Popular Pig: Recent Episodes
Matthew Rooda
Welcome to the Popular Pig Podcast. A convenient place where you can stay up to date on what’s popular in the swine industry. By listening to Popular Pig, you will receive invaluable information on the latest trends, news, and research from various experts that guide the global pork industry.
About the GuestZach Byrnes is a Northeast Iowa native and Iowa State University graduate with a degree in Ag Engineering. He manages a family row crop operation alongside his father and brother, and the family also custom feeds pigs. Drawing on a diverse background in agriculture–from product engineer at a hydraulic company to leading a sales team in Ag Tech–Zach brings a nuanced perspective as a customer, developer, and business manager in the farm economy. His latest project, Under the Slats, tackles manure management challenges that plague many hog producers. Driven by a commitment to cost-effective solutions with strong outcomes, he’s building a business that puts farmers first.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How one producer’s frustration with manure pit problems turned into a new business. * Why ammonia, foam, and hard-to-pump manure aren’t problems you have to live with. * What to ask before spending money on a manure pit treatment. * How customer service, guarantees, and good records can matter as much as the product itself. * Zach’s “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestsJay Hess serves as the Managing Director of Orbit Farm Technologies, an agricultural technology partner dedicated to protecting the integrity of pork production through advanced connectivity and monitoring. Jay’s work in the swine industry began in 2021 when he spearheaded the delivery of robust network infrastructure across all of Brenneman Pork’s sow farms. Serving as Director of Product for Orbit’s parent company, CCR Technologies, until 2024, his career has been driven by the goal of building scalable, reliable tools that minimize operational downtime. Today, he leads the charge on “Eyes on Glass,” a proactive managed service that removes the burden of oversight from the producer by analyzing barn movements to guarantee total compliance with internal biosecurity rules across the entire operation.
Justin White serves as a Sales Executive at Orbit Farm Technologies, bringing over 20 years of experience to helping agricultural producers improve business connectivity and operational efficiency. His path into agriculture technology began with hands-on industry roles, including Field Sales Agronomist at GROWMARK and Sales, Marketing & Precision Specialist at Hook’s Point Irrigation, providing him with a practical, on-the-ground understanding of the day-to-day challenges producers encounter. He later built his technical sales expertise in sales at a major national telecommunications provider, delivering network, security, and communications solutions to business and government clients.
A graduate of Iowa State University with a degree in Agricultural Systems Technology, Justin combines deep agronomic roots with a career-long focus on connectivity, driving the technology partnerships that keep today’s farms running efficiently.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How Eyes on Glass uses live camera monitoring to verify biosecurity protocols. * Why improving biosecurity compliance starts with consistent oversight. * How practical network infrastructure supports biosecurity technology across the farm. * Where AI can help with monitoring today and where it still has limitations. * Justin and Jay “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestPJ Corns is the Technical Director for JBS Live Pork, Greeley, CO. Responsible for nearly 260,000 sows, boar studs and gilt development units across the Midwest.
PJ has spent his entire career forging world class results with every step from managing large sow units in North Carolina, to working internationally with PIC and his own consultancy firm where his involvement in well over 2 million sows was driven by delivering results based upon proven protocols, system maximization, people development and biosecurity implementation and execution. PJ joined JBS in his current role in September, 2021.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How learning, teaching, and sharing knowledge help you stay relevant throughout a career in swine production. * Why strong people management and putting employees in the right roles improve farm performance. * How technology and AI should solve real production challenges instead of becoming technology for its own sake. * Why empathy and consistent leadership matter when farms work through PRRS and PED outbreaks. * How continuous learning, communication, and adaptability prepare you for the future of the swine industry.
About the GuestBrett Kaysen, Ph.D., serves as senior vice president of producer and state engagement for the National Pork Board (NPB), where he leads grassroots efforts to empower state associations and drive long-term success for the U.S. pork industry. Drawing on his passion for developing people, Dr. Kaysen has supported the development of signature leadership initiatives including the Elevate and Immersion programs while reshaping NPB’s approach to state partnerships.
With a career spanning both industry and academia, Dr. Kaysen brings valuable perspective from his roles as Western Regional Business Director for U.S. Pork at Zoetis and his 18-year tenure at Colorado State University. His background includes coaching livestock judging teams, developing 4-H programs and serving as Youth Advisory Board Chairman for the National Junior Swine Association. A CSU graduate with degrees in Animal Science and Agricultural Education, Dr. Kaysen resides in Iowa with his wife and two daughters, where they raise show pigs and remain actively involved in the industry he loves.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How state pork associations are sharing resources and working together to better serve producers. * Why pork demand efforts are focusing on specific consumer groups instead of broad audiences. * How data is helping the pork industry make smarter marketing and demand-building decisions. * Why swine health remains one of the biggest challenges impacting farms, people, and profitability.
About the GuestDwight Mogler is the managing partner of Iowa Craft Meats and a partner in Mogler Farms/Dayspring Farm in Lyon County, Iowa. A graduate of Iowa State University with a degree in agricultural business, Dwight returned to the family operation after working in the feed and grain industry and helped grow the farm’s farrow-to-finish operation to 200,000 head of annual marketing’s.
Today, the family enterprise includes pork production, beef feedlot operations, crop farming, a country grain elevator and Iowa Craft Meats, a business focused on creating value-added pork products and connecting consumers more closely to the people who raise their food. Dwight is passionate about the future of pork demand, product innovation, and helping producers build stronger connections with consumers.
Dwight previously served on the National Pork Producers Council board and is currently a producer board member of the National Pork Board. He has been recognized by the Iowa Pork Producers Association for his contributions to the pork industry. He and his wife, Donna, live in Lester, Iowa, and enjoy spending time with family when not working.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How a multi-generation farm family laid the foundation for Iowa Craft Meats. * Why Dwight believes producers can build brands and connect directly with consumers. * How Iowa Craft Meats is creating value beyond traditional pork production. * What different pork cuts offer and how cultures around the world use pork. * Why Dwight sees convenience and fully cooked products as an important opportunity for pork.
About the GuestsLee Schulz joined Ever.Ag as their chief economist in 2024. In this role, he speaks on various industry topics, develops and delivers economic data and analyses, and provides clients with critical economic perspectives for informed decision-making. He also serves as the consulting economist for the National Pork Board.
Lee grew up on a crop and livestock farm in central Wisconsin. From 2012 to 2024 he was on the economics faculty at Iowa State University where he served as a professor and as the statewide extension specialist on livestock economics and markets.
Lee has a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, a master’s in agricultural economics from Michigan State University, and a Ph.D. in economics from Kansas State University.
Kiersten Hafer, vice president of business intelligence and innovation for the National Pork Board, provides strategy, insights and guidance to the pork industry and supply chain on where to play and how to win with pork.
She has leveraged her 30 years of experience with Fortune 500 companies and high-growth organizations to uncover and unlock potential, facilitate change and measure expansion. As a lifelong connector and change agent, she has strategized business growth with retailers, marketing agencies, food brokers, foodservice operators, market research firms and consumer goods manufacturers.
Before her role with the National Pork Board, she served as vice president of marketing for Clemens Food Group, where she was responsible for marketing, innovation and business insights across its retail and foodservice businesses.
Hafer is a graduate of Saint Joseph’s University with a Master of Science degree in Food Marketing from the Haub School of Business. She resides in the Greater Philadelphia region with her husband, two children and two golden retrievers.
Jesse Heimer owns Heimer Hampshires, a 500-sow show pig enterprise, where he leads a team of eight raising competitive pigs for junior livestock enthusiasts nationwide and sells progressive genetics via semen and breeding stock to other breeders.
Heimer is a founding member and past board member of the Missouri Youth Show Pig Circuit (2009-2023) and a current Missouri Pork Association board member. At the national level, he is a Pork Leadership Institute graduate (2021); hosted dialogue with industry leaders to foster harmony between show pigs and commercial sectors; sits on the NPPC Traceability task force; participates in the AgView working group and represents exhibition swine on the General Conference Committee of the U.S. Swine Health Improvement Plan.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why growing pork demand starts with understanding the consumer not just the product * How data is being used to target the right people with the right message at the right time * Why demand growth is a long game and what realistic expectations should look like * How marketing efforts actually connect back to producer profitability and value
About the GuestsSarah Showalter is the director of consumer and business insights for the National Pork Board. She implements consumer-focused, producer-led strategy by leading qualitative and quantitative research to answer business questions and identify opportunities.
Prior to her role at NPB, Showalter attended Iowa State University and has experience in developing strategic insights through research at Circana (formerly IRI), Conagra Brands and Hallmark Cards, Inc.
Will Brunt is the chief innovation and marketing officer for Villari Food Group, based out of
Wilmington, North Carolina. In this role, he develops and implements strategic initiatives that align with business objectives in innovation, sales and marketing. He notably established a robust three-year pipeline of innovative products, delivering 5% annual growth and maintaining a competitive product portfolio.
Will has spent more than half of his 32-year marketing and advertising career with animal protein, emphasizing pork, specifically Boar’s Head, Smithfield Foods and Villari Food Group, while also building cross-functional teams and creating a growth-oriented culture of accountability and partnership. Other brands throughout his career include Sara Lee, Tabasco, Rolling Rock, Ventura Foods and International Delight.
Lastly, Will was active in the National Pork Board’s two-year marketing advisory group, which served as a crucial feedback loop for the development of the Taste What Pork Can Do® consumer brand campaign, launched in May 2025.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why ground pork is a major growth opportunity and how it fits today’s need for quick, easy meals * How ground pork’s versatility lets it work across global flavors, everyday meals, and different cooking styles * Why consumers are stuck in habits and how simple swaps like using pork instead of beef can unlock new meals * How education across the entire supply chain is key to driving demand and making ground pork a household staple * Sarah & Will’s “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestsSwineTech is an agtech company transforming pork production through its PigFlow platform, an AI-powered operating system designed to coordinate people, protocols, and priorities at the point of care. Rather than focusing solely on data collection and reporting, PigFlow drives real-time execution by embedding standard operating procedures directly into daily workflows, ensuring consistency, compliance, and performance across every stage of production.
At the center of the platform is Charlotte, SwineTech’s AI-powered digital assistant, which enables users to interact with operational data and institutional knowledge through natural language. By making information more accessible and actionable, Charlotte helps teams make faster, better decisions while reducing administrative burden. Together, PigFlow and Charlotte represent a shift toward execution-driven technology in agriculture, connecting data, people, and processes to improve outcomes across modern production systems.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How SwineTech first used sound patterns to identify piglet distress * Why AI still needs human review, context, and critical thinking * What to consider before letting AI into daily farm or business work * How producers can ask better questions when vendors mention AI * Abe, Adam, and John “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestDr. Ramirez is a scientific advisor for Clipper Distributing Company, LLC. Dr. Ramirez developed the first accelerated peroxide (AHP®) formulations which asides from Intervention disinfectant, also include hospital and dental disinfectants, a reuse medical sterilant, an antimicrobial hand wash, and a dairy teat dip. He holds more than 20 issued or pending patents ranging from cleaning & disinfection, to water treatment and chemical process sensors & controls. His first patent was filed in 1999 – the first AHP® formulation.
Dr. Ramirez has more than 25 years of experience in disinfectant formulation development as applied to infection prevention and biosecurity in a variety of markets. He has started two companies based on his inventions and has won several business pitch competitions, including technologies for wastewater processing and wastewater control. He has been featured and interviewed several times in the press.
Dr. Ramirez holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering, and MS and PhD degrees in Chemical Engineering from the University of Colorado at Boulder.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How dilution mistakes can reduce disinfectant performance without being obvious * Why application and training matter just as much as the product itself * What lower-cost disinfectants may miss in bacteria and virus coverage * How disinfectants can impact lagoon systems and biogas production * Why foam application improves visibility, coverage, and contact time
About the GuestJosé Santiago is a sow production supervisor leading teams with Tosh Pork, LLC based in Henry, Tennessee. José has had extensive experience throughout many segments of the pork industry which has positioned him to excel in production management and José’s teams routinely lead the industry in sow productivity, pig quality, and pig care.
Although José’s strengths in pig production are evident, his true passions are rooted in the people who care for those pigs. José believes in the value that all members of a team can contribute and encourage and develop his people to be as successful as possible. On his free time José is the Youth director for Holy Cross Catholic Church as well as the baseball coach for the Henry County Middle School team. José currently resides in Paris, Tennessee with his lovely wife, Jaryssel and their two outstanding children, José (20 years old) and Angelica (18 years old).
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? Why swine production is really a people business first—and pigs come second when it comes to success. * How great leaders build trust by showing up, listening, and giving their teams the tools and “why” behind the work. * Why fear of failure “holds teams back and how creating a culture where it’s okay to try (and miss) helps people get better. * How to better coach your team by understanding strengths, avoiding knee-jerk reactions, and putting people in roles where they can win.* * Jose’s “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestsJoseph Galasso Jr. is a seasoned C-suite executive with over 40 years in food protein sales, operations, business development, and biosecurity technologies tailored for livestock and swine operations. As Chief Operating Officer at WT Associates and WT BIO-TECH, he leads commercialization of mortality management systems—including EPA-compliant incinerators, anaerobic digestion like KLEENPAS BioGestor, and aqueous ozone/nanobubble solutions—for large-scale beef and pork processing facilities in Iowa. His expertise spans pioneering green chemistry biosecurity for clients like Walt Disney and Wynn Resorts, full P&L management of 12M+ lb protein lines, and regulatory navigation (USDA FSIS, EPA, DNR), making him a key contributor to the protein industry.
Kit Thomas Laramore was born in 1953 in Gillette, Wyoming, and grew up attending school first at a family ranch and later in Gillette. He pursued higher education initially in vocal performance and then in Agricultural Business, graduating from the University of Wyoming in 1978. After college, he worked in trades and construction before focusing on ranching and cattle operations, eventually moving into the beef meat business. Laramore attended a one-room schoolhouse taught by his mother, completed his primary and secondary education in Gillette, and studied vocal performance and agricultural business at universities in Utah and Wyoming. During college, he worked as an electrician earning substantial wages and post-graduation chose to build houses during a coal mining boom, becoming a general contractor for over 130 structures in six years.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* You will learn how a vertically integrated system can connect livestock production directly to processing and distribution. * You will understand why smaller regional plants can improve access to processing and support local producers. * You will learn how genetics and production choices impact meat quality, animal welfare, and efficiency. * You will hear how workforce housing, training, and community investment can support long term rural development. * You will learn the key risks in launching a facility like this and how planning addresses capital, labor, and food safety.
About the GuestsDaniel Linhares, DVM, MBA, PhD – Professor & Director of Graduate Education at the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Worked for 8 years as a practicing veterinarian, technical services, and health assurance; now he is dedicated to training MSc and PhD students as part of the ISU fieldepi team, working with swine producers and health professionals in the US and abroad.
Edison Magalhães, DVM, MBA, MSc, PhD – Assistant Professor in the Department of Animal Science at Iowa State University. Dr. Edison Magalhaes previously worked for four years in the Brazilian swine industry as a swine veterinarian practitioner. He then pursued his Master’s and PhD in Swine Epidemiology at the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Currently, Dr. Magalhaes leads the SwinalytIQ Lab, a multidisciplinary team composed of undergraduate and graduate students from veterinary medicine, animal science, data science, and computer engineering. His program focuses on research and extension that supports the U.S. and global swine industries by developing data-driven approaches to improve health, productivity, and decision-making, helping producers better utilize their production data.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* You will learn how most grow-finish mortality ties back to conditions and performance in the sow farm. * You will learn how integrating siloed data reveals connections between health, environment, and production outcomes. * You will learn why weaning age, variation within groups, and early health challenges influence downstream performance. * You will learn how barn setup, environment, and basic husbandry practices impact pig survivability early on. * You will learn how gilt development and sow farm management set the ceiling for overall system productivity.
About the GuestDr. Bill Christianson is the former Chief Operating Officer of PIC. He has a background in agriculture and biotechnology, with broad industry knowledge and extensive commercial and global experience. He earned his DVM and PhD in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota.
Dr. Christianson joined PIC in 1993 and held a range of operational roles across Europe, South America, and the United States before becoming General Manager of PIC North America in 2007. He later led the combined ABS and PIC businesses across the Americas starting in 2010 and became COO of Genus PIC in 2012.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How growing up around a family farm and machinery business led into the swine industry. * What it was like working on PRRS during its early discovery and research phase. * How large systems approached eliminating PRRS and the time and cost involved. * Why taking opportunities before feeling ready can help you grow in your career. * Bill “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestEdwina and her husband run Blantyre Farms, a 2,200 sow pig farm and a mixed farm of sheep, cattle and crops, near Young, NSW, Australia.
In operation for more than a decade, a methane digestion system captures methane gas from pig manure and converts it into electricity. Blantyre also utilizes food waste products for pig feed and saves 13,500 of tonnes of landfill each year. The NSW EPA has awarded Blantyre with a Green Globe Award for Resource Efficiency.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How a family pig farm in Australia grew from a small farrow-to-finish operation into a much larger sow farm over time. * How using liquid feeding and food waste products can help reduce feed costs and create new opportunities on a pig farm. * How capturing methane from pig manure can generate electricity and lower energy costs on the farm. * How pig producers in Australia are dealing with activist pressure and protecting their farms and teams. * Edwina’s “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestWhat began as a spontaneous job application became a lifelong commitment to protecting animals across New South Wales and supporting some of the state’s most underserved and marginalized communities.
Throughout his career, Steve has developed a deep understanding of human behavior and an exceptional ability to inspire people to take meaningful action. His experience across animal welfare, government relations and the justice system has shaped his insight into what drives individuals, organizations and communities.
As CEO, Steve leads the largest animal welfare organization in Australia with authenticity, integrity and a clear strategic vision — creating the conditions for lasting, impactful change.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* The difference between animal welfare and animal rights — and why the pork industry needs to understand that distinction. * Why communication and working with producers often leads to better animal welfare outcomes than enforcement alone. * How real farm constraints influence decisions around housing systems like farrowing crates. * Why consumer expectations, economics, and welfare improvements are closely connected in pork production. * Steve’s “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestDr. Dustin Oedekoven is the chief veterinarian for the National Pork Board, based in Des Moines, Iowa. In this role, Dr. Oedekoven leads a team of veterinarians and swine production experts in Pork Checkoff-funded work for pork producers, including foreign animal disease (FAD) preparedness, protecting the U.S. herd from African swine fever and developing a national swine health strategy.
Dr. Oedekoven has over 20 years of experience in the agriculture sector. Prior to joining the National Pork Board in 2022, he served as state veterinarian and executive secretary for the South Dakota Animal Industry Board, where he provided strategic leadership and direction for the state’s animal health agency – a seven-member, governor-appointed board of livestock producers with responsibility for all animal health programs and disease control efforts in the state.
Dr. Oedekoven received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Iowa State University and bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Science from South Dakota State University. He resides in Pierre, South Dakota, with his wife and kids.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why the National Swine Health Strategy was created and how pig health directly impacts producer profitability. * The two big goals guiding the strategy: reduce the impact of domestic diseases and keep foreign and emerging diseases out. * Why PRRS elimination is now being set as a long term industry destination. * Why PED elimination may be more achievable in the near term and how recent progress gives the industry momentum.
About the GuestNat Stas is a Technical Services Director for PIC and has been in the commercial swine industry for 15 years, 8 of which have been with PIC. He holds a master’s degree from University of Illinois under Dr. Mike Ellis focusing on swine genetics and reproduction.
In addition to Nat’s commitment to the commercial swine industry, he currently stays involved in the American Society of Animal Science and many livestock youth development programs and swine research programs. Nat resides in Latrobe, Pennsylvania with his wife and twin daughters.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why finishing mortality keeps climbing and why it costs you the most money. * How tracking week on feed at death can quickly narrow down where your real problems are. * Why cutting pigs open and getting a true diagnosis beats guessing every time. * The simple things that matter most: getting pigs started right, keeping feed in front of them, avoiding feed outages, and managing space and sound feet late in finishing.
About the GuestAl Wulfekuhle lives on Lake Delhi in east central Iowa, he is the owner of G&W Pork, a farrow-finish operation that markets around 50,000 pigs per year to Tyson Foods. Al also farms 640 acres of corn and soybeans. Al has business experience in managing farrow to finish pig farms and providing pork industry consulting and is a past President of the Iowa Pork Producers Association and is now serving as Past President of the National Pork Board.
Al has a passion for improving pig production and health, creating more long term demand for pork and assisting others to be successful in the pig industry. He has served on numerous IPPA, NPB and Iowa State University research projects, advisory boards, committees, and task forces. Al and his wife Kathy have 3 married children, all very successful in their careers outside of the pork industry and 9-grandchildren. His personal hobbies are traveling, physical fitness and spending time with family and friends.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? How Al Wulfekuhle built a hog operation from 45 gilts starting in 1979 and grew through both good times and hard ones. * How relationships and trust helped Al move forward when lenders said no on a barn loan. * Why some of the toughest times in pork production created the biggest opportunities for growth and leadership. * Why pork demand became a top priority after 2023 and how the domestic marketing campaign took shape. * Al’s “Golden Nugget”*
About the GuestDr. Derald Holtkamp is a Professor in the Department of Veterinary Diagnostics and Production Animal Medicine (VDPAM) in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Iowa State University (Ames, Iowa, U.S.). He received his DVM, MS in Agricultural Economics, and B.S. in Agricultural Business with a minor in statistics, all from Iowa State University.
Prior to joining Iowa State, he was a private veterinary consultant. He has also served as a technical services veterinarian for ADViSYS Inc., Vice President of Swine Applications for MetaFarms Inc., Director of Pork Development for E-Markets, Inc., and veterinarian for Smithfield Foods in Warsaw, North Carolina. Dr. Holtkamp’s research focuses on managing infectious swine diseases, biosecurity, disease risk assessment, and the economics of animal health and disease. He has authored more than 70 peer-reviewed publications, delivered over 70 invited presentations internationally, and given more than 220 invited talks across the United States. In addition, he has mentored over 275 professional and graduate students.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How pig mortality directly impacts US competitiveness and why productivity gaps matter far beyond individual farms. * What global benchmarking data shows about how the US compares to countries like Brazil and why mortality is a major driver. * How PRRS continues to play a significant role in lost productivity and why its true economic impact is likely underestimated. * Why biosecurity failures are usually tied to everyday processes, not rare events or one time mistakes. * How identifying, prioritizing, and monitoring biosecurity risks matters more than debating rules like downtime length.
About the GuestsSawyer Whisler is an Iowa hog farmer and the co-founder of Farmer Grade. He built an audience by sharing real day-to-day farm life through the @thislldofarm channel and later launched the Barn Talk podcast. His father, Tork Whisler, is part of the father-son dynamic behind the show and the long-term focus on trust and credibility.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How Barn Talk grew from farm YouTube videos showing modern hog farming day to day. * Why authenticity on camera matters when showing the good, bad, and frustrating moments. * How the Barn Talk studio came together in a hayloft barn that had never been uncovered. * Why avoiding sponsorships can protect credibility and help keep a weekly show sustainable. * How Farmer Grade started when people asked to buy pork based on trust, not claims.
About the GuestJenelle Dunkelberger has worked as a geneticist at Topigs Norsvin for the past eight years. She holds a PhD from Iowa State University, where the focus of her research was on the role of host genetics in response to viral disease in pigs. She continues to study this topic, along with other health-related issues, as Head of the Topigs Norsvin Global Health and Behavior Research Platform. Jenelle resides in Minnesota with her husband and young boys.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? Why improving pig livability through genetics is not as simple as it sounds and why what we measure matters more than what we assume. * How collecting data from commercial herds helps reveal traits like resilience, robustness, and longevity that elite nucleus animals never get the chance to show. * How genetic selection is being used today to reduce sow death loss tied to feet and leg issues, prolapse, and unknown sudden death. * Why disease resilience can only be improved by measuring performance under real disease pressure, not ideal conditions. * Jenelle’s Golden Nugget*
About the GuestPJ Corns is the Technical Director for JBS Live Pork, Greeley, CO. Responsible for nearly 260,000 sows, boar studs and gilt development units across the Midwest.
PJ has spent his entire career forging world class results with every step from managing large sow units in North Carolina, to working internationally with PIC and his own consultancy firm where his involvement in well over 2 million sows was driven by delivering results based upon proven protocols, system maximization, people development and biosecurity implementation and execution. PJ joined JBS in his current role in September, 2021.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why the best farms don’t just “track KPIs” — they focus on what they can improve today. * How to stop relying on lagging data (like farrowing rate or closeouts) and start using leading indicators. * Why execution on the farm matters more than having the “perfect” SOP. * Where AI is headed in pig production — and why it only works if people follow through and execute. * PJ’s Golden Nugget
About the GuestDr. Clayton Johnson is a globally recognized swine health expert with Carthage Veterinary Services in Carthage, Illinois. A 2008 graduate of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, he began his career with The Maschhoffs, LLC—where he helped double sow production—and later joined Carthage in 2016 to lead company health initiatives.
Internationally recognized for pioneering bioeconomic models to manage PRRS and PEDrelated diseases, he’s a sought-after consultant in China, Southeast Asia, and beyond. In 2020, Dr. Johnson received the prestigious Allen D. Leman Science in Practice Award for excellence in integrating scientific rigor into swine health management. He is licensed in seven states, leads a team of veterinary professionals, and, beyond veterinary practice, hosts “The Swine Health Blackbelt Podcast” a weekly podcast series reaching a global audience of +100,000 listeners serving to distill complex swine health research into actionable insights.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? Why pig livability decisions range from quick, day to day treatment calls to major capital investments and why they should not be evaluated the same way. * How biosecurity functions more like insurance than a line item expense and why doing it right often goes unnoticed until it fails. * Why preventing disease on the front end usually delivers more value than managing problems after pigs get sick. * How economics, animal care, employee experience, and long term operation health all need to be considered together when making decisions. * Clayton’s Golden Nugget*
About the GuestKiersten Hafer is Vice President of Business Intelligence and Innovation for the National Pork Board and provides strategy, insights and guidance to the pork industry and supply chain on where to play and how to win with pork.
She has leveraged her 30 years of experience with Fortune 500 companies and high-growth organizations to uncover and unlock potential, facilitate change and measure expansion. As a lifelong connector and change agent, she has strategized business growth with retailers, marketing agencies, food brokers, food-service operators, market research firms, and consumer goods manufacturers.
Before her role with the National Pork Board, she served as vice president of marketing for Clemens Food Group where she was responsible for marketing, innovation and business insights across its retail and food-service businesses.
Hafer is a graduate of Saint Joseph’s University with a Master of Science degree in food marketing from the Haub School of Business. She resides in the Greater Philadelphia region with her husband, two children and two golden retrievers.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why pork’s future growth depends on understanding today’s consumer and not just producing a great product. * How data and business intelligence are being used to help sell more pork at retail and food-service. * Why younger consumers want bold flavors, global cuisine, and finished dishes; not whole muscle cuts. * How rethinking naming, portion size, and presentation can remove barriers to buying fresh pork. * Kiersten’s “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestBen Blair was raised in Sparta, Illinois, where he grew up helping on his family’s corn, soy, wheat, and farrow-to-finish farm. He always enjoyed the numbers behind how things worked, which led him to study engineering at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. After finishing his engineering degree, he felt the pull back toward animal health and entered the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine.
Following a short time in clinical practice, he returned to Illinois to complete a PhD with Dr. Jim Lowe. His work focused on the cull sow marketing network and strengthened his interest in advanced analytics, machine learning, and applying AI to livestock systems. He then spent two years at the University of Minnesota as a researcher while also running a consulting business centered on data and AI projects in agriculture.
In 2023 Blair returned to the University of Illinois, where he now serves as an assistant professor in Livestock Health. His research combines infectious disease modeling with practical applications of AI in veterinary medicine and modern farming.
He lives in Villa Grove, Illinois, with his wife Cathy and their three children, Charlie, Liz, and Lincoln.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? How AI really works — breaking down machine learning, computer vision, and language models in everyday terms. * Why the swine industry needs “homegrown” AI solutions that understand how farms truly operate. * The biggest challenges holding back AI adoption in ag — from messy data to slow decision-making. * How “crawl, walk, run” thinking can help farms start small with AI before chasing advanced automation. * Ben’s “golden nugget.”*
About the GuestAfter earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University in 1984, Dr. Jeff Okones spent nearly two decades in food animal practice in Eastern Iowa honing his expertise in swine health and production. His problem solving and communication skills led him from private practice to industry, first as a phone consultant for Pfizer Animal Health, and later as a Professional Service Veterinarian with Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc. where he supported the Swine Sales and Marketing team.
In 2020, Jeff joined Pharmgate Animal Health as a Technical Service Veterinarian. Drawing on more than 30 years of hands-on experience, he bridges the gap between science and the barn, helping producers turn complex product data into practical real-world strategies. He’s particularly passionate about vaccine technology and how it can set pigs up for healthier, more productive lives while supporting producers’ bottom lines.
When he’s not working with pork producers and veterinarians, you’ll find him golfing, visiting small towns looking for the best pork tenderloin, following Iowa State athletics or spending time with his five grand kids.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* The real-world causes of swine respiratory disease (SRD) and how it often stems from multiple bacteria and stressors, not just one source. * The most common bacterial culprits behind SRD and what symptoms to watch for before things get out of hand. * Why stressors like weaning, weather swings, and transportation can quickly trigger respiratory issues—and how to prevent them. * The role of good husbandry, strong biosecurity, and smart antibiotic use (like Tulissin and Tenotryl) in protecting herd health. * Jeff’s “golden nugget.”
Products Featured in This EpisodeThese Pharmgate products were discussed as part of SRD management strategies and responsible treatment approaches:
- Tenotryl
- Tulissin 25
- Tulissin 100
About the GuestOriginally from Brazil, Lucas received his DVM and Master’s degrees from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG, Brazil) and completed his doctoral degree at the Prairie Swine Centre and the University of Saskatchewan in Canada. Lucas joined Zinpro Corporation in 2022 as a discovery researcher for swine. His current role includes product development and support, directing and coordinating research studies and providing training for internal employees and external customers.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? How sow lameness quietly reduces herd productivity and longevity, often before visible signs appear. * The connection between claw lesions and lost piglets—how one sow can lose nearly a pig per litter due to hoof pain and imbalance. * Why gilt care, flooring, and proper trace mineral nutrition matter more than ever for healthy feet and lasting herd performance. * How early prevention and better diagnostics can protect your herd’s bottom line and animal welfare. * Lucas’s “Golden Nugget”*
About the GuestTwyla Stevens is an accomplished HR executive with broad experience leading people strategies across national and international teams. As Chief Human Resources Officer at Professional Swine Management, she oversees talent acquisition, organizational development, compensation and benefits, and compliance initiatives. With expertise in workforce planning, leadership development, and change management, Twyla aligns HR strategy with business goals to drive organizational success. She holds a degree in Business Administration from Middle Tennessee State University, is a certified HR professional, and serves on the HR Advisory Board and the Sandburg Agriculture Advisory.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why real leadership starts with knowing yourself (your style, how you decide, and how you communicate). * How a clear leadership path and training can turn nervous first-time leaders into confident managers. * Simple ways to build trust and engagement every day (hands–heart–mind, first-day experience, being present). * Practical habits you can put in place tomorrow, like quick standups and genuine check-ins with your team. * How growing leaders from within cuts turnover, boosts promotions, and strengthens farm culture and performance.
About the Guest Courtney Gray has been the executive director of the Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council since 2022, where she represents Pennsylvania’s 2,500 pig farmers. Prior to that, she was on the producer education and engagement team at Pennsylvania Beef Council and was a loan officer at Farm Credit. She is a graduate of Penn […]
About the Guest Ton Kramer holds both master’s and doctorate degrees in Animal Science focused on Swine Locomotion and Health from Federal University of Paraná in Brazil. He has MBAs in Business Management and Project Management from Fundação Getúlio Vargas and a postgraduate degree in Marketing from Escola Superior de Propaganda e Marketing. Ton has […]
About the Guest Brian Martin is a 5th generation farmer from Northwest Indiana, a husband and father of 3. He has 40 years of experience in Pork industry around the US, and he is Co-Owner and Manager of a 14,000 sow pork production operation. What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular […]
About the Guest Kyle Schulte, originally from Norway, Iowa, has built a career rooted in agricultural excellence and innovation. He earned a B.S. in Agricultural Studies (2007) and an M.S. in Animal Science (2010) from Iowa State University, where his master’s thesis, “An Evaluation of Equipment and Procedures for the Prediction of Intramuscular Fat in […]
About the Guest John Carroll is a managing partner of Carroll Family Farms, a multi-generational farming operation with roots in the U.S. and expansion into Brazil. Known for his strategic vision, John has built a globally integrated operation focused on long-term value, operational excellence, and leadership. His work reflects a deep respect for the land, and a […]
About the Guest Lindsay Case is a senior leader in the global livestock genetics industry, where she directs the commercialization strategy for the world’s first PRRS-resistant pig. She has more than a decade of experience translating genetic innovations into practical solutions for producers worldwide and leads global go-to-market efforts to ensure this breakthrough technology delivers […]
About the GuestDr. DeDecker received her Ph.D. in swine well-being at the University of Illinois in 2011 and then started her career with Smithfield Foods.
Currently Senior Director of Research and Extension for Smithfield Hog Production, Dr. DeDecker oversees applied research in all disciplines of swine production with the goal to identify cost effective solutions that can be implemented at the farm level using Extension services and outreach.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why split suckling is complex, time-sensitive to colostrum (~12 hours), and hard to execute consistently. * What the evidence actually shows: across 12 studies (1985–2023) most found no difference in survival/gain; Smithfield ran 3 more trials with no benefit—and one protocol doubled mortality in the biggest pigs. * Why today’s sows change the equation (higher total born and heavier birth weights, more functional teats) making old assumptions less relevant. * Where to focus Day-1 labor: primary care for all (feed, water, environment) first, then individual/secondary care (drying, assisting, oxytocin) only as needed. * Ashley’s “golden nugget.”
About the GuestDr. Joel DeRouchey grew up on a diversified purebred swine, cattle and sheep operation in Pukwana, S.D. He graduated with his Animal Science degree from South Dakota State University in 1997 and his M.S. (1999) and Ph.D. (2001) in Swine Nutrition from Kansas State University. He is currently full professor and State Animal Science Extension Program Leader and has a 50% Extension and 50% Research appointment.
Joel works with the productive K-State Applied Swine Nutrition Team that mentors graduate and undergraduate students, works directly with producers to provide up-to-date information and focuses on generating information with direct industry application. Joel has been named the National ASAS Outstanding Extension Specialist, AFIA Nonruminant Nutrition Research Award, North Central Region Excellence in 4-H Volunteerism Award, and South Dakota State University Distinguished Young Alumni.
Joel and his wife, Julene, have three children James, Jenna and Jacob and currently lives on a small farm near Wamego, KS.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* What the Pig Livability Project is (who’s involved, why it started) and how it turns field data into practical results. * What actually moves the needle post-weaning: mat feeding gives a small but real gain; bigger “cube-style” pellets help early intake and cut pulls; current split-suckling protocols haven’t delivered. * Why early ID and individual care (getting pigs/sows up, eyes-on checks) beat “set-and-forget” routines. * How modern practices (full-feed lactation, group housing) can hide problems—and simple ways to adjust so you still catch issues fast. * Joel’s “golden nugget.”
About the GuestTon Kramer holds both master’s and doctorate degrees in Animal Science focused on Swine Locomotion and Health from Federal University of Paraná in Brazil. He has MBAs in Business Management and Project Management from Fundação Getúlio Vargas and a postgraduate degree in Marketing from Escola Superior de Propaganda e Marketing. Ton has also held leadership roles in the Brazilian Association of Veterinary Specialists in Swine. Currently, he serves as the South American Business Manager at Zinpro.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why today’s high-producing sows are like “athletes” — and how that raises lameness risks. * How lameness and claw lesions have doubled in recent years and their hidden costs. * The impact lameness has on sow longevity, herd immunity, and piglet performance. * Practical strategies — from flooring to nutrition — that help prevent claw problems and removals. * Ton’s “golden nugget.”
About the GuestWillem Steyn is a distinguished Nutritionist and the Founder and Owner of SwiNE Nutrition Management Pty Ltd, a reputable nutrition consultancy company based in South Africa and The Netherlands. With a profound passion for animal nutrition and an extensive international network, he has devoted his career in aiding pig farmers in unleashing the genetic potential of their livestock. Willem’s expertise and substantial contributions have left an indelible mark on the agricultural sector, with a distinct focus on the swine industry.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why pig farmers across the world face the same core challenges, no matter the country or setup. * How labor differences (hands-on vs. automated) impact pre-weaning mortality and piglet care. * The value of technology like electronic sow feeders and RFID scales for tracking intake and weight in real time. * Why starting piglets on feed early—through a “learn to eat” and “learn to digest” approach—pays off at weaning and beyond.
About the GuestYolande Seddon is an associate professor in swine behaviour and the Enhancement Chair in Swine Welfare at the University of Saskatchewan’s Western College of Veterinary Medicine. Yolande leads a research group in Saskatoon, Canada, and provides animal welfare consultation for swine industry groups. Her academic training is in applied ethology (animal behaviour) and the scientific assessment of animal welfare, with a PhD in finisher pig health management (Newcastle University, UK).
Her research mandate is to contribute science to help develop lasting solutions to swine welfare challenges and to support sustainable farming practices. Her areas of research include management of gestating sows in group-housing, the economics of higher welfare free-farrowing systems, weaner transport, environmental enrichment, and the development of improved methods of swine welfare assessment.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why animal welfare is not just a nice extra but a key part of production, sustainability, and pig care. * How Canada blends science with producer input so research actually gets put into practice on farms. * Why enrichment and play are important, how they reduce stress, improve health, and even help pigs handle challenges like PRRS. * What freedom of movement really looks like, why sows will choose it, and why group housing is more effective than short exercise routines. * Yolande’s “golden nugget.”
About the GuestDr. Lauren Glowzenski, VMD, is a 2016 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, and has been a swine exclusive practitioner for over a decade. With experience in all phases of production, from birth to market, Dr. Glowzenski has previous experience working for TriOak Foods (JBS USA) and Tyson Foods. She currently works for Pipestone Veterinary Services where she provides care for client farms throughout the Midwest.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why sow prolapses spiked (since ~2013) with the push for more total born—and why better “robustness” genetics are starting to taper it off. * What you can control today: quick, humane on-farm fixes—vaginal box-sutures; rectal purse-string or band-and-ring amputation—with simple tools and clear SOPs. * The payoff: cutting prolapse-related deaths from ~20–30% of sow mortality down to ~5–10%, keeping more sows alive to wean and cull. * How to make it stick: train the team (including TN-visa staff), focus on speed, safety, and food-safety-friendly methods. * Dr. Lauren’s “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestsAfter studying at the Faculty of Agrifood, Forestry, and Engineering at the University of Lleida, Oscar Toledano worked as a production manager on large pig farms. Twenty-four years ago, he joined Rotecna, where he has had the opportunity to collaborate with pig production and farm construction companies in more than 80 countries. Mr. Toledano has experience as a speaker at national and international events and has also written technical articles on current topics related to the pig industry.
Tyler Leete grew up around the Genetics side of the swine industry. Following graduation from Iowa State University with a degree in Animal Science and Minor in Meat Science. He worked as a Genetic Technician for a large swine genetics company. He then dove into the research side of the industry, followed by joining a large Integrator as a Genetic Supervisor on multiple sow units at the multiplication and nucleus sow farm levels before taking on a role collection, troubleshooting, and validating packing plant and trail data. Tyler then served two years as an independent contractor managing 10,000 nursery spaces before joining Rotecna in 2024.
Oscar Toledano (Left) and Tyler Leete (Right)What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Labor and generational change are the #1 challenge on farms worldwide. * Environmental rules and consumer expectations are reshaping production * Economics drive everything. * Automated body condition management is a game-changer. * Oscar and Tyler’s golden nuggets
About the GuestDr. DeDecker received her Ph.D. in swine well-being at the University of Illinois in 2011 and then started her career with Smithfield Foods.
Currently Senior Director of Research and Extension for Smithfield Hog Production, Dr. DeDecker oversees applied research in all disciplines of swine production with the goal to identify cost effective solutions that can be implemented at the farm level using Extension services and outreach.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig* Why most transport losses happen before the pigs even leave the farm. * The barn and site design factors that make loading easier and safer for pigs. * Simple, low-cost changes that can reduce pig stress and improve loading efficiency. * How driver handling and truck setup play a role in transport losses. * Ashley’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestsNeal Hull joined the National Pork Board in 2019 as director of domestic market development. He leads the field team of channel market development managers to align NPB’s strategies with key retail and foodservice customers across the country; he is focused on building trust, adding value and creating demand for U.S. pork. Neal has more than 30 years’ experience in the food industry, including foodservice and retail.
Neal grew up on a small farm near Moravia, Iowa, where his family raised pigs and other livestock. He graduated from Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in marketing and minored in speech communication.
Neal and his wife, Sara, have three children and reside in Austin, Minn.
Born in the Netherlands, Tony has lived in St. Louis, Mo., since he was 3 years old. He began his career at Schnucks as a bagger when he was 16 and held various positions at multiple stores throughout high school and college while he earned a pre-architecture degree at the University of Missouri-Columbia. After graduating, he continued his career with Schnucks and has held positions in the Meat/Seafood Department as a QA inspector, visual merchandiser, buying analyst and category manager. He has been with Schnucks for 29 years and currently serves as the senior director of meat and seafood. He has been happily married to his wife, Jennifer, for 18 years, and they have two children, Aiden and Alexis.
Neal Hull (left) and Tony Manker (right)What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Pork wins on flavor and the new campaign leans into that * How producers and retailers are working together to grow demand * Why younger shoppers want pork that’s easy, bold, and versatile * Smart marketing moves that are getting pork noticed * Neal and Tony’s golden nuggets
About the GuestChris Ford works with swine operations across the Farm Credit Services of America, Frontier Farm Credit, and Ag Country Associations’ state territory and throughout the Midwest ranging in a variety of sizes. Chris is a part of the specialized Swine Team which has lending relationships with 28 of the 40 largest swine producers in the nation. Prior to becoming a Vice President of Corporate Swine Lending, Chris was a Credit Underwriter that specialized in swine operations.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why knowing your true cost of production is critical for smart financial decisions—especially when it comes to risk management. * How the most successful producers use benchmarking to spot strengths and weaknesses and stay ahead. * Why succession planning isn’t just about legacy—it’s about survival and choosing the right future leader. * How aging facilities (and aging owners) are forcing hard choices: renovate, rebuild, or get out. * Chris’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestJordan is the founder and CEO of Phinite and a seasoned entrepreneur currently leading his third startup. He first recognized the opportunity to recycle animal waste nutrients into high-value fertilizer while managing wastewater treatment and resource recovery projects in Darwin, Australia. In 2016, he earned top honors from the U.S. EPA in their Nutrient Recycling Challenge for his innovative work in this field. Jordan relocated with his family to North Carolina,one of the largest hog-producing regions in the U.S., to launch Phinite. Under his leadership, the company has grown into a regional leader in waste management and sustainable fertilizer production, driving innovation at the intersection of agriculture and environmental stewardship.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why animal manure is one of the most underutilized resources in agriculture. * How Phinite is transforming costly waste into valuable, sell-able organic fertilizer. * What makes drying sludge so difficult—and how Phinite solved it using solar power and robotics. * The impact this innovation could have on global food security and fertilizer independence. * Jordan’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestShonda Sammons is a partner and Program Leader with the sister organization of 21st Century, 21st Century Agriculture Leadership. With over 30+ years of experience, she works with employers and employees to provide coaching, guidance, and leadership development. In addition to her highly engaging facilitation style, Shonda converts individuals into enterprising champions and assists companies in identifying in-house talent and matching employee skill sets to job responsibilities.
Originally from Indiana, Shonda has called Kentucky home for the last 23 years. After graduating from Austin Peay State University with a Bachelor of Science in Agri-Business, Shonda held many financial services roles but always knew she wanted to own her own business. She established Advocate Builders in 2013 and has remained an integral part of her company. She is also the author of a tracking program that offers the ability to manage advocate relationships and to track cross-sells and referrals company-wide. She is an adjunct professor at West Kentucky Community and Technical College.
She also specializes in Corporate Culture Development, Customer Service, DISC and Motivators, EQ-i 2.0,
EQ 360, and Performance Management.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How real-world leadership development is being shaped by cross-industry ag exposure. * The power of collaborative learning and lifelong professional trios. * How investing in early- and mid-stage professionals builds trust and strengthens culture. * Why mentorship—done right—matters deeply for organizational longevity. * Shonda’s golden nugget
About the GuestGary Weihs serves as Managing Partner for Kincannon & Reed, the world’s premier search firm for senior leadership roles in food, agribusiness, and life sciences organizations.
Leveraging more than 30 years of management experience in technology, production, renewables, biotech and agricultural equipment environments, Weihs focuses on senior executive and direct-report-level assignments within agricultural and food sectors.
Weihs and the Kincannon & Reed team work to become trusted partners with their clients through a consultative approach, strong work ethic, deep industry knowledge, and extensive professional networks. Early in an engagement, Weihs and his colleagues gain a thorough understanding of their clients’ near-term business objectives, long-term strategies, and organizational culture. This discovery process enables them to apply their executive experience into recruiting skilled, results-oriented, and visionary leaders for their clients.
Before joining Kincannon & Reed, Weihs led domestic and international organizations ranging from Fortune 100 companies to entrepreneurial start-ups.
- Weihs was COO of the then NYSE-listed RDO Equipment, which owns and operates the largest group of John Deere dealerships in North America with over 1600 employees, 54 locations and $650M in sales.
- In the consumer products and food arenas, Weihs gained over 15 years of progressive management experience in strategy, manufacturing, and supply chain roles with Procter & Gamble, Pepsi, and ConAgra.
- Weihs’ management experience in the chemicals industry includes leading Monsanto’s Crop Chemical’s supply chain for North and South America and serving as Global VP/GM of Industrial Products for Solutia (a Monsanto spin-off company) where he managed three specialty chemical companies as well as its Asian business units.
- Weihs’ agribusiness entrepreneurial experiences include starting and managing large pork, dairy, and farming operations in U.S., Brazil, and Eastern Europe for which he raised over $60M in private equity.
Weihs received a Civil Engineering degree from the Colorado School of Mines and an MBA from Harvard Business School. He currently resides near Omaha, Nebraska in Harlan, Iowa.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why being open to relocation and new industries can accelerate your career path. * How executive recruiters think about leadership—and why being a “strategic doer” matters. * What early-career professionals should do now to develop into strong leaders later. * Why humility, initiative, and people development are core traits of great executives. * Gary’s “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestsEmily Pottorf is the Territory Representative for Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin for Gestal. She has been with the company for 4 years. Emily grew up on an Iowa farm with her 3 sisters and spent her high school through college career working on nursery and sow farms. She followed her passion for the pork industry to Iowa State University where she earned her degree in Animal Science. She continued to work in the swine industry post-graduation; her favorite part of working with Gestal is helping farmers find solutions and improve efficiencies in their operations.
Dr. Dalton Obermier is the Farm Research and AI specialist for JYGA Technologies, residing in central Nebraska. Dalton grew up on a diversified livestock farm in Nebraska, where he developed a deep passion for the livestock industry. Dalton earned his bachelor’s degree in animal science from the University of Nebraska, followed by a master’s degree in swine genetics at North Carolina State University. He then completed his doctorate in animal breeding and genetics at the University of Nebraska, where he utilized machine learning and computer vision systems to study swine behavior in relation to feed efficiency. Dalton has been with Gestal for one year and enjoys working with producers from around the world.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why the GDU is often ignored and how that’s hurting sow longevity and productivity. * The three easiest fixes in GDUs: matching waters and environments, and better-timed nutrition. * Why feeding to the average fails most gilts and how technology now lets us feed each one right. * How custom feeding and better GDU design can lead to stronger sows, fewer culls, and less stress for farm teams. * Emily & Dalton’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestThomas W. Campi, DVM, MPVM is CEO and co-founder of Modulant Biosciences, a new biotech company focusing on antivirals for pets and livestock. Their current pipeline includes an antiviral for cats suffering from FIP and an antiviral for pigs infected with the PRRS virus. They also have a One Drug for All Cancers platform.
Tom is a veterinarian and is board certified by the American College of Poultry Veterinarians. He has extensive experience in drug development, regulatory affairs and technology evaluation. Dr. Campi’s career spans 35 years and includes leadership roles in regulatory, research and technology acquisitions at Elanco, and Head of Research and Regulatory Affairs at Huvepharma. He was also a founder and partner in Reliance Animal Health Partners and Covenant Animal Health Partners.
Tom received his veterinary degrees from the University of California, Davis.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? Why PRRS continues to cost the industry over $1 billion a year, even with vaccines in play. * How a new treatment stops the virus after* infection by blocking capsid assembly. * Why this antiviral tech could work across PRRS strains and avoid resistance. * What a one-shot solution could mean for producers aiming to stay PRRS-free. * Tom’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestMallory Strickland is a graduate of Ohio State University and NC State University. She joined Smithfield Hog Production in 2010, as a production trainee from Cardington, Ohio, where she grew up raising her own breeding stock along with 4-H and FFA show pigs. Currently, she is the animal care program manager for Smithfield Hog Production and oversees the Animal Care Management System for the company and contract farms across the nation.
Mallory is responsible for the internal and third party/external animal care audits on company and contract sites. She is the lead for the Animal Care pillar of Smithfield’s Sustainability Impact Report. She serves as Smithfield Hog Production representative on the National Pork Board Common Swine Industry Audit Task Force, PQA Task Force. Mallory also serves on the NC Pork Council conference and producer education committee and scholarship committee. She was a participant in the 2024 Pork Leadership Institute class (PLI). The PLI program is a year-long collaboration hosted by The National Pork Board (NPB) and National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) Mallory resides in Warsaw, NC with her husband, and dogs.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? Why a game plan is essential when responding to animal welfare concerns—and how gathering facts before* reacting can set the tone for a thorough and fair investigation. * What goes into the “practice before game day”—from reviewing video footage to prepping logistics and getting the right team aligned (vets, translators, experts, etc.). * How “boots on the ground” visits actually work, including walking every barn and pen, verifying claims, and ensuring full transparency throughout the process. * Why documentation and teamwork matter—especially in defining key terms like group housing and building new tools like flowcharts to help others respond the right way. * Mallory’s “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestKyle Leistikow began his research career at UW-Madison where he worked for three years under the guidance of Eric Johnson investigating the secretion and stability of Clostridial neurotoxins. He received his PhD from Marquette University under the guidance of Krassimira Hristova and Christopher Marshall where his work on bacterial communication systems led to the discovery of a novel antimicrobial compound capable of inhibiting clinical and agricultural MRSA infections.
Kyle currently leads a research team at Microbial Discovery Group that uses ecological, evolutionary, and computational approaches to understand and harness the ways in which commensal bacteria reduce disease and antimicrobial resistance evolution both in the host microbiome and in downstream environments. Over the last 10 years, he has established numerous collaborative relationships with both industrial and academic partners that have resulted in multiple patents, publications, and the adoption of One Health-based microbial surveillance programs.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why defining your problem is the first step before even thinking about AI. * How clean, trustworthy data is more important than collecting more of it. * Why not every challenge needs AI—sometimes a spreadsheet works just fine. * What to consider before investing in tech: cost, value, and who it actually helps. * Kyle’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestDr Karine Talbot is Senior Director of Animal Health, Nutrition and R&D at HyLife, and earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from the Université de Montréal in 2008.
She joined HyLife as the on-staff veterinarian after graduation and she is currently serving as the Senior Director of Animal Health, Nutrition and R&D at HyLife.
Her work is primarily focused on health, production, nutrition, welfare, and biosecurity of all the different divisions of the company; genetic, commercial production, slaughter plant, truck wash, etc. She oversees the veterinary needs, nutrition team and research and development of HyLife herds in Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
Over the years, Dr Talbot served as President of both the Canadian and Western Canadian Associations of Swine Veterinarians, and she is still serving on the Board of Director of the Canadian Association of Swine Veterinarian (CASV-ACVP) since 2011.
Dr Talbot also actively contributes to industry working groups, addressing critical issues like diseases preparedness, biosecurity, and animal welfare.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?• Why transport is a major part of biosecurity, not just barns.
• How to handle transport risks using a simple five-step game plan.
• What Manitoba producers are doing together to keep disease out.
• How better loadout design and training can make a big difference.
• Karine’s “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestsRyan Hunter
Ryan was born and raised in Vicksburg, MI, where his parents and grandparents purchased a feed mill in 1979. He attended Vicksburg High School and graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in Business Management. Ryan is married with three children. His wife and kids are involved in the farm as well, providing help and support when needed. When he’s not pig farming, Ryan enjoys spending time outdoors and going on adventures with his family.
Jarred Lorenz
Jarred graduated from Michigan State University in 2013 with a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, with a concentration in Animal Industry. He began working at H&H Farms in the spring of 2013 and is now the General Manager. Jarred oversees 14,000 sows and all aspects of the wean-to-finish system downstream.
He serves as a board member of the Michigan Pork Producers Council and is a member of the Swine Health Committee for the state of Michigan. Additionally, he serves on the National Pork Producers Council Nominating Committee. Jarred and his wife own Lorenz Family Farms and Arrow Farms—both contract wean-to-finish sites that house H&H Farms pigs, totaling 18,000 head.
Ryan HunterJarred LorenzWhat can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How a family feed mill grew into a modern pig farming business—while staying true to its roots. * What it’s like to join the industry from scratch and grow into leadership with zero farm background. * The double-edged sword of AI: big opportunities and new dependencies for farms of all sizes. * How flavor, welfare, and sustainability collide—and what it’ll take to actually grow pork demand. * Jarred’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestMonique Pairis-Garcia is a Professor and Veterinarian in Global Production Animal Welfare at North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Pairis-Garcia earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and her Doctorate in Philosophy from Iowa State University and her Bachelor’s degree in biology from Grinnell College. She is board-certified in the American College of Animal Welfare and serves on the Pig Welfare Committee for the American Association of Swine Veterinarians and National Pork Board. Her research interests include pain management in livestock animals utilizing pharmacological interventions to minimize pain, development and refinement of educational material to ensure timely and appropriate euthanasia on-farm, and development and implementation of audit and assessment programs to ensure positive animal welfare and handling on-farm.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? How far we’ve come with animal welfare. The swine industry has made huge strides in making animal welfare a daily priority—from vet school to barn floor. * Where pain management stands today. There’s still no FDA-approved product for pig pain, but promising research is underway, especially for piglets and lame sows. * Why enrichment is still a struggle. Straw helps pigs act more naturally and reduces tail biting, but biosecurity and manure management hurdles are holding back progress. * How barn design must evolve. From rubber mats to more natural light and flexible layouts, future-friendly barns are key—especially with policies like Prop 12 looming. * Monique’s “golden nugget.”*
About the GuestDr. Lowe is an educator, advisor, researcher, and farmer based in Illinois. He is also a professor and the associate dean for online programs and extension at the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Illinois. He holds a DVM and MS from the University of Illinois and has spent most of the last 30 years working in and with red meat production systems in the US and internationally. He lives in Illinois with his wife, Erin, and their dog, Hank.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why the swine industry is still at the beginning when it comes to going digital, and what that actually means on the farm * How measuring the right things well can improve efficiency without needing fancy tools or AI * What pig farming can learn from Walmart and even post-frame construction companies * Why smaller and mid-size producers may be in the best position to adopt technology quickly and see real results * Why the real advantage comes from how you do things, not just what you do
About the GuestsDr. David Newman is the Senior Vice President of Market Growth at the National Pork Board. A third-generation pork producer and meat scientist, Dr. Newman leads efforts to understand consumer behavior and drive demand for pork. He focuses on innovative marketing strategies to position pork as a preferred protein.
Rob Brenneman and his wife Char own and operate Brenneman Pork, a fully integrated family farm in Washington, Iowa. Rob has grown their operation substantially while still dedicating time to advocating for the U.S. pork industry as a whole. Rob and Char have four children, who along with their spouses are all involved in the operation. Rob enjoys spending time with their 12 grandchildren.
Rob’s interest in livestock began with hogs as a 4-H project. He and his dad raised pigs at their home just outside of Keota, Iowa. While in high school Rob kept busy with 4-H and FFA. Rob received his American Farmer Degree in 1979. In 1980 Rob and Char married and started their own farm near Kalona, Iowa. In 1983 they built their first inside modern sow housing. Rob also took a job off the farm at UPS. In 1988 Brenneman Pork started to expand to what it is today. Rob received the Master Pork Producer Award in 1991. In 1994 Rob and Char received the Pork All American Award. They remain active with the Washington County Pork Producers.
In addition to serving as President Elect of the National Pork Producers Council, he also serves as the President of the Bear Creek Genetics Board of Directors.
Today Brenneman Pork owns and operates approximately 50,000 sows, markets roughly 1.5 million pigs per year and has its own feed mill and crop enterprise consisting of 3,900 acres of corn and soybeans. In addition to his roles on the farm, Rob is referred to as a visionary, strategic planner, coach, and mentor. Rob is passionate about and enjoys engaging youth and the local community in agriculture.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why pork’s future depends on understanding younger consumers, and how research is reshaping strategy. * How digital habits, color on a plate, and Gen Z values are influencing pork promotion. * Why ground pork is having a moment, and why convenience is key for the next generation of cooks. * How a united industry and unapologetic messaging could turn a campaign into a movement. * Why the future of pork depends on making the whole pig appealing, not just loins or bacon.
About the GuestJoe Kerns brings over 30 years of experience supporting agricultural operations across the livestock and grain industries. He has worked with producers, suppliers, and mills on procurement and risk management strategies including hedging, ingredient purchasing, feed quality, diet formulation, operational benchmarking, and livestock marketing.
Joe previously led Partners for Production Agriculture, which was acquired by Ever.Ag, where he served as President of the Livestock Division. Today, he’s launching a new venture—AgRubicon—focused on rethinking pork industry fundamentals like price discovery, market transparency, and long-term producer viability. Joe is a tireless advocate for pork producers and brings candid, forward-looking insight into the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of pork production.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why pork producers may be giving up more control than they think—and why pricing models might need a fresh look. * How Joe’s new venture, AgRubicon, aims to tackle tough industry challenges and support producer-led change. * Why lasting improvements in pork production require not just better tools—but new habits. * What the new PRRS-resistant pig could mean for barns, efficiency, and the next decade of production. * The real reason outside investors hesitate—and why the future of ag tech likely lies within the industry itself.
About the GuestMatthew Gross is a Hutterite. Hutterites are very open-minded, but still cherish their community values. Matthew is a generational pig farmer, with an open mind towards technology and productivity.
At their farm they are currently using PigFlow as a means to run a more efficient operation. Hutterite’s have always embraced technology as a means to run their farmers as efficiently as possible. And pig farming has always been a big part of their culture, and a means of financially sustainability.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How Hutterite values shape teamwork, decision-making, and efficient farm management. * What it takes to run a 1,300-sow batch farrowing system with a small, skilled team. * Why even pen-and-paper pros found PigFlow easy—and how it became second nature. * How tech like PigFlow and Gestal work together to boost productivity, engagement, and data-driven decisions. * Matthew’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestDuane Stateler is a fourth-generation pork producer and as the owner/operator of Stateler Family Farms, along with his son, Anthony, oversees all aspects of production and operations. The enterprise features a wean/feeder to finish pork business marketing 15,600 head annually. They also have 900 acres of crop production, raising corn, soybeans, and wheat.
Duane currently serves on the National Pork Producers Council Board of Directors as President and represents producers on various national committees.
Duane is a member of the Ohio Pork Council Board, and is active in numerous Ohio Pork Council Committees, as well as the Ohio Farm Bureau, Hancock Country Farm Bureau, Ohio Livestock Coalition, McComb Farmers Co-op, Blanchard Valley Farmers Co-op, Ohio Soybean Association and Ohio Corn and Wheat Association.
Duane has served his local community as a volunteer for the McComb Fire Department, McComb School Board, State Fire Investigators office and State Arson Taskforce. Duane and his wife, Margie, reside on the family farm in McComb, Ohio.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? The surprising story behind Duane’s family farm and how five generations have shaped their approach to raising pigs. * What sparked his passion for advocacy—and why he stepped into leadership at the National Pork Producers Council. * How science-backed water testing is changing the narrative about livestock’s role in water quality—and what the real data says. * Why trade issues, tariffs, and Prop 12 matter to everyday producers, and what Duane sees coming down the road. * Duane’s golden nugget*
About the GuestJennifer Patterson obtained her MSc in Animal Science from the University of Alberta where she is currently a Research Associate and the Swine Industry Liaison for Livestock Gentec. This involves developing research projects that address current industry challenges and providing continued support to producers to implement results at the farm level, putting “science into practice”. Jennifer has worked with many pig industry groups around the world and her current focus is on gilt management to improve sow lifetime productivity and retention. She also loves working with farm production data, through which powerful insights can be developed to make data-driven decisions that positively affect overall herd performance.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why a strong gilt development program is key to narrowing the gap between genetic potential and on-farm performance. * How early culling and poor retention after parity one are major roadblocks to sow lifetime productivity—and what can be done about it. * The importance of proper puberty stimulation using boars, and why timing, technique, and training matter more than you think. * What “fertility quadrant” targets you should hit for optimal breeding success—and why data and body condition tracking post-P1 are just as vital. * Jennifer’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestLori is from St. Louis, Missouri and for as long as she can remember, she aspired to be a veterinarian. After her undergrad degree, she worked in a large commercial sow farm in central Missouri where her dreams changed and she fell in love with pigs. Lori went to grad school at Kansas State University and completed her Masters and PhD in swine nutrition where the majority of her research focused around nutrient requirements in gestating sows. Following the completion of her degrees, Lori work for Gestal as a Nutrition and Production Specialist, before coming to PIC in 2020 where she currently serves as a Technical Services Manager.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why getting gilt eligibility right—age, weight, and cycle—is critical for her long-term success. * How body condition scoring (with tools like the PIC caliper) improves longevity and performance. * What gets in the way of building consistent body condition habits—and how to fix it. * Why treatment protocols in open pen and Prop 12 setups matter more than ever. * Lori’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestsPatrick Fleming, vice president of demand development for National Pork Board, guides his twelve-member team on priorities related to consumer demand, multicultural marketing, foodservice and retail support, packer/processor collaboration and human nutrition strategies.
With decades of experience in sales and marketing, he creates uniquely valuable marketing programs by leveraging business-to-business and business-to-consumer activation’s. He is currently a leader in the pork industry’s consumer-facing, digital-forward brand campaign development designed to unapologetically be more relevant and relatable to Millennial and Gen Z Americans.
Fleming previously worked at NPB for 13 years, ending his tenure as the director of market intelligence and innovation. In that role, he was heavily involved in planning, developing and implementing the pork industry’s marketing and sales activities.
Fleming resides in Phoenix, Arizona, with his wife, Karen, and two children, Sean and Kelly.
Jennifer Tirey, executive director of Illinois Pork Producers Association (IPPA), and her team represent more than 1,000 pork producers across the state by judiciously spending Checkoff dollars to enhance profitability and preference for pork, education, and research opportunities in urban and rural areas.
Illinois’ non-checkoff programs focus on state and national legislative issues. IPPA serves as a grassroots voice for pork producers to proactively represent their freedom to operate and to protect the legacy of multi-generational farm families.
Throughout her 10 years as the IPPA executive director, Tirey has served on a variety of national committees focused on marketing/promotion, policy, and member relations. Tirey enjoys running, teaching yoga and spending time with her husband, Kevin, and their two children, Flynn and Katharine.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? How the National Pork Board is launching a bold new brand campaign focused on flavor. * Why embracing the whole hog—from fresh cuts to processed pork—will drive demand. * How consumer insights are shaping pork marketing to reach younger generations. * The role of retailers and state pork associations in rolling out the campaign. * How pork’s repositioning will drive long-term demand and value for producers.*
About the GuestKristen Cumming’s career is focused on improving the connection between people and their work. She completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and a Master of Education degree in Workplace and Adult Learning. Kristen spent 11 years instructing in the Donald School of Business at Red Deer College and the Bachelor of Management Business Economics program at the University of Alberta – Augustana Campus and spent the past 20 years operating a successful consulting practice through which she serves as a consultant, speaker and trainer focused on leadership and execution. She is a proud product of an Albertan farm family.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why labor shortages in agriculture are forcing employers to rethink how they attract, train, and retain workers. * How generational differences impact expectations around training, career development, and workplace culture. * Why providing feedback and clear communication are critical for keeping employees engaged and productive. * How leaders can create a workplace that supports both seasoned employees and younger hires, making work more fulfilling for everyone. * Why organizations must shift from simply managing production to also becoming great stewards of talent.
About the GuestKurt was born and raised on a pig farm near Barrhead, Alberta, which sparked his passion for swine production and medicine. He graduated with his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2010 from WCVM in Saskatoon. After graduation, he went directly into swine medicine and has worked in swine practices in Manitoba and Alberta. In 2019, Kurt started a new swine veterinary practice, Precision Veterinary Services inc., based in Red Deer, Alberta. He and his wife Tanja have their home near Lacombe with their 4 children.
Kurt takes part in various committees and associations to stay abreast of industry news and innovation. He is a director of the Red Deer Swine Technology Workshop, and has been a director of the Canadian Association of Swine Veterinarians for multiple years and is currently the Past President.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How animal welfare is more than just pain management—it’s about creating a productive and healthy environment for pigs. * The balance between consumer demands, producer responsibilities, and the role of veterinarians in driving welfare standards. * Practical management strategies that can improve welfare, including managing out-of-feed events and using simple enrichment tools like hanging chains. * How targeted anti-inflammatory treatments and strategic vaccination programs can significantly boost productivity and pig welfare. * Kurt’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestDr Martyna Lagoda holds a B.A degree in Science, Zoology, and an M.Sc degree in Animal Behaviour and Welfare. Following the completion of her Ph.D in Sow Welfare (focus on sow chronic stress and its implications for piglet prenatal stress) at Teagasc, Ireland, in collaboration with the Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Poland in 2022, Martyna worked as a research technologist on the “Tail Bite Advice” project in Teagasc, aiming to develop algorithms to accurately monitor tail biting behaviour, and to create a data-driven PLF decision support tool to actively advise farmers on how to reduce tail-biting occurrences.
Martyna currently works as a Post-doctoral Research Fellow in the Swine Ethology and Welfare research group at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan. Martyna’s main research interest includes using behaviour to gain insights into welfare states, as well as developing housing environments which promote species specific behaviours. In her current role, Martyna continues to work towards improving the welfare of swine.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why welfare isn’t just about physical health—understanding a pig’s psychological state is just as important. * How improving welfare can reduce stress, boost productivity, and even lower antibiotic use. * The challenges of balancing consumer expectations, practical farm realities, and evolving welfare research. * Why tail docking and enrichment remain complex welfare issues, and how producers are adapting. * Martyna’s advice on staying honest, confident, and proud of your work.
About the GuestDr. David Rosero is an Assistant Professor at Iowa State University. He leads a dynamic research program dedicated to advancing swine nutrition and smart farming practices. His current research initiatives include 1) maximizing the nutritional value of feed ingredients in swine diets, 2) implementing nutritional interventions to improve pig livability and swine systems sustainability, 3) determining the adequate access of pigs to welfare resources, and 4) harnessing computer vision AI technologies to improve production practices and animal welfare. Leveraging his past experience as the Technical Officer at The Hanor Company, he combines invaluable industry experience with academic pursuits.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How pig livability research is uncovering new insights to reduce sow and piglet mortality. * The role of feeding strategies, body condition management, and feeding timing in improving farrowing outcomes. * The ongoing challenge of sudden sow deaths and emerging findings on retained piglets. * How producers can apply practical strategies—like early sickness detection and improved feeding programs —to improve herd health. * Learn more about the upcoming 2025 Pig Livability Conference, where Dr. Rosero and industry experts will share cutting-edge research.
About the GuestScott Dee earned a DVM, MS, and PhD from the University of Minnesota, is board-certified in veterinary microbiology, past President of the American Association of Swine Veterinarians, past Chair of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents and currently serves on the AVMA House of Delegates. After 12 years in swine practice and another 12 years in academia, Scott joined Pipestone Veterinary Services as Director of Applied Research, where he served as Director of Discovery and Innovation for Pipestone for 12.5 years.
Throughout his career, he has been awarded >12.5 M in research funding and published 187 peer reviewed papers, including the initial publications on the proof of concept of PEDV transmission in feed and the transboundary survival of ASFV in feed. He developed the initial knowledge and industry-wide protocols to understand and control Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV) infection at the farm level. The comprehensive application of these protocols has reduced annual PRRS incidence below 10% across the 76 breeding herds in the Pipestone System, the 3rd largest pork production company in the US, over a 3-year period. This is the first report of long-term control of PRRSV in a large-scale commercial swine production system and is published in the Journal of the AVMA and Animals. He received the AASV Practitioner of the Year, the Howard Dunne Memorial, and Leman Science in Practice awards, a Warrior Chip from the FBI, and is a Master of the US Pork Industry.
He has guest-edited a Special Issue on Feed Risk in Transboundary and Emerging Diseases and is currently guest-editing another Special Issue on Biosecuring Animal Populations for the journal Animals. He has been awarded the Distinguished Service to the US Pork Industry Award from the National Pork Board and the Distinguished Service and Research award from the PRRS scientific community and recognized as the Distinguished Research Alumnus by the UMN College of Veterinary Medicine.
Scott is currently retired, and he and his wife Lisa live in Alexandria, MN. They have two children: Nicholas, a medical student at the University of Minnesota Duluth, Ellen, a CPA at Cargill, and Matilda, a 3-year-old Scottish Terrier.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How science-based biosecurity can help prevent the introduction of new disease strains across all animal species. * The significance of the AVMA’s unanimous approval of a biosecurity resolution and its impact on veterinary medicine. * The detailed process behind drafting and passing a policy within the AVMA and why it sets a precedent for future policies. * Why biosecurity isn’t just about pigs—how lessons from the swine industry are now being applied to poultry, dairy cattle, and even human health.
About the GuestAs the CEO of Farm Health Guardian, Rob Hannam is committed to helping farms and food companies improve animal health and protect against the devastating impact of animal disease through digital biosecurity.
Launched in 2020 for the swine and poultry sectors, Farm Health Guardian technology is reducing the risk of disease spread and improving biosecurity compliance which saves time, reduces the cost of production and improves farm sustainability.
Rob’s passion for agriculture was cultivated while growing up on his family’s grain farm in Guelph, Ontario. He has worked in agriculture for over 30 years and has proven experience in building innovative businesses.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How digitizing biosecurity helps reduce the spread of costly diseases like PRRS and PED. * Why truck washes and dedicated equipment breaches are the most common biosecurity failures—and how to fix them. * How real-time breach alerts can improve compliance and change behaviors on farms. * Why producers often overestimate their biosecurity compliance and how tracking data exposes hidden risks. * Rob’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestKyle Nisley graduated from Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2023 and has been a staff veterinarian with Christensen Farms since the fall of 2023. He was introduced to the swine industry with a production internship at CF in 2017 and was hooked ever since. He expanded his experience in the SVIP program at both Christensen Farms and Swine Vet Center and knew that he wanted to work with pigs long term. Now, he spends his time practicing medicine and researching new and upcoming innovations in the swine world.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why having a new antibiotic in the toolbox is a game-changer for managing disease resistance. * How real-world trials measure effectiveness, safety, and ease of use in the field. * Why both objective data and grower feedback are key to evaluating new treatments. * The challenges of strep and respiratory infections in nursery pigs and what’s showing promise. * Kyle’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestDave received his BA from The University of Northern Iowa in 1982. In 1984, Dave, with business partner Jeff Westrom, formed JWMorton, a Cedar Rapids, Iowa-based advertising agency. They produce marketing communications programs ranging from branding to digital to broadcast and for clients representing over 30 industries from high tech to healthcare. JWMorton’s work is seen in local, national and international markets. They are the only Iowa-based independent agency to create and produce a spot airing on the national Super Bowl broadcast. JWMorton’s agriculture roster has included brands such as Diamond V Mills, Vi-Cor, Art’s-Way, Chore-Time, PigTek and Brock Grain Systems.
Dave is a frequent speaker on the subject of branding and marketing communications. He has served in various ministries at his church and is active in his community, serving on the Cedar Rapids Advertising Federation Board of Directors, including a term as President. Dave also served on the Board of Directors for: the Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival (President), the Cedar Rapids Chamber of Commerce, The Carl & Mary Koehler History Center (President), Linn Mar Schools Foundation, Community Health Free Clinic, Theatre Cedar Rapids, (President) and Advisory Board for the UNI College of Business Marketing Department.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why branding is about more than a product—it’s about creating emotional connections. * How agricultural companies can leverage their culture and values to build authentic brands. * The critical role branding plays in attracting and retaining top talent in agriculture. * Challenges and strategies for branding through dealer networks and supply chains. * Dave’s “Golden Nugget.”
About the GuestAs the CEO of GroGuru, I drive the overall strategy and operational execution for an exciting AgTech company that is changing the way that we grow crops by using an innovative IoT system for precision irrigation, soil monitoring and management. Former contributor at FastCompany, Tech.Co, Entrepreneur, The Huffington Post, and other publications. Previously featured on CNBC, Bloomberg Television, and in Forbes.
I took a company from pre-revenue and pre-product through a successful IPO and a $1.2 billion valuation. I’ve personally raised over $200 million in equity financing for my companies, and been directly involved in over $2 billion of M&A transactions. I have the experience and the in-depth knowledge of what it takes to build a business from the ground-up and win in the marketplace.
Winner of 2008 Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year for Technology, San Diego Daily Transcript 2008 Top Influentials in the Technology Industry, and 2011 San Diego Business Journal Most Admired CEO.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How continuous root zone monitoring helps optimize irrigation and crop yield while saving on input costs. * The importance of finding “teaching customers” to refine a product and establish market fit. * Challenges and opportunities in funding AgTech startups in today’s venture capital landscape. * Why simplicity, ease of use, and ROI are critical for farmers adopting new technologies. * Patrick’s “Golden Nugget.”
About the Guest(s)Melissa Bradford – Operations Coordinator
Melissa Bradford graduated from Purdue University earning a bachelor’s degree in animal Agribusiness. For the past 15 years Melissa has worked for Martin Family Farms in Williamsport Indiana and is currently the Operations Coordinator. Prior to working at Maritn Family Farms, Melissa also worked for United Animal Health and M2P2 (Ames, IA). Melissa has served on Indiana Pork’s Youth Committee for the past 7 years.
Locally, Melissa is involved in her Church as the Middle School Sunday School class teacher as well as serving as Assistant Treasurer of the Church. Melissa and her husband Andy have 3 children, the oldest graduated from Wabash College in May of 2024, the middle child is a first year Pharmacy Student at Belmont University and the youngest is a senior in high school. Melissa and her family reside near Crawfordsville, Indiana.
Azael Romero – Sow Operations Manager
Azael joined Martin Family Farms in 2018, seeking an opportunity to grow while doing work he genuinely enjoys. As Sow Operations Manager, he is committed to fostering a positive environment built on mutual respect and effective communication. Azael lives by the principle: “Treat people the way you want to be treated. Talk to people the way you want to be talked to. Give respect to all.”
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How PigFlow simplifies farm management by turning real-time data into actionable insights. * The unique ways PigFlow enhances team engagement, accountability, and communication. * Why adopting new technology can empower employees, even those less comfortable with tech. * How compliance tools in PigFlow, like Prop 12 features, streamline audits and improve animal welfare. * Melissa’s golden nugget
About the GuestsChris Ford
VP Corporate Swine Lender, Farm Credit Services of America, Frontier Farm Credit, and Ag Country Farm Credit.
Chris works with swine operations across the Farm Credit Services of America, Frontier Farm Credit, and Ag Country Associations’ state territory and throughout the Midwest ranging in a variety of sizes. Chris is a part of the specialized Swine Team which has lending relationships with 28 of the 40 largest swine producers in the nation. Prior to becoming a Vice President of Corporate Swine Lending, Chris was a Credit Underwriter that specialized in swine operations.
Chris has served as a Teammates Mentor, Church Elder, local school board member, and is a past participant in the Nebraska Pork Producers Leadership Program.
Chris, his wife Christan, and their 5 boys live in Elkhorn, Nebraska. He is a graduate of the University of Nebraska – Lincoln in 2002, received his Master’s degree in Business Administration from Bellevue University in 2005, and has been with the Association for 16 years.
Valerie Weis
Commercial Lending Officer, Farm Credit Services of America, Frontier Farm Credit, & Ag Country Farm Credit
Val works with mid-size swine operations in our territories as part of the specialized swine team, primarily working with operations in Western Iowa, Nebraska, and Kansas. Val joined the swine team in 2021 after 18 years as a financial officer for the Emmetsburg retail team at Farm Credit Services of America, where she worked with grain, cattle, and contract finish operations as well as swine operations. She has been with the Associations for 21 years.
Val, her husband Joe, and 3 kids live in Algona, Iowa, where they also operate a cash grain operation. She is a graduate of Iowa State University, and grew up on a diversified family farming operation in North Central Iowa.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why understanding your financials is the first step in setting up a successful operation. * The importance of knowing your costs and how to use financial data for smart decision-making. * How a solid risk management plan can make or break your operation, especially in unpredictable markets. * The value of having a strong team and discipline to back your financial and risk strategies. * “Golden Nuggets” from both Chris and Val
About the GuestBanks Baker is Global Director of Product Sustainability for PIC, a global animal genetics and biotechnology company. He supports genetic improvement and gene editing as a way to continually improve animal agriculture and provide holistic benefits across the value chain, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved animal welfare and more efficient protein production.
Previously, Banks led protein sustainability for McDonald’s USA, creating and implementing greenhouse gas reduction strategies and managing animal health and welfare commitments and antibiotic policies. Prior to McDonald’s Banks established a regenerative agriculture research department for a private operating non-profit foundation and managed farms and ranches across the United States.
Banks has an undergraduate business degree from Warren Wilson College and holds master’s degrees in agriculture and business from Colorado State University and The University of Notre Dame.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How gene editing, like PRRS-resistant pigs, is advancing animal health and production efficiency. * The role of genetic improvements in reducing the environmental impact of pork production. * Insights into the global regulatory landscape for gene-edited products and its challenges. * Why PIC prioritizes responsible introduction of groundbreaking technologies to protect global trade. * How genetic innovations are creating new sustainability opportunities for the pork industry.
About the GuestMatt Erickson is currently the Agriculture Economic and Policy Advisor for AgCountry Farm Credit Services, Farm Credit Services of America and Frontier Farm Credit where he provides perspective, insights, and commentary that help connect conditions in the agricultural economy to individual producer impact and resulting impacts to the organization.
Before his role at Farm Credit, Matt accumulated approximately fifteen years of policy and agricultural economic experience in Washington, D.C. Most recently, he served as Chief Economist at the United States Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry under the leadership of former Chairman Pat Roberts (R-KS).
As Chief Economist, Matt was responsible for the management of the Committee’s work regarding budget, economic, and policy analysis. Matt advised the Chairman and other Committee members on the status of the agricultural economy, commodity markets, and economic impacts pertaining to the Committee’s legislative priorities. He also led the Chairman’s policy priorities pertaining to commodities, crop insurance, dairy, and grain standards. He helped craft numerous pieces of legislation that included the 2018 Farm Bill, the United States Grain Standards Reauthorization Act of 2020, and legislation relating to COVID-19 relief. Prior to the Senate Agriculture Committee, Matt worked as an Economist at the American Farm Bureau Federation and at the United States Department of Agriculture under President George W. Bush.
Matt holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Agricultural Economics from Purdue University. He maintains an active role on the family farm in Brookston, Indiana.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How interest rates and inflation trends impact agricultural producers and what to anticipate in 2025. * Why working capital is a critical safety net for farmers facing market volatility. * How the U.S. pork export landscape is shifting, with Mexico becoming a key trading partner. * The importance of understanding economic data to navigate political and market changes. * Matt’s “Golden Nugget.”
About the GuestEric Psota is the Digital Innovation Manager at PIC North America. Since joining in 2021, he has been responsible for developing advanced technologies for digital phenotyping using computer vision and machine learning. Specifically, he specializes in multi-object tracking, pose estimation, animal identification, anomaly detection, real-time systems, and edge computing. Prior to joining PIC, he was a researcher at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he remains on the faculty as an adjunct professor.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How digital phenotyping combines human expertise and AI to improve consistency in evaluating pigs. * The challenges of deploying technology in barns, from environmental factors to connectivity issues. * How improved phenotyping increases heritability and drives lasting genetic improvements. * The potential of behavioral phenotyping to enhance animal welfare and reduce harmful traits like tail-biting. * How advancements in edge computing and AI are shaping the future of pork production.
About the GuestSteve Malakowsky is the Director of Swine Lending at Compeer Financial. He started as an analyst in 1997 working with swine clients and today leads the Swine Sales team for Compeer. Steve is rooted in the industry, serving as the Allied Industry representative as both a delegate and member of the nominating committee for the National Pork Producers Council.
He presents nationally and internationally on topics regarding the U.S swine industry and is a regular contributing writer for national agriculture publications.
Prior to joining our organization, Steve had 17 years’ experience as a farrow-to-finish owner operator and helped with his family’s dairy and crop farm.
Steve earned his bachelor’s degree in finance from Mankato State University.
Steve and his wife Julie live in Wells, MN and have two sons. Brian and his wife Heather and daughters, Kennedy and Maddie live in Shakopee, MN. Jacob and his wife Alexis also live in Shakopee.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How Steve’s journey from dairy farming to swine production shaped his career. * Why adapting to change is critical in farming as technology and market conditions evolve. * Insights into the challenges and opportunities in lending to swine operations. * The importance of timing and strategic decision-making to avoid industry downturns. * What it takes to transition from producer to financial leader in agriculture.
About the GuestsMatthew Rooda is the Founder and CEO of SwineTech, Inc., where he leads the development of innovative solutions for the pork industry. Through SwineTech’s flagship product, PigFlow®, pork producers are empowered to enhance operational efficiency, optimize resource management, and improve pig care through automation and workforce innovation.
With deep roots in the commercial swine industry and a background in human health and animal agriculture, Matthew is passionate about integrating technology into livestock care. Since founding SwineTech in 2015, he has raised over $12 million in venture capital, expanded operations globally, and earned a spot on the Lemelson MIT and Forbes’ 30 Under 30 lists. Matthew has also participated in the Iowa Pork Leadership Academy and served on the Swine Health and Wellbeing Committee. Additionally, as host of the Popular Pig Podcast, he engages weekly with industry experts to share insights on swine production and innovation.
Abraham Espinoza is an entrepreneur and leader dedicated to empowering farmers with innovative tools and technology to sustainably feed a growing global population. As a founder and Chief Operations Officer of SwineTech, Inc., he has played a pivotal role in developing groundbreaking solutions that improve animal welfare and operational efficiency in the swine industry. Espinoza has led the establishment of an international manufacturing network, successfully expanded SwineTech’s products to global markets, and spearheaded the company’s global customer success efforts.
Espinoza’s leadership and achievements have earned him numerous prestigious accolades. He was recognized as EO National Student Entrepreneur of the Year, Farm Bureau National Entrepreneur of the Year, and Ambassador of Entrepreneurship for the U.S. The following year, he was named to Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list in the Manufacturing & Industry category and was honored by MIT Technology Review as one of the Innovators Under 35 Latin America.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?Celebrating 200 Episodes: Join SwineTech co-founders Matthew Rooda and Abe Espinoza as they share the story behind SmartGuard, their innovative solution to piglet crushing, and the persistence it took to bring it to life.
- The challenges Matthew and Abe faced in building SwineTech and how they tackled the complexities of developing SmartGuard.
- How Abe’s journey from Mexico to Iowa and Matthew’s background in agriculture inspired them to create impactful technology for pig care.
- The trial-and-error process, teamwork, and lessons learned that shaped SmartGuard and led to its patenting success.
- Insights on the realities of startup life, from fundraising to navigating the demanding world of ag-tech innovation.
- Abe’s “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestScott Dee earned a DVM, MS, and PhD from the University of Minnesota, is board-certified in veterinary microbiology, past President of the American Association of Swine Veterinarians, past Chair of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents and currently serves on the AVMA House of Delegates. After 12 years in swine practice and another 12 years in academia, Scott joined Pipestone Veterinary Services as Director of Applied Research, where he served as Director of Discovery and Innovation for Pipestone for 12.5 years.
Throughout his career, he has been awarded >12.5 M in research funding and published 186 peer reviewed papers, including the initial publications on the proof of concept of PEDV transmission in feed and the transboundary survival of ASFV in feed. He developed the initial knowledge and industry-wide protocols to understand and control Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV) infection at the farm level. The comprehensive application of these protocols has reduced annual PRRS incidence below 10% across the 76 breeding herds in the Pipestone System, the 3rd largest pork production company in the US, over a 3-year period. This is the first report of long-term control of PRRSV in a large-scale commercial swine production system and is published in the Journal of the AVMA and Animals. He received the AASV Practitioner of the Year, the Howard Dunne Memorial, and Leman Science in Practice awards, a Warrior Chip from the FBI, and is a Master of the US Pork Industry.
He has guest-edited a Special Issue on Feed Risk in Transboundary and Emerging Diseases and is currently guest-editing another Special Issue on Biosecuring Animal Populations for the journal Animals. He has been awarded the Distinguished Service to the US Pork Industry Award from the National Pork Board and the Distinguished Service and Research award from the PRRS scientific community and recognized as the Distinguished Research Alumnus by the UMN College of Veterinary Medicine.
Scott is currently retired, and he and his wife Lisa live in Alexandria, MN. They have two children: Nicholas, a medical student at the University of Minnesota Duluth, Ellen, a CPA at Cargill, and Matilda, a 3-year-old Scottish Terrier.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How biosecurity has evolved from simple practices to advanced, science-based protocols. * The role of air filtration and new biosecurity methods in reducing PERS virus spread. * The four core pillars of next-generation biosecurity. * Why training and a strong farm culture are essential to successful biosecurity. * Scott’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestGlenn Argenbright has 30 years’ experience operating and running a variety of private, pre-IPO, and public technology companies. He has founded over a dozen startup ventures, resulting in three public offerings, nine exits, and billions in shareholder returns. His background includes expertise and projects in software, firmware, middleware, hardware, enterprise, SaaS, consumer goods, and Web and mobile applications.
In 2017, Glenn launched Quake Capital, an early-stage venture fund with offices in New York, Austin, Los Angeles, and Cologne Germany (through a partnership with Deutsche Telekom). Quake is now on its eighth fund, with over 300 investments and nine exits across its portfolio. The firm was recently recognized as the second most active funder of female founders worldwide (Forbes); one of the ten most active early-stage funds (Crunchbase); and one of the twenty most active venture funds in NYC (Pitchbook). And, according to published CrunchBase data, Quake is the #1 early-stage fund in the world for diverse founders (2021 Beta Boom Study of over 3,400 global early-stage funds, incubators, and accelerators). All of Quake’s funds rank in the top 20% of venture performance with their latest fund producing Net IRR of roughly 40%.
Glenn has appeared as a guest lecturer at numerous universities and startup events throughout the U.S. In addition, he’s been interviewed for both print and television, with features in/on Barron’s, Bloomberg, Business Week, CNBC, CNN, Entrepreneur, Forbes, Fox Business, Fox News, Inc. Magazine, Wired, and many others.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* What makes industries investable and how agriculture can step up to attract outside capital. * Why agriculture needs a strong network of founders, mentors, and investors to drive real innovation. * The importance of practical, results-driven solutions over flashy tech trends. * How to focus on sustainable improvements instead of short-term fads. * Lessons from other industries that agriculture can apply to boost long-term success.
About the GuestA native son of South Dakota. Chad Greenway was born and raised on a hog, cattle, and crop farm in Mt. Vernon, SD. He learned the value of hard work, resiliency, and perseverance working daily on the family farm. Growing up in a small rural community Greenway was thrust into leadership positions at an early age on the farm and in the community.
Greenway attended the University of Iowa on a football scholarship. While at Iowa, Greenway was named 3-time All Big Ten and was a 2- time All American. Greenway was on the leadership council all four years of college which is the highest honor voted on by his peers. Greenway graduated with a degree in Communication Studies in December of 2005.
In the 2006 NFL Draft Chad was drafted #17 overall in the first round by the Minnesota Vikings. Greenway played 11 seasons in the NFL all of which were with the Vikings. Greenway was All-Pro, Pro-Bowl, and a long tenured Captain of the Vikings during his career. Greenway was named Vikings Man of the Year four times and was the NFLPA’s winner of the prestigious Byron “Whizzer” White award for his charitable contributions during his career.
Since his retirement from the NFL in 2017 Greenway has stayed active in the Twin Cities as President of his family’s Lead the Foundation which launched in 2010 and is still active in supporting families and kids across the upper midwest. He has also became Partner with two different companies over the past 5 years. (Gray Duck Spirits, Bankshot Solutions) Greenway resides in Wayzata, Mn with his wife Jennifer and four daughters and is active in training, coaching and being a dad to his girls.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How growing up on a family farm shaped Chad’s work ethic and leadership skills. * The role that persistence and accountability play in both farming and professional sports. * How teamwork on the farm translates to success in sports and business. * Insights into the importance of adaptability and constant improvement, even at the highest levels. * Chad’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestLeadership & Advocacy
Joel Harris is an active member in Iowa’s biotechnology industry through both of his roles; CEO of Genvax Technologies and Executive Director of the Ag Startup Engine. As co-founder and CEO of Genvax Technologies, Joel is leading his team to develop mRNA + nanoparticle vaccines for livestock. The Genvax team is targeting multiple diseases, most notably swine influenza and the foreign animal disease African Swine Fever. This work requires unique and extensive collaborations that Joel has initiated with state and national leaders in the human and animal biotechnology space, government groups such as the USDA Center for Veterinary Biologics and IEDA and supporting stakeholders like United Animal Health, Iowa Corn Growers Association and Johnsonville Ventures. During 2023 Joel will be networking with government leaders to advocate for support for emerging technologies and bringing those technologies to Iowa.
As Executive Director of the Ag Startup Engine, Joel is instrumental in supporting Iowa-based biotechnology companies. Biotechnology companies that Joel has led investments in are Leah Laboratories, Mazen Animal Health, GW Nutrition, Gross-Wen Technologies, Skroot Laboratories and Pyrone Systems. Joel has served on the boards of IowaBio and Mazen Animal Health. He and his father founded Harrisvaccines (a livestock vaccine company later acquired by Merck Animal Health) that still operates in the ISU Research Park today. During his tenure, Ag Startup Engine was presented with the LWBJ Impact Award for the 2021 Prometheus Awards. Joel is deeply involved in the biotechnology industry in Iowa and continues to bring talent, jobs, and new technologies to the state.
Innovation
At Harrisvaccines, Joel applied unique sales and marketing strategies to bring the first mRNA vaccines to market in the animal health industry. At that time, mRNA was referred to as repliconRNA and was delivered via a viral particle (nanoparticles are the delivery vehicle for Covid mRNA vaccines). Harrisvaccines was initially denied a pathway to regulatory approval by USDA and Joel (as the case with many startups hampered by regulations) created badly needed cash flow for the company by providing swine producers with farm specific vaccines without the requirement for regulatory approval. Eventually, Harrisvaccines assisted the USDA in developing the regulatory requirements for prescription-based farm specific vaccines that is currently followed by Merck Animal Health. At Genvax, Joel is again applying innovation to the development of mRNA/nanoparticle vaccines for animals.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How Harrisvaccines became a successful ag-tech startup and led to a major acquisition by Merck. * Why building a supportive community is essential for entrepreneurs in agriculture. * The unique challenges that slow down technology adoption in farming compared to other industries. * How venture capital models need to be adapted to fit the slower innovation cycles in agriculture. * Why deep domain expertise and understanding of producers’ needs are critical for ag-tech success.
About the GuestAfter experiencing first-hand the frustration of finding and valuing farm equipment for his corn and soybean farm in Iowa, Kyle McMahon founded Tractor Zoom to better connect good data and investment decisions for dealerships, Farm Credit Associations, Farm Service Agencies, banks, auctioneers, and farmers. In addition to his work at Tractor Zoom, Kyle remains involved in row crop production and swine operations, and has a background in private equity and other entrepreneurial ventures.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How data-driven decision-making can improve the buying and selling of farm equipment. * Why digital tools like Tractor Zoom can streamline farm operations and increase profitability. * The challenges of transitioning from a service industry to a tech startup in agriculture. * Key factors to consider when pricing and valuing agricultural machinery for auctions or sales. * Kyle’s “golden nugget.”
About the GuestsJenna Seltzer Bio:Jenna was raised on a diversified grain and pig farm outside of Lebanon, Indiana. Growing up, she was heavily involved in 4H and FFA. Jenna attended Kansas State University where she earned her bachelor’s degree in animal science in December of 2019 and master’s degree in applied swine nutrition in the summer of 2021. Jenna then started with Elanco as a swine account manager in Kansas and Nebraska.
She transitioned into a swine nutritional health consultant role at Elanco in November of 2023 to help support Elanco’s growing portfolio in the nutritional health space. Jenna currently resides near Pleasanton, Nebraska with her husband, Garrett, and two dogs, Dixie and Callie. In her spare time, Jenna enjoys spending time with family, volunteering at her church, baking sweet treats, and lifestyle photography.
Angela Vaske Bio:Angela was raised on a row crop farm in northeast Iowa, spending her time picking up rocks and working ground in the spring, and driving the grain cart in the fall during harvest. Angela attended Iowa State University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Business with a double major in Economics. Angela started with Elanco after graduation, working on the beef sales team as a territory manager in the Dakotas. She then transitioned into a key account manager in swine, working in northern Iowa and southern Minnesota. Angela went to work for NutriQuest after 10 years with Elanco, spending 8 years supporting the growth of their swine business. With the recent acquisition, Angela is now back working with Elanco as a marketing brand manager supporting the Nutritional Health and Feed Additive brands. Angela currently resides in Clear Lake, Iowa with her husband, Adam, and three children. In her free time, Angela enjoys watching her kids in activities and sports, reading and enjoying the outdoors.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How Elanco’s portfolio is supporting swine producers with non-antibiotic solutions for better pig health. * The role of biomarkers in measuring chronic inflammation and improving herd management. * Why early pig care at the sow farm is critical for long-term health and success in wean-to-finish production. * Practical tips on pairing nutritional products with antibiotics to optimize health and performance. * Jenna’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestNick Lehman is a 4th generation livestock, and grain farmer in western Boone County Iowa. He and his dad have been raising pigs together for over 30 years and now operate a 4880 head finisher site. Aside from the daily farming operation they serve as a test site for some of the latest equipment AP is bringing to the market.
Nick brings his suggestions for maintenance and seasonal prep from 17 years of confinement operation in the roller coaster of weather that Iowa brings each year.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How to prepare your barn for winter to ensure pig comfort and health. * Why it’s crucial to check and maintain ventilation systems before cold weather. * Key tips for inspecting and fixing feed lines and curtains to avoid costly issues in freezing temperatures. * How regular maintenance checks can save you time and money in the long run. * Nicholas’ “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestDr. Hyatt Frobose serves as the USA Commercial Director and Nutritionist for JYGA Technologies, Inc., a Quebec-based company producing GESTAL brand precision feeding systems for the swine industry. Hyatt specializes in assisting swine producers with group-housing solutions and nutritional programs to optimize performance and welfare of sows and growing pigs in commercial environments.
Since completing his Ph.D. in swine nutrition and management at Kansas State University in 2015, Dr. Frobose has been a featured speaker and specialist working with producers around the world in adopting new technologies and adapting to increased animal welfare standards. In his role with JYGA, Hyatt has assisted with the designer renovation of over 250 sow farms representing over 400,000 sows. Dr. Frobose and his family are based in Greeley, KS and are actively involved in their church, local 4-H programs and seed stock and cow/calf operation.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How aging infrastructure and economic uncertainty impact swine farm investments. * The cost-benefit analysis of different group housing systems, including Prop 12 compliance. * Why electronic sow feeding (ESF) offers flexibility and long-term savings. * The growing importance of integrating technology for better farm management.
About the Guests
Mark D. Rix
Mark graduated from Iowa State University in 1973 and went to work for Wilson Foods in Oklahoma City for 6 years.
Mark joined Purina Mills in 1979 as a salesman in Nebraska and became a Swine Consultant in 1984. He then moved to North Carolina for Purina Mills as Swine Business Manager in 1988.
Mark moved to Fremont, Nebraska in 1994 and helped build Swine Management Services into a full line management company that built 40 sow farms and managed 80,000 sows.
Ron Ketchem and Mark purchased the consulting and intellectual property of Swine Management Services from Purina Mills (Land O Lakes) in 2002 and grew it into the leading independent swine consulting company providing “information solutions” to the swine industry through state-of-the-art benchmarking and analysis programs.
Mark has been married to Carolyn for 48 years and they have two children.
Nicole Boettger
Nicole has been with MetaFarms since January 2023 serving as Director of North American Swine. She brings 35 years of experience and relationships along with industry knowledge to the sales and marketing team. Before joining MetaFarms, she held sales and marketing roles in the feed, pharma, and pork industry associations (MN Pork and National Pork Board). She also taught Ag Education right out of college. Nicole grew up on a crop and swine farm in Southern MN and owns a contract finishing site. She holds production degrees from the University of MN and an Ag Education Degree from South Dakota State University. When not at work she enjoys training her Labrador Retrievers for field trial hunting competitions and cheering on the Jackrabbits.
Ron Ketchem
Ron Ketchem graduated from the University of Missouri in 1973 with a BS in Animal Science and master studies in Reproductive Physiology and Animal Breeding. He worked 12 years for a genetic company in production, sales, and marketing and developed their AI program. He then spent 15 years in Indiana with a major feed company as a Swine Consultant providing technical support and training. Ron later purchased Swine Management Services, LLC in August 2002 with Mark Rix. SMS was sold on September 30, 2019 to MetaFarms, a sow record-keeping company in Minnesota. Today, Ron consults with over 400,000 sows in the US, Canada, and Australia. Ron has been married to his wife Pam for 36 years and has 3 grown sons.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How SMS transformed small sow farms into efficient finishing operations. * The importance of meticulous planning to keep farm projects on budget. * How benchmarking with standardized data drove farm improvements. * The effectiveness of using visual tools to make complex farm data understandable.
About the GuestPatrick Fleming is the vice president of demand development for National Pork Board. Fleming leads the marketing and domestic demand team on a revolutionary, data-driven approach to make pork more relevant to more Americans. His return to NPB coincides with the culmination of an 18-month effort funded by the Pork Checkoff to develop and deploy new consumer market research and insights across the pork industry.
Fleming and his team focus on developing a consumer-facing campaign designed to win more hearts and minds for pork, in particular Millennial and Gen Z Americans, whose consumption of pork continues to decline. Fleming guides his team day-to-day on priorities related to consumer demand, multicultural marketing, food service and retail support, packer/processor collaboration and human nutrition strategies for NPB with input and direction from the producer-led board of directors.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? How pork can be the “best-kept secret” in the protein world, offering more than 110 flavor nuances. * The importance of modern consumer segmentation and how it helps in targeting the right messages to the right people. * Why pork’s versatility makes it a “one size fits all” option for meals, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snacks. * The impact of new cooking methods like air fryers on the way younger generations prepare and enjoy pork. * Patrick’s “golden nugget”*
About the GuestWesley Lack – Pork Regional Business Director for Zoetis.
Wes started with Zoetis in November of 2022 as Area Business Manager on the beef team in Iowa. In June he was promoted to his new role as Pork Regional Business Director leading the US pork team.
Wes has extensive experience in production agriculture within the pork industry, having worked and led people at various companies in Oklahoma, Indiana, and Iowa. In 2013, Wes and his partners started a business to sell, service, and distribute control systems for pork, poultry, and dairy operations. After being acquired in 2021, Wes gained responsibility for all aspects of the manufacturing, sales, and service of the livestock controls business for Maximus an Ingersoll Rand company.
Wes grew up on a farming operation in Hatch, NM and graduated from New Mexico State University with a bachelor’s in Ag Economics and Business.
He currently resides in Afton, IA, with his wife, April, and three children, Kaylin, Austin, and Kathryn.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* The power of strong producer relationships. * Key support areas from Zoetis: air, feed, water. * Lessons pork producers can take from the beef industry. * Embracing change to overcome challenges. * Wesley’s Golden Nugget
About the GuestGreg Hastings serves as the Senior Director of Commercial Excellence & Business Development at Neogen. In this role, he oversees Neogen’s Animal Safety R&D and Data Analytics teams. Greg is a passionate advocate for animal agriculture and actively engages in evaluating and contributing to the development of new technologies and services that offer benefits to owners and employees of animal production practices worldwide.
Throughout his career at Neogen, Greg has played a pivotal role in developing and implementing various animal health products, including detectable needle usage in animal production. A Purdue University graduate, Greg currently resides in Richmond, Kentucky with his wife, Denise.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* The evolution of needle use in the pork industry. * How the D3X needle prevents needle fragments in pork. * Challenges in creating a fully detectable needle. * The importance of risk mitigation in pork safety. * Greg’s “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestsDominic Vitucci Bio
Dominic was always poised to disrupt the tax industry. To get the required hours for the CPA, he decided to study both accounting and computer science. With two degrees in hand, Dominic started his career as integral part of the Grant Thornton Tax Innovation team.
Throughout his tenure, he had the unique opportunity to interact with firm experts, each sharing their ambitious visions for cutting-edge technologies. In August 2020, inspired by these encounters, he made the bold decision to leave Grant Thornton and devote himself full-time to building a truly innovative R&D credit technology.
Hillary Dubé Bio
Hillary Dubé is a dynamic professional who transitioned into the R&D Tax Credit Industry in 2019 working for a multinational credits and incentives firm, after a successful, nearly decade long career in the corporate Beauty Industry. Through her work in R&D Credits, she had the opportunity to meet and assist numerous pork producers in the United States with their R&D Tax credit needs, leading her to develop a strong affinity for the pork industry and agriculture at large.
Hillary’s transition to SPRX last year provides a unique perspective and has enabled her to effectively connect with pork producers to streamline their R&D tax credit process to minimize time spent, while maximizing their benefits. Her dedication to the pork industry and passion for fostering this new innovative approach within agriculture have positioned her as a respected leader in the industry.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How AI (Artificial Intelligence) is transforming the R&D tax credit process for faster and more affordable results. * The importance of documenting research efforts to fully leverage R&D tax credits. * Why many in the agriculture sector aren’t fully utilizing available tax credits. * How technology can simplify and streamline tax credit applications. * Hillary and Dominic’s “golden nuggets”
About the GuestMartijn Schippers, a driven entrepreneur from the Netherlands, began his journey in business at the age of 15, co-founding a successful employment agency with his siblings. Over the course of a decade, Martijn helped grow the company from the ground up, eventually selling it after reaching $8 million in revenue and employing 20 staff members.
In 2022, Martijn joined The Schippers Group, a family business started by his grandfather in 1966, which has evolved into a global leader in farm biosecurity. As the General Manager of Schippers USA, Martijn relocated to the United States with a mission to expand the HyCare program. His focus is on delivering comprehensive biosecurity solutions that not only supply high-quality products but also provide the right application, coaching, and monitoring to ensure optimal results. These initiatives are designed to create cleaner living environments and drinking water on farms, ultimately reducing antibiotic usage and enhancing animal performance.
Martijn’s innovative approach and dedication to the industry have positioned him as a key figure in the U.S. expansion of The Schippers Group. He continues to lead efforts in improving farm biosecurity and driving the company’s mission forward.
Want to know more about Schippers USA or join our team? Visit our website: www.schippersusa.com.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? Starting Young: Martijn launched a successful business at 15 with his siblings before joining the family company. * Family Business Dynamics: Insights on how Martijn and his siblings successfully work together in the family business. * Biosecurity Breakthroughs: Learn about the Shippers Group’s innovative approach to improving farm biosecurity. * Entering the U.S. Market: Discover the unique challenges of expanding into the U.S. from Europe. * Martijn’s “Golden Nugget”*
About the GuestDave Parks is an engineer at SwineTech with a diverse background in agriculture and technology. Raised in South Central Kansas, Dave grew up with hands-on experience at his grandparents’ small sow finishing farm. He graduated from Kansas State University with a degree in secondary education, emphasizing computers. Dave spent years in the public school system, where he taught computer technology and developed mobile apps and cloud computing solutions to enhance educational processes.
At SwineTech, he has been pivotal in developing key app features like Prop 12 compliance and split suckling tracking, improving efficiency in pork production. His blend of agricultural roots and technological expertise drives his innovative contributions to the pork industry. Dave’s experiences in Nashville, meeting country stars, and how karaoke unexpectedly changed his life for the better add a unique dimension to his journey.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Dave’s background in agriculture and technology and how it led him to SwineTech. * The significance of biosecurity measures like showering in and out on pig farms. * Development and implementation of app features for Prop 12 compliance and split suckling. * The importance of user feedback and how it shapes app improvements. * Dave’s experiences in Nashville, including his role in karaoke and meeting country stars.
About the GuestsBill Even is the Chief Executive Officer of the National Pork Board. With extensive experience in agriculture and leadership, he directs programs to build trust and add value for the nation’s 60,000 pork producers. His responsibilities include strategic marketing, research, and supporting producer initiatives.
Dr. David Newman is the Senior Vice President of Market Growth at the National Pork Board. A third-generation pork producer and meat scientist, Dr. Newman leads efforts to understand consumer behavior and drive demand for pork. He focuses on innovative marketing strategies to position pork as a preferred protein.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Adapting to post-COVID changes and focusing on product value. * Insights into consumer segmentation and seven key categories. * Targeting future pork consumers, especially Gen Z and millennials. * National Pork Board’s new digital consumer marketing campaign. * The role of technology and innovation in modern pork marketing.
About the GuestBrent Hershey is the owner and President of Hershey Ag, a company he formed in 1980. Growing up on the family farm, Brent raised steers, grew tobacco and corn, and worked alongside his father and uncle in an egg layer house. Over the years, he has expanded Hershey Ag to include swine production, a dairy feed division, and a dairy ventilation business.
Brent’s commitment to valuing and growing people from within has been a cornerstone of his management strategy, particularly across his sow farm management team. His greatest accomplishments include achieving superior production systems by promoting quality and efficiency from sow breeding and birthing to growing excellent market hogs. Brent embraces change and progress in the ag industry, always striving to be better today than yesterday.
Brent and his wife, Lisa, live in Mount Joy and are the parents of three children. He enjoys skiing, motorcycling, hunting, the beach, and spending time with family.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How Brent transitioned from high school to establishing a successful pig business. * The influence of chicken industry practices on pig farming techniques. * Challenges and changes in pig housing systems over the years. * The impact of Prop 12 on pig farming practices on the East Coast. * Brent’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestsDrew Ott, a former Iowa Hawkeye football player, balances life on his Nebraska family farm with his wife, Kali, who he met at the University of Iowa where she played basketball. Married since 2017, Drew and Kali integrate modern agricultural techniques and traditional farming practices, navigating the challenges of family farming while fostering a deep connection to their rural roots and each other.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Family dynamics in farming and managing generational differences. * Challenges faced by modern family farms and strategies to stay competitive. * The role of technology in improving farm efficiency and productivity. * Transitioning from non-farming backgrounds into farm life. * Drew and Kali’s “golden nugget.”
About the GuestBarb grew up on a diversified farm in west central Illinois where she was active in 4-H and then attended the University of Illinois where she majored in Ag Communications. Her career includes farming, livestock publication experience, animal health sales, and small business ownership.
After college Barb worked in Omaha and Kansas City before moving to Cedar Rapids, Iowa to begin her animal health sales career. While working with dairy farmers and pork producers throughout Iowa, Barb met her future husband at a pork industry trade show. They were married in September 1981 and Barb dove head-first into being a farm wife.
In addition to farming and her work at Heartland Marketing Group, Barb served on the National Pork Producers Council Board of Directors and was President of the organization in 2001-2002. She has served on numerous committees and task forces for both NPPC and National Pork Board. Barb was chosen to serve on the United States Animal Health Association Executive Committee and was president of the organization in 2018. She was also nominated by Iowa’s governor to serve on the Iowa Great Places Advisory Board and was named chairman in 2022. She completed six years on the Iowa 4-H Foundation Board of Trustees, serving as Chairman in 2012. In February 2024, Barb and Steve were honored with the Foundation’s Outstanding Individual Supporters Award.
Barb and Steve continue to farm and are the parents of three grown children: Andy (wife, Sally), Dan, and Kourtney. They are also grandparents of Lucy, Archie, and Eli. Together they are leaders of the Early Achievers 4-H Club and active members of the Early United Methodist Church.
About the GuestErin Brenneman is a passionate advocate for agriculture and a dedicated farmer. Raised in the suburbs of Chicago, Erin’s journey to the farming world began with her love for animals, sparked by horseback riding lessons during her high school years. She pursued her passion at Iowa State University, where she earned a degree in Animal Science and met her husband, Tim Brenneman
Erin’s introduction to farming came through weekends spent at Tim’s family farm in Iowa, where she fell in love with the farm life and community. Over the years, Erin has become deeply involved in the operations of Brenneman Pork, focusing on farrowing and day-one piglet care. Her hands-on experience and commitment to animal welfare have been pivotal in streamlining processes and enhancing farm efficiency.
Beyond her farm duties, Erin is a vocal advocate for transparency in agriculture. She has shared her farming experiences through various platforms, including blogs and social media, aiming to bridge the gap between farmers and consumers. Erin has also collaborated with organizations like the National Pork Board to host farm tours, providing firsthand insights into the realities of pig farming.
Erin’s efforts in promoting agriculture have earned her recognition in the industry, and she continues to inspire others with her dedication to farming and community.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Erin’s Journey: From city life to farm life and her passion for animals. * Farm Life: The sense of community and connection in rural living. * Communication: Bridging the gap between urban and rural understanding through simple storytelling. * Efficiency: The benefits of adopting PigFlow for real-time data and farm management. * Erin’s “Golden Nugget”
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? New World Pork Expo Format: How the two-day format affected attendance and engagement. * Adoption of Innovations: The challenges of introducing new technologies in the swine industry. * Labor and Automation: How labor shortages are pushing farms to adopt automation. * Consumer Education: The need to educate the public about modern farming practices. * Future Industry Trends*: Predictions on the role of artificial intelligence and automation in modern farming
Guest Bio’sAlex Adams
Bio: Alex Adams has over a decade of experience in the swine industry. He grew up on a small farm in southern Michigan and currently works for Hypor Swine Genetics, one of the global leaders in swine genetics. Alex is dedicated to advancing the industry through innovative genetic solutions.
Marcel Schubert
Bio: Marcel Schubert brings over 23 years of expertise in the swine industry. As the Business Development Manager for RO-Main in Quebec, Canada, Marcel is known for his work with products like Hercules’ Arm and Smart Counting. His deep industry knowledge and innovative approach make him a key figure in swine business development.
Chris Grant
Bio: Chris Grant is the President of IHT, known for supplying energy-efficient heat mats and pioneering cooling technology with patents from Purdue. With several appearances on the Popular Pig Podcast, Chris continues to lead the charge in creating solutions that address environmental challenges in the swine industry.
About the GuestAnne Miller from Montana earned the Paulson-Whitmore Award for State Executives. Miller’s loyalty to Montana agriculture led her down the path as a dual state executive for the Montana Pork Association and Wyoming Pork Producers Council. Her notable accomplishments included volunteering on the committee that developed the We Care® Ethical Principles; serving on the committee to hire two National Pork Board CEOs; and advocating for pork quality with meat processors in the state.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Anne’s journey from AmeriCorps to pork industry leadership showcases a non-traditional path to success. * Unique aspects of Montana’s pork industry, especially within Hutterite communities. * Diverse representation on the pork board, facilitated by Anne to include voices from Hutterite colonies. * Crisis management insights from Anne’s experience in emergency services and pork production. * Anne’s “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestDistinguished Service Award Winner Dr. Paul Sundberg retired in 2023 from his notable career, which included practicing veterinary medicine, working for national pork industry organizations and leading the Swine Health Information Center (SHIC). The award is selected by past presidents of the National Pork Board and recognizes individuals who have made invaluable contributions to the pork industry, going above and beyond what is expected of them.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Explore Dr. Paul Sundberg’s journey from a vet to a pork industry leader. * Discover breakthroughs in pork safety and needle design that reshaped the industry. * Learn why pork can now be safely cooked at 145 degrees, enhancing its taste and safety. * Understand the role of the Swine Health Information Center in preempting pork diseases. * Paul’s “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestMandy Dutton was born on a cattle ranch in Montana, setting the foundation for a lifelong engagement with agriculture. Her family moved to a small town in the Colorado mountains during her early years, where they continued their ranching lifestyle. After completing high school, Mandy relocated to Wyoming, marking a shift from cattle to swine as she began her career in a swine facility. She progressed through various roles in the swine industry, including department lead, farm manager, production manager and recently promoted into senior production at Carthage System, where she continues to thrive in her career.
Mandy now lives in Moberly, Missouri, with her husband, their five children, and six grandchildren who are scattered in Missouri and Nebraska. A fervent traveler, she aspires to visit all 50 states with her husband; they have 16 states left to go. Cruises are their preferred mode of travel, providing cherished family memories with their biannual trips. Aside from travel, Mandy enjoys the country life, landscaping her property, spoiling her grandkids, and planning future vacations. Her deep commitment to her family, career, and hobbies highlights her dedication to both her personal and professional life.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Explore how PigFlow improves team communication and fosters a collaborative environment on the farm. * Learn how PigFlow helps improve production efficiency and streamline farm operations. * Discover how features like the farrow tracker and alerts can lead to better pig care and lower stillborn rates. * See how PigFlow’s customer support team offers personalized assistance, ensuring a seamless onboarding process and continuous improvement. * Mandy’s “Golden Nugget” shares her perspective on how technology can drive positive change in swine production.
About the GuestEddie Zamora is an international foodie, Cuban home cook and former Judge on the TV family competition series Dinner Takes All on BYUtv. The twelve episode series was produced by Keller/Noll, the creators of Food Network’s Chopped and Chopped Junior.
Born and raised in Miami, Florida, Eddie received inspiration from my parents both fled the island of Cuba for a better life in the United States.
His first broadcasting gig was as one of the hosts on an interactive Latino oriented talk show “Chat” on NBC Mun2. This international exposure to the Latino community inspired to always keep my Latin heritage close to heart to continue to connect with his roots.
After moving to Los Angeles Eddie began traveling the globe in search of foods, drinks, tastes, and places that inspire him. These travels motivated his self-taught cocktail and cooking career. TheYumYumFoodie is a platform to connect with brands and to share all of these experiences with his audience. He’s collaborated with several brands including Toyota, Lexus, Norwegian Cruise Line, Pepsi, American Airlines, Stella Artois, Got Milk, Napa Valley Vintners, The National Pork board, Don Francisco’s Coffee, Café La Llave, Johnsonville, Mazola, Cazadores Tequila, Angel’s Envy Bourbon, Marriott, Movember, and McCormick Spices to name a few. Currently the host of Apple Podcast’s top 30 food/drink podcast “Kill The Bottle” and is one of the judges on the BYUtv cooking competition show “Dinner Takes All.” Most recently he was one of the hosts of the NBC daytime food talk show “The Tastiness.”
His Latin passion and heritage are what inspire him to share foodie life or #VidaFoodie with the world. Eddie will always bring an honest, irreverent, and “No holds barred” approach to life and work.
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What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig: Pork in Cuban Culture: Eddie Zamora grew up in a Cuban-American household in Miami, where pork was a central part of celebrations and traditional dishes. * Transition from Music to Food: Eddie comes from a musical background but found his passion for food through a series of life events, including working in high-end catering and traveling to Spain. * Food Travel and Inspiration: Eddie’s travels to Spain, particularly Barcelona, played a significant role in his culinary journey. * Connecting Food with Tradition: Eddie emphasizes the importance of tradition in cooking, sharing how certain foods and recipes remind him of home. * Eddie’s “Golden Nugget”:* Eddies’ golden nugget or life wisdom.
About Dakota Steber:Dakota Steber, Assistant Manager at Borg Farms’ Newton Sow Farm in Illinois, has a deeply rooted connection to the agriculture sector, having been introduced to pig production at a very early age. Raised on the farm where his father worked, Dakota began assisting with chores when he was just six years old. Throughout his high school and college years, the farm remained a constant in his life. After a stint in the automotive industry in Alabama and serving six years in the United States Army Reserve, Dakota returned to his roots in 2018 to take on his current role.
Known for his humor, patience, and dedication, Dakota is lauded by colleagues for his effective training skills and commitment to animal welfare. He plays a pivotal role in integrating innovative technologies like the Pig Flow system into farm operations, enhancing both productivity and the work environment. His leadership skills are particularly noted in managing diverse teams and improving operational efficiencies across the farm.
Dakota lives with his partner, Desirae, and enjoys spending quality time with their children, Kholee, Sawyer, and Rylan. An integral part of the Borgic family, he values the familial atmosphere and the collective focus on team success.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* PigFlow streamlined the data-entry process, reducing the burden on farm staff. * The platform helped to reduce stillborn rates, benefiting overall production efficiency. * PigFlow improved communication among team members, fostering better collaboration. * The task list feature provided by PigFlow helped the team stay organized and reduce stress. * Dakota’s “Golden Nugget” his own perspective on embracing change in the swine industry.
About the GuestEd Tice, a native of the Texas Panhandle, has established his home in the heartland of America. For 20 years, he resided in Tipton, Indiana, and now lives in Story City, Iowa, with his wife Emily and their two children. Ed’s professional journey in the pork industry spans nearly three decades. His career began with Tyson Fresh Meats, where he contributed significantly as a Senior Hog Buyer and a Corporate Auditor for FarmCheck, Tyson’s animal welfare program. Following this, Ed expanded his expertise at United Animal Health, holding the position of Sales and Business Development Manager for Show Feed and UPPS.
Ed’s current professional endeavors include a partnership with Four County Pig Placement and managing his own venture, Tice LS Enterprises, specializing in Livestock Marketing and Consulting. His commitment to the pork industry is evident through his participation in various committees for the National Pork Board. He has also been an integral part of the Executive Board for Indiana Pork. Ed’s passion for livestock and agriculture extends beyond his professional life. He dedicates his time to youth in these fields, participating as an official at swine events for the National FFA Convention and national collegiate judging contests. Additionally, Ed was a member of the National Junior Swine Association Youth Advisory Board.
In his local community, Ed has been an active member of the Tipton Co. 4-H Council for six years, serving as vice president for one year and president for four years. His involvement with the Indiana State Fair as the Crossbred Breed Manager for the Swine Barn spanned 15 years, further showcasing his dedication to the field.
Ed’s educational background includes attendance at Clarendon College in Clarendon, TX, and Tarleton State University in Stephenville, TX. Notably, he was part of the 1993 National Championship Livestock Judging Team while at Clarendon College. Outside of his professional and volunteer activities, Ed and his family are avid participants in showing purebred and crossbred livestock. They also enjoy attending their children’s various sporting events and school activities.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? Adapting to Industry Audits: Ed discusses the industry’s proactive approach to transparency and animal welfare. * Importance of Training: Emphasizes the need for thorough record-keeping and consistent training in pork production. * Communicating with the Public: Highlights the necessity for effective communication about farming practices to the public. * Leveraging Technology: Focuses on the role of technology and education in advancing pork production. * Ed’s “Golden Nugget”*
About the GuestsMike Johanns was the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture from 2005-2007 as well as the Governor of Nebraska from 1999-2005 and the state’s U.S. Senator from 2009-2015. As alliantgroup’s Chairman of Agriculture, Johanns brings more than 30 years of experience at virtually every level of government and a strong background in both agriculture and economic development.
As the Secretary of Agriculture, he managed 18 different agencies, opened or expanded access to 40 international markets and was responsible for multiple agricultural breakthroughs as a negotosh.
Tim Taschner leads a team of agricultural experts and has completed hundreds of agricultural case studies involving farming, food processing and livestock production. To date, Tim and his team have found an estimated $150 million in federal and state R&D tax credits.
What can you expect to learn from this episode? Farm Bill Dynamics: Insights into political debates and budget priorities affecting agriculture. * Mike’s Political Journey: From farm life to influential political roles, intertwining agriculture and governance. * R&D Tax Credits for Agriculture: Exploring how everyday farming innovations can lead to significant tax savings. * Practical R&D in Farming: Demonstrating how standard farm practices can qualify as research, unlocking financial benefits. * Agriculture’s Continuous Evolution:* Recognizing the industry’s adaptability and complexity, contrary to perceptions of resistance to change.
About the GuestDr. Dritz currently provides global technical support for PIC, the porcine division of Genus. PIC directly employs people in 18 countries worldwide and PIC products are available in more than 50 countries across the globe.
Previously, Dr. Dritz was a Professor at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University from 1995 until 2020. He conducted on-farm research to characterize pig nutrient requirements and feeding management practices. Research projects included evaluating viral transmission through feed mills as well as mitigation and decontamination strategies and reducing the use of feed antimicrobials in swine production.
These areas all carry a common theme in that they involved field-based research leveraging an understanding of modern swine production systems and ability to use sophisticated experimental designs and analysis. He has co-authored over 350 peer reviewed journal articles, 6 book chapters, and numerous other abstracts, extension reports and proceedings papers. Dr. Dritz advised 9 PhD and 2 MS graduate students as major professor and participated in training over 100 additional post graduate students.
Dr. Dritz received his D.V.M. degree in 1990 from the University of Minnesota and his Ph.D. in Swine Nutrition and Production in 1995 from Kansas State University.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig brought to you by SwineTech?* The critical role of nutrition in sow productivity and genetic progress. * The impact of sow body condition on health and reproductive success. * The influence of farm culture and workforce well-being on productivity. * Strategic nutrition management during economic challenges. * The multifactorial nature of sow care and its impact on overall farm success. * The importance of continuous improvement and innovation in the swine industry.
About the GuestsDr. Sergio Canavate was born in Spain and obtained his veterinarian degree from the University of Murcia. He started his career in the pork industry in Agropor SL, where he learned the core principles and values of pork production. In 2010 he joined PIC Spain, and since then, he has shown willingness to embrace new changes. In 2013, he moved to the United States with his family, where he joined the PIC North America Technical Service team, mentored by Dr. Juan Carlos Pinilla. Over the past 11 years, he has had the privilege to work closely with large systems in North America and Europe, gaining unique experience and a broader view of pork industry from customers, colleagues and teammates.
During this time, he has grown professionally, gaining responsibilities, and performing various roles within PIC. Sergio is currently the North America Technical Service Reproduction Director. He and his team are responsible for providing the best customer support in all areas related to site 1 and reproduction.
Dr Saskia Bloemhof-Abma was born in the Netherlands and has a MSc and PhD in Animal breeding and genetics from Wageningen University. Saskia joined PIC in 2013 as a geneticist and is currently the Genetic Services Director for both North and Latin America. Additionally, she still provides genetic support to Dutch customers in Europe.
From this episode of the Popular Pig Podcast with Dr. Saskia Bloemhof and Dr. Sergio Canavate, listeners can learn about:* The challenges in sow mortality and how it has increased due to factors like genetic improvements leading to larger and heavier litters, affecting sow robustness. * The concept of the “four pillars” for reducing sow mortality, which includes genetics, P1 development, body conditioning and feeding, and individual sow care. * How genetic advancements are applied in practice to improve sow longevity and reduce mortality, with a focus on understanding and managing reproductive failure, lameness, and prolapse risks. * The importance of management practices in realizing the genetic potential of pigs, including proper selection, development, and care of gilts and sows to improve their productivity and longevity.
About the GuestLarry’s background has been in farming and the pork industry of some kind his entire life. His parents still have the linear family farm that has been in the Bertrand’s name since 1876. Larry spent numerous years in the packing side of the pork industry in the procurement / management side of companies such as Oscar Mayer, Cargill / Excel , IBP/Tyson , Triumph Foods , JBS, from 1982 through 2019.
Larry found the love of his life and his forever partner Chris, and they were married in 2016. The two of them with their blended family have three children and two grandchildren. Chris has really enjoyed being included and being part of all the pork families and industry friends. Prior she had no experience or background in farming or the pork industry till she met Larry. Chris is now extremely involved in their business, understands the pork industry , can speak about hot pork topics , and is a CO-CEO of their business.
After many years of devotion to Pork Industry Companies , Chris suggested to Larry let us start our own business where we can give back and be helpful to all of pork families we have called our friends over the many years. That is when and how in 2019, we formed and started Pork Friendly B.M.LLC. This business is bonded and licensed to help families trade their ISO Weaners , Feeder Pigs , Cull Sows , and Market loads. We also negotiate packer contracts for families with packers, and from other pork operations to connect with one and other. We also recently teamed with an outstanding Indiana family to sell solar ag projects and appreciate our friendship with Jeremy Lipinski and his family and his company Emergent Solar Energy . We welcome all to please check out http://porkfriendlybm.com
Chris and Larry Bertrand, then in 2021 decided to form another company that would become Swine Alliance Group – S/A/G . This company consists of a network of knowledgeable industry leaders. The Partner’s goal is to become a one stop shop for those families and operations in the pork industry. We welcome all to please check out https://www.swinealliancegroup.com
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* The evolution of pork production from small family operations to larger, more integrated systems, illustrating the importance of adaptability and growth in the industry. * Insights into the challenges and dynamics of working in various sectors of the pork industry, from farm management to procurement and consulting, highlighting the breadth of opportunities and hurdles. * The impact of economic factors, like interest rates and market shifts, on farming operations, emphasizing the need for financial acumen and strategic planning in agriculture. * The significance of networking and building relationships in the pork industry, demonstrating how collaboration and partnerships can enhance business opportunities and support. * Larry’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestWith 20 years of entrepreneurial and executive experience, Andrew brings a passion for servant leadership and a diversity of experience to serve Triune’s clients.
Beginning in 2010, Andrew was part of a team that developed and scaled an industry-leading weight management solution delivered exclusively through licensed healthcare providers, including partnerships with some of the nation’s premier hospitals and health systems. Following an exit to a private-equity group, Andrew was asked to serve in an executive role which resulted in leading a variety of teams across several functions and geographies.
In his leadership roles, Andrew consistently and intentionally applied a servant leadership approach often enabling challenging or underperforming individuals and teams to evolve into top performers while aligning to the organization’s mission, vision, and values. Andrew has lead through seasons of explosive organizational growth as well as challenging economic and industry cycles and is convinced that servant leadership is the only sustainable leadership style. Specifically, the framework provided by Triune Leadership Services gives a common language and thought process for empowering people and organizations to achieve transformational results, both personally and professionally.
Today, after experiencing first-hand the results of applying these principles, Andrew serves clients in our mission to awaken the servant hearts within leaders and empower them to make a significant impact on the world.
Andrew and his wife, Jasmine, have two children and reside in Willmar, MN. They attend Living Hope Church where Andrew currently serves as an Elder, member of the Global Impact Team (past chair), and as a Life Group & Life Community Leader & Teacher.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig with Andrew Leikvoll?• The evolution of agriculture and its shift from individual contribution to needing strong leadership skills to manage larger, integrated operations.
• How Triune Leadership Services (TLS) emphasizes servant leadership, and its application across various industries, including agriculture.
• The concept of servant leadership as a powerful approach to building engaged and high-performing teams, debunking myths of it being “soft” or ineffective.
• Real-world examples of how servant leadership principles can transform business cultures and lead to significant performance improvements.
• Andrew’s “golden nugget”
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig brought to you by SwineTech?* Dr. Jones’ journey from a mixed veterinary practice to specializing in pigs during the industry’s growth phase in North Carolina. * His observation of the pig industry’s evolution, including significant disease management efforts and the impact of technological advancements. * The transformation in North Carolina’s pig farming landscape, marked by market access challenges, COVID-19 impacts, and regulatory changes. * The shift in farm management and veterinary roles towards more specialized, large-scale operations. * Randy’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestNew Fashion Pork is headquartered in Jackson, Minnesota with Brad Freking as its CEO and managing partner. Founded in 1994, New Fashion Pork (NFP) employs over 400 people and owns 53,000 sows in six states, along with having interests in several related businesses (i.e., Triumph Foods and Daily’s Premium Meats). Annually, NFP markets roughly 1.2 million hogs.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? Background Knowledge: An overview of New Fashion Pork’s (NFP) evolution from a small operation to a significant player in the pig farming industry. * Relevance and Current Trends: How NFP incorporates sustainability into its business model, emphasizing the importance of integrated farming systems. * Industry Challenges: Strategies NFP employed to navigate market volatility and external challenges, such as economic downturns and health crises. * Expansion Strategies: The process and rationale behind NFP’s diversification into cattle farming and the acquisition of farmland, highlighting the benefits of a diversified agricultural business. * Valuable Takeaway: Brad’s “Golden nugget”.*
About the GuestJeff is the CEO of Decisive Dividend Corporation, an acquisition-oriented company that owns 11 manufacturing businesses across Canada and the UK. Decisive Dividend employs a “Buy, Build and Hold” business model with the purpose of being the sought-out choice for exiting, legacy minded business owners. Jeff oversees the head-office team of operational, M&A and financial personnel as well as the leaders of its 11 operating subsidiaries that operate as standalone businesses under Decisive Dividend’s decentralized model.
Decisive Dividend was recognized as a Top 50 TSX Venture Exchange Company in 2023 and 2024, where it placed first in the Diversified Industries sector. Prior to joining Decisive Dividend in June 2021, Jeff was Co-CEO & CFO of TerraPro Inc., an Alberta based, Canadian energy services business. During his tenure, TerraPro was recognized as one of Canada’s Fastest Growing Companies from 2013 through 2016 and one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies from 2013 through 2019. Jeff began his career as an investment banker with Merrill Lynch Canada Inc. from 2006 – 2013 after completing his legal articles at Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP and being called to the bar in Ontario in 2006. Jeff completed his LL.B. / MBA from the University of Alberta in 2005 and has a B.Com from the University of Alberta. Jeff is married to his high school sweetheart and, together, they have three kids who they spend their time chasing through arenas and ball diamonds across Western Canada.
In this episode with Jeff Schellenberg, you’ll learn about:* Decisive Dividend’s focus on acquiring manufacturing firms, driven by demographic shifts and wealth transfer. * The strategic acquisition of Innovative Heating Technologies. * The significance of steady revenue and minimal capital investment for dividend-paying entities. * Criteria for acquisitions, highlighting long-term stability and operational integration. * Importance of thorough due diligence and establishing strong relationships in successful acquisitions. * Jeff’s “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestLuke Kerns is part of the third generation that represents Edgewood Locker, an essential component of the Edgewood, Iowa, community, and agricultural fabric. Inheriting the legacy of his grandparents, Tom and Joan Kerns, who founded the business in 1966, and with the guidance of his father, uncle, sister, and two cousins, Luke stepped into the family enterprise in 2019.
He is committed to maintaining the traditional values and innovative spirit that have been the hallmark of Edgewood Locker’s growth from a modest meat processing operation to a formidable business with over 60 full-time employees, offering services that range from custom processing to retail. Luke’s involvement in this familial consortium highlights the Kerns family’s dedication to excellence, community engagement, and the continuous evolution of Edgewood Locker, promising to meet the changing needs of their customers with award-winning products and services.
What you’ll learn from this weeks episode:* How Luke’s family adapted to changing agricultural practices. * The role family played in Edgewood Locker’s dynamic evolution and growth. * The impact of diversification on business resilience and profitability. * How the Kerns family navigated business challenges during the pandemic. * Luke’s perspective on future trends in meat processing and local food sourcing. * Luke Kerns’ “Golden Nugget.
About the GuestDr. Cara Haden received her degree as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2014 from the Iowa State College of Veterinary Medicine. After graduation, she joined Pipestone Vet Clinic as an associate Veterinarian working with independent pig farm clients throughout the Midwest. Today she serves as the Director of Animal Welfare for Pipestone. Cara is also active on social media, showcasing the swine industry and the ways farmers care for their pigs.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? Navigating Prop 12 Compliance: Insights into the complexities of adapting to California’s Prop 12 in pig farming. * Housing System Impacts: A comparison of different pig housing systems and their effects on animal welfare. * Health Concerns under Prop 12: Data revealing increased health issues, such as lameness, in pigs due to Prop 12 housing conditions. * Public Communication: The importance of transparently discussing pig farming practices and welfare impacts with the public. * Focus on Welfare Improvements*: Strategies and future plans to enhance animal welfare in Prop 12 compliant systems.
About the GuestCP Kriek, at the forefront of Taaibosch, embodies a unique blend of expertise and passion. An Industrial Engineer by training, CP, alongside his wife Gerda, has turned their family heritage in farming into an advanced, sustainable pork production enterprise in South Africa. Their journey from engineers to innovative farmers showcases a deep commitment to animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and cutting-edge agricultural practices.
This dynamic duo’s approach leverages their engineering backgrounds to enhance intensive pig farming, focusing on sustainability and reducing environmental impact. For more details about CP Kriek and his work, visit Taaibosch’s website.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig brought to you by SwineTech?* The integration of sustainability and technology in South African pig farming. * Overcoming challenges and driving innovation in a family-run farm. * Unique aspects and challenges of the pork industry in South Africa. * The role of cultural and economic factors in shaping pork production. * CP Kriek’s “golden nugget.”
About the GuestGracee Poorman’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. Emerging as a beacon of inspiration in the agricultural community, she has carved a unique path, defying the constraints of her challenging upbringing. Raised amidst the struggles of mental illness and addiction within her family, Gracee was driven by a vision of a different life for herself and her future children. With no prior experience in agriculture, but armed with an unwavering resolve, Gracee plunged into this new world.
It became more than a mere profession; it was a realm where she found the guidance, structure, and passion that were missing in her early years. Her story is a vivid illustration of how embracing a passion can profoundly alter life’s trajectory, regardless of its starting point. Gracee Poorman stands as a living embodiment of transformation and hope, showing that with passion and perseverance, one can not only overcome their past but also shape an inspiring future.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? Unconventional Path to Agriculture: Discover Gracee Poorman’s unique journey from a non-agricultural background to a career in pig farming. * Overcoming Adversity: Hear about how Gracee’s challenging early life experiences shaped her resilience and work ethic. * First Steps in Pig Farming: Learn about Gracee’s initial foray into pig farming, including her surprising and eye-opening experiences at a sow farm. * Rapid Career Advancement: Explore Gracee’s rapid rise in the pig industry, from working in a sow farm to managing large-scale pig operations. * Breaking Industry Barriers: Gain insights on how Gracee navigated and succeeded in a traditionally male-dominated field. * Inspiring the Next Generation: Gracee shares her passion for introducing agriculture to young people, advocating for early exposure and opportunities. * Gracee’s Golden Nugget:* A key piece of advice from Gracee’s life experiences, emphasizing the power of seizing opportunities in shaping one’s career path.
About the GuestJohn Nickel is a seasoned pork producer and the esteemed owner and director of Border Genetics Ltd. With a rich history in the industry, John brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his role. His deep understanding of pork production is not only evident in the success of Border Genetics but also in his influential position on the Board of Directors for Manitoba Pork. John’s commitment to excellence and innovation in pork production has made him a respected figure in the agricultural community, where he continues to contribute significantly to the industry’s growth and sustainability.
What you’ll get from this episode John Nickel’s Career Progression: From starting as a worker in a hog barn in the 1970s to owning a 5,800 sow operation and exporting pigs to the U.S. * Early Challenges in Pork Farming: Overcoming obstacles such as neighborhood opposition, barn fires, and managing construction during farm expansion. * Economic Ups and Downs in Pork Industry: Discusses the financial challenges and market changes in the industry, especially during the late 1990s and early 2000s. * Personal Experiences and Stories in Farming: Sharing personal anecdotes from his farming journey, including experiences with cattle and the transition to focusing on pigs. * Consulting Experience in Kazakhstan: Insights from a consulting trip, interacting with farmers working on Soviet-era farms, and the challenges of working in a different cultural and regulatory environment. * Involvement with Manitoba Pork Association: Discussing his role and experiences on the Board of Directors, focusing on networking and contributing to the industry. * Views on Pork Consumption and Industry Trends*: Thoughts on why pork consumption is not increasing despite being a value product, and reflections on the changing dynamics of the industry.
About the GuestsDr. Matheus Costa is a veterinarian scientist with a focus on the pathophysiology of diseases in species of veterinary interest, particularly swine. He is Assistant Professor of swine health management at the University of Saskatchewan, and Adjunct Professor at Utrecht University. He holds a DVM, PhD in veterinary microbiology and is also a board-certified swine health veterinarian. Matheus and his team are particularly interested in diseases to which antimicrobials are the only tool available for prevention and treatment. His work has focused on Brachyspira (the agent of swine dysentery), and more recently streptococci (S. zooepidemicus and S. suis). He was part of the team that first associated a new Brachyspira species with swine dysentery, and identified the emergence of S. zooepidemicus in pigs in North America.
Dr. Ryan Tenbergen graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2016 and joined Demeter Veterinary Services currently supporting farms in Ontario. He has authored and co-authored scientific papers in the areas of swine disease and management as well as delivered oral presentations at scientific conferences and swine production meetings. He remains highly involved in industry groups to support producers and is past president for both provincial and national swine veterinarian organizations.
Matheus CostaRyan TenbergenWhat can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig? Strep Zoo Insights: Dr. Matheus Costa explains the adaptability and dangers of Strep Zoo in various animals, highlighting its high mortality rates. * Veterinary Paths: Discover how Dr. Ryan Tenbergen and Dr. Matheus Costa transitioned into swine health from different initial interests. * Outbreak Challenges: Dr. Tenbergen shares experiences from a severe Strep Zoo outbreak on a farm, emphasizing its rapid impact and control difficulties. * Treatment Hurdles: Discussion on the complexities of treating Strep Zoo, including issues with antimicrobial resistance. * Human Carriers and Biosecurity: Exploring the role of human carriers in Strep Zoo transmission and its implications for farm biosecurity. * Swine Industry Impact: Insights into how Strep Zoo affects the swine industry, including potential misdiagnosis risks. * Biosecurity Strategies: Recommendations for effective biosecurity practices to mitigate Strep Zoo risks in swine farms. * Expert’s Golden Nugget:* A key piece of wisdom or insight from the experts’ extensive experience in swine health.
About the GuestDr. Martin Bonneau grew up on a pig farm in Saint-François de Montmagny. He graduated in veterinary medicine from the University of Montreal in 1993. From 1993 to 2004, he mainly worked for a Quebec genetics company as director of production and animal health. He founded Demeter Services Vétérinaires in 2004, with his colleague Sylvain Messier.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Early Farm Life and Veterinary Inspiration: Dr. Martin Bonneau’s childhood on a pig farm and what led him into veterinary medicine. * The Inception of Demeter: What motivated Dr. Bonneau to start Demeter after a decade-long career and the initial challenges and successes of the venture. * Demeter’s Distinct Approach: Understanding what sets Demeter apart from other veterinary groups in terms of strategies and practices. * Future of Veterinary Groups and the Industry: Dr. Bonneau’s perspective on upcoming trends in veterinary services and the swine industry. * Advice for Aspiring Veterinarians: Dr. Bonneau’s guidance for new graduates and those aspiring to enter the veterinary field. * Dr. Martin Bonneau’s Golden Nugget: A key piece of wisdom or insight from Dr. Bonneau’s extensive experience.
About the GuestTony Simpson brings more than 23 years of experience leading and investing in companies in agribusiness and animal health. In 2015, Tony founded AgTech Advisors, LLC, a consulting firm focused on supporting entrepreneurs and investors in the agtech sector. Previously, he served as a Managing Director for the Kansas Bioscience Authority where he led the organization’s investment efforts in agtech, animal health and bioenergy, leading investments in companies such as Aratana Therapeutics, Green Dot, SmartVet and Advanced Animal Diagnostics.
Before joining the KBA, he spent 9 years with POET Plant Management, where he started 2 major green-field ethanol plants and led equity drives and refinancing and expansion efforts for EXOL and Michigan Ethanol. Later, he led the US Ethanol Division for ED&F Man managing both plant operations as well as business development. Mr. Simpson began his career with ADM as a grain merchandiser, later moving to operations management as the Plant Manager of a wheat flour and bakery ingredient mill. Mr. Simpson serves on the board of directors of Green Dot Holdings, Advanced Animal Diagnostics, and the ATIP Foundation and is an observer to the SmartVet board. He serves as a Principal Advisor in the Larta Institute’s agricultural commercialization programs. Mr. Simpson holds an Economics Degree from Millikin University, an MBA from the Carlson School of Business (University of Minnesota-Minneapolis) and completed the Private Equity and Venture Capital Executive Education Program at Harvard.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Tony Simpson’s Journey: Discover the path that led Tony Simpson to a prominent role in agribusiness and animal health, including his most proud and challenging career moments. * Current Role Insights: Gain an understanding of Simpson’s current position and impact in the field, shedding light on his day-to-day activities and overarching goals. * Sector Evolution: Explore the latest trends and breakthrough innovations in animal agriculture that are shaping the industry and drawing the attention of venture capital. * Strategic Investment Perspectives: Learn about the critical factors that influence venture capital investment decisions in animal agriculture companies. * Foresight and Guidance: Hear Simpson’s vision for the future of animal agriculture and receive actionable advice for entrepreneurs and farmers looking to secure venture capital funding.
About the GuestSteve Weiss – Mr. Weiss is founder and President of NutriQuest and a partner in 21 st Century Strategic Forums. He also serves as a Board member for several enterprises in the U.S. swine industry and non-profit sectors.
At NutriQuest, Steve leads a team which has developed technologies to improve animal performance and help solve key industry problems like humane euthanasia and improving bacon quality, among others. He has also been an active and outspoken industry leader in his role with 21 st Century Strategic Forums and in leading industry efforts and dialogue around animal rights activists, preserving antibiotics, fake meat and other industry challenges.
Mr. Weiss was previously a founder and CFO at Iowa Select Farms, which today is the fourth largest swine producer in the U.S. He has also served as a turnaround specialist for several companies, including serving as court-Appointed Receiver for a South Dakota based 7,000-cow dairy, Interim CEO for a 50,000-sow Nebraska based swine producer, Chief Restructuring Officer for a 17,000-sow North Carolina operation, and a consultant to numerous distressed production agriculture businesses, in each case accomplishing successful restructurings or the sale and continuity of those businesses. Mr. Weiss, a CPA, was a founding partner of Roth & Company, a Des Moines, Iowa based CPA firm, and Manager of Middle Market Services for Deloitte from 1985 to 1990.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Steve’s Background: Learn how Steve Weiss got started in the pork industry, including what drew him to this field and his early experiences. * Experiences at Iowa Select: Hear about Weiss’s time as CFO of Iowa Select, including the challenges he faced, the lessons he learned, and how he helped the company grow. * Founding NutriQuest: Find out why and how Weiss founded NutriQuest and the journey he went through to make it successful. * Role in the National Pork Industry Conference (NPIC): Weiss talks about his involvement in this important industry event and why it matters for people in the pork industry. * Future Plans: Weiss shares what he’s looking forward to in his own future and what he’s planning next. * Outlook on the Swine Industry: Get Weiss’s take on where the swine industry is heading, including potential challenges and opportunities he sees on the horizon. * Steve Weiss’s “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestDr. Chris Richards is the Managing Director of ASX listed Apiam Animal Health Ltd, which through its 74 clinics (365 veterinarians) provide veterinary services across regional and rural Australia. Dr Richards graduated as a veterinarian from the University of Melbourne in 1996 having previously obtained a Bachelor of Science from La Trobe University. Dr. Richards is responsible for the strategic direction of Apiam, which since 1998 has seen the development and acquisition of production and companion animal veterinary clinics, distribution, diagnostic and vaccine laboratories, and genetics services businesses into a vertically integrated veterinary business. Dr. Richards is also a Director of registered charity, Fur Life Foundation Ltd, which raises funds to support people in rural, regional, and remote communities.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* The Origins of Apiam Animal Health: hear the story behind Apiam’s founding, a blend of ambition, vision, and hard work. * Overcoming Challenges: Dr. Richards shares the obstacles and triumphs he encountered while growing the company, offering a realistic look at what it takes to scale a business in this sector. * Insights into the Swine Industry: gain a unique perspective on the swine industry, both in Australia and globally, as Dr. Richards discusses current trends and future possibilities. * Chris’s “golden nugget”: every journey has its lessons. Dr. Richards shares a key insight from his experiences, something that listeners can apply in various aspects of their professional lives.
About the GuestRob Hannam, CEO of Farm Health Guardian, is committed to helping farms and food companies improve animal health and protect against the devastating impact of animal disease through digital biosecurity. Launched in 2020 for the swine and poultry sectors, Farm Health Guardian technology is reducing the risk of disease spread and improving biosecurity compliance which saves time, reduces the cost of production and improves farm sustainability. Rob’s passion for agriculture was cultivated while growing up on his family’s grain farm in Guelph, Ontario. He has worked in agriculture for over 30 years and has proven experience in building innovative businesses. He is also President of Synthesis Network, where he leads a team of marketing communications professionals who push the boundaries of agri-food leadership and innovation.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Background Knowledge: An understanding of Rob’s journey and expertise in the swine industry. * Relevance and Current Trends: Insight into why transport biosecurity is gaining more attention. * Industry Challenges: An analysis of the most pressing issues and vulnerabilities in transport biosecurity. * Technological Integration: An exploration of how GPS systems are currently utilized in monitoring and managing biosecurity in transportation, including real-world applications and benefits. * Solutions for Non-GPS Vehicles: Creative strategies or upcoming technologies that could fill the gap for vehicles without GPS, ensuring biosecurity standards are upheld. * Future Projections: Predictions and expectations for technological trends that will significantly influence transport biosecurity in the coming decade. * Valuable Takeaway: Rob’s “Golden nugget” is a key piece of advice or a profound insight that Rob can offer listeners.
About the GuestNatalia Rimi HeisterkampNatalia Rimi Heisterkamp is the general Manager for Crystal Spring Brasil and for the past 6 years also has the role of Director of Global Strategy for Crystal Spring Hog Equipment. In addition to nearly 30 years of experience in business development, project management, manufacturing, logistics, and customer service, Natalia also holds a degree in Business Management, a graduate degree in Foreign Commerce, and a master’s degree in Project and Business Management.
Natalia is passionate for the hog industry and over the past years developed important projects in marketing, branding and in developing business strategies to grow brands worldwide. Originally from Sao Paulo, Brazil, Natalia speaks Portuguese, English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian. She currently lives in Omaha, Nebraska (USA) with her husband Todd and their 11-year-old son, Arthur.
What you can expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig.* Natalia’s Approach to Transforming a Global Business into a Recognizable Brand: Listeners will learn from Natalia’s experience in elevating a global business to a renowned global brand. The discussion will cover her strategies in branding, ensuring messaging consistency across diverse cultures and languages, and her overall communication strategy that contributed to this success. * Natalia’s Insights on the Global Industry’s Future: The podcast will delve into Natalia’s perspective on the future trends and developments in the industry on a global scale. Listeners will gain an understanding of what Natalia foresees for the industry in the coming years, including potential challenges and opportunities. * Crystal Spring’s Strategic Plans as Informed by Natalia: Natalia will discuss the specific strategies and initiatives that Crystal Spring is planning to undertake in response to the changing needs of the industry. This will provide listeners with a real-world example of how a company is adapting and innovating in response to market dynamics. * Learning from Natalia’s Experience in Meeting Industry Needs: The conversation will offer insights into how Natalia and Crystal Spring are addressing industry challenges and staying competitive. Listeners will learn about adapting to market changes, innovating in response to industry demands, and the importance of foresight in business strategy. * Natalia Rimi Heisterkamp’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestDaniel Linhares, DVM, MBA, PhDAfter 8 years of field experience in Brazil, he joined Iowa State University in 2015 and serves as Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Education. Daniel works with the Field Epi team (www.fieldepi.org), which includes 25 professionals centered on graduate education and professional services on development and evaluation of strategies to improve swine health & productivity. His group has over 300 publications/participations in meetings over the last 5 years, having worked closely with veterinarians and pig producers representing > 3 million sows.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Collaboration in the Pork Industry: Insights into how stakeholders in pork production, including producers, veterinarians, and industry leaders like Daniel Linhares, work together through committees like the APC Swine Industry Advisory Committee to ensure the health of swine herds. * Role of Advisory Committees: Exploration of how advisory committees influence strategic planning in the pork industry and the benefits of including experts and researchers in these groups. * Experiences and Learnings from Industry Leaders: An overview of Daniel Linhares’ experiences working with other industry leaders, providing a unique perspective on collaborative efforts and shared knowledge in the field. * Addressing Industry Priorities: Discussion on how the insights from experts like Linhares help companies in the pork industry understand and prioritize key issues in swine health and welfare. * Dr. Daniel Linhares’s “Golden Nugget”.
About the GuestDr. Erin Kettlekamp is an associate veterinarian with Swine Vet Center and is based in southern Minnesota. She is a 2021 DVM graduate of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. In practice, Erin enjoys collaborating on field research, consulting on biosecurity, and assisting producers in all areas of production.
Dr. Andy Holtcamp is a highly respected veterinarian, renowned for his contributions to animal health and biosecurity. He earned his Bachelor of Science in 1988 and his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 1993, both from Mississippi State University. His career began with significant roles at Iowa Select Farms and Prestage Farms as a staff veterinarian, where he developed his expertise in managing the health of large livestock populations. Dr. Holtcamp’s professional journey further evolved at Bayer HealthCare in the Technical Service department, where he played a key role in advancing animal health products and disease prevention strategies. He then continued his impactful work at CEVA and is currently a consultant for Intervention Disinfectant, focusing on the development and application of disinfectants in animal health and biosecurity. His research has made substantial contributions to the field, particularly in protein production systems for cattle, poultry, and swine. Dr. Holtcamp has published various papers on topics such as the use of iron in pigs and the effects of enrofloxacin on different pathogens. A notable achievement in his career is pioneering the first HEPA filtered system for Boar Stud in the USA, which has set a new standard in swine industry biosecurity. Dr. Holtcamp’s work continues to have a significant impact on veterinary medicine and animal husbandry practices.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Learn about the current biosecurity risks in the swine transportation system. * Gain insights into what a truck wash audit entails. * Discover common oversights and potential opportunities identified during truck wash audits. * Explore methods of assessing the effectiveness of sanitation practices in real-world scenarios. * Discuss the increasing resilience of emerging viruses and whether there are concerns over the disinfectants currently in use. * Dr. Erin Kettlekamp and Dr. Andy Holtcamp’s “golden nuggets”
About the GuestKiersten Hafer is a business strategy executive with a proven track record of navigating and aligning market trends, business goals and organizational priorities to deliver high impact, actionable solutions accelerating growth for brands and businesses. Hafer leads the Strategy and Domestic Market Development teams at the National Pork Board where she advises the pork industry, major packer and processers and retail and foodservice operators how to win with pork and where to focus time and money.
Dr. Kristen Hicks-Roof is a Registered Dietitian and the Director of Nutrition Research at the National Pork Board. She has extensive expertise in research from basic science to translation in animal and human subjects. In her role at NPB, she is focused on leading the nutrition research strategy, execution and dissemination to show the role of pork in human nutrition, sustainability and health across the lifespan.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Insights Leading to Ground Pork Test Projects: The key insights that led to the test and learn projects for ground pork were derived from understanding its potential in the meat case. By focusing on ground pork’s versatility, affordability, and nutritional value, strategies were developed to increase its market share.] * The Current Position of Ground Pork: Momentum for ground pork has continued to grow. Data-driven strategies have opened new doors in the marketplace, positioning pork as a versatile, affordable and nutritious protein option. This approach was successful with ground pork and is now being applied to other cuts like the pork loin. * Industry’s Strategy Related to Human Nutrition: The industry focuses on highlighting the nutritional benefits of cuts like ground pork and loin through science-backed data, compelling stories, and endorsements. They aim to dispel misconceptions about pork’s nutrient profile and promote its health benefits. * Versatility of Ground Pork: Ground pork is highly versatile, making it an excellent choice for a variety of meals. Conversations with retailers and packers have revealed opportunities for new products and meal kits featuring ground pork. * Promoting Pork Loin: The National Pork Board (NPB) is working to promote the pork loin, which currently has a lower cutout value. They are leveraging the nutritional benefits of the pork loin in their campaigns, similar to the strategy used for ground pork. * Sustainability and Consumer Strategy: The industry is also committed to sustainability and consumer segmentation strategies. These commitments, regardless of the cut or grind, weave into the full scope of work with Checkoff investments. The Surprisingly Pork campaign focuses on educating consumers about the nutritional profile of pork, aiming to change perceptions and increase consumption.
About the GuestBoyd Rice, a seasoned professional with 33 years of experience in the swine industry, earned his Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from Texas Tech University. During his university years, he not only served on the Livestock Judging Team but also gained practical experience working at the Swine Research Facilities, contributing significantly to his professional development.
Today, he is a valued member of the Innovative Heating team, bringing his wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. But Boyd is more than just an accomplished professional. He is known for his kindness and sense of humor, traits that make him an absolute pleasure to work with. His warmth and jovial nature create a positive and engaging work environment, making him a beloved figure within the company and the wider swine industry.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Boyd Rice’s background in the swine industry and journey to Innovative Heating Technologies. * Storytelling with Boyd and a few of his “Boydisms”. * The latest news update from the swine industry. * An update about the Leman Conference and IHT’s cooling mats. * Boyd Rice’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestDr. Joe Crenshaw is the Vice President of Technical Service for APC, where he provides technical service and advice for customers and conducts product development and applications research. His career spans thirty-five years in the swine industry, from teaching to research to private consulting in animal nutrition and for feed businesses across the globe.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Enhancing Swine Health and Performance: Functional Proteins as a Vital Resource: The interview highlights the significant role of functional proteins, particularly plasma, in bolstering swine health and immunity. Feeding plasma to swine has been shown to lead to notable improvements in their overall health and performance, making it a valuable component of their diet. * Economic Resilience through Plasma: Cost-Efficiency in Challenging Times: In periods of economic downturn, where cost-cutting is a priority, plasma proves to be a valuable asset for producers. Its ability to maintain and enhance swine health can lead to long-term savings, outweighing the initial investment and providing economic resilience for producers. * Ensuring Feed Safety through Rigorous Biosecurity: Comprehensive Biosecurity Measures: The interview sheds light on the stringent biosecurity protocols in place for the production of plasma and other feed ingredients. From the origin of the supply chain to the point of consumption by pigs, every step is meticulously monitored to ensure the safety and quality of feed, safeguarding swine health. * Collaborative Efforts for Herd Health and Disease Prevention: Proactive Industry Collaboration: The pork industry, along with various stakeholders, is actively collaborating with governmental bodies such as the USDA and FDA to not just respond to, but proactively prevent foreign animal disease outbreaks. APC’s engagement with industry experts to deepen the understanding of the use and value of plasma proteins is a testament to these collaborative efforts, aiming to fortify herd health across the industry. * Dr. Joe Crenshaw’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestJosé de Jesús is senior director of multicultural marketing at the National Pork Board. He is responsible for building awareness of pork specifically to multicultural consumers – Hispanic, African American and Asian American audiences. He oversees multicultural marketing strategy development and implementation and oversees all insights-driven marketing, public relations, digital and social media efforts for multicultural markets in the U.S. – through the development of insights-driven public relations, digital and marketing plans. As a bilingual communicator, José manages all multicultural marketing efforts and consumer outreach. He is also responsible for engaging and educating pork consumers through seasonal programs.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Multicultural Consumers and Pork Demand: Multicultural consumers are increasingly shaping the future of pork demand and consumption. Their preferences, misconceptions, and cultural relevance are important factors that the industry needs to consider. * Hispanic Consumers and Pork: Research shows that while Hispanics appreciate pork, they may not fully understand its versatility and nutritional value. The Ponle Pork platform aims to address this gap by emphasizing pork’s taste, nutrition, and its cultural relevance. * National Pork Board’s Strategy: The National Pork Board has developed a strategic platform to increase pork affinity among African American Millennial and Gen Z consumers. The strategy involves connecting fresh pork cuts to the cultural flavors of soul food in a nutritious manner. * Addressing Misconceptions: Both the Ponle Pork and Don’t Miss the Flavor platforms aim to address misconceptions about pork among Hispanic and African American consumers respectively. They focus on promoting the taste, versatility, and nutritional value of pork. * Importance of Checkoff Dollars: The industry’s investment of Checkoff dollars in these consumers signifies the large market share they represent. Understanding their preferences and addressing misconceptions about pork could potentially lead to an increase in pork demand and consumption among these groups. * José’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestsSid Rooda spent his formative years on a family farm in South East Iowa and demonstrated an early aptitude for farming, renting his first farm at the tender age of 18. In 1962, he tied the knot with Dolores and began renting a farm near Prairie City Iowa, where he garnered a reputation for raising high-quality feeder pigs. Eight years later, the couple purchased their own farm in Northern Pella Iowa, where they lovingly raised their three children. The couple weathered the brutal 80s farm crisis by taking jobs in a factory, welding shop, and selling feed. Dolores also supplemented their income by taking on various odd jobs. By the mid-1990s, Sid had returned to his first love-raising hogs full time. After many years of hard work, Sid and Dolores finally retired in 2007.
Daniel Rooda’s rural upbringing on a family farm in South East Iowa during the eighties laid the foundation for a career in agriculture. In 1991, Dan graduated from Kirkwood Community College with a degree in Farm and Ranch Management, eager to put his skills into practice. Shortly after graduating, he married his partner Helen and moved to North Carolina to begin working as a manager of large sow units. After six years in North Carolina, Dan and Helen returned to the Midwest with their two sons to raise their family. Dan continued to hone his craft by managing large sow units until 2020, when he transitioned into the role of team leader overseeing several employees and multiple finishing barns. Dan’s dedication to the field and years of experience have made him an expert in his industry. His leadership and expertise continue to propel him forward in the world of agriculture.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How Sid Rooda got started in the swine industry. * What production looked like starting in the 60s along with the challenges that came with it. * Daniel Rooda’s journey from the family farm in Iowa to the booming North Carolina swine industry. * What it was like to be a new college graduate in the early 90’s swine industry. * Daniel & Sid Rooda’s “golden nuggets”
About the GuestsDr. Ramirez developed or co-developed the first accelerated hydrogen peroxide (AHP®) disinfectant formulations, including the first AHP® reuse medical sterilant, the first AHP® antimicrobial hand wash, and the first AHP® teat dip amongst many others. After leaving Virox®, Dr. Ramirez went on to a 12 year career at Diversey Corp., where he ended up leading the Global Research & Development Division with a $60 Million budget spread over 15 countries. He holds more than 20 issued or pending patents ranging from cleaning & disinfection, to water treatment and chemical process sensors & controls. His first patent was filed in 1999 – the first AHP® formulation. Currently, Dr. Ramirez serves as Lead Science Advisor to Clipper Distributing Co. (St. Joseph, MO) in support of the company’s AHP® farm disinfectant Intervention.
Dr. Ramirez has more than 15 years of experience in disinfectant formulation development as applied to infection prevention and biosecurity in a variety of markets. He has started two companies based on his inventions and has won several business pitch competitions. He has been featured and interviewed several times in the press. He has also served as technology lead for due diligence in many M&A deals, including a $477 million investment by private equity in JohnsonDiversey Inc. and the sale of Diversey Inc. to Sealed Air Corp. for $4.3 Billion.
Dr. Ramirez received his BS in Mechanical Engineering in his native Venezuela in 1991, and received MS and PhD degrees in Chemical Engineering from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 1995 and 1998 respectively. He holds a Management & Leadership certificate from MIT Sloan and completed the Innovation Leadership Program at the Kellogg School of Management, the Technology Management Program at CalTech, as well as the Open Innovation Program at the UC Berkeley Haas School of Business.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Dr. Jose Ramirez’s background and path to the swine industry. * Transferable Knowledge from Human Health Disinfection to Animal Production: We’ll delve into the key learnings from human health disinfection that can be applied in the veterinary or animal production sector. This will provide a deeper understanding of how principles and practices in one field can be beneficially implemented in another. * Critical Areas for Producers to Minimize Outbreaks and Transmission: We’ll identify the crucial areas that producers should focus on to reduce the risk of disease outbreaks and transmission. This will give you a clear direction on where to concentrate your efforts for maximum impact. * Importance of Application Process and Protocol in Disinfection: We’ll discuss why the application process and protocol are as important as the choice of disinfectant itself. Through this, you will understand how a good application process can optimize the effectiveness of a disinfectant. * Perspective on Disinfectant Rotation: We’ll share insights on the concept of rotating disinfectants – whether it’s effective, necessary, and how it can be done properly. This will shed light on a commonly debated topic in the field of disinfection.The Single Most Important Step to Improve Cleaning and Disinfection: Finally, we’ll reveal the one thing that, if done, could significantly improve the quality of cleaning and disinfection on your farm or operation. This advice could potentially be a game-changer for your health management strategies. * Dr. Ramirez’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestsRoss Bernstein is the bestselling author of 40 sports books including The Code and I Love Brett Favre/I Hate Brett Favre. He has appeared on more than 1,000 local and national television and radio programs. His work has been featured on CNN and ESPN and in USA Today and the Wall Street Journal. As a sought-after motivational speaker, he speaks to corporations and groups across the country about the inspirational legacy of the late Herb Brooks, Hall of Fame coach of the fabled 1980 gold-medal-winning U.S. Olympic “Miracle on Ice” hockey team. He lives in Eagan, Minnesota.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?
- Ross’ background as a hockey player/mascot and writer on sports topics.
- Ag upbringing instilled work ethic that translates to occupational success.
- Leadership perspectives shared by renowned sports figures that Ross has interviewed.
- How continued success is influenced by adapting to change.
- Ross’ most important insight or “golden nugget” shared from his sports idol.
About the GuestsMike Telford is a senior executive with more than 35 years of experience in organization management including associations, foundations and for-profit subsidiaries. His credited commitment to the pork industry is evident with Telford Consulting, LLC, where he provides administrative and marketing services for clients with highly technical issues. Clients include the Iowa Farm Animal Care, where he currently serves as executive director, National Pork Producers Council, American Berkshire Association, National Pork Board (2001-2014), National Swine Registry (2006-2011) and U.S. Livestock Genetics Exports (2006-2011).
Danita Rodibaugh is a producer from Rensselaer, Indiana. Their operation raises purebred seed stock and show pigs, in addition to harvesting corn and soybeans. She is the trusted office manager. She is a past president of National Pork Board and a past chairman of US Meat Export Federation.
Dr. David Newman, an accomplished Missouri pig farmer and former President of the National Pork Board, brings a wealth of experience to his role in the pork industry. With an active tenure spanning committees, task forces, and strategic planning, he has played a pivotal role in expanding international markets for U.S. pork, particularly in major markets like Mexico, Japan, and China. Beyond his agricultural background, Dr. Newman’s contributions extend to academia, where he served as a full professor at Arkansas State University, overseeing the meat science program and swine research facility. As the Senior Vice President for Market Growth at the Pork Board, he leads a team of professionals dedicated to driving market demand domestically and internationally, alongside health and nutrition research. Dr. Newman’s impressive expertise and commitment underscore his passion for advancing the pork industry.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Gain an understanding of the Checkoff’s focal points in the late 80s and early 90s. * Uncover noteworthy promotional endeavors that left an impact in the 80s and 90s. * Explore the consumer landscape and emerging opportunities during the 80s and 90s. * Delve into the Checkoff’s key agendas throughout the 2000s. * Discover pivotal research and educational initiatives that marked the 2000s. * Investigate consumer demands and emerging prospects in the 2000s. * Gain insights into David’s pivotal role and priorities during the challenges posed by COVID. * Get a glimpse of David’s upcoming undertakings in driving domestic market growth as Senior Vice President of market growth. * Understand how the National Pork Board, guided by producers’ leadership, has maintained its consumer-centric approach.
About the GuestGriess Farms, firmly rooted in Faith and nestled in the Heartland of America, Nebraska, stands as a testament to family values and unwavering commitment. Our operational philosophy revolves around farrow-to-wean swine reproduction, with a steadfast dedication to fostering robust and fast-growing wean pigs. Central to our success is our hands-on approach and continuous on-site training, cultivating a culture of effective leadership. At the helm of this enterprise, Marty and Les Griess steer the ship, propelling us towards constant progress. In my role, I wholeheartedly support their endeavors, particularly in the realms of technology and day-to-day on-site leadership. Our proudest achievement lies in producing top-tier wean pigs, a contribution that lays the foundation for superior pork products to be enjoyed by generations to come.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Nathan’s Background and Role at Griess Farms * The Evolution of Griess Farms: Triumphs, Challenges, and Progression * Technological Advancements Fueling Production Growth * Their experience utilizing the PigFlow Platform * Nathan Griess’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestDr. Dustin “Dusty” Oedekoven has been the chief veterinarian for National Pork Board since February 2022. In this role, he leads a team of veterinarians and swine production experts in Pork Checkoff-funded work. Notably, the team collaborates with state and federal health officials, the National Pork Producers Council, Swine Health Information Center, universities and other national organizations to identify and execute strategic action and research to prepare and protect the U.S. herd from African swine fever and other costly threats. Dr. Oedekoven most recently served as State Veterinarian and Executive Secretary for the South Dakota Animal Industry Board, where he provided strategic leadership and direction for the state’s animal health agency – a seven-member, governor-appointed board of livestock producers with responsibility for all animal health programs and disease control efforts in the state.
He received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University and Bachelor of Science degree from South Dakota State University. Dr. Oedekoven is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* A glimpse into Dustin’s agricultural origins and evolution. * Essential takeaways from ASF outbreaks abroad. * Pinpointing the triumphs and pitfalls encountered. * The roadmap ahead: necessary next steps. * Dustin’s invaluable insight: his “golden nugget.”
About the GuestUpon graduating with an Animal Science degree in 2014, Janae started working for a family swine farm in Minnesota. In July of 2015, Janae had the opportunity to return to the family farm with the completion of a new 4400 sow farm. Now serving as the HR manager for the entire business, she focuses on all aspects of HR and supporting the swine team for a few days as well. Janae is a mom and wife and is often seen on the farm with her family in tow.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* An insight into Janae’s journey, her present role, and the legacy of Mogler Farms. * What defines a triumphant team: key traits and characteristics. * Unlocking success with 4DX: delving into “The 4 Disciplines of Execution.” * The transformative impact of the book “Traction” and the EOS pathway in facilitating the 4DX implementation. * The indispensable benefits of Level 10 meetings and organizational surveys. * Janae’s most valuable insight: her “golden nugget.”
... Show MoreFeed Biosecurity Measures to Mitigate Possible Viral Exposure | Dr. Matt Ackerman
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Recent news within the industry. * New technologies that will be at the World Pork Expo. * What we are looking forward to.
About the GuestScott stump is honored to serve as the chief executive officer of the national FFA organization and foundation. He is excited to lead FFAs efforts to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.
Prior to this role, stump served as assistant secretary for the office of career, technical, and adult education within the united states department of education. Prior to assuming this role, Scott served as chief operating officer with Vivayic, inc. A learning solutions provider devoted to helping individuals, organizations and corporations succeed.
Before joining Vivayic, Scott served as the assistant provost/state director for career & technical education (CTE) with the Colorado community college system. Over his tenure with the system stump served as state FFA advisor, agriculture program director and interim president of northeastern junior college during the institutions presidential search process. During his seven-year tenure as a state cte director, Scott has served as an officer for advance cte. Through this role, he served on the national SkillsUSA board of directors as the advanceCTE liaison.
Stump received his bachelors degree in agricultural education from Purdue university and a masters of business administration from western governors university. He began his career teaching agricultural education and biology at Manchester High School in North Central Indiana. Before coming to Colorado, he worked for the national FFA organization managing the national officer team and the national FFA convention.
When not in Indianapolis, stump lives on a small ranch in Stoneham, Colorado with his wife Denise and three children: Brady, ross and Emma. As a father, Scott is proud that all three children are products of FFA and career & technical education.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* According to ffa.org, FFA’s vision is to, “grow the next generation of leaders who will change the world.” Learn how the FFA is making that vision a reality. * FFA has just launched a new strategic plan in preparation for their 100th Anniversary as an organization. Learn what they believe the future has in store for America’s future leaders. * Where they see the greatest potential for growth based on the emerging trends in agriculture, including specifically the swine industry. * How technology will shape the future career opportunities in the swine sector and all aspects of agriculture. * The ways that the FFA are cultivating future leaders in agriculture. * Scott Stump’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestDr. Cara Haden received her degree as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2014 from the Iowa State College of Veterinary Medicine. After graduation, she joined Pipestone Vet Clinic as an associate Veterinarian working with independent pig farm clients throughout the Midwest. Today she serves as the Director of Animal Welfare for Pipestone. Cara is also active on social media, showcasing the swine industry and the ways farmers care for their pigs.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* What animal welfare actually means. * How to properly assess animal welfare. * How the 5 domains model is being used on farms today. * Areas that the US swine industry excels in animal welfare. * Dr. Haden’s challenges for pig farmers to improve their animal welfare. * Dr. Cara Haden’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestAn avid supporter of responsible, safe ingredients in medical device products, Dr. Greenhalgh has established a career of inventing, developing and launching medical products that meet the unmet needs of consumers, animals and medical professionals. With a focus on skin and wound care, Dr. Greenhalgh has patented a large breadth of technologies that promote skin health through a novel nanopolymer platform.
The wound care products that have resulted from this technology have been adopted worldwide in the OTC consumer markets, animal health markets and advanced wound care markets. She is committed to providing unique products that can save lives and advance healing through her novel spray on wound dressing products. Dr. Greenhalgh is passionate about supporting the US military with solutions that span every aspect of military wound care; from field use for warfighters that support combat readiness, to products that help military families and veterans through acute and long term care.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How KeriCure was founded and the problem it hoped to solve. * How their novel liquid bandage changed healing. * How the collaboration of SwineSeal with SwineTech started. * The ups and downs of entrepreneurship. * Advice for people with a small or big idea. * Dr. Kerriann Greenhalgh’s “golden nugget”.
About the GuestJoseph Kerns, President of Partners for Production Agriculture, has thirty years’ experience working with producers, suppliers, and mills to support agricultural operations. He leads a team of professionals with the purpose of understanding the financial parameters around agricultural markets so that those that he works with can thrive and prosper.
Bill Even is the Chief Executive Officer for the National Pork Board based in Des Moines, IA where he has responsibility for leading Pork Checkoff-funded research, promotion and education projects on behalf of the nation’s 60,000 pork producers.
Prior to his employment with the National Pork Board, Bill served as the Global Industry Relations Lead and Commercial Unit Lead for DuPont Pioneer from 2010 to 2016. Bill also served as South Dakota Secretary of Agriculture and Deputy Secretary for Tourism and State Economic Development for Governor Mike Rounds. Bill holds a bachelor’s degree in ag business and economics from South Dakota State University and a law degree from Drake University with a certificate in food and ag policy law. Bill and his family own and operate a diversified crop and livestock farm near Humboldt, SD. The farm was homesteaded in 1884 by his great-grandfather and Bill began farming in 1983.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Status of the hog markets. * Near and Long term future outlooks. * Things to keep an eye on. * What the pork board is doing to help.
About the GuestAnne manages Invariant’s agriculture and food practice, bringing 20 years of substantive policy experience in the sector. For their field-to-fork clients, She provides regulatory guidance, crafts policy solutions, and deploys innovative engagement plans for Congress and the Administration.
Anne spent four years at the U.S. Department of Agriculture during the Obama Administration, first as senior adviser and then as deputy chief of staff to Secretary Tom Vilsack, where she led the development and implementation of the regulatory agenda for USDA. In addition, Anne advised the Secretary on a suite of day-to-day policy issues including nutrition, specialty crops, food safety, livestock markets, and animal health. She previously served as senior policy advisor to then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and served in the offices of former Representative Dennis Cardoza (D-CA) and the late Bob Matsui (D-CA), where she worked on a range of issues including agriculture, natural resources, energy, transportation and healthcare. Anne is a proud graduate of the University of California, San Diego and The George Washington University School of Law.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?1. An overview of what Anne does and how she navigates the policy world in Washington DC. 2. The prognosis for the farm bill, the sticking points to get this over the finish line, and what hog farmers should be watching for. 3. How the federal government is approaching the issues around threats to the food supply, from infectious diseases like African Swine Fever, to changing weather patterns, to resource constraints. 4. How the Biden Administration is approaching international trade. 5. What Anne thinks Congress can accomplish this year on addressing the labor shortage in agriculture. 6. Anne MacMillan’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestJohn Wesley Hairr is the Recruiter with Murphy Family Ventures. He leads the recruiting efforts for the company engaging with students, faculty and staff at colleges, universities, and also high schools to attract new hires to the company. Prior to taking his role as Recruiter, John Wesley was a Farm Manager for Murphy Family Ventures. He understands the importance agriculture has in Southeastern North Carolina, and strives to share its impact through his Recruiter efforts. John Wesley is a member of the Pork Leader Institute class of 2022 and also a member of the Board of Trustees at James Sprunt Community College. John Wesley holds a degree in Agricultural Business Management from North Carolina State University.
Phillip Hord is a fifth generation pork producer and is continuing his family’s legacy at Hord Family Farms, which raises hogs and cattle as well as growing the crops to feed them. As a research coordinator, he helps to find innovative ways to care for the animals like improving their diets and much more. His father, Patrick Hord, serves as president of the business, and his grandfather, Duane Hord, is still part of the day-to-day operations. We spoke with Phil about Covid-19, their company’s response, and its impact on the US industry.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How John and Phil got involved in the pork industry. * The pride behind being a pork producer based in Ohio or North Carolina. * A definition and explanation of the Pork Leadership Institute. * An overview of the trips and experiences. * Their biggest takeaways from the whole experience. * Their advice for the 2023 class and others who are considering applying to the 2024 class.
About the GuestAfter studying in the University of Lleida School of Agri-food and Forestry Science and Engineering, Oscar worked as a production manager in different large sow farms for 3 year. 22 years ago, joined Rotecna, where he has had the chance to cooperate with pig production and farm construction companies in more than 80 countries. Rotecna develops and manufactures innovative solutions in hog equipment and farm design to help the world’s best pig production companies to produce healthy animals with a great well-being in an efficient, sustainable and profitable way.”
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Oscar Toledano’s background * An overview of the Spanish market. * How things are done in Spanish pig farms. * The consumers’ expectations around welfare and sustainability. * Oscar Toledano’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestChris Grant is the President of Innovative Heating Technologies (IHT) out of Winnipeg, MB Canada. After a 15 year career managing plastic manufacturing that moved him around the country, he was looking for a change in life and career. In 2013 he took the leap and partnered with Matt Robins by purchasing IHT. By combining their plastics and electrical backgrounds, they were able to create the most energy efficient and reliable heat pad for farrowing. Their technology has helped clients around the world drastically reduce their energy consumption on their farms. IHT is also leading the development of other heating and cooling projects for commercial and agricultural applications which include a partnership with Purdue University on “Sow Cooling” to combat heat stress.
What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Chris Grant’s personal history and background. * How Chris got into the pork industry and came about owning IHT. * Why Chris completely changed the view and brand of the company. * The core products marketed by Innovative Heating. * The new products that are on the way. * Chris Grant’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestMr. John Quackenbush is the Chief Commercial Officer at Minitube USA, Inc based in Verona WI. After a 13-year career managing boar studs for Zoltenko Farms in Kansas, John moved to Wisconsin to work in Reproduction Sales. In November of 2015, John led the startup of Minitube USA, in Delavan WI, a subsidiary of Minitube International. In October of 2018, Minitube USA purchased the assets of MOFA Global and moved operations to Verona WI. Since 2018, John has led the Sales and Service teams for Minitube USA, striving to offer the highest quality customer service, products, and consulting to porcine, bovine, equine, canine, ovine and other species, for use in assisted reproduction technologies.
- What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* John Quackenbush and Minitube USA’s background.
- The process of managing a boar stud.
- The semen delivery process.
- Best practices for semen handling and storage.
- Semen mythbusting
- John Quackenbush’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestBill Luckey — Nebraska
Bill Luckey, a fourth-generation farmer, owns a wean-to-finish operation in Columbus, Nebraska, and is a part-owner of a sow farm. Bill is responsible for the daily care of 740 nursery pigs and 1,400 finisher pigs. In addition, his family operates a 2,000 head custom contract finisher and markets 10,000 pigs annually. He also grows corn, soybeans and cattle on 700 acres. Bill is serving his second term on the National Pork Board and also serves on the board of directors for the Swine Health Information Center. He has been active on numerous NPB committees, is an Operation Main Street speaker, has served on the National Pork Producers Council board of directors (2008-2014), and on the Nebraska Pork Producers Association board of directors (2001-2007). He was president of the NPPA board from 2006-2007.
Jessica Campbell – Ohio
Jessica Campbell is the owner of Carroll Creek Farms, LLC, based in Waynesville, Ohio. The farm markets 300 pigs per year directly to consumers through a community-supported agriculture program, wholesale freezer meats, their on-farm store and the local farmer’s market. Jessica raises cattle, sheep, broilers, turkeys and layers as well. Professionally, Jessica is the vice president of food and agribusiness for Farm Credit Mid-America. In this role, she supports large commercial swine operators.
- What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Information about each guest’s background and operation.
- An overview of the U.S. pork international market development strategy.
- Why it’s important to have producers (specifically, board members) involved in the strategy and in the market.
- The board of directors trip to Panama and Colombia and some of their experiences.
- How this trip can help inform Checkoff investments in the future.
- Key takeaways and action items from this trip.
- Each speaker’s “golden nuggets”
About the GuestFrom vegetable farm manager to global ISO auditor, David then moved into the poultry sector when he purchased a UK broiler farm in 2004 and continues to operate a contract poultry farm management company in the UK. In 2018, David founded OPTIFarm. OPTIfarm is a very unique data driven support service, currently for poultry and swine, assessing real time farm data against animal behavioural knowledge and human considerations to increase productivity and welfare globally 24/7. David has a broad and open mind regarding the opportunities of data and digital solutions in farming and he has a passion for creating tangible value from digital solutions.
- ©Tim Scrivener Photographer 07850 303986 ….Covering Agriculture In The UK…. What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* The current fundraising mechanisms and if they are working for the swine industry.
- How grants, incubators, accelerators and innovation awards help when developing a new startup business idea.
- Whether VC type funding actually can match the longer term decision cycles in agriculture.
- What VCs are actually looking for.
- A better way to develop products based on a needs first approach.
- How startups can truly understand what problems companies are willing to spend money fixing.
About the GuestGary Asay, Producer from Illinois and past president of NPB
Gary Asay owns and manages Asay Farms, a wean-to-finish operation in Illinois that markets 9,500 hogs annually. He also raises corn and soybeans. Gary most recently served on the Illinois Pork Producers Association board of directors and was a director for the National Pork Producers Council. He is an Operation Main Street speaker, as well as a member of the Illinois Soybean Association and the Illinois Corn Growers Association.
Amy Skoczlas Cole, Trust in Food
Over the course of a 25-year career spanning Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits and foundations, Amy has worked to reimagine the systems that deliver clean water, sustainable food and low carbon energy to society. Amy has a proven track record of helping businesses and nonprofits alike increase and sharpen their impact, grow their revenue and deepen their collaboration with stakeholders and employees. She has worked domestically and internationally at every point in the food-fuel-fiber value chain, advancing new paradigms for a healthy, thriving society and planet.
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What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?Sustainable practices in the pork industry and initiatives that are contributing towards a more sustainable future.
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Gary shares his definition of sustainability and Asay Farms practices.
- NPB’s on-farm sustainability reports and their benefits.
- Amy talks about Trust In Food and America’s Conservation Ag Movement.
- The importance of collaboration across industries consumer trust.
About the GuestDr. John Sonderman, PhD, PAS
Director of Technical Services for DNA Genetics, a provider of swine genetics to the commercial swine industry in North America, Spain, and Brazil. His duties include oversight of technical support to commercial customers and multipliers in North America, the North American nucleus herds and boar studs, and collaboration on research. He also provides consulting and research support for Pillen Family Farms, a 70,000-sow commercial producer located in Nebraska and South Dakota and is a past member of the National Pork Board’s Sow Lifetime Productivity Task Force. John’s experience includes three years in extension and over ten years working in the US feed industry in nutrition and reproductive management.
He has B.S. and M.S. degrees from the University of Nebraska Lincoln, and a PhD from Colorado State University in Reproductive Physiology. He currently serves on the External Advisory Board for the Animal Science Department of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He is currently serving as the President of the board for the American Shorthorn Association. He resides with his wife on a small ranch near Columbus, Nebraska, where they raise purebred Beef Shorthorn cattle.
- What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Nurse sow utilization is becoming an important management consideration in the swine industry.
- Experts are evaluating current nurse sow strategies being used in the industry.
- DNA/Pillen Family Farms looked into nurse sow strategies to improve their production processes.
- Research and trials were conducted to answer the nurse sow question and revealed significant takeaways.
- John Sonderman’s “Golden Nugget”
About the GuestsDr. Clayton Johnson is a veterinarian at Carthage Veterinary Service, Ltd. located in Carthage, Illinois. He is one of eleven veterinarians dedicated to the swine veterinary practice. Carthage Veterinary Service, Ltd. provides health, management, and production consulting to swine farms of all sizes in all regions of the United States and many locations abroad. Dr. Johnson attended the University of Illinois, College of Veterinary Medicine, receiving a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine, continuing on to complete the Executive Veterinary Program. In 2020, Dr. Johnson was honored with the Leman Science in Practice Award.
- What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Why sow mortality is such a common topic of discussion on farms, at industry meetings and in industry media publications.
- The most common causes of sow mortality.
- What producers and their associated support teams do to try to intervene to prevent mortalities.
- The production impact of sow mortality.
- Dr. Clayton Johnson’s projections for how sow mortality might change in the coming months and years.
- Dr. Clay Johnson’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestsJohn started learning the ropes about pigs at the age of 11. He qualified as a veterinarian in 1982. After 5 years in general practice he returned to university to complete a Leverhulme residency in pigs and the PhD in urinary tract problems of pigs at Liverpool specialising in microbiology and pathology. He has a Diploma in Pig Medicine and is a Diplomate of the European College of Pig Health Management. He is recognised by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons as a pig specialist. He has taught production medicine at several universities: UK; Liverpool and Royal Veterinary College, London, US; North Carolina and Iowa State and at Murdoch and Townsville Universities Australia. John runs a consultancy practice with clients in North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa. He currently teaches at James Cook University in Townsville, Australia. John specialises in maintaining the health of pigs through promoting excellence in stockmanship and production practices.
- What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* What it was like growing up in the UK swine industry.
- The importance of modern vets having slat level experience.
- The reality of ASF in Africa and Asia.
- Strategies that are being implemented to prevent ASF.
- The current state of China’s sow herd.
- The future of pig hotels in China and the world.
- Dr. John Carr’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestsBob Ruth is the vice president of the National Pork Board of directors. He is the past president for Country View Family Farms, a farrow-to-finish farm with 110,000 sows. Now retired, Bob served as the senior vice president for Clemens Food Group, where he worked for 20 years. He has also served on the Pennsylvania Pork Producers Board of Directors and is an active member of PennAg and Pennsylvania Farm Bureau.
Heather Hill is the president of the National Pork Board of directors, and formerly served as vice president and treasurer. She is a co-owner of Hill Farms in Greenfield, Indiana, a 600-sow farrow-to-finish operation. Hill Farms also grows corn, soybeans and wheat. Hill is also former president of the Indiana Pork Board and has been actively involved since 2009. She serves on the National FFA Career Development Sales Committee and is a leader for the local 4-H chapter. Heather is an Operation Main Street speaker.
- What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* All you need to know about the myth busting strategy and how it went.
- How NPB used research to develop a strategy.
- What it was like to be behind the scenes both in planning and execution.
- Who NPB partnered with to extend the message.
- Pork Checkoff-funded initiatives addressing pork consumption barriers.
- Bob Ruth and Heather Hill’s “golden nuggets”
About the GuestLifelong pig and grain farmer, Dave Klocke is the founder and President of PigEasy, LLC, a swine equipment company that provides innovative solutions to improve pigs’ well-being and boost producers’ profit potential. In 2013, Dave and his wife, Karen, founded PigEasy, LLC after Dave invented products to help other pork producers streamline production and successfully feed their animals. He currently holds multiple patents and IPs for animal feeding, pig handling, and ventilation equipment. Dave continues to develop, test, and use all his innovations in his 2700 head farrow to wean operation outside of Templeton, Iowa. PigEasy products improve efficiency for pork producers throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and across the globe.
- What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Dave Klocke is the recipient of the Iowa Farm Bureau’s Distinguished Service Award.
- Dave’s early upbringing in agriculture and challenges faced along the way.
- The initial idea and start of PigEasy and their first successful product, AI Saddle.
- The invention of the Meal Meter to help revolutionize sow feeding.
- PigEasy’s vision to improve welfare, sustainability and productivity.
- Dave Klocke’s “golden nugget”.
About the GuestDean Meyer is no stranger to the livestock industry, for more than 30 years, he along with his family have been farming near Rock Rapids, Iowa. He has served as chair of the Lyon County Pork Producers, president of the Farmers Elevator Co-Op, the Lyon County Extension Council, chair of the Iowa Corn Animal Ag and Environment Committee and District 1 Director of the Iowa Corn Growers Association. Being from one of the densest livestock regions of the state, he is passionate about supporting the crops he grows and the livestock he raises. He currently serves as chair of the U.S. Meat Export Federation where he puts this passion to work as he advocates for the expansion of market demand for U.S. red meat exports. Dean and his wife Linda have five children including three sons, Alvie, Jacob and Blake, who work on the family farm helping raise corn, soybeans, cattle and swine.
- What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Corn and livestock production are inexorably intertwined in our modern agricultural system.
- Much of the corn produced in the U.S. goes to feed livestock, which underscores the need for sustainability within the industry.
- We must continue to focus on the balance of sustainability and profitability in order to keep growing.
- The U.S. Meat Export Federation advocates to ensure the farming industry remains competitive globally by focusing on sustainability initiatives.
- It is becoming more and more evident that marketing the whole hog is essential to creating a sustainable industry on a global basis to reap economic rewards for all parties.
- Keeping a balance between ecology, business, and consumer choice will remain essential in the ongoing process of creating a healthier food system.
- Dean Meyer’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestKyle has a passion for teaching. He discovered this passion while working for Kaplan Test Prep as he finished his Political Science degree at Texas A&M University. He has carried this passion throughout his legal career, teaching clients as he helps them to find and understand legal pathways out of labor bottlenecks. His innovation in solving perpetual labor shortages for businesses came shortly after graduating from Vanderbilt Law School. He and his wife, Natalie, began working on various types of immigration visas for their family construction business in Iowa. It was from their perspective as employers that they were able to see the vision for what could be accomplished through foreign recruitment and legal immigration. Kyle and Natalie have built a thriving practice from solid, creative, forward-thinking solutions that provide much-needed relief for their many clients throughout the United States. With one baby boy, three young daughters, and counting, Kyle enjoys spending time with his family on their property in the country, riding four-wheelers, hunting, and raising hogs.
- What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* The current labor situation in agriculture.
- How the competition for employees has changed.
- How employers can attract people and set themselves apart.
- What is wrong with the immigration system going into 2023.
- Politics and proposed bills that producers should be aware of.
- Kyle Farmer’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestDave has been a veterinarian for more than 25 years and a computer programmer for more than 30. After a long period as a mixed animal vet he is now an Associate Professor at the University of Melbourne with a PhD in Animal Welfare of cattle, where he undertakes research in dairy cattle medicine, reproduction and animal welfare. He is also editor-in-chief of the Australian Veterinary Journal and a director of the Australian Veterinary Association.
- What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* Defining animal welfare and animal ethics.
- The 5 freedoms and 5 domains models of animal welfare.
- What it means to live a good life and how that is defined.
- What it means to have a humane death and how that is defined.
- How we can best communicate with others about animal welfare.
- What we can be proud about regarding animal welfare.
- Dr. David Beggs “golden nugget”.
About the GuestDr. Lowe is 1994 graduate of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine and has been working with swine production companies across the United States since that time. Dr. Lowe completed the college’s Executive Veterinary Program in Swine Health Management in 2000 and returned to campus as a student in 2002 while continuing to practice full time. In 2005 he received a master of science degree in infectious disease management. He has maintained an active research program since completing his master’s, focusing on the management of viral respiratory disease in swine production systems. In 2012 he became board certified in food animal practice by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners.
From 1997 to 2003 Dr. Lowe was a co-owner of Professional Swine Management, LLC and Carthage Veterinary Service, Ltd. in Carthage, Ill. In 2003 Dr. Lowe joined The Maschhoffs Inc. in Carlyle, Ill., as its director of health and production services. The Maschhoffs Inc. is one of the ten largest pork producers in North America, and Dr. Lowe led its breed-to-wean business and the health services group while the company expanded from 25,000 to 110,000 sows. Dr. Lowe returned to private practice in 2007 while continuing to work with The Maschhoffs, LLC. In 2009 Dr. Lowe accepted a part-time appointment to the faculty of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, where he teaches production medicine. In 2011 he founded Lowe Consulting Ltd. to focus on assisting livestock producers with strategic decision making and process improvement. He has served on the American Association of Swine Veterinarians Board of Directors, was the recipient of the 2007 Allen D. Leman Science in Practice Award, and presented the 2010 Howard Dunne Memorial Lecture.
- What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* The Apiam Animal Health conference in Australia.
- Freedom farrowing and EuroTier in Germany.
- Hog hotels and corn production in China.
- Argentina and its government incentivized growth in soy.
- The future of integration in agriculture
- Dr. Jim Lowe’s “golden nugget”
About the GuestDr. Amanda Reever was raised on a cattle, hog, and grain operation in Algona, IA, where she developed her interest in animal production and medicine. She received her DVM from Iowa State University in 2022, alongside a Master’s degree in Veterinary Preventive Medicine. Dr. Reever began working for Suidae right out of veterinary school, and she now resides with her husband in Manson, Iowa.
Dr. Brandi Burton is originally from Mt. Prospect, IL, a suburb of Chicago and attended the University of Illinois where she received a BS in Animal Sciences 2015 and her DVM in 2019. Shortly after graduation, she moved to Iowa to start her career with Suidae. Dr. Burton splits her time between veterinary services and field research. She currently resides with her family in Humboldt, IA.
- What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?* How the industry needs to discuss PRRS status and health between vets, producers, caretakers, allied partners, etc.
- The difference of RFLP vs lineage vs phylogenetic trees and dendrograms.
- The technologies in use to better compare PRRS sequences.
- What the future of PRRS strains and discussions look like.
- Dr. Reever & Dr. Burton’s “golden nuggets”
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Elizabeth Rumley is a senior staff attorney at the National Agricultural Law Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas. At the Center, her primary research and scholarship focus is on legal issues in animal agriculture, and she frequently lectures on those issues and others to audiences nationwide. She has co-taught a course covering “Animals and Agricultural Production, Law and Policy” at the University of Nebraska College of Law and the University of Oklahoma College of Law, and has developed and teaches a graduate/undergraduate course discussing legal issues in animal agriculture at the University of Arkansas. Additionally, she teaches Environmental Law at the University of Arkansas. She is licensed to practice law in Michigan, Ohio, and Oklahoma after earning her B.A. from Michigan State University, her J.D. cum laude from the University of Toledo College of Law, and her LL.M. in Agricultural Law from the University of Arkansas School of Law.
Elizabeth Rumley is a senior staff attorney at the National Agricultural Law Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas. At the Center, her primary research and scholarship focus is on legal issues in animal agriculture, and she frequently lectures on those issues and others to audiences nationwide. She has co-taught a course covering “Animals and Agricultural Production, Law and Policy” at the University of Nebraska College of Law and the University of Oklahoma College of Law, and has developed and teaches a graduate/undergraduate course discussing legal issues in animal agriculture at the University of Arkansas. Additionally, she teaches Environmental Law at the University of Arkansas. She is licensed to practice law in Michigan, Ohio, and Oklahoma after earning her B.A. from Michigan State University, her J.D. cum laude from the University of Toledo College of Law, and her LL.M. in Agricultural Law from the University of Arkansas School of Law.
Emily Erickson grew up on a small, diversified livestock and crop farm near Dundee, MN. Her parents bought their farm in the early '80's, right as the farm crisis hit. Her dad raised pigs outdoors, a farrow to finish operation of about 100 sows at the time, and also farmed corn, soybeans and usually oats, for bedding. Emily graduated from South Dakota State University with a B.S. in Animal Science. She was fortunate to fall into an animal welfare role for a production system right at the start of the industry reacting to activists and welfare videos. Emily spent 13 years internally auditing and monitoring the welfare of a 53,000 sow system. She has sat on the committees for National Pork Board and Minnesota Pork and is currently still engaged on the Common Swine Industry Audit Task Force, which she has been a part of since the CSIA's inception. Emily is currently the Head of Human Resources for Wakefield Pork and lives in Jackson, MN with her two kiddos, August and Hazel, who keep her on her toes! They enjoy spending time outdoors, going to her parent's home farm to ride/drive Grampa's Kubota and spending time with family.
Emily Erickson grew up on a small, diversified livestock and crop farm near Dundee, MN. Her parents bought their farm in the early '80's, right as the farm crisis hit. Her dad raised pigs outdoors, a farrow to finish operation of about 100 sows at the time, and also farmed corn, soybeans and usually oats, for bedding. Emily graduated from South Dakota State University with a B.S. in Animal Science. She was fortunate to fall into an animal welfare role for a production system right at the start of the industry reacting to activists and welfare videos. Emily spent 13 years internally auditing and monitoring the welfare of a 53,000 sow system. She has sat on the committees for National Pork Board and Minnesota Pork and is currently still engaged on the Common Swine Industry Audit Task Force, which she has been a part of since the CSIA's inception. Emily is currently the Head of Human Resources for Wakefield Pork and lives in Jackson, MN with her two kiddos, August and Hazel, who keep her on her toes! They enjoy spending time outdoors, going to her parent's home farm to ride/drive Grampa's Kubota and spending time with family.
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Shonda Sammons is a partner and Program Leader with the sister organization of 21st Century, 21st Century Agriculture Leadership. With over 30+ years of experience, she works with employers and employees to provide coaching, guidance, and leadership development. In addition to her highly engaging facilitation style, Shonda converts individuals into enterprising champions and assists companies in identifying in-house talent and matching employee skill sets to job responsibilities. Discussion is based off of the work of Dennis C. Kinlaw’s 4 Pillars
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Following the completion of his Doctoral Degree in Meat Science and Muscle Biology from the University of Missouri-Columbia, Dr. Chad A. Stahl founded Food Animal Consultation and Testing Services (F.A.C.T.S.). In doing so, Chad hoped to serve as a third-party scientific liaison for livestock producers, meat processors, restaurateurs, and consumers. To date, Dr. Stahl has had the privilege of providing business solutions for nearly 50 companies and universities located throughout North and South America, Europe, and Asia.
Dr. Jim Pillen is a pig farmer, veterinarian, and the founder and chairman of Pillen Family Farms and DNA Genetics, a multi-generational family business that employs over 1,100 team members. Raised on a farm in Platte County, Pillen has spent his entire life in Nebraska production agriculture, working alongside his dad and brothers from an early age. After a successful collegiate football career as a defensive back for the University of Nebraska Cornhuskers, Pillen earned his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Kansas State University and returned home to Nebraska to build a veterinary practice.
Dr. Jason Ross is the Lloyd L. Anderson Endowed Professor in Physiology in the department of Animal Science at Iowa State University. In October, 2015, Jason became the Director of the Iowa Pork Industry Center with responsibilities in research, administration, and extension. Jason’s research program focuses on using both basic and applied research approaches to help enable livestock producers and associated industries to improve swine production efficiency.
Dr. Mark Lyons represents the second generation of the global business his father, Dr. Pearse Lyons founded in 1980. With experience working in all regions and nearly all departments — from palletizing bags in production to researching in the lab — he has a deep and uniquely personal knowledge of the company.
Glenn Stolt serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of Christensen Farms. Glenn assumed the CEO role in November of 2012 upon the unexpected passing of Bob Christensen, founder and CEO of the company. Glenn is responsible for all strategic, operational, and financial aspects of the company. In addition, Glenn currently serves as Chairman of the Board for Triumph Foods, and sits on the Board of Directors for Seaboard Triumph Foods and Daily's Premium Meats; all of which are primary and further pork processing companies partially owned by Christensen Farms. In addition, Glenn serves on several industry and non-industry association boards and advisory committees.
Dr. Kara Stewart received her bachelor’s degree from Purdue in 2001 and her Master’s and Ph.D. from NC State with Dr. Billy Flowers in 2004 and 2008, respectively. Kara taught in the Animal Science department at NC State for 2 years before returning to Indiana to work for Cook Inc., a human medical device company. In July of 2013, Kara happily accepted a faculty position in reproductive physiology in the Animal Science department at Purdue. She carries a majority extension appointment working across several species, predominantly swine, and teaches a reproductive management and a reproductive physiology course for undergraduates. Her recent research has focused on colostrum management and mitigation strategies for heat stress in boars and sows. Additionally, she is investigating biomarkers of fertility in seminal plasma from boars and vaginal samples from weaned gilts
Matthew Wilkin is a pork producer and the owner of White Syke farm, a 2,000 sow family farm in Yorkshire UK. He is also the inventor and co-founder of FARROPEN, which is a company that manufactures and distributes a unique 360 degree farrowing pens. On White Syke Farm all of the sows are loose housed and farrowed in these 360 degree free farrowing pens designed and built in-house.
Paul Willis is a 5th generation family farmer and founder of the Niman Ranch Pork Company. He has owned and operated the Willis Free Range Pig Farm in Iowa since 1975. Today he works hard to increase opportunities for traditional, sustainable and humane family farmers while representing the Niman Ranch brand.
Greg graduated from the University of Iowa in 2001, with a Bachelor of Arts in economics. Greg spent the next 7 years working in his family business, a sales and marketing agency in the business products, education and janitorial markets. After exiting that business, he then moved to Atlanta where he served as the Director of Sales- Americas for a CPG company in business products, arts and education. Greg has spent the last year and a half running the global eCom business for Masterbuilt/ Kamado Joe; a leader in the outdoor grilling space. Greg has been married to his wife for 16 years and they have two children together; ages 12 and 6.
Ron Ketchem graduated from the University of Missouri in 1973 with a BS in Animal Science and master studies in Reproductive Physiology and Animal Breeding. He worked 12 years for a genetic company in production, sales, and marketing and developed their AI program. He then spent 15 years in Indiana with a major feed company as a Swine Consultant providing technical support and training. Ron later purchased Swine Management Services, LLC in August 2002 with Mark Rix. SMS was sold on September 30, 2019 to MetaFarms, a sow record-keeping company in Minnesota. Today, Ron consults with over 400,000 sows in the US, Canada, and Australia. Ron has been married to his wife Pam for 36 years and has 3 grown sons.
Robert Drew has well over 3 decades of experience that he brings with him to MAXIMUM AG in both Outdoor and Indoor sow production on a large scale. Along with establishing on-farm Quality Management Programs and Independent Consulting roles, Drew’s knowledge of group housing is a great addition for MAXIMUM AG and its customers. His first exposure to ESF technology was more than 30 years ago in the UK. More recently he has worked with many of the other group feeding systems in the US as the industry started to adapt to the European way of thinking.
TJ Klith is a project designer and member of the solar business development team for Trusted Energy out of Storm Lake, Iowa. He is certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) as a Photovoltaic (PV) Installation Professional. He has been involved in the design and/or installation of over a hundred solar energy systems for swine production facilities. TJ believes that solar energy and energy storage systems will play a key role in the future of the commercial swine industry, as the means to increase profitability by significantly reducing the electrical costs that are associated and necessary with swine production operations. In addition to the financial benefits that customers experience, he is also excited to part of an industry that is helping to make great strides toward sustainability and carbon reduction around the world.
Vivian Howard is an award-winning cookbook author, TV personality, chef, and restaurateur. Her first cookbook, Deep Run Roots: Stories & Recipes from My Corner of the South (2016), is a New York Times bestseller and was named “Cookbook of the Year” by the International Association of Culinary Professionals. She created and stars in public television shows Somewhere South and A Chef’s Life, for which she has won Peabody, Emmy and James Beard awards. Vivian runs the restaurants Chef & the Farmer in Kinston, NC; Benny’s Big Time in Wilmington, NC; Handy & Hot and Lenoir (opening December 2020) in Charleston, SC. In October 2020, Vivian released her second cookbook, This Will Make It Taste Good: A New Path to Simple Cooking.
Jay has over 35 years of programming experience across a variety of domains including embedded systems, network appliances, industrial automation, Unix-based servers, as well as stand-alone applications. He also has extensive experience in both product design and system-level design and architecture for both new and legacy systems. He’s had key roles in nine startups resulting in four acquisitions of $100M+ and one IPO, and has been directly involved in numerous other startups as well as established companies in a variety of industries. Currently, he serves on the advisory boards of several companies, works with investment funds to companies under consideration for addition to their portfolios, and provides consulting for a select clientele.
Todd Heisterkamp was raised in a multi-generational farm family in western Iowa. Being a young man witnessing the struggles of his family during the fuel crisis of the late 1970s and the farm crisis of the early 1980s, Todd decided to choose an education and career path outside of agriculture. After having a successful 20-year career in business development and in manufacturing management in other industries, Todd joined the equipment-side of the pork industry 15 years ago… rediscovering his ag roots.
He now serves as Executive Director of Crystal Spring Hog Equipment and is responsible for overseeing the worldwide business development and marketing of Crystal Spring products. Todd is proud to work with the Crystal Spring Business Development team and is especially happy to work every day with his wife, Natalia Rimi Heisterkamp, who serves as Crystal Spring’s Director of Global Strategy.
Mike Ellis was born and brought up in a coal mining village in the north of England. He obtained B.S. (in Agriculture) and Ph.D. (in Applied Swine Genetics) degrees from the Department of Agriculture at the University Newcastle-Upon-Tyne where from 1978 he held the position of Lecturer in Pig Production. He moved to the University of Illinois in 1992 where his current position is Professor of Swine Production Management. Dr. Ellis’ research interests span a range of areas related to applied swine production with a particular focus on managing the growth of pigs in wean-to-finish facilities, animal handling and transportation, pre-weaning mortality, and pork quality. He has advised over 60 students for MS and/or Ph.D. degrees and has published over 180 papers in peer-reviewed scientific journals, 300 abstracts, and in excess of 300 occasional publications and reports, and has given presentations at over 250 scientific and producer meetings worldwide.
Jim Long is a graduate of the University of Western Ontario in London, Ontario, Canada.
He is responsible for the direction of Genesus, drives change and sets the strategy and vision for the company, overseeing day to day business of running and managing the company.
He writes a weekly commentary on the Swine Industry that is picked up not only in English, and Chinese as well as 15 additional languages across 27 countries around the world, making Jim Long the most recognized name globally in the pork industry. So far, Jim has visited 52 swine producing countries. Jim is married to Sarah and has four children.
Kevin brings nearly 20 years of experience in financing, managing, growing, and investing in early-stage companies.
Kevin brought his operational expertise in managing and growing other organizations to the Kansas Bioscience Authority (KBA) in 2013 as its Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer where he oversaw all financial, human resource, information technology, and legal aspects of the organization. Kevin’s major focus was on the daily management of the organization’s assets which included real estate, limited partner positions in venture funds, and direct equity positions in early-stage animal health, agriculture, and human health companies. His extensive experience in finance and growing early-stage companies also helped prepare the KBA’s portfolio investment companies for future acquisition.
Jon Hoek grew up in the south suburbs of Chicago, IL, and was inspired to Agriculture by his Grandpa. He graduated with a degree in Agricultural Production Management in 1986. From 1987 to 1997 he owned and operated a 550-sow farrow to finish swine operation. Jon finished a 20-year career with Belstra Milling in 2017 to start a technology company focusing on precision livestock farming and human capital. Jon has presented both internationally and domestically on the topic of pig production, systems management, and barn culture. Jon and his wife Laureen have four children and two grandchildren and reside in Wheatfield, IN.
Dave DeVries is a third-generation farmer from Drayton, Ontario, Canada. With his wife Lauren, they operate Zeldenrust Farms Ltd., a farrow to finish hog farm, producing hogs for the Raised Without Antibiotics market. Dave and Lauren have been blessed with four boys ages 6 years, 4 years, and 8-month-old twins. It has been a joy to watch the boys take a keen interest in agriculture from a young age.
Dave is actively involved within his local Reformed Church, as well as his community’s food bank and serves as a Delegate for his County’s Pork Producers Association.
Drew Mogler is the public policy director of the Iowa Pork Producers Association, a position he has held since 2018. He previously served as IPPA’s producer outreach director and producer education director.
As the public policy director, Drew administers state legislative programs and environmental regulatory activity, as well as supporting national legislative efforts. He works with producer committees and the IPPA board of directors to formulate policy and plan actions to put an adopted policy in place.
What can you learn from this episode of Popular Pig? • How Rebecca Barton got involved with the pork industry • Her role in the business • How her operations have changed • What it was like to go from outdoor gestation to full indoor production • The greatest benefits that have come from this transition • The greatest attributes of a good leader and a great team • Rebecca Barton's 'Golden Nugget"
What can you learn from this episode of Popular Pig?
Dr. Allan Schinkel's background and how he got involved with the swine industry
Dr. Schinkel's research around heat stress and sow cooling
What inspired his research of heat stress
The challenges faced along the way
The results of his research
It's potential impact on the swine industry
Dr. Schinkel's Gold Nugget
Tork Whisler is a 5th generation farmer from Washington, IA. He and his wife Tricia have two adult sons, Clay and Sawyer. In addition to their contract finishing and grain operation, Tork spent 15 years in the swine construction business with Precision Structures Inc. both as a service technician and then a salesman. He left PSI in 2015 to assume a management roll with Eichelberger Farms. Just recently Tork has returned to the farm full time with his son Sawyer.
Sawyer Whisler is a 20-year-old 6th generation Farmer from Southeast Iowa. Who farms aside his dad Tork. Together they take care of the family’s acres and contract finish roughly 15,000 pigs a year for Eichelberger Farms. Tork and Sawyer do all of this while building an online brand around their family farm. Sawyer is the brains behind the content creation. With hopes to create his own online business one day.
Victor Munsen has a degree in Biology from Johns Hopkins University, and an MBA in Operations and Technology Management from The University of Wisconsin, Madison. He has been a consultant to technology start-ups and established pharmaceutical companies. His expertise is in the validation of computer and technology systems for pharmaceutical companies trying to achieve FDA approval. In 2019 Victor joined EPI Air as the Chief Operations Officer with the intent of growing the company’s product line, customer base, and vision. In his spare time, Victor is an avid SCUBA diver, caver, and aspiring cave diver.
Tomer Yogev is an executive coach to leading entrepreneurs and innovators, a professor of Entrepreneurship, a sought-after board member & advisor, retired serial entrepreneur, and a self-described "business bohemian." He is best known as one of the premier coaches in the country for entrepreneurs at The Big Joy Theory where he co-created the leading model for leadership development through joy. In all that he does, Tomer brings vast experience and a unique "Joy Forward" approach to help ensure real success - yes, in business, but, more importantly, in life and in far deeper and more important ways.
Clint Schwab serves as President of Acuity, with overall fiscal and operational accountability for the business. Clint received his bachelor’s degree in animal science from Colorado State University before completing his master’s and Ph.D. degrees in animal breeding and genetics from Iowa State University, as well as an MBA from the Olin School of Business at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. Clint joined The Maschhoffs in 2012 following his time as CEO of the National Swine Registry.
Whispering Wind Farms was the first breeder in Alberta with the sole concentration on pasture pork genetics. In 2015, Kelly Worthington and Jon Lendvoy of Whispering Wind Farms began raising the Kunekune breed which could graze and finish as efficient on forage as their 40 cow-calf pairs and grass-fed beef operation. In 2018, they grew their herd large enough to offer fresh Kunekune Pasture Pork and become the first Kunekune Pork Supplier in Alberta. Their current operation includes 20 breeding sows and a pasture pork farrowing to finish operation of over 175 head with a strong emphasis on natural hands-off maternal instincts, herd health, and breed standard. Kelly Worthington serves on the Board of Directors for the American Kunekune Pig Registry, the original registry of the Kunekune breed.
Wendell Holmes Murphy was born September 23, 1938, to Holmes & Lois King Murphy of Rose Hill, North Carolina, and is the brother of Harry Daniel (Pete) Murphy and the late Joyce Murphy Minchew. Wendell was raised in Duplin County on a farm in the Registers Crossroads area. He graduated from Rose Hill High School in 1957, received his Bachelor of Science degree in agricultural education from North Carolina State University in 1960 and taught vocational agriculture for five years in Green and Duplin counties. Wendell is married to Linda Godwin Murphy from Spivey’s Corner in Sampson County. They have four children; Wendell Holmes (Dell) Murphy, Jr, Wendy Murphy Crumpler, Cindy Hairr Bass, and Wesley Hairr. They have seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Chase grew up on a farm near Clarion, IA. He graduated from Clarion-Goldfield High School in 2004 and completed his undergraduate studies at Drake University in 2008 with dual degrees in Biochemistry and Environmental Science. While in the initial years of veterinary school, Chase was employed at the Iowa State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory and later served as a summer intern at the Fairmont Veterinary Clinic in 2010. Shortly after graduating from the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2012, Chase spent a year working as a Staff Veterinarian with Iowa Select Farms.
Named among the 50 people who have made the greatest impact in the U.S. swine industry in the last 50 years, Mike Tokach, professor of animal sciences and industry, is a swine nutrition researcher and extension specialist at Kansas State University. Tokach joined K-State in 1991. In 2013, he earned the title of university distinguished professor. Tokach is the author of more than 350 articles in scientific journals, nine book chapters, and more than 1,000 extension and non-refereed articles. Tokach has received more than $20 million in research grants and gifts. He also has been awarded seven patents for his research and has given more than 300 invited lectures at national and international conferences.
Bob and Kristy Walker have been in partnership for over 28 years taking on adventures ranging from parenting, youth group leaders, and authoring textbooks to taking on the challenge of a diversified farm and winery with the vision: A boundless venue for an agricultural and culinary delight. Their Walker Homestead is an 85-acre farm, field to fork farmer’s table, with gardens, orchards, vineyards, winery, and pasture playground, producing a variety of foods and wines, raising animals and honey, and growing herbs and flowers using techniques that protect the environment and help foster the development of healthy living.
P.J. Corns is a pork producer and production advisor from Iowa who currently lives near Barcelona, Spain. He is the owner of Global Swine Solutions with clients throughout Europe, Asia, and Russia. Besides the family’s Century Farm near What Cheer, Iowa that includes row crops and wean to finish operations, P.J. consults large, vertically integrated swine production systems on production optimization, Biosecurity, standard operating procedure development and implementation along with business and development projects with the largest genetic companies in the world.
Dr. Schneider received a DVM from Iowa State College of Veterinary Medicine in 2012. He's been employed by Innovative Agriculture Solutions since graduation where he works with a varied group of pork producers. A large percentage of pigs Dr. Schneider sees are raised for a niche market.
Dr. Gordon Spronk is a native of the Pipestone, Minnesota agricultural community. Upon completion of his education with a DVM degree at the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Minnesota in 1981, he returned to Pipestone to practice at Pipestone Veterinary Services. Dr. Spronk is a co-founder of the "Pipestone System" of pig production.
Phillip Hord is a fifth-generation pork producer and is continuing his family's legacy at Hord Family Farms, which raises hogs and cattle as well as growing the crops to feed them. As a research coordinator, he helps to find innovative ways to care for the animals like improving their diets and much more. His father, Patrick Hord, serves as president of the business, and his grandfather, Duane Hord, is still part of the day-to-day operations. We spoke with Phil about Covid-19, their company's response, and its impact on the US industry.
Wesley Lack is the Chief Operations Officer at Maximum Ag Technologies, a company founded with Larry & Dustin Reed in 2013, which serves as the US distributor of Maximus Control Systems. Prior to Maximum Ag, Wes spent 13 years working on the production side of the swine industry.
Tami M. Brown-Brandl, Ph.D., is an agricultural engineer at the USDA Agricultural Research Service's Meat Animal Research Center. Dr. Brown-Brandl works in the area of animal environment and animal stress/well-being, from an engineering perspective, and has published 118 peer-reviewed journal articles.
Shane McAuliffe is from Kerry, Ireland where his family has 2,000 sows across 4 modern sites including Ireland’s first freedom farrowing farm. He holds a Masters in Pig Health from the Royal Veterinary College in London, where he studied associations between respiratory disease status, production performance, biosecurity and antibiotic use on Irish pig farms. Dr. McAuliffe also serves as Secretary of the Irish Pig Health, and is the Chairman of Pig Health and Welfare on the Irish Farmers Association National Pig and Pigmeat Committee. In 2019, he was chosen as an EU Pig Ambassador for his work in community management. An advocate of pig welfare, Shane also works part time as the International Swine Business Manager for EASYFIX Ireland where he develops the worldwide market for the EASYFIX range of environmental enrichment for pigs.
Kevin leads MSAB Capital, a corporate venture fund of Johnsonville Holdings, investing in early stage companies in life sciences and emerging technologies. Prior to leading MSAB Capital, Kevin spent 30 years at Johnsonville Sausage in various technical and business functions including Research & Development, Food Safety & Quality, Procurement, Crisis Management and Business Development. He is active in numerous professional organizations such as the North American Meat Institute (NAMI), BioForward and BIO; in addition to leading industry committees for UW-Madison and Iowa State University. He received the AMSA Meat Processing Award in 2010 and is a UW-Platteville Distinguished Alumni Member.
Dr. Mark Knauer was born and raised on a pure-line pig and cattle operation in southern Wisconsin. He received his B.S. in agriculture education and M.S. in animal breeding at Iowa State University. Following his time at ISU, Mark completed his PhD in animal breeding and genetics at North Carolina State University. After graduating, Mark completed a short Postdoc at the Institute for Pig Genetics in the Netherlands before accepting a position with the National Pork Board as the Director of Animal Science. Dr. Knauer is currently a swine extension specialist at North Carolina State University where he focuses on genetics and production management.
For more information, please visit: https://www.nationalhogfarmer.com/animal-health/sow-body-condition-caliper-paradigm-change-sow-management
Dr. Tyler Holck has extensive leadership and project management experience dedicated to food animal production, primarily the pork industry, with both large international and small entrepreneurial corporations. Some of which include Boehringer Ingelheim, Novartis Animal Health, NOBL Laboratories, and Iowa State University.