforms!
"Changes in rumination patterns provide early indicators of thermal stress before visible production losses emerge."
Meet the guest: Dr. James Spain earned his PhD in Animal Sciences from Virginia Tech and his BS in Animal Sciences from North Carolina State University. As a Professor at the University of Missouri, his work has focused on dairy cattle management, environmental challenges, and production efficiency. Learn more from Dr. James Spain on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms.
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What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (02:01) Introduction
- (03:48) Heat stress management
- (05:17) Barn ventilation strategies
- (06:17) Cow cooling systems
- (07:09) Rumination monitoring
- (10:08) Thermal balance indicators
- (10:54) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Kemin
* Fortiva
* Adisseo
* Vetagro
* Barentz
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E144 - 8m - Jul 23, 2026 - Dr. James Spain: Heat Stress and Modern Dairy Cows - Part 1 | Ep. 143
In this special episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. James Spain, Professor at the University of Missouri, discusses how increasing milk production has intensified heat stress challenges in modern dairy cows. With warmer months placing additional pressure on herd performance, he explains the effects on feed intake, milk production, thermal balance, and cooling strategies, highlighting why cow-centered temperature management may improve performance and efficiency. Listen now on all major platforms!
"The thermometer we should be using to run our cooling systems is not measuring air temperature; it really should be based on cow temperature."
Meet the guest: Dr. James Spain earned his PhD in Animal Sciences from Virginia Tech and his BS in Animal Sciences from North Carolina State University. As a Professor at the University of Missouri, his work has focused on dairy cattle management, environmental challenges, and production efficiency. Learn more from Dr. James Spain on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms.
Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!
What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (01:43) Introduction
- (02:43) Heat stress challenges
- (04:06) Internal heat production
- (05:44) Cow-centered cooling
- (08:10) Thermal balance indicators
- (08:56) Nighttime cooling benefits
- (11:30) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Kemin
* Fortiva
* Adisseo
* Vetagro
* Barentz
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E143 - 10m - Jul 16, 2026 - Dr. Dwain Bunting: Summer Humidity and Mineral Stability | Ep. 142
In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Dwain Bunting from Barentz Animal Nutrition North America discusses how summer humidity affects the stability of potassium carbonate, mineral buffers, and dairy concentrate mixes. He explains ingredient reactivity, moisture risks, formulation considerations, and practical strategies to improve mix stability during periods of hot, humid weather. Listen now on all major platforms!
"Summer humidity raises the reactivity of potassium carbonate and mineral buffers, making chemical stability a serious concern inside dairy concentrate mixtures during the hottest months."
Meet the guest: Dr. Dwain Bunting is a ruminant nutritionist with more than 27 years of industry and academic experience across dairy and beef systems. He holds a PhD in Nutrition and Biochemistry and has worked in research, teaching, product development, and global technical support roles. Currently serving as a Technical Service Dairy Nutritionist at Barentz Animal Nutrition North America, he focuses on applied dairy nutrition and formulation strategies. Listen to Dr. Dwain Bunting on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms.
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Dr. Dwain Bunting: DCAD And Palatability | Ep. 121
Dr. Frank Delfino: Potassium Strategies & Heat Stress | Ep. 132
What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (01:42) Introduction
- (02:17) Summer humidity
- (04:24) Mineral risks
- (06:26) Potassium buffers
- (07:41) Moisture control
- (08:42) Summer caution
- (09:32) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Barentz
* Adisseo
* Fortiva
* Kemin
* Vetagro
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E142 - 8m - Jul 9, 2026 - Dr. Susanna Räisänen: Histidine and New Amino Acid Trends | Ep. 141
In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Susanna Räisänen, Assistant Professor at Aarhus University, discusses the growing importance of histidine in dairy cow nutrition. She explains how lower-protein diets affect amino acid balance, the role of microbial protein, and the challenges of improving nitrogen utilization while maintaining milk production. Learn how histidine may shape future dairy nutrition strategies. Listen now on all major platforms!
"In a meta-analysis compiling all histidine studies, histidine supplementation increased dry matter intake and increased milk protein, milk yield, and energy-corrected milk yield."
Meet the guest: Dr. Susanna Räisänen is an Assistant Professor at Aarhus University specializing in nitrogen utilization in lactating dairy cows. She earned her B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Animal Science from SLU in Sweden and completed her Ph.D. at Penn State University. Her research focuses on amino acid nutrition, protein efficiency, and sustainable dairy production. Listen to Dr. Susanna Räisänen on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms.
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Dr. Sonia Rodríguez: Improving Milk Production with Gut Health Strategies | Ep. 125
Dr. Lance Baumgard: Stress Impact on Gut Health | Ep. 130
Dr. Richard Paratte: Lysine and Milk Production | Ep. 133
What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (01:41) Introduction
- (03:31) Histidine interest
- (06:08) Low-protein diets
- (07:31) Supplementation responses
- (08:28) Feed sources
- (09:46) Practical limits
- (14:38) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Vetagro
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* Fortiva
* Barentz
* Kemin
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E141 - 14m - Jul 2, 2026 - Dr. Massimo Bionaz: Nutrigenomics in Dairy Cows | Ep. 140
In this special rerun episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Massimo Bionaz from Oregon State University explains how nutrigenomics can support dairy cow performance. He details how bioactive compounds can regulate gene expression to reduce inflammation, improve transition periods, and support metabolic balance. Understand the science behind transcription factors and fatty acid interactions. Listen now on all major platforms!
Click here to read the full research articles:
Nutrigenomics in dairy cows: Nutrients, transcription factors, and techniques
Advances in fatty acids nutrition in dairy cows: from gut to cells and effects on performance
"Nutrigenomics is trying to exploit bioactive compounds in the feed that interact with the genome."
Meet the guest: Dr. Massimo Bionaz is an Associate Professor at Oregon State University. His research focuses on nutrigenomics, milk and human health, dairy cow welfare, systems biology, and hemp byproducts as livestock feed. He earned his Ph.D. in Dairy Husbandry and Production from the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Italy, where he studied liver function and inflammation in dairy cows. Learn more from Dr. Massimo Bionaz on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms.
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What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (01:48) Introduction
- (04:52) What is nutrigenomics
- (06:28) Transcription factors explained
- (08:40) Fatty acids and health
- (09:53) Inflammation during transition
- (12:10) Benefits for producers
- (15:21) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
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* Vetagro
* Fortiva
* Barentz
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
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S2E140 - 14m - Jun 25, 2026 - Dr. Alexandre Pedroso: Nutrition And Cow Comfort Strategies - Part 2 | Ep. 139
In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, celebrating National Dairy Month, Dr. Alexandre Pedroso, dairy specialist and senior consultant at Plenteous Consultoria, continues the discussion on how animal welfare shapes dairy cattle nutrition, herd health, and production efficiency. He explores the impact of heat stress, cow comfort, lying time, feed intake, and labor challenges on modern dairy systems, while sharing practical strategies to support sustainability and long-term herd performance. Listen now on all major platforms!
"Cow comfort, nutrition, hygiene, and environmental management together establish the essential conditions required for maintaining strong herd health and sustainable dairy production."
Meet the guest: Dr. Alexandre Pedroso earned his Ph.D. in Animal Science from ESALQ USP in Brazil and has decades of experience in dairy cattle nutrition, animal welfare, and feed management. As founder of Plenteous Consultoria and a CowSignals expert, his work focuses on improving dairy farm efficiency, sustainability, and herd performance through better nutrition and cow comfort. Learn more from Dr. Alexandre Pedroso on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms!
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What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (01:38) Introduction
- (02:05) Welfare and nutrition
- (02:31) Heat stress impact
- (03:25) Cow comfort
- (03:53) Nutrition and immunity
- (05:52) Labor challenges
- (08:15) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Barentz
* Vetagro
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* Adisseo
* Fortiva
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
Website: The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast
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S2E139 - 7m - Jun 18, 2026 - Dr. Alexandre Pedroso: Cow Longevity and Production Efficiency - Part 1 | Ep. 138
In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, celebrating National Dairy Month, Dr. Alexandre Pedroso, dairy specialist and senior consultant at Plenteous Consultoria, discusses how productive longevity, animal welfare, and CowSignals principles support more sustainable and efficient dairy production. He explains how cow health, comfort, and management practices directly impact milk production, farm profitability, and the future of the dairy industry. Discover practical strategies shaping modern dairy systems. Listen now on all major platforms!
"Longevity itself is not a good indicator of welfare or efficiency. Productive longevity depends on cows remaining healthy, comfortable, well-fed, and able to perform across multiple lactations."
Meet the guest: Dr. Alexandre Pedroso earned his Ph.D. in Animal Science from ESALQ USP in Brazil and has decades of experience in dairy cattle nutrition, animal welfare, and feed management. As founder of Plenteous Consultoria and a CowSignals expert, his work focuses on improving dairy farm efficiency, sustainability, and herd performance through better nutrition and cow comfort. Learn more from Dr. Alexandre Pedroso on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms!
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What will you learn:
- (00:00) Highlight
- (01:39) Introduction
- (01:59) Guest background
- (02:46) Productive longevity
- (05:19) Welfare and nutrition
- (05:55) CowSignals mindset
- (09:32) Cow health
- (11:52) Closing thoughts
The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:
* Barentz
* Vetagro
* Kemin
* Adisseo
* Fortiva
𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.
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S2E138 - 11m - Jun 11, 2026
