AK Podcast

In this episode, Mike Donaldson discuss the critical importance of cow comfort in dairy farming with expert Chris Keane from Promat (www.promatinc.com/). They explore the design and management of dairy barns, the impact of cow comfort on milk production, and innovative solutions for improving cow welfare. Chris shares real-life success stories and emphasizes the need for proper barn design to ensu...

In this episode, Mike Donaldson discusses the importance of goal setting with Shawn Mennenga, who shares his unique perspective on achieving goals through S.M.A.R.T. criteria and the impact of daily habits. They explore the role of coaching, the significance of neutral thinking in overcoming setbacks, and the mindset required for success. Shawn provides practical examples from sports and agricultu...

In this conversation, Mike and Parker Snider delve into the intricacies of robotic milking systems, discussing the differences between free flow and controlled flow setups, the challenges and considerations of retrofitting existing barns versus new constructions, and the importance of cow comfort and data utilization in managing robotic systems. They also explore feeding strategies and the future...

  In this episode, Mike Donaldson discusses the critical issue of heat stress in dairy cows with expert Don Sanders. They explore the signs of heat stress, effective cooling strategies, and the importance of adjusting rations to ensure cow health and productivity during the hot summer months. The conversation emphasizes the long-term impacts of heat stress on dairy cows and their offspring, highli...

In this episode, Mike Donaldson discusses the advancements in robotic milking technology with Parker Snider from Agri-King. They explore the evolution of robotic milking, its adoption trends in the U.S., and the benefits of automation in dairy farming. Parker shares insights on how robotic systems can improve cow management and the importance of data in making informed decisions. The conversation...

In this episode of AK Podcasts, Mike Donaldson engages with Brett Mortenson, a Regional Manager at Agri-King, to discuss the intricacies of commercial hay growing. They explore the evolution of hay production, the dynamics of the export market, and the innovative Silo-King Hay product that enhances hay quality. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by hay producers, the importance of q...

In this episode, Mike Donaldson discusses the importance of effective forage management with Jason Alsum, Agri-King's Director of Silo King. They explore the significance of corn silage, the need for proper planning and equipment readiness, and the impact of timing and quality on forage harvesting. Jason emphasizes the importance of digestibility in feed and how it directly affects dairy prof...

In this episode, Mike Donaldson discusses the challenges of managing flies and worms in livestock care with Dr. Adrian Baker. They explore the economic impact of these pests, effective deworming strategies, and the importance of pasture management. The conversation also covers innovative fly control methods, the significance of maintaining a clean environment, and the necessity of consistent treat...

In this episode of AK Podcasts, Mike Donaldson discuss the critical role of fats in dairy cattle nutrition with Dr. Dave Jones. They explore the significance of fats as a concentrated energy source, the differences between bypass and non-bypass fats, and the innovative use of Plenish soybeans in enhancing milk fat production. The conversation also delves into the impact of enzymes on fat digestion...

In this episode of the AK Podcast, Mike Donaldson and Grace Thomas discuss the intricacies of ruminant nutrition, focusing on the role of carbohydrates in livestock diets. Grace, an Agri-King Nutritionist from the UK, joins Mike to explore how different carbohydrate sources—such as grains and forages—impact animal health and diet balancing. Their conversation delves into the importance of processi...

In this episode of the AK Podcast, Mike Donaldson and Dr. Dan Schauff discuss the critical role of nutrition in livestock management, focusing on the importance of energy and fiber in ruminant diets. They elaborate on the energy needs of dairy cows, the significance of fiber, and the impact of forage quality on overall animal health and production. The conversation also touches on non-forage fiber...

In this episode of the AK Podcast, host Mike Donaldson is joined by Dr. Luke Koester and Dr. Adrian Baker from Agri-King to explore the fascinating world of ruminants. They discuss the unique digestive system of ruminants, including the four compartments of their stomach, the crucial role of microbes in digestion, and the importance of forage quality. The conversation also touches on the innovativ...

In this episode of the AK Podcast, Mike Donaldson discuss the current state of avian influenza, particularly the H5N1 strain affecting cattle, with expert Dr. Marcus Kehrli. The conversation covers Dr. Kehrli's extensive background in animal health, the history and evolution of avian influenza, its implications for cattle health, and the importance of biosecurity measures for dairy farmers. T...

In this episode of the AK Podcast, Mike Donaldson is again with Don Sanders to discuss the critical aspects of improving component efficiency in dairy farming. They explore the importance of cow comfort, forage quality, and genetics, emphasizing how these factors contribute to better milk production and profitability. The conversation also delves into the significance of soil health and the role o...

In this episode of the AK Podcast, Mike Donaldson and Don Sanders delve into the evolving metrics of dairy farming, focusing on the importance of feed efficiency and component efficiency. They discuss the significant shift in the dairy market, where the demand for milk components like butterfat and protein has become more critical than the volume of milk produced. The conversation highlights the e...

In this episode of the AK podcast, Chris Radke and Mike Donaldson discuss the often-overlooked importance of water in livestock nutrition with Dr. Dave Jones. They explore various aspects of water management, including daily practices, the significance of water temperature, quality issues, and the impact of pH and minerals. The conversation emphasizes the need for regular water testing and monitor...

In this episode of the AK Podcast, Mike Donaldson and guest Dr. James Coomer discuss the increasing concern over toxins, specifically mycotoxins, in livestock nutrition. They explore the sources of these toxins, their impact on animal health, and the importance of testing for their presence in feed. Dr. Coomer shares insights on the symptoms of toxin exposure in livestock, the differences in toxin...

In this episode, we chat with Jason Alsum, a member of Agri-King's Sales Management Team and Director of Silo-King Business.  Jason shares insights on the 2024 forage year and offers a glimpse into what's ahead for 2025.   🎙️ AK Podcast Insights 🔍 Exploring the latest in livestock nutrition, science and beyond with the best and the brightest in the business.  Brought to you by Agri-King...