In this episode of Ruminate This, Scott Zehr is joined by Dr. Larry Roth (VP of Nutrition, Agrarian Solutions) for a discussion about DON (deoxynivalenol/vomitoxin)—one of the most common and most misunderstood mycotoxins in dairy rations.

Rather than causing an obvious crash every time, DON often works like a “pause button” on rumen microbes. It doesn’t necessarily kill bacteria, it slows microbial function and disrupts fermentation, reducing the cow’s ability to convert the TMR into energy and microbial protein. The result can be a quiet, cascading problem: lower feed efficiency, reduced intake, erratic manure, and performance erosion that shows up long after the damage begins.

Scott and Larry discuss how DON can:

• Disrupt rumen microbial balance by interfering with protein synthesis and slowing fermentation
• Push undigested nutrients “down the river” into the hindgut, leading to undesired hindgut fermentation
• Create signs that look like acidosis, when the real issue may be hindgut acidosis driven by poor rumen breakdown
• Weaken gut barrier integrity, increasing permeability and contributing to leaky gut
• Trigger immune activation and force nutrient reallocation, pulling glucose and energy away from milk and reproduction to support inflammation control
• Compound other stressors, making DON a major player in stacked inflammation 

They also discuss why the same DON ppm level can hit two herds very differently, and why ongoing mycotoxin testing can help connect the dots before a slow decline turns into a full-blown crisis.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Is this really rumen acidosis… or something else?” This episode will change how you diagnose digestive, immune, and performance problems in high-producing dairy cows.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform 

💬 Have thoughts or a story to share? Email podcast@agrsol.com.

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast

Social Links:
YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis
YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions
Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/
Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

This is the final episode of the year for Ruminate This, and we’re closing it out with a “best of” reflection on five episodes that continue to matter on dairy farms today.

In this year-end episode, Scott Zehr revisits some of the most impactful conversations on dairy nutrition, calf health, transition cow management, gut health, and mycotoxin control, and explains why these topics continue to influence herd performance and profitability long after the episode airs.

Whether you’re revisiting these discussions or hearing them for the first time, this recap highlights practical, on-farm insights that help producers and nutritionists reduce risk, improve efficiency, and make better decisions across every stage of production.

Featured topics include:

• Gut health and digestive integrity and why protecting the rumen and liver is foundational to performance
• Calf health from day one and winning the battle of the gut during the milk-feeding phase
• Colostrum management, including quality, quantity, and why management matters more than band-aid solutions
• Transition cow nutrition and why preventing milk fever alone is not enough
• Proactive mycotoxin testing and how DON, zearalenone, and fumonisin quietly impact herd health

If you’re focused on raising healthier calves, supporting smoother transitions, protecting reproduction, and improving long-term dairy profitability, this episode brings together the conversations worth revisiting.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform 

💬 Have thoughts or a story to share? Email podcast@agrsol.com.

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

Everyone talks about “culture” on dairies, but for calves, culture quietly determines which calves grow into healthy, high-performing cows and which struggle.

In this episode, Scott explores how Agrarian Solutions’ RISE core values, Relational, Integrity, Strategic, and Excellence, shape real-world calf management, not just posters in the office.

Through examples from three dairy farms, Scott demonstrates why the same facilities, nutrition, and SOPs can produce drastically different results:

• Farm A: Two shifts, same protocols, with wildly different outcomes because attention to calves matters.
• Farm B: Intentional hiring and team alignment drives uniform, resilient dairy calves that more than double birth weight.
• Farm C: No new equipment or formulas. They focused on people, and calf health problems disappeared.

Explore how to apply RISE on your dairy farm by seeing quiet signals, sticking to protocols, and refusing mediocrity. Plus, learn why pre-weaning growth predicts lifetime milk production and how excellence spreads through dairy farm culture.

💬 Have thoughts or a story to share? Email podcast@agrsol.com.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform 

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

What do you do when the cows look perfectly fine but performance keeps drifting? In this episode of Ruminate This, Scott Zehr breaks down the quiet, hard-to-detect issue plaguing many dairy herds: subtle biological stress, especially from low-level mycotoxins that rarely show up on a single feed test but can dramatically impact herd performance.

Scott explains how cows can look visually healthy while quietly battling stress that affects reproduction, rumination, immune function, intakes, components, manure consistency, and overall milk production.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why cows “whisper” their symptoms instead of crashing.
• How low/medium DON, Zearalenone, T-2, and Fumonisin levels still cause major damage.
• Why mycotoxin tests often mislead (uneven distribution + sample variability).
• The real signs of toxin pressure: weak heats, cysts, SCC drift, soft milk, inconsistent manure, fluctuating intakes.
• Why patterns matter more than single data points.
• How to use Agrarian’s DTX Decision Chart to identify immune suppression.
• A real case where cows looked totally fine until toxin correction turned the herd around.
• Exactly what to review in your last 90 days of herd data to spot hidden stress before it becomes costly.

If your cows look “fine” but your numbers don’t, this episode will give you the clarity you’ve been searching for.

Resources:

• Mycotoxin Decision Chart
• Mycotoxin Guide

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform 

To learn more on this topic, email podcast@agrsol.com.

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast

Social Links:
- Ruminate This YouTube Page
- Agrarian Solutions YouTube Page
- Agrarian's LinkedIn
- Agrarian's Facebook Page
- Agrarian's Instagram Page
- Agrarian Solutions Website

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

Mycotoxins like DON, zearalenone, and fumonisin silently drain herd health and profits, but too often, testing only happens after the damage is done.

In this episode of Ruminate This, Scott Zehr and Dr. Larry Roth discuss why routine, proactive mycotoxin testing of TMR and silage should be a standard practice on every dairy. They explor regional mycotoxin trends, the influence of agronomic practices, and the role of residue management. Learn why monthly TMR testing, especially in dry cow and pre-fresh rations, is the most reliable way to safeguard milk production and herd health.

Take control before losses occur. Download your complimentary Mycotoxin Report from Agrarian Solutions at agrariansolutions.com/mycotoxin-report-april-september-2025 and see the latest trends impacting herds. With proactive testing and resources like this, protecting herd health and profitability has never been easier.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform 

To learn more on this topic, email podcast@agrsol.com.

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis
YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions
Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/
Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

Most people see “calcium carbonate” on a label and assume it’s all the same, cheap limestone that barely gets absorbed. However, now we know: Not all calcium carbonate is created equal.

In this episode of Ruminate This, Scott Zehr sits down with Dr. Larry Roth to answer the questions producers and vets are really asking:

• What’s the difference between Calcium Carbonate and Calcium Chloride?
• Why Is seaweed-derived calcium actually more bioavailable?
• Will I see an ROI with a calcium bolus at calving?

Agrarian Solutions is a technology company that takes complex science and makes it usable on your farm. Just like Windows made DOS simple, we’re here to make advanced animal health innovation practical, profitable, and impossible to ignore.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform 

To learn more on this topic, email podcast@agrsol.com.

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast

Social Links:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis
YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions
Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/
Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

What if the biggest hidden cost on your dairy isn’t feed, labor, or genetics, but the pain of not changing?

In this episode of Ruminate This, Scott Zehr and co-host Jeff Hostetter, Product Manager at Premier Select Sires, explore the challenges and opportunities facing today’s dairy producers. Change in dairy management can feel disruptive with new training, updated protocols, and added investments. But staying the same carries a constant, quiet cost in lost milk production, reproductive failures, high culling rates, and wasted resources.

You’ll learn how forward-thinking farms push past “good enough” and capture more profit by:

• Supporting cow longevity and keeping “Golden Girls” in 4th and 5th lactation productive, the most profitable animals in the herd.
• Recognizing the true ceiling of herd performance and avoiding the trap of underestimating potential.
• Making smart, long-term investments in transition cow management, calf health, and silage protection that deliver a powerful ROI.
• Building trust with dairy nutritionists and consultants who prioritize the farm’s interests and make change easier.

Every dairy pays for pain. The choice is whether to take on the short-term discomfort of change for long-term herd health and profitability, or keep paying forever through hidden losses, high turnover, and missed opportunities. The pain of change is temporary. The pain of staying the same is permanent.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform 

To learn more on this topic, email podcast@agrsol.com.

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast

Social Links:
YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis
YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions
Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/
Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

Most dairies focus on calcium deficiency during the transition period, but what if that’s just a symptom, not the root cause? In this episode of Ruminate This, Mark Carpenter, CEO of Agrarian Solutions, shares why the real enemy is inflammation and how the company made the bold move to walk away from its popular calcium bolus in favor of a more complete, integrity-driven solution.

Grounded in Dr. Lance Baumgard’s research and broader industry discussions, this conversation challenges the status quo, moving beyond quick fixes to strategies that protect cow health, support producers, and redefine progress in the dairy industry. The inflammation-first approach isn’t just theory, it’s the future.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform 

To learn more on this topic, email podcast@agrsol.com.

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis
YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions
Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/
Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

Disbudding is performed on nearly 94% of U.S. dairy farms. Dr. Alycia Drwencke, PhD, Tucker Lab Member at the University of California, Davis, shares research comparing methods and why proper pain management requires both a local block and NSAID.

She also discusses the impact of disbudding on calf behavior, feeding, and performance, and the role of polled genetics to reduce stress.

📊Interested in the research? Check out Dr. Drwencke’s published papers.

• Wound healing and pain sensitivity following caustic paste disbudding in dairy calves
• Wound characteristics after disbudding: Part I - Effects of caustic paste dose and presence of hair
• Wound characteristics after disbudding: Part II - Comparing cautery and caustic paste methods
• Effects of disbudding on behavior and heart rate during jugular venipuncture in dairy calves
• Development and application of a novel approach to scoring ear tag wounds in dairy calves
• Pilot testing an ethanol cornual nerve block as a long-term analgesic for calf disbudding

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform 

To learn more on this topic, email podcast@agrsol.com.

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis
YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions
Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/
Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

Preventing milk fever is important,  but it’s not the whole story. The real wins in transition care happen when you go beyond calcium.

In this episode of Ruminate This, John Lawlor, Managing Director of Anchor Life Science and Agrarian Solutions Vice President of Nutrition Dr. Larry Roth, explore research that challenges long-held assumptions about calcium supplementation at calving. While traditional boluses are effective at preventing milk fever, studies show they don’t necessarily boost performance. That’s where new thinking and new data come in. 

Tune in to hear how a more comprehensive approach to transition nutrition can help reduce multiple post-calving metabolic challenges, improve body condition, increase milk yield, and support fertility, all while driving a stronger return.

📊Get the details and research HERE. 

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform 

To learn more on this topic, email podcast@agrsol.com.

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

Do forage inoculants really work, or are they just “insurance”?
Can they prevent or reduce mycotoxins in silage?

In this episode of Ruminate This, Agrarian Solutions’ Vice President of Nutrition, Dr. Larry Roth, explains the real role inoculants play in silage management. Tune in to learn  how the right inoculant can help preserve dry matter and nutrient value, why it can’t remove mycotoxins already present at harvest, and the practical steps to get the most from your forage.

Think of your silage bunk as a pile of valuable nutrients, the more protein and energy you keep after fermentation, the less you’ll need to purchase. From harvest timing to packing, covering, and inoculant selection, understand how to best protect feed value, reduce losses, and keep your herd performing at its best.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform 

To learn more on this topic, email podcast@agrsol.com.

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis
YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions
Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/
Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

In this episode of Ruminate This, we discuss simple, no-nonsense strategies to set up your silage season for success and stop costly feed losses before they start. Agrarian Solutions’ Vice President of Nutrition, Larry Roth, Ph.D., PAS, shares expert tips on reducing corn silage shrink, improving fermentation, and protecting forage quality from harvest to feedout.

From hitting the perfect harvest window and cracking every kernel to packing, covering, and sampling like a pro, this episode is full of  practical advice to help you feed more, waste less, and maximize your dairy’s bottom line.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform 

📋 Download the free Corn Silage Prep Checklist

🔁 Share this episode with your team!

📬Reach out anytime, we’re here to support you! podcast@agrsol.com

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

The first week after calving is a critical window that impacts reproductive performance and overall lactation success in dairy cows. In this episode, we discuss how supporting transition cows’ immune systems and addressing common nutritional deficiencies can reduce inflammation, prevent uterine diseases, and minimize early pregnancy loss after first service.

Caroline Knoblock, Director of Nutrition, shares practical ideas to optimize cow health during the transition period, improving fertility, reducing health challenges, and enhancing milk production throughout lactation.

To learn more on this topic, email podcast@agrsol.com.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform 

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

Accurate feed inventory management is crucial for dairy producers and nutritionists to optimize ration formulation, improve herd performance, and meet lender requirements. In this episode of Ruminate This, discover how drone technology is transforming feedstuff inventory by providing safer, faster, and more precise measurements of corn silage and haylage piles.

Chad Christensen, West Region Business Development Manager at Agrarian Solutions, explains how drone-based inventory eliminates the risks associated with manual pile measurement while delivering reliable data that supports better feeding decisions and financial reporting.

Beyond regional drone services, Agrarian Solutions offers a suite of value-added services designed to identify challenges and boost dairy profitability. Dairy producers and nutritionists seeking smarter feed inventory solutions won’t want to miss this episode.

Email podcast@agrsol.comto learn more about Agrarian’s full range of services supporting herd health and operational success.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform 

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

Are mycotoxins really limiting performance, or is something else happening? In episode 49 of Ruminate This, we tackle common questions from dairy professionals. When should you consider an immune enhancement product? How can you tell if toxins are the hidden culprit? Why is listening to your cows might be the best diagnostic tool you have. Pinpointing and solving nutrition challenges takes science, intuition, and experience. Agrarian Solutions brings all three to the table.

Ready to take a closer look at what the cows you are feeding might be telling you? Reach out to podcast@agrsol.com to connect with our team.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform 

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

In this episode of Ruminate This, we explore how creating a culture of openness and trust can transform your dairy. Whether you're a producer, nutritionist, or team leader, the ability to foster honest communication and welcome feedback is a key driver in building stronger teams and improving performance.

Jamie Propst, founder of Anglers Unlimited and host of the Fishing for a Reason podcast, shares her journey from animal science to connecting people through the world of fishing. In this conversation, Jamie explains how leaders can embrace feedback from all sources and encourage open dialogue to create an environment where everyone feels heard. She shares practical advice for building trust, gaining buy-in, and empowering team members to speak up no matter their position or background.

If you're struggling with team buy-in or want to strengthen your team's culture, Jamie reminds us that leadership is learned, and everyone can grow into the leader they aspire to be.

Filled with insightful tips about team buy-in and how to strengthen your team’s culture, this episode is a great reminder that investing in people will always pay off.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform to set calves up for lifelong success  

📩 Have questions or want to learn how to implement a complimentary mycotoxin sampling program, contact us at podcast@agrsol.com today.

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

In Episode 47 of Ruminate This, we’re joined by Jodi Hoynoski, a driving force behind the Young Dairy Leaders Institute (YDLI), to explore how this program is shaping the future of the dairy industry. YDLI isn’t just another leadership seminar, it’s a hands-on, real-world development experience focused on communication, relationship building, and personal growth.

Jodi shares how YDLI equips young professionals (ages 22–40) with lifelong tools and connections. If you’re looking to grow, lead, and make a lasting impact in dairy, listen to this episode. Investing in yourself is not only a step toward personal and professional growth, it’s a commitment to the future of the dairy industry.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform 

📩 Learn more and apply for YDLI here: https://www.holsteinfoundation.org/YDLI/ydli.html

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

In this episode of Ruminate This, Dr. Larry Roth revisits the fundamentals of high-quality haylage. From managing moisture to minimizing oxygen exposure, this conversation sharpens your edge heading into haylage season. Even seasoned pros will get value from the timely reminders, practical tips, and behind-the-scenes factors that make or break forage quality. Whether you’re fine-tuning your process or training your team, this episode helps you prepare with purpose.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform to set calves up for lifelong success  

🗎 Download the haylage worksheet for tips on timing, packing, and quality control. 

📩 Have questions or want to learn how to implement a complimentary mycotoxin sampling program, contact us at podcast@agrsol.com today.

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

Mycotoxin problems are rising, but do you know where they’re really coming from and how to protect your herd? In Episode 45 of Ruminate This, Caroline Knoblock, Director of Nutrition at Agrarian Solutions, breaks down what dairy producers and nutritionists need to know about Fusarium molds, feed contamination, and practical ways to get ahead of mycotoxin challenges.

Caroline shares insights from a recent research trial on corn silage quality and vomitoxin (DON) levels, highlighting how fungicide applications at V5 and VT stages can impact both mycotoxin contamination and feed digestibility. She explains why many mycotoxin issues are out of your control, why early testing of freshly harvested feeds is critical, and how spreading spoiled feed can actually worsen contamination by inoculating soils.

You'll also hear how healthy soils and smart hybrid selection help plants naturally resist mold infection and why DTX remains the most researched, trusted tool for broad-spectrum mycotoxin protection without binding essential nutrients.

If you're looking for real-world tips to safeguard cow health and improve feed quality, this is a must-listen episode.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform.

📈 Download the research Episode 45: 2023 OSU Fungicide Trial Write Up.pdf

📩 Have questions or want to learn how to implement a complimentary mycotoxin sampling program, contact us at podcast@agrsol.com today.

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

New findings in the Spring Mycotoxin Report highlight a growing threat to dairy herd health and profitability. In this episode of Ruminate This, Scott Zehr and Dr. Larry Roth break down the newly released Spring Mycotoxin Report and what over 800 feed samples reveal about mycotoxins growing risk, especially from fumonisin. We discuss how this increasingly common mycotoxin is affecting gut health, liver function, and immune response in dairy cows, and what you can do to protect performance and profitability.

🎯 Tune in to learn:

• How fumonisin is quietly undermining cow health in corn silage and TMR
• What to look for in feed analysis and why by-products may increase risk
• The best ways to respond
• What the data tells us to expect this fall (and how to prepare)

Don't wait until problems show up in the bulk tank, stay ahead of mycotoxins with practical strategies that protect your herd and your ROI.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform to set calves up for lifelong success  

📩 Have questions or want to learn how to implement a complimentary mycotoxin sampling program, contact us at podcast@agrsol.com today.

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

Want healthier, more productive calves? It all starts with colostrum management. In this episode of Ruminate This, we're joined again by Danielle Varner, Calf and Heifer Specialist at Cargill Animal Nutrition, to explore why quality and quantity matter, especially for bull calves and beef-on-dairy crosses. We discuss how investing in a well-executed colostrum protocol leads to stronger calves, fewer health issues, and long-term profitability, and why relying on “band-aid” products won’t fix poor management.

We also discuss the two pounds per day growth challenge - who’s achieving it and what it really takes. If you’re serious about raising healthier calves and improving farm success, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss!

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform to set calves up for lifelong success  

📩 Have questions or want to learn how to implement a complimentary mycotoxin sampling program, contact us at podcast@agrsol.com today.

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

Danielle Varner, Calf and Heifer Specialist at Cargill Animal Nutrition, joins Ruminate This for an insightful discussion on improving calf health and performance through effective farm team communication. Learn about the common challenges that often lead to calf health issues, the importance of training beyond just protocols, and the key areas where the best calf programs consistently excel.

Tune in to learn how strengthening teamwork can boost calf health and improve overall performance. 

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast platform to set calves up for lifelong success  

📩 Have questions or want to learn how to implement a complimentary mycotoxin sampling program, contact us at podcast@agrsol.com today.

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

Mycotoxins in young stock diets can hinder growth and performance by triggering an immune response that diverts nutrients away from productive purposes. When calves face additional stressors like poor passive transfer, ventilation issues, or pathogen exposure, mycotoxins amplify these challenges, making it harder for them to thrive.

Despite their impact, mycotoxins in starter feeds often go undetected. Implementing a routine mycotoxin sampling program can provide important information to help refine nutrition strategies and optimize calf development.

In this episode, Dr. Larry Roth, Vice President of Nutrition, discusses how mycotoxins affect calf health and the best ways to manage their impact. 

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to set calves up for lifelong success  

📩 Have questions or want to learn how to implement a complimentary mycotoxin sampling program, contact us at podcast@agrsol.com today.

🔗 Stay informed: Get expert livestock nutrition insights, cutting-edge research, and updates on future episodes by subscribing here: agrariansolutions.com/podcast.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

Working with family in the dairy industry is both common and uniquely rewarding, though it comes with its own set of challenges. In this episode of Ruminate This, Mary Taylor, Administrative Assistant, and her daughter, Kelbi Veenstra, Office Manager at Agrarian Solutions, share their experiences balancing personal and professional relationships while supporting the business.

They discuss the unique advantages of working with family—like trust and shared values—while tackling common challenges, such as managing time off and maintaining boundaries. Mary and Kelbi also discuss the critical role of support, ensuring that everything in the business runs smoothly.

Learn how The 6 Types of Working Genius by Patrick Lencioni has helped Agrarian Solutions build a stronger, more productive team and how a family-like culture can drive success in any team.

🎧 Listen to this episode in our Meet the Team series to learn how family and teamwork can go hand in hand and help businesses thrive. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.

👉 Want to strengthen your team? Contact Scott at Podcast@agrsol.com to learn how to put these strategies into action!

Stay up-to-date on the most recent episodes, get expert livestock nutrition insights, and explore cutting-edge research by signing up here: https://agrariansolutions.com/podcast.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!

In this episode of Ruminate This, Dr. Larry Roth, Vice President of Nutrition at Agrarian Solutions, discusses the science behind LivOx, the next evolution of DTX™ and BioCycle Plus. This proprietary blend of plant-based actives, including curcumin, naringin, and carnosic acid, is redefining mycotoxin mitigation, gut health, and liver protection in cattle.

Dr. Roth discusses how LivOx strengthens intestinal integrity, enhances nutrient absorption, and protects the liver, ultimately improving milk production and reproductive performance. Backed by extensive research, including groundbreaking CaCO2 cell studies, this episode explores why this next generation of DTX and BioCycle Plus is unlike anything else on the market.

🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.

👉 Watch the full video presentation on YouTube for in-depth data visualization. To receive copies of the research, email Podcast@agrsol.com.

Stay up-to-date on the most recent episodes, get expert livestock nutrition insights, and explore cutting-edge research by signing up here: https://agrariansolutions.com/podcast.

Social Links:

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@RuminateThis

YouTube Page:  https://www.youtube.com/@agrariansolutions5557

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/agrarian-solutions/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AgrarianSolutions

Instagram Page:  https://www.instagram.com/agrariansolutions/

Website: https://agrariansolutions.com/

Got a Question or want free Mycotoxin Testing? Send us a Message!!