When it comes to choosing the right herd bull, should you prioritize size, milk production, or fertility?
In this episode of The Bovine, Kara Mastel sits down with Dr. Carling Matejka, a veterinarian with Agri Health Services, to break down the science and strategy behind herd bull selection.
Carling explains why optimization—not maximization—is the key to a profitable and sustainable herd, highlighting factors like mature cow body weight, expected progeny differences (EPDs), and scrotal circumference.
Listen For:
04:26 EPDs 101: Predicting a bull’s genetic potential
11:28 How breed associations help with bull selection
17:18 Lessons from the dairy industry on milk vs. fertility
26:16 Why breeding soundness exams are crucial
30:02 Expert tips for bull sale day
GUEST: Carling Matejka, DVM
CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL
Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
Popular Podcasts
United States of Kennedy
United States of Kennedy is a podcast about our cultural fascination with the Kennedy dynasty. Every week, hosts Lyra Smith and George Civeris go into one aspect of the Kennedy story.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com