I’m Dr. Miranda Smit, and this is my first episode as co-host of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada! I’m thrilled to join you on this journey to bring insights and solutions to the Canadian pork industry. 

In this episode, Katerina Kolemishevska, from the Canadian Pork Council, and Alexandria Shannon, Senior Product Manager, Grants, Credits & Incentives Software at Ryan, introduce the new digital national platform for investment support to pork producers. This innovative tool, the Funding Portal, simplifies access to investments and incentives, empowering producers to invest in sustainability, innovation, and efficiency. Learn how it enables competitive farming practices and drives the pork industry toward a more sustainable future. Listen now on all major platforms!

"The Funding Portal simplifies access to Canadian funding programs, bridging gaps and empowering producers." - Alexandria Shannon

Meet the guest:

Katerina Kolemishevska is the Associate Executive Director at the Canadian Pork Council. With 17 years in international agriculture, she specializes in sustainability, rural development, and creating tools to boost productivity for Canadian pork producers.

Alexandria Shannon is a Senior Product Manager, Grants, Credits & Incentives Software at Ryan. With expertise in govtech, data science, and policy analysis, she develops tools that connect Canadian pork producers with funding opportunities.

What you will learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:18) Introduction
• (03:30) The funding portal
• (08:08) Global competitiveness
• (08:41) Pork producers
• (12:11) Advancing sustainability
• (14:00) Advice for producers
• (22:47) Final three questions

The Swine it Podcast Show Canada is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

* Swine Veterinary Partners

- dsm-firmenich

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Marie-Pierre Létourneau Montminy from Laval University breaks down the impact of mycotoxins on calcium and phosphorus metabolism in swine. From gut permeability and nutrient absorption to environmental challenges, she explores strategies for improving bone mineralization and feed efficiency. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Mycotoxins increase gut permeability, altering calcium absorption significantly."

Meet the guest: Dr. Marie-Pierre Létourneau-Montminy is an Associate Professor at Laval University, where she leads cutting-edge research on sustainable animal nutrition. She leads the University Laval Partnership Research Chair on "Alternative Feeding Strategies for Pigs and Poultry" and the Canada Research Chair on "Sustainable Animal Protein Production." With a Ph.D. in animal nutrition and numerous research publications, he is a recognized authority in sustainable swine nutrition and production.

What you will learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (00:42) Introduction
• (02:02) Mycotoxins & nutrition
• (05:09) Gut permeability
• (06:52) Kidney & bone impact
• (14:07) Bone mineralization
• (21:38) Calcium regulation
• (24:42) Closing thoughts

The Swine it Podcast Show Canada is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

 dsm-firmenich

* Swine Veterinary Partners

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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In this special rerun episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, we revisit our conversation with Todd Thurman from Swine Insights International, who discusses population growth, economic shifts, and labor challenges in the swine industry. Todd explores the implications of population decline, aging populations, and changing dietary preferences. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation with actionable insights for professionals in the Canadian swine industry. Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform!

"What drove the need for all of that expansion in productive capacity was three things: rapid population growth, rapid economic growth, and globalization, which opened up more global markets for food exporters."

Meet the guest: Todd Thurman, founder of Swine Insights International, LLC, is an international swine management consultant with over 25 years of experience. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from Texas Tech University. He specializes in strategic consulting, training, and demographic analysis for global pork production.

What you will learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:19) Introduction
• (04:47) Demographic trends
• (08:47) Population decline effects
• (12:43) Aging populations & food demand
• (18:39) Labor challenges
• (22:02) Environmental efficiency concerns
• (26:39) Final three questions

The Swine it Podcast Show Canada is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

* Swine Veterinary Partners

- dsm-firmenich

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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In this episode of The Swine It Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Panagiotis Tassis from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece, tackles the critical issue of mycotoxins in swine feed. He explains how these toxins affect pig health, reproduction, and overall production efficiency. Dr. Tassis breaks down common contaminants and offers actionable strategies for identifying, preventing, and managing mycotoxin risks, all aimed at boosting herd performance. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!

"Mycotoxins impact digestive, respiratory, and reproductive systems, highlighting their multifaceted threat to swine health."

Meet the guest: Dr. Panagiotis Tassis, Associate Professor of Swine Medicine and Reproduction at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece, holds a Ph.D. in Swine Medicine. With over two decades of clinical and research expertise, his focus spans vaccines, feed additives, and improving swine health and production.

What you will learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:16) Introduction
• (04:15) Mycotoxins overview
• (05:06) Health impacts on pigs
• (08:55) Reproductive health focus
• (13:46) Diagnostic strategies
• (18:43) Preventive measures
• (24:37) Final three questions

The Swine it Podcast Show Canada is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

 Protekta

* Precision Veterinary Services

- dsm-firmenich

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Josiane Panisson, Assistant Manager of Contract Research at Prairie Swine Centre, explores the critical question: Is swine nutrition the right path for you? Drawing from her extensive experience in swine research and nutrition, Dr. Panisson shares practical advice on finding your niche in the swine industry, choosing the right mentors, and tackling the challenges of research and graduate studies. Listen now on all major podcast platforms to map your future in swine science!

"Research requires multitasking, organization, and resilience to overcome challenges and meet deadlines."

Meet the guest: Dr. Josiane Panisson, Assistant Manager of Contract Research at Prairie Swine Centre, holds a Ph.D. in Animal Science and extensive expertise in swine nutrition. A graduate of Universidade Federal do Paraná in Brazil, her research focuses on advancing sow nutrition. Her academic journey spans international collaboration, including postdoctoral research at the University of Saskatchewan.

What you will learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (00:53) Introduction
• (03:17) Swine research
• (09:38) Graduate mentors
• (13:33) Choosing the program
• (15:37) Research challenges
• (18:03) Career opportunities
• (22:45) Final three questions

The Swine it Podcast Show Canada is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

* Precision Veterinary Services

- Protekta

- dsm-firmenich

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

Website: The Swine it Podcast Show Canada

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In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Matthew Rooda, Founder and CEO of SwineTech, explains the role of human-centered automation in advancing the Canadian pork sector. Focusing on reducing pig mortality, improving operational workflows, and optimizing farm efficiency, Matthew highlights how automation empowers producers to make smarter decisions and tackle key challenges. Listen to the full conversation on all major platforms!

"Human-centered automation focuses on empowering people with information to make better decisions."

Meet the guest: Matthew Rooda is the Founder and CEO of SwineTech, Inc., and a Johns Hopkins MBA candidate. A leader in human-centered automation, his innovative platform revolutionizes swine care globally. With over $8M in venture capital raised and recognition as a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, Rooda integrates cutting-edge technology with agriculture to optimize operations.

What you will learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:09) Introduction
• (04:44) SwineTech in Canada
• (06:02) Technology adoption
• (10:35) Human-centered automation
• (17:04) Adapting SOPs
• (24:22) Precision technologies
• (28:21) Final questions

The Swine it Podcast Show Canada is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

* Precision Veterinary Services

- Protekta

- dsm-firmenich

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Jon Bergstrom from dsm-firmenich explores the vital role of vitamin D in swine nutrition. Learn about recent changes in the Canadian Feed Table, their impact on swine health, and practical strategies for ensuring optimal vitamin D status in pigs.  Tune in on all major podcast platforms!

"This increase in the limit for vitamin D supplementation in Canada is an important first step, enabling producers to improve the vitamin D status of their pigs."

Meet the guest: Dr. Jon Bergstrom is a Senior Technical Expert in Swine Nutrition at dsm-firmenich. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Studies from Iowa State University and both his Master’s and Ph.D. in Animal Science from Kansas State University. Dr. Bergstrom brings extensive expertise in swine nutrition and production.

What you will learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:21) Introduction
• (03:39) Canadian Feed Table
• (07:00) Importance of vitamin D
• (12:36) Monitoring vitamin D levels
• (15:33) Adequate vitamin D levels
• (23:36) Takeaways on vitamin D
• (26:04) Final three questions

The Swine it Podcast Show Canada is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

 dsm-firmenich

* Precision Veterinary Services

- Protekta

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

Website: Swine it Canada

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In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Cassandra Van Engelen, manager at Hog-Tied Farms Ltd., discusses the role of advocacy in pig farming. From managing a successful operation to leading key initiatives, Cassandra shares her journey and highlights the importance of engaging younger generations to secure the future of the industry. She also emphasizes the power of clear, honest communication to build understanding and trust within the swine industry. Tune in now!

"Advocacy is about getting out there, voicing your opinion, and being involved in the conversations that shape the future of our industry."

Meet the guest: Cassandra Van Engelen is the manager at Hog-Tied Farms Ltd. in Ontario and a passionate advocate for the swine industry. With a leadership role in the Ontario Pork's Leadership Program, Cassandra is committed to promoting the swine sector through local and provincial organizations. She is actively involved in the Lambton County Pork Producers and other agricultural federations.

What you will learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:15) Introduction
• (06:04) Advocacy importance
• (06:19) Social media & advocacy
• (08:07) Engaging next generation
• (11:23) Promoting swine industry
• (12:16) Effective leadership
• (16:15) Final three questions

The Swine it Podcast Show Canada is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

* Precision Veterinary Services

- dsm-firmenich

- Protekta

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Joseph Cassady from South Dakota State University explores the challenges and opportunities in swine production research. From navigating industry hurdles like pre-weaning mortality and sow retention to building impactful academic collaborations and securing research funding, Dr. Cassady sheds light on strategies shaping the industry's future.  Tune in to learn more, available now on all major platforms!

"Building state-of-the-art research facilities has enabled SDSU to demystify swine production while maintaining biosecurity."

Meet the guest: Dr. Joseph Cassady is the South Dakota Corn Endowed Dean of Agriculture at SDSU. Raised on a family farm, he earned his B.S. in Animal Science from Iowa State University and his M.S. and Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska. With years of academic and industry leadership, Dr. Cassady offers a wealth of knowledge in swine production and research.

What you will learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (00:39) Introduction
• (04:14) Swine production challenges
• (06:24) Swine research priorities
• (08:54) Research challenges
• (15:19) Research opportunities
• (18:06) Faculty recruitment focus
• (25:11) Final three questions

The Swine it Podcast Show Canada is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

* Precision Veterinary Services

- Protekta

- dsm-firmenich

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Robert Friendship, Professor Emeritus at the University of Guelph, shares his extensive expertise in swine health management. With over four decades of experience, Dr. Friendship explores critical components like biosecurity, disease eradication, and surveillance in swine production. Don’t miss out—available on all major platforms!

"Surveillance, handling endemic diseases, and keeping disease out of the barn—all of that is a swine health management program."

Meet the guest:

Dr. Robert Friendship is a University Professor Emeritus in the Department of Population Medicine at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph. With 45 years of experience specializing in swine health, Dr. Friendship has taught and mentored undergraduate and graduate veterinary students while publishing over 250 peer-reviewed papers. His expertise in swine health management and education has shaped the careers of countless veterinary professionals.

• (00:00) Introduction
• (02:50) Swine health management 
• (07:18) Eradicating diseases 
• (09:40) Multifactorial diseases
• (21:50) Surveillance advancements
• (24:41) Herd management
• (30:44) Final three questions

The Swine it Podcast Show Canada is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

- Protekta

- dsm-firmenich

* Precision Veterinary Services

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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