The Pork Podcast

The current pain level of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) in the U.S. is extreme, says swine veterinarians Scott Dee and Gordon Spronk. That’s why they are calling for transformational change - the eradication of PRRS from the U.S. swine herd - in a viewpoint article in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

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As an educator at Kansas State University, Joel DeRouchey has had the opportunity to be a part of many teams and see a lot of teams in action. From his perspective, teams must constantly evaluate if they need to refocus, recharge or reset. From understanding your role on a team to embracing horizontal accountability to knowing when it’s time to move on, teamwork sets the pace for success.

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Showing livestock has taught Olivia Shike much more than how to care for animals and present them in the show ring — it’s opened doors for a future in animal agriculture. She joins her mom, host Jennifer Shike, on The PORK Podcast to reflect on her last summer at home working in the show barn and the lessons she has gleaned through 4-H, FFA, Team Purebred and the National Junior Swine Association. Learn how Olivia relies on her faith and humor to keep a positive outlook on life, and how mentors in the industry have helped her develop critical life skills such as time management, resilience and leadership.

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A true pork power couple, Rob and Char Brenneman of Washington, Iowa define a symbiotic relationship. Word on the street is that “Rob is the gas pedal and Char is the brakes!” The farm team is quick to point out that they are both good drivers because nobody is slamming on either pedal unnecessarily and there is always a check and balance in play. Today they join the podcast to discuss how this system has allowed them to build a pork legacy.

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The passion and leadership Clay Zwilling brings to the purebred swine industry as CEO of the National Swine Registry is not only creating opportunities for purebred swine breeders and show pig breeders, but it’s also opening doors for the next generation to find their future in the swine industry. The purebred swine industry is constantly changing and evolving to help pig enthusiasts find a place to enter into the pork industry at all levels.

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Are you a stock show parent or thinking about getting your kids involved in showing livestock? In this episode, we sit down with Emily Spray—better known as The Funny Fair Mom—to reveal the real-life challenges and rewards of being a stock show mom. Emily shares honest advice on handling comparison, helping kids through disappointment, and focusing on what truly matters at livestock shows. She also opens up about balancing family life, her journey as a social media influencer in the ag community, and practical hacks every show family can use.

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JayJay Goodvin, the man who recently ate a pork tenderloin in every Iowa county, shines a light on rural America, agriculture and the food that unites people. Although he’s not engaged in production agriculture every day, the work he does on behalf of agriculture, particularly the pork industry, is changing lives and creating opportunities.

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Dr. Clayton Johnson is a champion of the pig, there’s no doubt about that. When he steps onto the stage to speak, the room instantly quiets and people can’t get enough of what he has to say. It’s his perspective and wisdom, his experience and application, but I think a big part of his draw is the passion and urgency in his messages. Johnson joins The PORK Podcast to discuss the hottest topic in the pork industry today – health. From porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) to porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) and from highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) to African swine fever, Johnson opens up about what he’s seeing and hearing in regard to the greatest challenges facing the industry. His advice for producers, perspective for allied industry and wisdom about barn management is something you won't want to miss.

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When you think about Josh Maschhoff, many things come to mind. He’s a husband, father, president, son, nephew, firefighter, friend, church elder, coach, sixth-generation hog farmer and director of production and flow for The Maschhoffs, to name a few. What he is not is an overly emotional person, says his wife, Angela, until you get him talking about the family business.

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