For most of my life, the first week of June has meant one thing: World Pork Expo. Driving home on Thursday night, my mind was a whirlwind of new research and stories to write. It’s impossible to neatly wrap up the countless handshakes and laughs that make World Pork Expo a must-attend event, but my camera roll usually tells the real story.
While I’m usually sprinting between interviews, I managed to capture a few moments that show why this industry is so special.
1. The “Iowa Twinkie” and a Few Laughs
I found my favorite treat of the week at the Boehringer Ingelheim tent: the Iowa Twinkie by Whatcha Smokin’ BBQ + Brew. This photo isn’t just about the bacon-wrapped jalapeño stuffed with pulled pork, sweet corn, cream cheese and ranch seasoning —it’s a memory of a rare five minutes spent sitting down and laughing with my Farm Journal colleagues while we refueled.
2. Innovation with an Iowa Zip Code
I spent a lot of time discussing new technology this week from smart ear tags to new vaccines (you can read the deep dives on PorkBusiness.com), but this shot of Matt Kerns and Garrett Gourley from BarnTools is a favorite. Why? It captures two Iowa farm boys turned innovators. It’s a visual reminder that every piece of tech in that building started with a simple goal: making life better for the producer.
3. Breaking the Zoom Habit: The PORK Podcast
Most of my days are spent looking at a screen, so being in person to record two episodes of The PORK Podcast was a highlight. I love these shots from taping episode 49 with David Newman, CEO of the National Pork Board, and Glynn Tonsor, ag economist at Kansas State University; and the 50th (cue the confetti) episode with Iowa pig farmer Mike Paustian. If you haven’t been following The PORK Podcast, check it out here or anywhere podcasts are found — then let us know what you think. My goal is to “tell the story behind the story” in each episode so you can go away with a little more knowledge, but most importantly a little more appreciation for the people who make this industry great.
4. A Sea of Purple for Dr. Bob Goodband
When United Animal Health’s Matt Ritter asked former students of Bob Goodband to stand during the John B. Swisher Award presentation, the room turned into a sea of K-State purple. This photo captures a mentor who always points the spotlight toward others finally being the one in the glow. It was an incredible reminder of the impact we can have on others when we put their needs above our own. We can achieve greater results for the industry together.
5. High-Fashion Swag: Maria Zieba’s Nikes
The “Coolest Shoes Award” goes to Maria Zieba, vice president of government affairs at NPPC. Her customized “Team Pork” Nike Airs stole the spotlight during the NPPC Policy Panel. They perfectly match her high-speed, high-energy approach to serving U.S. pork producers. I caught up with her for a few minutes to discuss the latest efforts surrounding USMCA.
6. Familiar Faces: Rob and Char Brenneman
Rob Brenneman’s face was everywhere this year as NPPC president, but one photo I’ll always treasure is a candid with him and his wife, Char. I’ve known the Brennemans since I was a kid in Washington, Iowa. Despite his schedule, he always has time for a hug and a conversation that comes directly from the heart. To me, this photo represents the “reunion” aspect of Expo.
7. New Perspectives: CLEAR Conversations
I wrapped up the week by sitting on the other side of the mic with Tracy Sellers for the CLEAR Conversations podcast. We share a passion to help tell stories of the people who devote their life to feeding the world. This final photo of the week captures a great dialogue about farming, food and sustainability—a perfect note to end on.
At first glance, my World Pork Expo camera roll might look like a mix of BBQ, high-tech gadgets, and old friends, but really, it’s so much more. It showcases an industry that is constantly evolving while staying focused on it’s most important resource – it’s people. I can’t wait to do this all over again in 2027!
