Welcome to the Bull Vine Podcast, your go-to source for inside stories, cutting edge research,
and the latest updates in the world of dairy farming.
In our 153rd episode, we profile an outstanding young man, Jacob Harbaugh.
So please grab a glass of milk, sit back, and let's get started with this episode.
Welcome dairy farmers and enthusiasts to the Bull Vine Podcast.
I'm Douglas, your host.
Today's story is truly inspiring.
We're talking about a young man making waves in dairy.
Joining me is my co-host, Bella.
Ready to dive in?
Absolutely, Douglas.
I'm thrilled to discuss Jacob Harbaugh's journey.
His dedication is impressive, especially at his age.
Let's start with Jacob's early mornings.
While most college students sleep, Jacob's already working.
He tends show heifers at his family's Wisconsin farmette.
His weathered hands move efficiently.
Before 20, Jacob won the 2022 champion bred and owned heifer title.
He also started a successful fitting business.
That's incredible, Douglas.
Jacob's success stems from his upbringing.
He grew up on a 20-acre farmette.
His parents, Lynn and Sara Harbaugh, are dairy industry pros.
They keep 15 to 20 dairy heifers of different breeds.
Indeed, Bella.
The Harbaugh's took a measured approach.
They started with a few animals.
They encouraged Jacob's participation in dairy judging and Quiz Bowl.
Sara noted, we gave him the platform to start.
He's done the work and grown in responsibility.
Jacob's journey had challenges.
In third grade, he was breaking a Durham spring calf to lead.
The calf spooked.
Jacob held on, ending with a hospital visit and stitches above his eye.
Quite a story.
It shows Jacob's determination from an early age.
His mother thought it might hinder his progress.
But Jacob showed remarkable resilience.
He presented that calf at their district show weeks later.
That resilience continued to serve Jacob well.
In June 2023, his family's milking cow facility suffered a fire.
Jacob faced the setback with composure.
He learned patience and appreciation for overlooked things.
Jacob's success isn't just his own hard work.
He's had fantastic mentors.
Four key figures shaped his journey.
His parents, Lynn and Sarah Harbaugh and Kurt and Sara Lohr.
Right, Douglas.
Jacob said, both couples have been great role models.
They've encouraged me to improve and offered advice.
Seeing them work as a team is something I strive for.
The Lohrs have been instrumental in Jacob's development.
They house the family's milking cows in partnership.
This led to Jacob's proudest achievement, the 2022 champion bred and owned Heffer.
It's wonderful to see such strong mentorship.
Sarah Harbaugh emphasized, encourage your kids to seek mentors and ask for help.
Many people will help our industry's youth.
They need to show initiative and drive to learn.
Absolutely, Bella.
These relationships helped Jacob develop essential skills.
They've guided his show ring success and shaped his character and vision.
Jacob has an impressive list of achievements.
He won the 20th Merle Howard Award at World Dairy Expo in October 2024.
He won the 2023 Wisconsin State Dairy Cattle Judging Contest with his county team.
He was named 2023 Star in Agribusiness by Wisconsin FFA.
Don't forget, Bella.
He earned the Distinguished Junior Holstein Member Award from Holstein Association USA.
He was the top recipient of the 2024 Judy Collinsworth Memorial Scholarship.
These accolades underscore Jacob's dedication and talent.
Absolutely, Douglas.
Jacob's entrepreneurial spirit shines too.
During the pandemic, he started his own fitting business.
He grooms cattle for sales, fairs, shows and barn clippings.
His ability to highlight breed characteristics has made his business successful.
That's impressive, Bella.
Jacob's excelling beyond the barn too.
He's pursuing an animal science degree at the University of Minnesota.
He focuses on industry and business.
He values practical coursework, saying,
Our advanced knowledge can be directly applied on farms for effective results.
He's gaining international experience too.
Jacob was selected for Team USA at the Young Breeders School in Batise, Belgium.
He called it a great opportunity to learn about heifer preparation.
I learned from worldwide dairy enthusiasts and heard different perspectives on show ring
preparation.
That international exposure is invaluable, Bella.
Jacob's always looking to learn and grow.
He advises, Don't be afraid to take chances on opportunities.
You can learn from every experience leading to growth.
Looking ahead, Jacob sees himself as a herd manager or in sales consulting.
He plans to own a small herd of Holsteins and other breeds.
He sees technology as key, saying,
My generation can use technology to minimize labor costs.
We can make dairy farms more efficient at producing milk in low stress environments.
That's a fantastic vision, Bella.
Jacob truly represents the dairy industry's bright future.
His mother describes him as outgoing and upbeat.
He has a great work ethic and willingness to learn.
He's mature, responsible, and a good communicator.
I couldn't agree more, Douglas.
Jacob's journey from a 20-acre farmette to a successful business while studying is inspiring.
It shows success isn't just about scale.
It's about passion, dedication, and learning from every experience.
Well said, Bella.
Jacob Harbaugh as a name we'll hear more in dairy.
His hands-on experience, academic pursuit, and clear vision make him a true rising star.
Absolutely, Douglas.
Jacob's story shows the bright future of dairy farming.
With dedication, mentorship, and embracing tradition and innovation, the next generation
is well equipped to lead our industry forward.
Thank you, Bella, for sharing Jacob's inspiring journey.
And thank you, listeners, for tuning in to the Bull Vine Podcast.
Until next time, keep working hard and dreaming big.
The future of dairy is bright.
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