Maximum Production

About Maximum Production

Brought to you by Holstein Friesian New Zealand, this podcast is your go-to source for everything related to Cows! Each month, we explore different aspects of the New Zealand Dairy Industry, offering valuable insights and expert opinions from diverse members of the dairy community. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just curious about the industry, join us for in-depth discussions and practical advice to enhance your cow and dairy knowledge. Subscribe now to stay updated with the latest trends and tips in the dairy world!

Publisher

Holstein Friesian NZ

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

1 Apr 2024

Latest episode

14 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

32 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   14 Sept 2026

   Episode 32: From Paddock to Parading - Preparing cattle for the Show Ring

   In this episode, we explore the art and discipline ofpreparing cattle for the show ring with experienced fitter and exhibitor Luke Gilbert. From animal selection and feeding programmes through to clipping, training, transport, and ring-day presentation, Luke shares the practical knowledge and attention to detail needed to consistently produce competitive show animals. The conversation covers every stage of the preparationprocess. Luke discusses how to identify heifers with strong show potential, develop young stock into confident leaders, and follow a structured timeline leading into competition. He also explains why starting preparation at least six weeks before a show is important and outlines feeding strategies that help build condition, maintain health, and achieve the desired show-ring appearance. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the finer detailsof cattle fitting, including pre-clipping, washing routines, udder preparation, blending techniques, and managing milkers before competition. We also discuss transporting cattle long distances, helping them settle quickly at shows, and the importance of bedding, water, exercise, and feed management throughout an event. Whether you're preparing your first yearlings, fitting experienced milkers, or looking to improve your show-ring results, this episode offers practical advice and real-world experience from someone who has spent years learning from industry leaders and refining his craft. It is a valuable listen for dairy exhibitors, young fitters, and anyone committed to presenting cattle at their very best. Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/holsteinfriesiannz) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/holstein_friesiannz/) Website (https://nzholstein.org.nz/)

2. 

   14 Aug 2026

   Episode 32: - What’s Your Cow Telling You? Inside the SmaXtec Bolus

   In this episode, we explore how precision livestock technology is transforming herd management with John Allen and Melinda Little from smaXtec. We discuss how real-time animal data is helping dairy farmers make faster, more informed decisions around animal health, mating, and overallherd performance. The conversation highlights the practical application of smaXtec in-cow bolus technology, which monitors key indicators including temperature, rumination, water intake, heat stress, and pre-calving activity. We also examine how live data is being used to improve mating outcomes, detect healthissues earlier, and support a more proactive approach to herd management. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how precisiondata can be integrated into everyday farm operations, from identifying the ideal insemination window and managing replacement heifers to reducing somatic cell counts and responding to environmental challenges such as heat stress. Whether you're interested in improving reproductiveperformance, enhancing animal wellbeing, or exploring the future of dairy technology, this episode offers practical experience and real-world perspectives on how data-driven decision-making can help maximise the potential of your herd. Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/holstein_friesiannz/) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/holsteinfriesiannz) Website (https://nzholstein.org.nz/)

3. 

   14 Jul 2026

   Episode 30: Member's Bull Picks

   In this episode, we focus on Member's Bull Picks and the thinking behind sire selection in today’s dairy systems with Wayne Taylor. We explore the key criteria breeders use when selecting bulls, including production, type, functionality, and long-term herd performance. The discussion highlights how strategic mating decisions and the use of genomics are shaping breeding programmes, along with the growing role of beef genetics within dairy herds.Listeners will also gain practical insights into aligning bull teams with farm system goals and managing genetic progress over time. Whether you’re refining your breeding strategy or just starting out, this episode offers valuable advice and real-world perspectives to help you make informed decisions and maximise the potential of your herd. Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/holstein_friesiannz/). Facebook. (https://www.facebook.com/holsteinfriesiannz) NZHFA Home - Holstein Friesian New Zealand (https://nzholstein.org.nz/).

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

737

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Podcast Authority Score: 58 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

71

Social presence

94

YouTube

66

Engagement

0

Contact Maximum Production

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.