Ep146 Sheryl Meshke
About this episode
Sheryl Meshke discusses her journey leading AMPI and the challenges of the dairy industry.
Sheryl Meshke: Leading America’s Dairy Cooperative, One Block of Cheese at a Time In this episode of the Get Deep Podcast , we sit down with Sheryl Meshke—President and CEO of AMPI (Associated Milk Producers Inc.), the nation’s largest farmer-owned dairy cooperative specializing in American-style cheese. From humble beginnings on a Good Thunder farm to leading an operation that markets 10% of the nation’s American cheese, Sheryl’s story is one of grit, generational values, and strategic leadership in the world of agriculture and food systems. Sheryl reflects on her small-town upbringing, growing up alongside her brothers on the family farm—doing chores, operating equipment, and learning firsthand the work ethic that would shape her path. With deep roots in 4-H and public speaking, she credits her high school speech coach with instilling the confidence that carried her into journalism, communications, and ultimately, executive leadership. We dive into Sheryl’s unique path from newspaper reporter to agricultural publisher, and how a timely connection launched her career at AMPI—an organization she’s helped lead through market volatility, innovation milestones, and literal fires…
People in this episode
Hosts: Wesley Otto, Aaron Jones
Guest: Sheryl Meshke
Topics covered
- dairy industry
- leadership
- agriculture
- cooperatives
- American cheese
Keywords
- dairy cooperative
- American cheese
- leadership
- agriculture
- market volatility
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: AMPI, Dinner Bell Creamery
Places: Good Thunder
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