Talking Dairy

• Building a high-performing farm team | Ep. 102

  In this episode of Talking Dairy, we cover strategies that help create high-performing dairy teams. You’ll hear from Jane Muir, DairyNZ Senior People Specialist, and Fiona Langford, who, along with her husband Thomas, are the 2025 Share Farmers of the Year at the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards. They share how great leadership, clear communication, and smart planning make all the difference on-farm.Fiona shares how they run their year-round operation with multiple employees, and how they focus on culture, wellbeing and development to keep their people happy and productive. Jane brings insights from the latest DairyNZ Employee Survey and tools like the refreshed Workplace 360 to help you lead with confidence.Whether you’re bringing new employees on or wondering about what you could do to improve your workplace environment, this episode will leave you with practical ideas and plenty of inspiration. Links mentioned in this episode:Try the updated Workplace 360 assessment - see what’s working well and what to improve.Sign up for a free CalvingSmart workshop with Dairy Training - practical, short sessions happening nationwide in June and July.Check out Dairy Training’s Emerging Leadership course - help your next leaders step up on-farm.Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at [email protected] Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

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• Building a high BW herd - one decision at a time | Ep. 101

  What does it take to breed a high performing herd - now and into the future?Earlier this year, DairyNZ and Fonterra co-hosted a series of on-farm events focused on lifting genetic gain through better breeding decisions. One of those events was held at Clovalley Farms, run by Donovan Croot and Sophie Cookson in South Taranaki. Now, we’re bringing that conversation to you.In this episode of Talking Dairy, hosted by DairyNZ Taranaki Area Manager Talissa Squire, Donovan and Sophie share how they’ve built a herd that ranks in the top 1% nationally for Breeding Worth (BW).  They explain how they’ve applied DairyNZ’s 'Five ways to a high BW herd' in a way that fits their farm, their values and their goals.They talk openly about what’s worked, what hasn’t, and what they’ve learned along the way.Whether you're just starting out with genetics or already fine-tuning your approach, this is a must-listen for any farmer wanting to breed a better herd.Listen now to learn how to make smarter breeding decisions, improve genetic gain in your herd, and future-proof your business. Resources mentioned in this episode:Breeding Worth - DairyNZ | DairyNZTools - Animal Herd Averages | DairyNZBull Search - DairyNZ | DairyNZBull Team - DairyNZ | DairyNZRanking of Active Sires (RAS) | DairyNZInCalf reproduction gap calculator - DairyNZ | DairyNZHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at [email protected] Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

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• Built different: Why NZ farmers keep winning at dairy | Ep. 100

  Ever wondered how New Zealand dairy became world-class? In this special 100th episode, we go behind the scenes of the science and farmer-led innovation that made it happen. Join host Jac McGowan as she chats with DairyNZ’s Chief Science Advisor Bruce Thorrold and Chief Executive Campbell Parker. Together, they look back at the science, smarts, and farmer-led research that helped turn a tough industry into a global success.You’ll learn how NZ dairy farmers went from milking on average 147 cows in the ‘80s to becoming the most efficient milk producers in the world. More importantly, you’ll get a glimpse of what’s coming next.Whether you've been farming for years or you're just getting started, this episode will leave you proud to be part of the New Zealand dairy story. More informationHistory of your levy investment | DairyNZ Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at [email protected] Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

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• Global shifts, local insights – Farmers' Forum preview | Ep. 99

  Are you ready to ride the global economic rollercoaster - and come out stronger?In this episode of Talking Dairy, you’ll hear from two of New Zealand’s top economists, Brad Olsen and Cameron Bagrie. They’ll break down what’s happening in global trade and explain what it means for your dairy farm.From rising tensions between the US and China, to big changes in shipping, and Fonterra’s next moves - this is the stuff that shapes your business.You’ll find out how global politics are changing trade and why the world feels less predictable than it used to. You’ll hear smart ways to protect your farm’s future and get practical tips for managing risk in tough times.Want more? This episode is just a warm-up for what’s coming at the 2025 DairyNZ Farmers’ Forum. Listen now and then check out Farmers’ Forum 2025 to register for an event near you. More information:Farmers Forum - Dairy's Future. The here and how.DairyNZ’s signature event for 2025, held in three locations: Hamilton – 27 MayAshburton – 17 JuneInvercargill – 2 JulyIt’s your chance to not only look ahead, but to see what it will take to shape the future of dairy.Thought leaders in global trade, dairy exports, economic developments, technology and consumer demands will join forces with forward-thinking innovative farmers. For more information on the programme, speakers, and to register, go to: Farmers’ Forum 2025 - DairyNZHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at [email protected] Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

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• Finding your farming family | Ep. 98

  Wondering how to meet like-minded people or take the next step in your ag career? Want to feel part of something bigger than just your day-to-day job? You’re not alone - and there is a way to build your network, grow your skills, and find your place in the sector.In this episode of Talking Dairy, we’re exploring the power of community and how NZ Young Farmers is helping young people in the ag sector feel supported, connected, and inspired.We’re joined by Waikato farmer Robin Buser, who made a move from corporate life to dairy farming - and found his “farming family” through NZ Young Farmers. He shares how saying yes to joining a club changed the game for him, both personally and professionally.Also with us is Lynda Coppersmith, CEO of NZ Young Farmers, who reflects on how the organisation has evolved to support the next generation and why partnerships - like the one with DairyNZ - are key to building a stronger future for dairy.In this episode, you’ll hear:How Robin built confidence, community, and direction through his local NZ Young Farmers clubWhat NZ Young Farmers is doing to support today’s young people in agWhy joining NZ Young Farmers can be a win for both employees and employersWhat’s next for NZ Young FarmersWhy now is the perfect time to get involvedWhether you’re just starting out, keen to grow your leadership skills, or looking to back the next wave of talent - this episode is for you.Find out more about NZ Young Farmers Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at [email protected] Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

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