ChopTalk

In this episode, we’re diving into the world of pig farming and animal health. First up, we’ve got Dr. Meredith Petersen, a veterinarian with the Swine Health Education Center at Iowa State University, for a look into what it takes to keep Iowa pigs healthy. Then, we’ve got Zoey Dinkla, producer education director at Iowa Pork, and she’s here to talk about the biosecurity practices Iowa pig farmers swear by. Finally, we’ve got Sarah Stoutner, a farmer and mom extraordinaire. She’s juggling five young kids and a bustling pig farm, all while keeping up with the latest technology to ensure her pigs are comfortable and healthy.

Ever wonder what it really means to raise happy, healthy pigs while also taking care of our planet for the long haul? Join us for a chat on Episode 22 with Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, Dr. Daniel Andersen from Iowa State University and pig farmer Matt Gent. We'll dive into how they're making sure our soil and water stay in top shape, not just for today, but for the generations to come.

Welcome to Episode 21, where we get an inside look at the “Pork in the Pantry” program created by Iowa pig farmers to combat food insecurity in their communities. The discussion includes Joyce Hoppes with Iowa Pork, Melanie Fierke from the Lord’s Cupboard Food Pantry in Fort Dodge, along with Gregg Hora, a local pig farmer. They discuss the program’s impact on communities facing food insecurity and the importance of providing high quality protein, especially pork, to those in need.

Welcome to Episode 20, where we dig into how Iowa pig farmers are implementing and measuring more sustainable farming practices to enhance soil health and water quality, and lower energy use. Ashley McDonald with the National Pork Board and Ben Nuelle with Iowa Pork explain how the Pork Cares Farm Impact Report program helps farmers quantify their environmental practices to make a positive impact on soil, water and air quality. Pig farmer Troy Peterson shares his experience with the program, highlighting the environmental and economic benefits, including cost savings on fertilizer and reduced soil erosion.

Many of us feed our pets specialized diets to keep them healthy. Iowa pig farmers do the same. Episode 19 is all about the strides being made in pig nutrition to optimize pig health, meet consumer demands and enhance environmental sustainability. Dr. Trey Kellner, a swine nutritionist, Dr. Laura Greiner from Iowa State University, and farmer Gene Gourley dig into the science behind pig nutrition and what it means for animal health, meat quality and the environment.

Healthy pigs start with healthy mommas. Welcome to Episode 18 of the ChopTalk podcast, where Iowa pig farmer Janae Metzger discusses her journey as a farmer and the evolution of farming practices over the years. Janae and Dr. Cara Haden, a veterinarian known for her work in animal welfare, emphasize the compassionate approach adopted by pig caregivers and the advances in knowledge and technology to keep the sow and baby pigs healthy.

A recent report from the U.S. Department of Energy shows solar energy could help us reach 40% of our nation’s electricity needs by 2035. But did you know that Iowa pig farmers got into solar early? In Episode 17 of the ChopTalk podcast, meet some innovative Iowa farmers who are raising pigs more sustainably by going solar – harnessing the power of the sun to save energy for everyone.

Welcome to Episode 16 of the ChopTalk podcast that explores efforts made by farmers to maintain good relations with their neighbors. From proactive communication to community involvement, guests Kody Havens, Mike Schmitt and Rick and Tyler Moser underscore the mutual understanding and cooperation that bridges the gap between farming and non-farming communities.

Welcome to Episode 15 of the ChopTalk podcast, which delves into the complex topic of antibiotic use in pig farming, highlighting its importance for both animal welfare and public health. Dr. Heather Fowler with the National Pork Board, Dr. Locke Karriker from Iowa State University, and farmer Mike Paustian discuss the responsible approach farmers take to pig health and the use of antibiotics.

Welcome to Episode 14 of the ChopTalk podcast from Starbeck’s Smokehouse, winner of the Pulled Pork Madness contest. Hear from an Iowa pig farmer about the animals he raises and how it all begins.