Holstein Connections

The highest honor presented to a Registered Holstein, the Star of the Breed award recognizes a cow who excels in both type and production. Receiving the 2025 recognition from Holstein Association USA is Oakfield Solomon Sunset-ET EX-96 2E. Hear Sunset's story from the perspective of her breeders and owners, Jonathan and Alicia Lamb, of Oakfield Corners Dairy in New York, along with Jamie Black, Show Herd Manager who cares for Sunset daily. 

Beginning with the April 2026 genetic evaluation, the TPI formula shifts emphasis from fat toward protein. Join Dr. Jeffrey Bewley, Executive Director of Genetics Programs and Innovation, Dr. Jason Graham, Genetic Evaluation and Research Scientist, Director Spencer Hackett, Chair of the Genetic Advancement Committee, and Board of Director President John Burketfor a conversation about the change. They explain why it makes sense to adjust the formula weightings for PTA Protein and PTA Fat, how the Genetic Advancement Committee and Board of Directors arrived at the decision, and the data and market trends that support it. 

Registered Holstein breeder Jill Nelson joins Sarah Sarbacker, Director of Sales and Market Development at Holstein Association USA, for a conversation about her experience with stray voltage. Jill farms with her family at Olmar Farms in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota. Through perseverance, Jill and her family have resolved their stray voltage issues and their herd of Registered Holsteins is thriving. Now, she’s made it her mission to help others who may be navigating the same thing. https://strayvoltagefacts.com/

The 2026 National Holstein Convention takes place from June 22-25, 2026, in sunny Orlando, Florida. Join Holstein Association USA CEO Lindsey Worden and Convention & Youth Programs Manager Kelli Dunklee for a conversation about what’s in store for the week. The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort will be a beautiful backdrop for the Association’s Annual Business meeting, educational speaker sessions, award recognition, Junior contests and activities, family friendly fun, and more! Learn more or register for the 2026 National Holstein Convention at www.holsteinconvention.com. Sign up for the Holstein Insider email newsletter at https://holsteinusa.jotform.com/253645344326963. 

Rachel Craun recently wrapped up her Junior Holstein Association career. In this episode, Rachel shares how her Junior Holstein experiences have shaped her future career goals. The conversations spans from tips for competing in Dairy Jeopardy, to memorable showring experiences, to leadership opportunities in the Junior Holstein Association. Rachel has won the Dairy Jeopardy contest at the National Holstein Convention in all three age divisions, competed in the showring and several other Junior Holstein Association contests, is a Distinguished Junior Member, and received the top Judi Collinsworth Outstanding Junior Exhibitor Memorial Scholarship in 2025. To learn more about the National Junior Holstein Association, visit www.juniorholstein.com. 

From video to print, and social media to event coverage, Holstein Association USA tells the Holstein Story in a many ways. The communications team works closely with the Grant Company to expand Holstein USA's media coverage, including the Holstein America video series. In this episode, hear from Eric Grant, founder of the Grant Company, as he shares insights from his 40-year career in agricultural media. Throughout the conversation, Eric reflects on the evolution of content consumption, shares memorable moments from time spent with Holstein breeders, gives advice for aspiring ag media professionals, and more! 

Sit down with Nic Schoenberger, recipient of the Young Dairy Leaders Institute (YDLI) Distinguished Alumni Leader Award from the Holstein Foundation. From dairy farmer to district sales manager, Nic’s career has spanned many different facets of the dairy industry. Today, Nic and his wife Christine are partners in Kansas Dairy Development, a calf ranch and heifer raising facility in Deerfield, Kansas. A YDLI Class 4 graduate, Nic reflects on how his YDLI experience shaped his passion for dairy advocacy, leadership, and mentoring the next generation. 

In this episode of Holstein Connections, CEO Lindsey Worden counts down her "Top 10" of 2025. The lively conversation with host Jodi Hoynoski spans from the the success of Holstein Association USA programs to new initiatives in 2025. Lindsey also gives us a peek at what's ahead in 2026. We don't want to give away any spoilers.... so tune in for the full list and additional insights from Lindsey. 

National Show Coordinator Tim Ziemba visits with Jacob Schaefer about updates to the National Holstein Show Program. Tim discusses how he works with the show committee to continue to improve National Holstein Shows. The episode covers show and class changes recently approved by the show committee. Tim also dives into the National and Qualified Judges list, the Judges Conference, and the new Judges Code of Conduct. Tim and Jacob also visit about the merits of Junior Holstein shows and what exhibitors have to look forward to in 2026.For more information about National Shows visit: https://www.holsteinusa.com/shows/openshow.htmlFor more information about the National Judges List visit: https://www.holsteinusa.com/shows/judges.html

This episode of Holstein Connections features a diverse conversation with Nick Randle, a dairy industry leader whose career spans genetics, leadership, and youth development. The episode explores Nick’s upbringing, his lifelong passion for dairy cattle, and his unique professional journey at Zoetis. He discusses the impact of genomics on modern dairy management, the evolution of the Holstein-Zoetis collaboration, and why tools like Enlight serve as a roadmap for herd progress rather than just a snapshot of data.  Nick also reflects on his leadership with the Red & White Dairy Cattle Association, sharing how the breed and organization have grown in visibility, engagement, and momentum. The conversation rounds out with insights into his involvement with the Holstein Foundation, the lasting influence of mentors, the value of programs like Young Dairy Leaders Institute, and why investing time and resources into the next generation is essential for the future of dairy.

Rising Holstein leaders Keenan Thygesen and Kylie Konyn share a firsthand look at the Distinguished Junior Member journey, reflecting on the early experiences that sparked their passion for the breed, the months of preparation behind their binders and interviews, and the mentors who helped shape their paths. Established in 1922, the DJM contest is the longest-running Holstein youth program and the highest honor a Junior Holstein member can achieve. Their stories highlight the authenticity, confidence, community, and love for the Holstein cow that make this milestone so meaningful for those who pursue it.For more information on the Distinguished Junior Member program, visit: www.juniorholstein.com/djm

This episode features longtime Holstein enthusiast, Hillside Holsteins breeder, and ice cream entrepreneur Frank Conyngham as he reflects on a lifetime connected to dairy cattle, community service, and devoted support of the Holstein Foundation. From the early days of his family’s historic herd to pioneering on-farm ice cream processing, Frank shares how a love for cows grew into a passion for people, mentoring young leaders, and strengthening local organizations.The conversation explores the joys and challenges of preserving family legacy, adapting through change, and finding new ways to give back long after the cows leave the barn. Through stories of mentorship, fundraising, and lasting friendships, Frank reminds us that supporting the next generation is more than a responsibility. It is the foundation of a vibrant dairy community and the reason the Holstein Foundation’s mission continues to move the industry forward. 

This episode features Holstein Association USA board members Betsy Bullard, Andy Lenkaitis, and Scott Yocum sharing their perspectives on leadership, service, and the future of the breed. From discovering unexpected opportunities to represent their regions, to balancing board responsibilities with life on the farm, to mentoring the next generation through youth programs and technology, each story reflects the shared purpose that drives Holstein USA forward. The conversation explores the rewards and realities of association governance proving that involvement at any level isn’t just about policy, but about people, progress, and shaping the future together. 

This episode was recorded at Holstein Horizons during the 2025 National Holstein Convention and features Betsy Bullard, Trent Hendrickson, and John Schoen sharing their distinct paths through farm transition. From preserving a ten-generation legacy to launching a partnership from a handshake to leading a long-established operation into modernization. Moderated by Lisa Behnke, the panel explores the emotional and strategic realities of ownership transfer, including family dynamics, risk management, leaning on trusted advisors, and building a sustainable future. Their stories reveal that transitioning a farm is not just about passing assets; it is about vision, resilience, and preparing the next generation to carry the story forward.

Every great cow has a story, and so do the people who evaluate them. Two seasoned classifiers, Cy Letter and John Steinhoff, can share endless stories about life on the road and their thoughts on some famous Registered Holstein cows. From early mornings and memorable herds to the people who make the work special, they share candid stories and reflections on what makes classification more like a lifestyle than a job. As they prepare to close this chapter and look forward toward retirement, we celebrate their years of commitment and service to the industry.  

Hear from Tom Morris, the 2025 Distinguished Leadership Award recipient whose lifelong dedication to the dairy industry has left an enduring mark. Auctioneer, mentor, breeder, teacher, publisher, and volunteer, Tom has worn many hats while always leading with integrity, service, and a deep appreciation for people. From energizing high-profile events like the World Classic Sale to building his own herd of elite Registered Holsteins® and creating The Cattle Connection, Tom has been a trailblazer across the industry. His career spans more than 500 auctions, decades of teaching and mentoring, and an unwavering commitment to youth and community programs. Tom’s story is one of passion, vision, and leadership, beginning on his family’s Wisconsin farm and inspiring generations throughout the dairy community.

Holstein Marketplace Sires provides a unique avenue for Holstein breeders to market their genetics. In this conversation with Holstein Marketplace Sires Manager Tim Ziemba, we discuss how the program has grown and evolved since it launched in 2019. Learn more about the bulls that put the program on the map, our current line up of diverse bulls, and highlights from the recent August 2025 genetic update. To learn more or view our current line up of Holstein Marketplace Sires bulls, visit https://www.holsteinusa.com/marketplacesires/index.jsp. 

Junior Holstein Association members Jon Chapman, Madison Mowrer, and Madeline Hensel share how their unique experience led them to serve on the Junior Advisory Committee. As young people in the dairy industry, they highlight the positive impact these experiences have had on their personal and professional growth. From the center of the showring with their Registered Holsteins to the center of the dance floor at National Holstein Convention, their time in the Junior Holstein Association has led to memories and connections that will last a lifetime. 

Get an inside look at Luck-E Holsteins from brothers Joe and Matt Engel. Named this year's Elite Breeder Award recipient, Denny and Beth, Matt, and Joe and Margaret Engel have excelled in breeding Registered Holsteins with exceptional production and components, tremendous udders, strength from end to end, and the ability to thrive in any environment. In this episode, the Engel brothers discuss the farm’s history, their breeding philosophy, cow families, show memories, the importance of mentorship, and much more. 

What should a dairy cow look like? How does physical conformation in today's dairy industry relate to economically important traits? A study completed by Holstein Association USA staff aimed to answer these questions using a large dataset with matching data from official linear classification evaluations and DHIA production records. The dataset covered almost 20 years of data and included over 1 million cows. Dr. Jeffrey Bewley shares the highlights of the study in this episode of Holstein Connections. Interested in learning more? Visit https://www.holsteinusa.com/typematters

Hear from Holstein Association USA's 2025 Distinguished Young Holstein Breeder, Tim Rauen. Embracing technology, staying true to his breeding strategy, and the desire to constantly improve the Registered Holstein cow have been the driving forces behind his path in the dairy industry. His connection to the dairy community started at his grandparents' and uncles' farm, and today he is the Directing Manager and Genetics Manager at GenoSource. The breeder behind numerous chart-topping cows and bulls, Tim's success speaks for itself. However, it's the experiences and people along the way, along with his focus and vision for the future, that set him apart. 

In this episode, Holstein Association USA Board of Directors President John Burket gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the board’s role in guiding the future of the association.

Holstein Association USA’s new CEO, Lindsey Worden, took the reigns on January 1, 2025. In this episode, Lindsey shares her dairy background, talks about her career with the association so far, and gives us a glimpse into her vision for the future. 

Welcome to Holstein Connections – where we share the latest stories, insights, and news from Holstein Association USA and beyond. Listen to learn more about what to expect from the podcast. The largest dairy cattle breed association in the world, Holstein Association USA provides leadership, information, and services to help dairy producers worldwide be successful. Whether you’re in the barn, on the road, or just tuning in for your dose of dairy news – we’re glad you’re here! This is Holstein Connections.Learn more about Holstein Association USA at www.holsteinusa.com!