The influence of embryo quality on embryo transfer success (Sponsored Podcast)

The influence of embryo quality on embryo transfer success (Sponsored Podcast)

Author: Progressive Dairy editors April 10, 2025 Duration: 17:52

Dairy farmers have several options when designing and implementing beef-on-dairy programs. One approach is breeding dairy cows to beef sires, producing crossbred calves that enter the beef value chain. However, an increasing number of dairies are choosing HerdFlex beef embryos, which result in full-beef calves. Evaluating embryo quality is crucial for dairy farmers when considering beef-on-dairy options. Understanding the processes involved with these embryos is essential, and we provide comprehensive information to address any questions you may have.

Here is a breakdown of the episode:

  • 1:50: The Impact of Embryos and In Vitro Fertilization on Dairy Breeding
  • 3:28: Debunking the Myth: “An embryo is an embryo”
  • 6:57: Quality Control and Simplot Animal Sciences
  • 8:56: Why Embryo Quality Matters for Dairies
  • 10:49: Practical Insights from Your Own Herds
  • 14:54: Final Thoughts & Advice for Dairies Considering HerdFlex Embryos
  • 16:14: Where to Learn More

This episode is sponsored by Simplot Animal Sciences.

Embryo quality is the foundation of a successful embryo transfer program. By prioritizing high-quality embryos, dairy farmers can achieve higher conception rates and healthier, stronger calves for a more profitable and sustainable dairy operation.


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

Progressive Dairy Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Gail Carpenter: You can’t outfeed bad management [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:46
In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, Gail Carpenter, who is an assistant professor and state dairy specialist at Iowa State University, and host Kimmi Devaney discuss a variety of topics ranging from dairy n…
Instant Milk Cooling with PROChiller Systems (Sponsored Podcast) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:12
CEO Jim VanderGiessen, Jr. shares how cooling milk became a career and how dairy farmers are using PROChillers to instantly cool milk and heat water to 180°F. This episode is sponsored by Pro Refrigeration.
Robotic milking with dairyman Jacob Twohey [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:40
In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Walt Cooley is joined by Jacob Twohey of Twohey Dairy. Like 95% of farms in Olmsted County where they dairy, their farm is family-owned, and Jacob represents the nex…
Bonus episode: What is the Real Producer Exchange? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 25:16
Introducing the Real Producer Exchange – a new, interactive experience where we go live, face-to-face with producers who are tackling the same challenges you face every day. It's your chance to get real answers from real…
Beef-on-dairy research with Tara Felix [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:03
In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Matti McBride is joined by Tara Felix, associate professor and beef extension specialist at Penn State University. Felix has been feeding dairy steers and beef-on-da…