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In this episode of Coffee in the Barn, hosts Casey Bradley and Morgan Hart sit down with Tracy Snider, the new CEO of Animistic, to discuss the challenges and opportunities that come with major life and career transitions. Casey shares her journey of building Animistic over the past five years and why she made the decision to bring in new leadership. Tracy reflects on stepping into the CEO role, leading a faith-driven business, and navigating the evolving landscape of animal agriculture.

The conversation also explores personal transitions, including Morgan’s experience balancing work and family after having her third child. Casey, Morgan, and Tracy discuss how to trust the process, build strong teams, and embrace change in both professional and personal life.

Key Topics Covered in This Episode:

✔️ Transitioning into leadership roles and scaling a business
✔️ Balancing family life with a demanding career in agriculture
✔️ The role of faith and values in business decision-making
✔️ Lessons learned from entrepreneurship and team building
✔️ Strategies for navigating major career and life changes

This episode provides valuable insights for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and professionals in the agriculture industry looking to grow, adapt, and build sustainable success.

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In this episode, Casey and Morgan take you inside the 2025 International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) and recent pork industry trade shows to uncover key trends, challenges, and game-changing innovations. 

🔹 IPPE Highlights – Exclusive interviews with industry leaders on biosecurity, digital flock management, gut health, and innovative feed additives
🔹 Pork Show Trends – Why attendance was down, and how we can rethink these events
🔹 Biosecurity & Disease Prevention – Lessons from poultry that swine producers can learn from
🔹 Feed & Nutrition Innovations – New products launched at IPPE and their potential impact 

Special Guests from IPPE:
🎤 Dr. Alexander Strauch (Four Star Veterinarian Services) – Biosecurity & disease mitigation in poultry​
🎤 Jordyn Studer (Barentz) – The launch of Kolin Plus & feed additive innovations​
🎤 Nathan Hillis (Profile Animal Health) – Dust mitigation, litter amendments & biosecurity advancements​
🎤 Tommi Timoharju (Alimetrics) – Advancements in gut health diagnostics & rapid AI-driven testing​ 

Key Takeaway: Whether it’s rethinking pork trade shows or embracing digital transformation in poultry, the industry is evolving—are we keeping up? 

🎧 Listen Now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & all major platforms! 
🔗 https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/1931482/episodes/16696608-trade-show-shake-up-ippe-insights-the-future-of-pork-events 

💬 What’s your take on the future of trade shows? Are they still valuable, or do they need a revamp? Comment below! 

#IPPE #PorkIndustry #TradeShowTrends #Agriculture #SwineIndustry #Biosecurity #PoultryIndustry #CoffeeInTheBarn 

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Episode Summary:

In this episode of Coffee in the Barn, we sit down with Jim Smith, a Senior Swine Nutritionist, Product Development Expert, and Technical Sales Leader with over 25 years of experience in the animal agriculture industry. Jim has played a pivotal role in launching innovative feeding solutions, leading technical sales teams, and mentoring the next generation of industry professionals. Now, he’s taking on a new challenge as the host of Patio Ponderings, a podcast where he shares candid reflections on leadership, agriculture, and the industry's evolving challenges.

Together, we dive into the raw and unfiltered realities of working in animal agriculture, including the mental fatigue that often goes unspoken, the pressures of career transitions, and the balancing act of maintaining resilience while staying true to ourselves.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✔️ The hidden toll of mental fatigue in agriculture and how to recognize it
✔️ Why professionals in the industry often feel pressured to mask their struggles
✔️ How Jim is redefining his career with the launch of Patio Ponderings
✔️ The importance of authentic leadership and embracing career reinvention
✔️ The role of Animistic in shaping the future of animal agriculture

🔹 Guest Spotlight: Jim Smith

• Senior Swine Nutritionist & Technical Sales Leader
• 25+ years of experience in product development and market innovation
• Farmer specializing in crops and sheep production
• Host of the new podcast Patio Ponderings

🎧 Tune in to hear an honest and thought-provoking conversation on the realities of agriculture, leadership, and mental resilience.

Resources & Links:

🔗 Follow Jim Smith on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-smith-10a3a52b/
🎙️ Listen to Patio Pondering: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2429369
🌱 Learn more about Animistic: animistic.co

💬 Join the Conversation!
What are your thoughts on mental fatigue in agriculture? Connect with us on social media and share your takeaways using #CoffeeInTheBarn #BeingRaw #PatioPondering #Leadership

📩 Want more insights? Visit our website and check out our blogs. 

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In this riveting episode of Coffee in the Barn, host Philip sits down with Niall McCann, a biologist, conservationist, and adventurer whose extraordinary life has been shaped by his passion for exploration and protecting the natural world. Niall shares compelling stories from his adventurous life and reflects on the lessons these experiences have taught him about resilience, leadership, and the human connection to nature. 

A Life of Adventure 
From an early age, Niall was captivated by the outdoors, sparking a lifelong pursuit of adventure. Over the years, he’s faced some of the world’s most challenging environments, from rowing across the Atlantic to navigating the Amazon rainforest. Each expedition taught him invaluable lessons about perseverance, teamwork, and adaptability. Through his vivid storytelling, Niall brings these experiences to life, reminding listeners of the power of stepping outside their comfort zones. 

Conservation at the Core 
Beyond his personal adventures, Niall’s dedication to conservation is at the heart of his life’s work. In the episode, he discusses the pressing environmental challenges we face and the innovative ways he has contributed to protecting endangered species and ecosystems. His perspective is equal parts sobering and hopeful, emphasizing that positive change is possible when individuals take action, no matter how small. 

Reflections on Leadership and Resilience 
Niall and Philip also delve into broader themes of leadership and resilience, with Niall offering unique insights gained from his time in extreme conditions. His philosophy centers on leading with humility, embracing challenges, and finding growth through adversity—qualities that resonate with both adventurers and everyday listeners. 

This episode is a call to reconnect with the natural world and an invitation to find purpose in both personal and collective challenges. Niall McCann’s inspiring journey will leave you motivated to embrace adventure and take meaningful steps toward a better future. 

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In this episode of Coffee in the Barn, Gemma Campling, founder and CEO of Worldwide Vets, joins the show to share her journey from the UK to Africa and beyond. Gemma’s work spans continents, providing critical veterinary services, conservation support, and community empowerment. Her unique career path combines her veterinary expertise and her passion for animal welfare to tackle challenges across cultural and geographical borders, from Africa to Eastern Europe. 

Highlights from the Conversation: 

• Worldwide Vets’ Global Reach: Gemma explains the mission of Worldwide Vets, a charity that delivers essential veterinary care across multiple continents and how her team works with both local vets and volunteers to uplift communities. 
• Africa’s Magnetic Pull: Gemma shares her story of initially visiting Africa for a short stay but eventually establishing a career there, creating sustainable impacts through veterinary care and community support. 
• Humanitarian Work in Ukraine: In response to the crisis in Ukraine, Gemma’s organization stepped in to provide aid for animals and pet owners in war-torn regions, emphasizing compassion for animals during challenging times. 
• Empowering Vets and Volunteers Globally: Through hands-on programs, Worldwide Vets supports professional development for young veterinarians and volunteers, teaching them about wildlife conservation and practical veterinary skills. 
• Resilience and Thriving in Adversity: From her Thrive course to addressing compassion fatigue, Gemma advocates for mental resilience among veterinarians and conservationists, sharing strategies for coping with high-stress roles. 

Tune in to hear Gemma’s incredible journey of resilience, cross-cultural connection, and her mission to make a difference worldwide through veterinary care. 

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In this episode of Coffee in the Barn, Katie Dotterer, a third-generation dairy farmer and language educator, joins Morgan Hart to discuss her unique journey from dairy farming to building cross-cultural understanding within the agricultural community. Katie shares how her experiences on the farm led her to identify and address the language and cultural gaps between English and Spanish speakers in agriculture. Now, she teaches Spanish for agricultural workers and English for non-native speakers, helping to create a more inclusive and effective workplace. 

Highlights from the Conversation: 

• Creating Language Bridges in Agriculture: Katie describes her mission to bridge the language gap between English-speaking managers and Spanish-speaking workers, enhancing teamwork and efficiency on farms. 
• Empowering Workers Through Language: Her courses not only teach language skills but also empower individuals to communicate and advocate for themselves, fostering a respectful and collaborative work environment. 
• Importance of Understanding Cultural Differences: Katie highlights how cultural awareness can lead to better relationships, mutual respect, and increased productivity across agricultural teams. 
• Language as a Tool for Respect and Inclusivity: By learning even a few phrases in another language, English speakers can show respect and appreciation, building camaraderie and stronger connections with Spanish-speaking colleagues. 
• Future of Multilingual Agriculture: Katie envisions a future where agricultural operations prioritize bilingual education to create cohesive, supportive teams. 

Tune in to hear Katie's inspiring story and discover how language learning can foster a more inclusive and collaborative agricultural community. 

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In this episode of Coffee in the Barn, Morgan Hart sits down with Kourtney Talkington, a fifth-generation Kansas farmer, mother of four, and mindful eating advocate. Kourtney shares her powerful journey of overcoming body image challenges and finding a balanced approach to food and wellness that celebrates joy, family, and community. This episode dives into the importance of self-care, the unique family traditions Kourtney fosters, and her mission to help women embrace mindful eating, even amidst life’s busy seasons. Pour yourself a cup, settle in, and enjoy this inspiring conversation. 

Key Takeaways 

1. Redefining Food and Self-Care 
   Kourtney opens up about her personal journey with food, emphasizing that it’s about more than nutrition—it's a source of connection, joy, and meaningful family moments. 
2. The Value of Community and Support During the Holidays
   Through her group coaching program, Savor the Season, Kourtney supports women in reducing holiday stress around food and fostering a sense of community. 
3. Mindful Eating for the Next Generation 
   Kourtney discusses her efforts to raise her children with a positive relationship with food, involving them in family traditions that promote mindful eating. 
4. Opportunities in Rural America 
   Her journey to build a custom nutrition internship in rural Kansas highlights the potential for impactful careers in agriculture, wherever you are. 
5. Small Steps in Self-Care for Busy Moms 
   Kourtney encourages listeners to prioritize small, intentional moments of self-care, reinforcing that nourishing oneself benefits the entire family. 

Featured Segments 

Featured Segments 

1. Body Image and Early Challenges
   Timestamp: 0:01:35 
   Kourtney shares her early struggles with body image and eating disorders, and how this experience inspired her mission to promote a healthier, more joyful approach to food. 
2. Creating a Rural Internship
   Timestamp: 0:08:07 
   Kourtney discusses her journey to build a custom internship in her rural community, showing that meaningful opportunities exist outside of urban areas. 
3. Building Family Memories with Food
   Timestamp: 0:20:14 
   Kourtney highlights her unique family traditions, like picnic dinners in the back of the SUV and trampoline pizza nights, which help her children build a positive relationship with food. 

Notable Quotes 

1. "Food is about connection and celebration. It’s not just about nutrition—it’s about being present with family and building memories that last." 
2. "Without nourishing ourselves, we’re doing a disservice to the people around us. We have to take time for self-care to truly show up for our families." 
3. "I thought I needed to leave rural life to make an impact, but putting myself out there showed me that opportunities are everywhere if you’re willing to take that first step." 

Next Episode Tease:
In our next episode, we dive into holiday traditions and meaningful ways to connect through food. Stay tuned for practical tips and inspiring stories on creating memorable holiday moments.

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In this episode of Coffee in the Barn, Casey Bradley welcomes Dr. Christine Alvarado, a poultry scientist and food safety expert, for a deep dive into food safety, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and the need for clear communication within the food industry. Dr. Alvarado shares insights on the importance of educating consumers with facts over soundbites, addressing the critical role of recalls, and debunking common misconceptions around food safety and AMR. She emphasizes the value of transparency with consumers, explains how recalls contribute positively to food quality assurance, and advocates for reintroducing agriculture education to strengthen public understanding of food safety. 

Highlights from the Conversation: 

• Supporting Women in the Meat Industry 
  Dr. Alvarado talks about her involvement in the Women in Meat Industry Network (WMIN), which provides mentorship and resources to support women’s careers in the meat and poultry sectors. 
• Understanding Antimicrobial Resistance in Food Safety 
  Dr. Alvarado explains the complexities of AMR, how it naturally occurs, and why data-driven decisions in food production are essential to managing it responsibly. 
• The Role of Recalls in Consumer Protection 
  She clarifies that recalls can be a proactive part of quality assurance, ensuring products meet safety standards and protect consumers, contrary to negative perceptions. 
• The Power of Transparency with Consumers 
  Dr. Alvarado highlights the need for open, clear communication around food safety to build trust with consumers and combat misinformation. 
• Bringing Agriculture Back to Education 
  As a strong advocate for K-12 agriculture and home economics education, Dr. Alvarado believes these subjects are essential to improving food safety understanding and self-sufficiency in future generations. 

Tune into this insightful episode for a clearer understanding of food safety practices, consumer transparency, and the shared responsibility of producers and consumers in upholding quality and safety standards. 

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In this episode of Coffee in the Barn, Dr. Michelle Kromm, a board-certified poultry veterinarian and animal health expert, shares her insights on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the essential role of responsible antibiotic use within animal agriculture. As AMR continues to impact human, animal, and environmental health under the One Health framework, Dr. Kromm emphasizes the interconnectedness of these areas and the proactive steps producers take to prevent disease, uphold animal welfare, and foster consumer confidence in food safety. Throughout the conversation, she highlights the importance of transparency in antibiotic decision-making and the need for innovative diagnostics to support effective treatment outcomes. Dr. Kromm’s insights reveal the depth of commitment within animal agriculture to manage antibiotic use responsibly and minimize resistance risks. 

Highlights from the Conversation: 

• Proactive Disease Prevention 
  Dr. Kromm explains that producers dedicate 99% of their resources to preventing disease, employing biosecurity, vaccinations, and animal comfort measures to ensure animal well-being. 
• Data-Driven Decisions in Antibiotic Use 
  She emphasizes the importance of transparency in antibiotic decision-making, focusing on selecting the right antibiotic to match each case and reduce resistance. 
• One Health and Public Trust 
  Dr. Kromm underscores AMR’s impact across human, animal, and environmental health, advocating for transparent practices that foster consumer trust in food safety. 
• Innovative Diagnostics for Responsible Care 
  Dr. Kromm highlights the need for advanced diagnostic tools to support timely treatment decisions, improving outcomes for animals and minimizing resistance risks. 
• Balancing Treatment and Resistance 
  While preventing disease is a priority, Dr. Kromm explains the importance of selecting the right antibiotic for specific infections when treatment is necessary, balancing effective outcomes with the need to minimize resistance. 
• Role of Probiotics and Prebiotics in Animal Health 
  As part of a preventative health strategy, Dr. Kromm discusses the growing importance of probiotics and prebiotics in supporting animal health. These supplements play a crucial role in bolstering immunity and promoting a healthy gut microbiome, reducing the need for antibiotics. 

Tune into this episode to gain valuable insights into the future of animal health, responsible antibiotic use, and the industry’s commitment to ensuring food safety through proactive care and transparency. 

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In this episode of Coffee in the Barn, Casey Bradley and Morgan Hart wrap up Porktober with a lively discussion on the evolving landscape of the swine industry and the importance of leadership, food security, and adaptability. They highlight inspiring stories from their special guests, share personal insights on balancing family life with a career in agriculture, and tackle the industry's challenges, from delayed legislation to shifting market dynamics.

Join us as we explore how passion, perseverance, and community-driven solutions shape the world of agriculture and how everyday actions can create a meaningful impact. Pour yourself a cup, settle in, and discover the stories that matter.

Key Takeaways:

• Courtney’s Story: One mother turned a challenge into a solution by establishing a lactation room at the World Pork Expo, supporting working moms in the industry without seeking recognition.
• The Farm Bill Delay: Casey and Morgan discuss the potential impact of the delayed farm bill on food security, emphasizing how it could affect SNAP benefits and the most vulnerable families across the U.S.
• Economic Ripples in Agriculture: With rising costs for essential materials like copper and challenges in global shipping, Casey dives into how these shifts impact animal nutrition and the broader agricultural market.
• Leadership Lessons from Lori: Lori’s journey through various leadership roles, including her presidency at NPPC, offers valuable insights on navigating career growth, especially in a male-dominated industry.
• Balancing Work and Family: Morgan and Casey reflect on the realities of balancing motherhood and a career in agriculture, sharing their personal stories and experiences from Porktober.

Featured Segments:

1. Courtney’s Initiative at World Pork Expo (0:10:04 - 0:11:57): Courtney's creation of a lactation room is a prime example of community-driven leadership and problem-solving in agriculture.
2. Challenges of Passing the Farm Bill (0:22:13 - 0:24:57): The hosts discuss how delays in the farm bill can impact food security, and the ripple effects felt throughout the agriculture industry.
3. Market Trends & Copper Prices (0:16:57 - 0:19:25): A deep dive into how fluctuating copper prices and rising shipping costs impact the economics of animal agriculture.

Notable Quotes:

• "Courtney didn’t do it for recognition—she saw a problem and created a solution. We need more people like her in our industry." – Casey Bradley.
• "Food security is not just a problem abroad; it’s right here in our backyards. And it's our job in agriculture to be part of the solution." – Casey Bradley.
• "It’s about finding the right leadership opportunities that fit your life. They don’t always have to be the big ones; sometimes it’s as simple as volunteering in your child's classroom." – Morgan Hart.

Next Episode Tease:
As Porktober ends, we gear up for November, Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Month. Stay tuned for episodes focusing on food safety and the critical role of antimicrobial resistance in agriculture.

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Enjoy Coffee in the Barn? Subscribe so you never miss an episode! And if you love what you hear, leave us a review. It helps us reach more people and keep the conversation going.

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