From small farms to industry legends: How Tom & Kelli Cull’s grit, innovation, and “Never Give Up” mantra turned Budjon Farms into a dairy dynasty.

<a href="https://rss.com/podcasts/the-bullvine/1957150/">E210 Making Dreams Come True: The Journey of Tom & | RSS.com</a>

Have you ever met someone whose passion is so infectious that you want to drop everything and follow their lead? That’s the feeling you get when you hear the story of Tom and Kelli Cull of Budjon Farms. If the dairy industry had rock stars, this power couple would be headlining sold-out arenas!

For the past quarter-century, this dynamic duo has transformed a modest farming operation into one of the most respected and influential breeding operations in the Holstein world. Their story isn’t just about exceptional cows (though there are plenty of those)—it’s about resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment that makes you believe anything is possible if you’re willing to work hard enough.

“We took the art of showing and made a business out of it. We set the groundwork and foundation for what some people are now considering a side hustle or small hobby.”

Kelli and Tom Cull stand proudly on the colored shavings at the 2024 Swiss Expo, where Kelli served as the official Brown Swiss Judge. This prestigious international appointment came the same year Kelli completed a half-marathon on her two artificial hips, exemplifying her remarkable journey from debilitating pain and double hip replacement surgeries in 2018 to international recognition as a judge. Her resilience in overcoming physical challenges mirrors the determination that has defined the Culls’ approach to every obstacle—whether in the showring or in life.

From Farm Kids to Industry Icons

Like many in the dairy world, Tom’s story begins on a family farm in Pewaukee, just west of Milwaukee. But don’t picture some massive operation with all the bells and whistles.

“We grew up on a small farm in Pewaukee,” Tom recalls with a hint of nostalgia. “We milked about 50 cows in a tie-stall barn and ran a modest 260 acres of land. All Holsteins.”

Like most farm kids, Tom balanced chores with school and sports. His family never bought animals specifically for showing—a far cry from today’s elite operations. They worked with what they had, showing their everyday cows at local fairs. Can you imagine reaching the heights Tom has from such humble beginnings?

It wasn’t until his brothers showed two special young cows named BUDJON RAIDER ANNIE and BUDJON STARBUCK WINNIE that things “really took off.” Talk about finding diamonds in your backyard!

Meanwhile, Kelli was racking up miles—literally—in the AI industry. Get this: she traveled around 70,000 miles yearly, covering a seven-state area, first for Sire Power and later for Alta Genetics.

“When I helped launch the PEAK young sire program,” she explains, “I saw so many different management systems and facilities that opened my eyes to what you see today at Budjon.”

Those years on the road weren’t just about collecting paychecks. Kelli was gathering ideas that would later shape their operation—like their calf warming room, designed after a system she’d seen at a young sire herd in Northwest Wisconsin. I love how she turned all those exhausting road miles into practical innovations!

Tom Cull celebrates with a victorious fist pump as Robrook Goldwyn Cameron is crowned Grand Champion at the 2013 Royal Winter Fair in Toronto. This triumphant moment captured Cameron’s crowning achievement as the winning four-year-old Holstein for owners Budjon Farms, Peter Vail, St. Jacobs and Woodmansee. The judge approaches to congratulate Tom as the packed coliseum witnesses this historic win, which highlighted Cameron’s exceptional career as a three-time All-American and All-Canadian champion who was also named Best Udder of Show that day.

Love, Marriage, and a Business Vision

When Tom and Kelli tied the knot in 2000 (they just celebrated their 25th anniversary this March!), they weren’t just building a marriage but laying the foundation for what would become a revolutionary business model in the dairy industry.

Their journey began a few years earlier. In 1996, they partnered with Joel Kietzman to acquire KRULL BROKER ELEGANCE, followed by housing VANDYK-K INTEGRITY PARADISE for Mark Rueth in 1997. These early partnerships planted the seeds for what would eventually grow into Budjon Boarding.

After moving to Lomira in 1998, they spotted a gap in the market that no one else had filled—providing specialized care for show animals owned by families who didn’t have the facilities or know-how to raise them.

“We started a market of buying and selling cattle to local Wisconsin families that maybe weren’t able or didn’t have the facilities to raise show animals,” Tom explains. “Their kids were involved and wanted to show in Junior Holstein shows, so they’d purchase these animals and then leave them with us for daily care.”

How brilliant is that? They created a service that didn’t exist before, allowing more families to participate in showing without needing to become full-time dairy farmers. From those first local clients, their reputation spread throughout Wisconsin, eventually forming partnerships like the one with the Crave Family from Waterloo that continues strong today, more than two decades later.

“We did not start trying to make the business we are today. Rather, we started with some small partnerships that grew into larger ones, and these partnerships created more partnerships.”

A jubilant moment captured at the 2013 Royal Winter Fair as Tom Cull embraces Kelli following Robrook Goldwyn Cameron’s Grand Champion victory. The championship ribbon adorns their prized Holstein as Tom, wearing exhibitor number 319, shares this emotional triumph with his wife and business partner. This win for Cameron represented a crowning achievement for Budjon Farms in one of North America’s most prestigious dairy shows, exemplifying the “Never Give Up” spirit that has defined Tom and Kelli’s 25-year journey in elite cattle breeding and showing. — A jubilant moment captured at the 2013 Royal Winter Fair as Tom Cull embraces Kelli following Robrook Goldwyn Cameron’s Grand Champion victory. The championship ribbon adorns their prized Holstein as Tom shares this emotional triumph with his wife and business partner. This win for Cameron represented a crowning achievement for Budjon Farms in one of North America’s most prestigious dairy shows, exemplifying the “Never Give Up” spirit that has defined Tom and Kelli’s 25-year journey in elite cattle breeding and showing.

The Guidance That Changed Everything

Sometimes, a single piece of advice can alter the entire trajectory of your life. That moment came for Tom during his first year at UW-Madison in 1993.

While working as a clipper for Harry Weier of Dun-Did Holsteins, Tom approached Pam (Weier) Nunes at the Spring Show, asking how to improve his skills. Her reply was simple but life-changing: “Go work with Joel Kietzman and Mark Rueth.”

Those seven words set Tom on a path that would define his career. Both men took him under their wing, instilling their work ethic and cattle preparation skills in him. Isn’t it amazing how the right mentor at the right time can shape your entire future?

For Kelli, professional development came less from direct advice and more from her commitment to being a role model. “I think the most important hat I wear is one of a mentor,” she says. Her motto—”Get what you give in life”—says it all.

Tom Cull showcases the remarkable Blondin Goldwyn Subliminal in the colored shavings of The Royal Winter Fair as she claims victory in the production cow class. Wearing exhibitor number 412, Tom presents this extraordinary Holstein whose journey epitomizes Budjon Farms’ “Never Give Up” philosophy. After overcoming a severe hip dislocation in 2013 that required surgery, a 90-day recovery in a sling, and a year with hobbles, Subliminal returned to become one of the breed’s most decorated champions. The 13-year-old cow made history as the oldest to earn the Star of the Breed award and achieved the coveted EX-97 classification score—making her breeder, Ferme Blondin, the first to produce two EX-97 females. With nearly 300,000 pounds of lifetime milk production, eight natural calves, and numerous championship titles, Subliminal stands as a testament to exceptional genetics, dedicated care, and unbreakable resilience. — Tom Cull showcases the remarkable Blondin Goldwyn Subliminal at The Royal Winter Fair as she claims victory in the production cow class. Tom presents this extraordinary Holstein whose journey epitomizes Budjon Farms’ “Never Give Up” philosophy. After overcoming a severe hip dislocation in 2013 that required surgery, a 90-day recovery in a sling, and a year with hobbles, Subliminal returned to become one of the breed’s most decorated champions. The 13-year-old cow made history as the oldest to earn the Star of the Breed award and achieved the coveted EX-97 classification score—making her breeder, Ferme Blondin, the first to produce two EX-97 females. With nearly 300,000 pounds of lifetime milk production, eight natural calves, and numerous championship titles, Subliminal stands as a testament to exceptional genetics, dedicated care, and unbreakable resilience.

When Life Throws You Curveballs

Do you want to talk about resilience? Let me tell you about Kelli’s 2018.

That year, Kelli underwent not one but TWO hip replacement surgeries! At just 45 years old, she finally found a doctor willing to perform the procedures after enduring nearly a year of agonizing pain from osteoarthritis.

“My doctor was relentless about me not going to the farm for two full months to ensure a full recovery,” she shares. Can you imagine being told to stay away from your life’s work for that long? Ten months after the first surgery, her second hip was replaced after the World Dairy Expo.

But here’s where the story gets genuinely inspirational. In 2024, at age 51, with two artificial hips, Kelli “powerwalked” a half-marathon, completing the 13.1 miles in just 3 hours after training for more than 3 months. If that doesn’t make you want to get off the couch and chase your dreams, I don’t know what will!

What’s even more fascinating is how Kelli’s hip journey parallels that of one of Budjon’s most celebrated cows, Subliminal, who in 2013 overcame a severe hip dislocation. Kelli jokes, “Two of Tom’s favorite women in his life have fake or repaired hips!” I can’t help but smile at the thought—these two share a special bond over their bionic hips!

“Repair and recovery take time, and you have to allow people and animals to live in an environment that nurtures them back to health.”

But there’s a serious side to this story, too. Subliminal’s year-long recovery using slings, hobbles, and a specialized sand pen directly influenced the design of Budjon’s new facility, which now includes a dedicated sand pen area for injured or recovering animals. They’ve even invested in a float tank and blood analysis equipment to address metabolic health situations quickly. Talk about turning personal challenges into solutions that benefit all their animals!

Tom and Kelli Cull share a proud moment at the 2024 World Dairy Expo as Tom displays the prestigious Klussendorf Award trophy, recognizing him as the 82nd recipient of the highest honor given to dairy cattle showmen in the United States. This emotional achievement celebrates Tom’s exceptional character, sportsmanship, and decades of excellence at Budjon Farms, where the couple has exhibited four National Supreme Champions and established themselves as a dominant force in the showring.

On the Road: Amusing Mishaps and Memorable Moments

Behind every polished show ring victory is a collection of mishaps that rarely make it into the winner’s circle photos. And the Culls have some doozies!

One of my favorites involves Tom’s ingenious (but initially flawed) “Big Storage Carts” designed for show setup. Picture this: They arrive at their first show in Quebec, roll these massive carts off the trailer… and all the wheels break off! They fixed them with heavy caster wheels before their next show, the Royal, but the saga continued. “As we rolled the carts down the back road towards the barns, the caster wheels began to break apart. We got them into the barn barely,” they recount with laughter.

The punchline? After Tom finally found a durable solution, “many people have mimicked the carts to use for themselves.” Isn’t that always the way? Your disasters become someone else’s inspiration!

Then there’s the tale of “Mandy,” a tabby farm cat who stowed away in their trailer during a trip to Louisville. After disappearing into the fairgrounds for five days, she reappeared in their tent on show day, hung around while they showed their National Champion, and eventually returned home to Wisconsin. You can’t make this stuff up!

Under the dramatic spotlight of the 2015 World Dairy Expo, a young handler presents Blondin Goldwyn Subliminal-ETS on the iconic blue shavings during the International Junior Holstein Show. Wearing her Grand Champion banner, “Subliminal” stands poised and perfect, showcasing the exceptional dairy character and conformation that earned her the coveted title. This victory represents a crowning achievement for owners Trevor Tuman and Chandler Bening, who are part of the extended Budjon Farms family through their relationship with Kelli Cull. The striking black and white Holstein exemplifies the “Never Give Up” philosophy that would later define her remarkable career, including her inspiring recovery from a serious hip injury in 2013.

Creating Champions in the Ring and Life

Tom’s receipt of the prestigious Klussendorf Award speaks volumes about his impact on the industry. This honor recognizes his showmanship skills and significant contributions as a mentor to countless young exhibitors.

When asked about specific interactions that embody this mentorship, Tom highlights several meaningful relationships, including Kelli’s nephews—Trevor Tuman, Chandler, and Calvin Bening—who transformed their modest beef farm into an efficient facility for show heifers. He also mentions Kylie Nickels, whose Jersey, Homeridge T Annette, overcame significant calving challenges to become a Junior Supreme Champion and Jersey Jug Futurity Winner.

Beyond these examples, Tom and Kelli have mentored numerous fitters and show crew members who have become “like family.” Their approach to staff training is brilliantly simple: “Put your phone down and eyes up. Observe, watch, listen!”

I can’t help but think this philosophy applies far beyond the barn—it’s a lesson we could all use in our increasingly distracted world.

Tom Cull of Budjon Farms presents Rosiers Blexy Goldwyn-ET, crowned Supreme Champion at the 2017 World Dairy Expo. Draped in her prestigious black and gold championship blanket, Blexy—the winning Holstein cow from the Six-Year-Old Cow Class—represented a pinnacle achievement for the Budjon Farms partnership. This victory on the colored shavings at Madison, Wisconsin highlighted the Culls’ exceptional breeding program, with Blexy joining their impressive lineup of champion dairy cattle that has established Budjon Farms as a dominant force in elite Holstein breeding.

The Budjon Way: Management Principles Worth Stealing

You don’t have to be in the elite show circuit to learn from the Culls’ approach to dairy management. Their principles translate to operations of all sizes.

First and foremost, observation trumps technology. “Put your phone down and eyes up” isn’t just a catchy phrase—it’s the foundation of their animal care philosophy. In an age of constantly looking at screens, they remind us that nothing replaces careful observation of animal behavior and needs.

They also emphasize facility respect—both for their staff and animals. “Lead the animals as if you are at a show daily,” they instruct. “Every animal on this farm is treated with the utmost respect.”

These might seem like simple principles, but they’ve yielded extraordinary results. The Culls have created specialized recovery environments, invested in diagnostic tools for immediate health monitoring, and maintained an unwavering commitment to excellence in their operation.

“Treat our facility with the utmost respect. Every animal on this farm is treated with the utmost respect.”

The Budjon Farms team showcases their hands-on management approach outside their custom-designed facility in Lomira, Wisconsin. Standing proudly with two of their elite dairy cattle, this diverse crew embodies Tom and Kelli Cull’s “observation-first” philosophy that prioritizes animal welfare and team collaboration. Their matching overalls aren’t just practical—they represent the unified approach that has become a Budjon signature: every team member receives comprehensive training in specialized care techniques, from proper leading procedures to early health monitoring. This collaborative environment, where experienced staff mentor newcomers and everyone participates in daily animal observation, exemplifies the management principle Tom emphasizes most: “Put your phone down and eyes up. Observe-Watch-Listen!” The team’s attention to detail and respect for both animals and facilities has established Budjon’s reputation for excellence in dairy breeding and boarding.

Budjon Management Tips for Any Dairy Operation

Whether you’re managing elite show cattle or a commercial herd, these practical techniques from Budjon Farms can improve your operation:

Early disease detection: Install on-farm blood analysis equipment for rapid metabolic testing, allowing treatment before symptoms become severe
Recovery environments: Design specialized sand pens for injured or recovering animals, providing secure footing that prevents further injury
Specialized calf facilities: Create a dedicated warming room for starting calves in cold weather months before transitioning to outdoor hutches
Observation-first approach: Train staff to recognize subtle behavioral changes that indicate an animal needs attention before symptoms appear
Technology integration: Consider custom software solutions that combine animal management with financial tracking to reduce administrative overhead

These approaches may require initial investment but can substantially reduce veterinary costs and animal losses in the long term.

The final moments of Holstein show history unfolding at the 2017 World Dairy Expo as judges evaluate an elite lineup of contenders for Grand Champion, featuring two Budjon Farms legends: Rosiers Blexy Goldwyn-ET and Blondin Goldwyn Subliminal-ETS. The immaculately presented Holsteins, showcased on the iconic green colored shavings of Madison, Wisconsin, represent the pinnacle of dairy conformation and production excellence. Moments later, Blexy would be crowned Grand Champion and ultimately Supreme Champion of the entire Expo, while her stablemate Subliminal claimed the 150,000 Lb. Production Cow class. This image captures the culmination of years of breeding, care, and preparation by Tom and Kelli Cull and their partners—a testament to Budjon Farms’ commitment to elite genetics and exceptional showmanship.

Partners in Life and Business: Navigating the Challenges

Working with your spouse 24/7 would break many marriages. So, how have Tom and Kelli made it work for 25 years? Their secret isn’t exceptionally secret—it’s just hard to execute.

“We are both Type A, in-charge personalities,” they admit with refreshing candor. “That has its daily challenges but has also made us great at what we each do.”

Their approach involves clear role definition and some hard-earned relationship skills: “We’ve learned to agree to disagree. We’ve learned to let things go. We’ve learned how to compromise.”

These skills didn’t come naturally—they were developed through years of working side by side, navigating challenges, and celebrating triumphs together. Their partnership reveals complementary strengths: Tom, with his “quick wit, thought-out answers to any question, ability to see multiple angles to any situation, and problem-solving skills,” would have made an excellent lawyer in another life. Meanwhile, Kelli would have remained an entrepreneur, perhaps breeding and kenneling dogs, driven by her “love of animals” and business enjoyment.

When asked about their ideal dinner guests, Kelli’s response reveals her admiration for strong female leadership: “I would love to spend the day, go to the gym, have dinner, and play basketball with PAT SUMMIT,” she says, referring to the legendary women’s basketball coach. Tom and Kelli share a poignant wish: “Tom and I would like to have dinner with Matt Templeton and Annette Ostrom…one more time.” The wistfulness in that simple statement speaks volumes about the relationships they’ve valued throughout their journey.

The Budjon Farms team celebrates their successful showing at the 2024 World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin. Tom and Kelli Cull (far left) stand proudly with their dedicated crew of fitters, handlers, and staff members while displaying their World Dairy Expo ribbons in their meticulously prepared exhibit space. This momentous year marked Tom’s reception of the prestigious 82nd Klussendorf Award—the highest honor given to dairy cattle showmen in the United States—and included Budjon’s Spring View Joel Kinsley earning Reserve Grand Champion honors in the International Jersey Show. The image captures the essence of the “team approach” that Tom has cultivated over decades, showcasing the group that helps Budjon Farms consistently exhibit 40-50 head of elite cattle at major shows while maintaining their reputation as a dominant force in the showring.

Diversification: A Shield Against Market Volatility

The Culls’ multi-faceted business model offers a blueprint for sustainability in today’s dairy industry, where milk price volatility can devastate well-managed operations. Unlike conventional dairy farms that rely primarily on milk sales, Budjon has deliberately created multiple revenue streams.

Their boarding business, embryo work, and show preparation services provide income stability when any sector faces challenges. This approach has allowed them to weather economic storms that have forced many traditional operations to exit the industry.

While specific economic data isn’t publicly available, the longevity of their business model speaks volumes—they’ve maintained profitability through some of the dairy industry’s most challenging decades. Their 25-year success story demonstrates that specialized services can create significant value when traditional commodities face price pressure.

For conventional dairy producers considering diversification, the Budjon model suggests starting with your operation’s unique strengths and gradually expanding into complementary services. This might mean offering custom heifer raising, specialized breeding services, or even educational programs—whatever leverages your expertise while creating new revenue opportunities.

Looking back, I can identify that we have adjusted our business model several times over the past 25 years.

Never Give Up: The Budjon Legacy

If you had to distill the “Budjon way” into three words, Tom and Kelli wouldn’t hesitate: “Never Give Up!”

This philosophy resonates through their choice of theme song—”The Champion” by Carrie Underwood—which perfectly captures their journey from modest beginnings to industry leadership. Each letter in “CHAMPION” carries a special meaning:

C-Courage H-Honor A-Attitude M-Motivation P-Persevere I-Integrity O-Optimistic N-Necessary

“We truly have paid our dues,” they reflect. “We have physically worked our whole lives, and when we go to any show, we always want to be a force to reckon with.”

Their legacy isn’t just about winning ribbons or breeding exceptional cattle—it’s about establishing a new business model in the dairy industry. “We laid the Foundation on how to build a Boarding Business that is not focused and does not rely on just one Avenue or Revenue Stream but is multi-faceted,” they explain.

The Culls’ diversified approach offers valuable lessons in an industry facing significant economic challenges—from milk price volatility to rising input costs. Expanding beyond traditional milk production to include specialized boarding services, embryo work, and show preparation, they’ve created multiple revenue streams that provide stability when one sector struggles.

A Story That Keeps Evolving

As Tom and Kelli celebrate their 25th year in business in 2025, their story continues to inspire. From their humble beginnings—Tom on that small family farm in Pewaukee and Kelli logging all those miles in the AI industry—they’ve built a successful business and a model for excellence that others can follow.

Their journey hasn’t been without challenges—from health issues to the constant demands of evolving with the industry—but Budjon Farms’ ability to adapt, innovate, and stay true to its core values has secured its place among the elite.

What strikes me most about Tom and Kelli’s story isn’t just what they’ve accomplished—it’s how they’ve accomplished it. They’ve created something special with unwavering dedication, genuine passion, and a partnership built on mutual respect and complementary strengths.

And if there’s one lesson we can all take from the Culls—whether we’re dairy farmers or not—it’s those three simple words that have guided them through every challenge: Never Give Up!

“We will exhaust every possibility when it comes to problem-solving and caring for animals… and when we can’t do it, we will network and figure out another solution. Rarely do we ever give up!”

Tom and Kelli Cull walk hand-in-hand from the colored shavings at World Dairy Expo, leading one of their champion dairy cows after another successful showing. The image captures the essence of their 25-year journey—moving forward together, side by side, with the animals that have defined their lives and legacy. As exhibitor number 1845, Kelli represents half of a partnership that has transformed Budjon Farms into a dominant force in dairy breeding. Following Tom’s emotional reception of the prestigious 82nd Klussendorf Award in 2024, their story continues to evolve, inspiring the next generation of dairy enthusiasts who watch this power couple quietly demonstrate what it means to “Never Give Up” as they continue making dreams come true, one champion at a time. — Tom and Kelli Cull walk hand-in-hand from the colored shavings at World Dairy Expo, leading one of their champion dairy cows after another successful showing. The image captures the essence of their 25-year journey—moving forward together, side by side, with the animals that have defined their lives and legacy. Kelli represents half of a partnership that has transformed Budjon Farms into a dominant force in dairy breeding. Following Tom’s emotional reception of the prestigious 82nd Klussendorf Award in 2024, their story continues to evolve, inspiring the next generation of dairy enthusiasts who watch this power couple quietly demonstrate what it means to “Never Give Up” as they continue making dreams come true, one champion at a time.

Key Takeaways

Diversify to Survive: Budjon’s boarding services, embryo work, and show prep provide stability amid milk price volatility.
Resilience Wins: Kelli’s half-marathon on artificial hips mirrors their approach to challenges—recovery, adaptability, and perseverance.
Mentorship Matters: Tom’s Klussendorf Award highlights their commitment to training the next generation of dairy leaders.
Innovation Drives Excellence: Custom software, sand pens, and blood analyzers showcase how tech and intuition coexist in elite breeding.
Legacy Beyond Cattle: Their “Never Give Up” ethos and focus on animal welfare redefine what it means to lead in agriculture.

Executive Summary

Tom and Kelli Cull’s Budjon Farms journey is a testament to resilience and reinvention. From humble beginnings on a 50-cow Wisconsin farm to becoming elite Holstein breeders, they’ve redefined success through diversified boarding services, cutting-edge management, and mentorship. Despite challenges like Kelli’s double hip surgeries and industry volatility, their focus on animal welfare (e.g., sand recovery pens, blood analysis tools) and staff training (“put your phone down, eyes up”) has forged a legacy. Winners of the Klussendorf Award, they’ve inspired countless young farmers and created a blueprint for sustainable dairy operations. Their story—marked by grit, innovation, and a refusal to quit—proves that dreams thrive when paired with hard work and heart.

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