ChopTalk: Recent Episodes
IPPA
Iowans love their bacon, yet few know about pig farming. Laurie Johns connects you to Iowa pig farmers, the lives they live, the challenges they face and the impact on us all.
In this episode, we’re diving into the world of pig farming and animal health. First up, we’ve got Dr. Meredith Petersen, a veterinarian with the Swine Health Education Center at Iowa State University, for a look into what it takes to keep Iowa pigs healthy. Then, we’ve got Zoey Dinkla, producer education director at Iowa Pork, and she’s here to talk about the biosecurity practices Iowa pig farmers swear by. Finally, we’ve got Sarah Stoutner, a farmer and mom extraordinaire. She’s juggling five young kids and a bustling pig farm, all while keeping up with the latest technology to ensure her pigs are comfortable and healthy.
Raising healthy pigs sustainably — what does that look like today and for future generations? Hear from Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Ag, ISU professor Daniel Andersen, and pig farmer Matt Gent on how protecting our soil and water are top priorities.
One in seven Iowa households are food insecure. Hear about Pork in the Pantry and how Iowa pig farmers are doing something about hunger in their communities.
Iowa pig farmers are implementing — and measuring — more sustainability practices to enhance soil health, water quality and lower energy usage. Hear more about the Pork Cares Farm Impact Report.
Many of us feed our pets specialized diets to keep them healthy. Iowa pig farmers do the same. It’s about more than just bacon!
Healthy pigs start with healthy mommas. Laurie Johns takes you into an Iowa pig barn to learn about how farmers care for their animals.
Hear how Iowa pig farmers are raising pigs more sustainably by going solar — harnessing the power of the sun to save energy for all.
Iowa pig farmers want to answer your questions. Learn about neighbor relations -- the opportunities and the challenges — in rural Iowa.
Join Laurie at Starbeck's Smokehouse, winner of the Pulled Pork Madness contest, and hear from an Iowa pig farmer about how it all begins!
When it comes to pig manure and the environment, you’d be amazed at how science, technology, and government regulation combine to reduce a pig's carbon footprint.
The Iowa Pork Producers' Leadership Academy teaches pig farmers how to better communicate, connect and build trust within their communities.
Meet the Lundells -- two generations of pig farmers that aren't just raising pigs, but also growing Iowa communities.
Iowa farms kids want you to know their pigs come first...there are no days off! But they wouldn't have it any other way.
Tenderized, breaded, fried or filleted, join Laurie Johns as she hits the Iowa Tenderloin Trail in search of culinary perfection of Iowa's favorite pork sandwich.
Consumers around the world love Iowa pork. That’s a good thing for our farmers and our communities.
How Iowa families keep pig farming sustainable for the land, water and communities they call home.
Iowa leads the nation in pig production, but many Iowan's still have questions about their care. Laurie Johns talks about animal care with a livestock trucker and ISU expert.
Women who focus on raising pigs and protecting our environment are often the silent superheroes of pig farming. Meet three women who don't wear superhero capes, but are making an impact.
Tough and independent — Laurie Johns explains how Iowa farmers still face mental health challenges. But there are resources ready and willing to help.
It goes way beyond the farm – learn how Iowa pigs create more jobs, household income and economic activity on our small-town main streets!
Pigs, Poop and Odor: How Iowa pig farmers reduce odor and protect our environment using one of nature’s first fertilizers
How did Iowa farmers keep your bacon coming and overcome new challenges when COVID-19 hit? Walcott farmer Mike Paustian, ISU veterinarian Chris Rademacher and Iowa Ag Secretary Mike Naig share the story.