Paul Windemuller: Solar energy, artificial intelligence and managing data

Paul Windemuller: Solar energy, artificial intelligence and managing data

Author: Progressive Dairy editors December 30, 2025 Duration: 54:05

Michigan dairy producer Paul Windemuller joins host Kimmi Devaney to chat about how his family economically started their dairy farm in 2013, the evolution their dairy facilities and the addition of solar panels, the role of artificial intelligence, and how he uses the data provided by his automated milking system and other monitoring technology to make informed management decisions.


Links:

  • Listen to Windemuller’s podcast – the AgCulture Podcast – and learn more about his work in agriculture on his website.
  • Read about his farm in this Progressive Dairy article from April 2024.

Episode overview:

  • [~1:20] Windemuller’s inspiration for getting into the dairy business
  • [~2:20] His economical method of starting a dairy farm
  • [~6:50] How his experiences in New Zealand influenced the way he manages his dairy farm today
  • [~8:45] The evolution of his dairy facilities from a turkey coop with freestalls and a New Zealand-style milking parlor to his current modern freestall barns and automated milking system
  • [~10:50] How he utilizes the data provided by his automated milking system and other monitoring technology
  • [~13:05] The most important metrics he watches
  • [~14:00] The process of adding solar panels to his operation 
  • [~23:15] Windemuller’s industry involvement
  • [~25:50] Nuffield International Farming Scholars program
  • [~27:45] The white paper he wrote about artificial intelligence that he presented at the World Dairy Summit in Chile in October 2025 as a Nuffield International Scholar
  • [~32:50] Team culture and technology implementation
  • [~40:20] His motivation for starting the AgCulture Podcast 
  • [~44:50] Windemuller’s advice to other dairy producers that are interested in advocating for agriculture
  • [~48:05] Rapid-fire questions

For those who live and work in the world of milk production, the day doesn’t stop for a deep dive into industry news. That’s where the Progressive Dairy Podcast comes in, extending the trusted editorial voice of the magazine into an audio format you can take anywhere. Hosted by the Progressive Dairy editors, this series is crafted specifically for U.S. dairy producers and the network of professionals who support them. Think of it as a conversation with well-informed colleagues, breaking down the latest trends, operational strategies, and business insights that matter at the farm gate and beyond. You’ll hear straightforward discussions that translate complex topics into actionable advice, whether the subject is herd health, market dynamics, sustainability practices, or technology adoption. Released every other Tuesday, each episode is designed to fit into a busy schedule, providing a dose of relevant information during a morning commute or an afternoon walk. It’s more than just a business podcast; it’s a practical resource built on the same foundation of reliability that readers have come to expect, now available for your ears instead of your eyes. Tune in to stay informed and connected to the pulse of the dairy industry.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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