Dairy Good Dawgs

In this episode of The Dairy Good Dawgs, host Sophie Dupont is joined by Cristy Christie, founder and former owner of Black Diamond Vermicompost on California’s Central Coast. They explore the science behind vermicomposting, from the partnership between worms and microbes to the critical role of pre-composting dairy solids. Cristy discusses how this process can transform manure into a biologically active soil amendment while supporting soil health, crop production, and nutrient availability. She also shares what it takes to successfully manage a commercial system, including proper feedstock preparation, environmental control, system design, and business planning. Throughout the conversation, Cristy highlights the opportunities for collaboration between dairy producers and vermicomposters, creating new possibilities for manure management, agricultural research, and locally produced soil amendments. From understanding the biology beneath our feet to building a scalable vermicomposting operation, this episode offers a fascinating look at how worms can help turn dairy solids into a valuable agricultural resource.

In this episode of The Dairy Good Dawgs, co-hosts Dr. Jillian Bohlen and Sophie Dupont are joined by Dr. Jason Lombard, veterinarian, veterinary epidemiologist, and Dairy Systems Specialist at Colorado State University. Dr. Lombard shares his unique perspective from years of dairy practice, national animal health research, and his current work studying highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in dairy cattle. Together, they discuss disease transmission, farm-specific biosecurity planning, and the practical challenges producers face when implementing prevention strategies. They also explore common misconceptions surrounding biosecurity, lessons learned from recent disease outbreaks, and why preparedness starts long before an outbreak occurs. Whether you're a producer, veterinarian, student, or industry professional, this episode offers practical insights into protecting herd health, improving disease preparedness, and building more resilient dairy operations.

In this episode of Dairy Good Dawgs, host Sophie Dupont sat down with Farrah Newberry, the CEO of the Dairy Alliance, to discuss the organization's role in supporting dairy farmers across the Southeast and strengthening consumer confidence in dairy. Farrah shares her journey to becoming CEO and offers insight into the Dairy Alliance's mission, from nutrition education to consumer outreach and farmer promotion. We also explored how the dairy industry is evolving, the importance of effective communication, and the opportunities ahead for producers and dairy advocates alike. Whether you're involved in the dairy industry or simply interested in where your food comes from, this conversation provides a behind-the-scenes look at the people and programs working to advance dairy every day.
 

In this episode of Dairy Good Dawgs, hosts Dr. Jillian Bohlen and Sophie Dupont sit down with Jing Gao, a Ph.D. student in the Animal and Dairy Science Department at the University of Georgia. Jing shares her journey into dairy science, what led her to pursue graduate school, and the research she is conducting as part of her doctoral program. We also discuss some of the most interesting lessons she has learned along the way, the challenges and rewards of graduate school, and her goals as she prepares for the next step in her career. Join us for a conversation highlighting the people and passion behind the research helping shape the future of the dairy industry.

In this episode of Dairy Good Dawgs, host Sophie Dupont sits down with Greg Kowalewski, manager of Aurora-Oakwood Dairy, to discuss how Nedap SmartSight camera technology is transforming hoof health monitoring and on-farm decision-making. Greg highlights how integrating data-driven tools with practical management strategies can enhance operational efficiency, improve labor utilization, and elevate animal care. He also shares his perspective on the evolving role of technology in dairy production, including the advancement of artificial intelligence and the potential shift away from reliance on wearable devices.

In this episode of Dairy Good Dawgs, co-hosts Sophie Dupont and Dr. Jillian Bohlen sit down with Ken McCarty, co-owner of McCarty Family Farms, a fourth-generation dairy farming operation. Ken shares the history of his family’s farms, discusses the role technology plays in their operation, and explains how sustainability practices can be implemented with support to remain economical. He also offers insight into how innovation continues to shape the future of their farm and the dairy industry as a whole. This episode provides an experienced-based perspective on balancing technological innovation with mindful, long-term sustainability in today's industry.

Dairy Good Dawgs co-hosts Dr. Jillian Bohlen and Sophie Dupont sat down with Animal and Dairy Science senior Kayleigh Smith to share how she found community and purpose in the University of Georgia dairy program. From student activities and competitions to defining her career path, Kayleigh reflects on the experiences that shaped her college journey. She also offers thoughtful advice for incoming students about stepping outside your comfort zone, saying yes to opportunities, and discovering your place in dairy.

Dairy Good Dawgs host Sophie Dupont sits down with Jacqi Coleman and Bridgett Hilshey from Dairy Management Inc. to dig into how DMI is supporting dairy farmers today—and preparing for what’s next. This episode explores their roles at DMI, the visions and intentions behind DMI's Dairy Navigator Platform, and upcoming tools, initiatives, and priorities DMI has planned for 2026. Whether you’re a dairy producer, or part of an allied industry working to support farmers, this conversation promotes practical resources that are all designed to strengthen the dairy community and drive long-term success.
 
Jacqi Coleman - jacqi.coleman@Dairy.org
Bridgett Hilshey - bridgett.hilshey@dairy.org