Opinion

In a World of 51-49, One Sector Isn't Close

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 20:18:49 GMT

We are swimming in polling data. Daily trackers and instant reaction panels. Most results cluster in narrow margins. Fifty-one to forty-nine passes for consensus; fifty-five percent is a landslide.

That is what makes one set of numbers stand out.

Across 25 years of Gallup polling on public confidence in major U.S. economic sectors, one sector stands apart. Farming and agriculture is a clear and distinct leader in public trust.

That finding comes from a Carver Center examination of the full Gallup record – a continuous measure of how Americans view major industries from 2001 through 2025.

Only a small group of sectors have remained consistently net positive: the computer industry, retail, travel, restaurants and farming and agriculture. Most industries rise and fall. Some collapse during crises and struggle to fully recover.

Agriculture does not behave that way.

Its median net-positive score over the full period is +41. The lowest year was still +29, in a dataset where many sectors fall to zero or below.

The data also show intensity, not just direction.

About 11.5% of Americans hold a “very positive” view across all sectors over the past 25 years. Farming and agriculture averages 21.5% over that same period. In the past decade, that figure rises to 25%, the highest of any sector.

That is not marginal support. It is high-intensity approval.

Now set that against how the sector is commonly described.

Much of today’s food and agriculture debate assumes a deficit of public trust. The language is familiar: a broken system, eroding confidence, widespread concern.

Americans have been asked this question for 25 years. They do not answer it that way.

Americans distinguish sharply across industries. They are skeptical where experience gives them reason to be skeptical. They are volatile where outcomes are volatile. They have remained consistently negative toward sectors like the federal government and pharmaceuticals over long stretches.

And they are consistently positive toward sectors that deliver visible, everyday value. Food and agriculture sit in that category.

The more important point is underneath it. Public trust is not a general condition that moves evenly across the economy. It is a scarce asset. It concentrates.

Over a quarter century, Gallup’s data show a clear separation. A small number of sectors earn lasting confidence. Most do not.

That has implications well beyond agriculture.

When policymakers treat trust as evenly distributed, they misread risk. They assume that interventions carry similar consequences across sectors. They do not.

Food and farm policy is where this shows up in practice. In school meals, for example, nutrition is delivered only if students participate. Trust in the food being served is not incidental to that system – it is part of how it works. Change the rules in ways that conflict with how families and students actually experience food, and participation falls. When participation falls, so does the nutrition delivered through the program.

Policymakers who misread this baseline end up designing policy that works against public trust rather than with it. The effects are not theoretical. They appear in participation rates, costs and what ends up on the tray.

Polling captures moments. What Gallup’s 25-year record captures is something harder to move: accumulated public judgment.

On food and agriculture, that judgment is not confused. It is not evenly split. It is not fragile. It is clear, durable and unusually strong. Policy should start there.

Curliss is chairman at the Carver Center for Agriculture and Nutrition, a nonprofit research initiative focused on food affordability, access and sound nutrition. The full Gallup analysis and Carver Trust Index are available at carverfood.org . Check out this downloadable report.

Make It Personal: A Tribute to Patrick Fleming

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 18:22:28 GMT

What some may say is one of my biggest character flaws, others may argue is one of my greatest strengths: I take things personally.

Now, there is a fine line between being sensitive to criticism and being dedicated to a cause. I have been on both sides of this line. For years, I worried that taking things personally was a weakness. But I’ve realized there is a difference between protecting your ego and protecting your purpose. When you take your work personally, you aren’t just doing the work; you are attaching yourself to the outcome.

If you know me, it’s easy to see what matters to me because of how I show up. Taking things personally shows deep investment, vulnerability and engagement.

Work for the People You Love

Maybe that’s why I instantly felt connected to Patrick Fleming when I visited with him in the summer of 2024 after his return to the National Pork Board . I’ll never forget the passion in his voice when he spoke and the authenticity of his message. One of the comments he made before we hung up on our call struck a chord in me.

He said, “I’m working for the people who I truly love and respect the most. So, for me, this is personal.”

Working for the National Pork Board was not about money or fame or checking a box. It was about serving an industry he truly admired and cared about. It was personal.

I’ve thought a lot about his comment since that conversation and how important it is to take each day a little “personally.” We don’t get many second chances in life. How do we show up ready to soak in what each day has to offer?

He modeled that it starts with putting others first and chasing after your purpose. When we are motivated by something far bigger than ourselves, we show up differently.

Make it Personal

On Jan. 12, our industry lost a legend. Patrick Fleming passed away after a courageous battle with kidney cancer. The industry won’t be the same without him, but I know that it is forever better because of him.

Working for you – America’s pig farmers – was his dream job. A job he showed up every day to tackle with purpose and investment. A job that he took personally.

May we honor his legacy by showing up, digging in, and never doubting the power of making it personal. Let’s celebrate his life well-lived the best way we know how: by enjoying some delicious pork with the people we love.

This Thanksgiving Be Grateful for The Strength of Our Mothers

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 13:08:35 GMT

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the figures who have profoundly shaped our lives. This year, I find myself thinking about a striking statement from the legendary Coach Mike Krzyzewski, former Duke University and USA Basketball coach. He once advised, “Be as tough as your mothers.” This powerful message resonates deeply, especially with those of us who grew up as farm kids, where our mothers proved to be the unsung heroes of our upbringing.

The Unwavering Spirit of Farm Mothers
Mothers, if they are anything like mine, have faced the demanding realities of farm life with unyielding strength. These are women who fed calves in the sweltering heat of summer, irrigated pastures with children on their hips, and resolved marital differences amidst sorting cows. They managed household finances creatively, making ends meet even when the milk check was sparse, and they ensured that a family of eight was nourished from garden and freezer bounty.

My mother, in particular, embodies this strength. The oldest daughter of a U.S. Admiral, she once lived a life of luxury, familiar with Italian leather gloves, silk blouses, and fur coats. Yet, she embraced a new calling when she married my father, a devoted Oregon dairy farmer, and exchanged her glamorous wardrobe for rubber boots and ragged jeans. Despite this dramatic transformation, she never complained.

My late mother, Michelle getting ready to attend a formal event.

(Karen Bohnert)

Homemaker and More
After coming home from school to head to the barn to do farm chores, my sisters and I would race inside to a home-cooked meal prepared from scratch. Growing up with servants in a high-class setting, my mother learned to cook only after marrying my father, who humorously recalled losing 30 pounds in their first year of marriage. Yet she would remind him that he was doing ‘just fine now.’

Even when burdened by physical exhaustion or illness, my mom remained unwavering. She still managed to assist us with homework, ensuring that we not only comprehended the assignment but excelled at it, even if it meant staying up past midnight to solve complex algebra problems. She did this while nursing a sick newborn calf in the mudroom and baking pies for a 4-H banquet, lending yet another testament to a mother’s multitasking ability. Her ingenuity was a product of from being self-taught, reading the Merck Manual, learning from our veterinarian and her years of working in a hospital. Mom seemed to be able to do anything and everything.

My late mother feeding a flock of sheep in her Italian leather gloves and fur coat.

(Karen Bohnert)

Resilience in Adversity
My mother’s resilience manifested most profoundly when our family faced life’s harshest trials. When a house fire rendered us homeless overnight, she chose gratitude for the neighbors who welcomed us in. When one of her daughters nearly lost her leg in a farming accident, mom didn’t let her praying legs grow lazy, as she was grateful for medical advancements and her daughter’s recovery.

Values of Perseverance and Positivity
Among her most enduring gifts were the values she imparted—values characterized by a strong work ethic, kindness, gratitude and perspective. My mom never permitted self-pity to take root, a trait she exemplified in her own life. She instilled in us a perspective that transformed adversity into opportunity.

My three kids.

(Bohnert Farms)

Reflecting on the qualities I hope to impart to my own children, I wholeheartedly echo Coach K’s sentiment. I hope for my children to grow into individuals possessing the resilience and strength of their late grandmother. Her enduring legacy is one of tenacity, compassion and unwavering positivity—traits that are as essential on the farm as they are in life. This Thanksgiving, as you gather around the table, think of those that fill your heart with love, including your mother.

Live a Life That Matters

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 14:58:38 GMT

What is the greatest desire people have before they die? Though many lists point to things like seeing the Northern Lights, conquering a fear or starting a business, most people would say they want to live a life that mattered.

Going on college visits with my senior makes me wonder as a mom if I have equipped him to do just that. Have I explained enough times that his actions make a difference? Did I prepare him for a world that’s full of distractions? Have I modeled what it looks like to leave a positive legacy?

Of course, I hope when he heads off to college next fall that he gets good grades, develops wise habits and does his laundry regularly. But more than anything, I hope he leads a life that positively impacts others.

Invest in Building People Up

Though I didn’t have the honor of knowing our newest barn hero Jennifer Romero, I know she accomplished living a life that mattered. There’s no question she was an excellent sow farm manager for Martin Family Farms, and the legacy she left of helping people become great in their roles on the farm and in life is far greater than she ever knew.

As a person who places a high value on relationships, talking to Romero’s family and colleagues reminded me of two very important lessons: Don’t take the people in your life for granted, and don’t miss the opportunities you get every day to make an impact on the lives of others. Read her incredible story here .

Leave It Better Than You Found It

Minnesota pig farmers Dave and Tracie Mensink are living a life that matters by using conservation practices on their farm to boost productivity and profitability while building a legacy for future generations.

They are in the process of transitioning the farm to their son, Alex, and his wife, Katie. They are the first generation of Mensinks to farm their land, and he wants to make sure they aren’t the last, he says. Read how they are making this happen here .

From sustainability to succession planning, living a life that matters doesn’t happen by chance. It requires intentionality, sacrifice and hard work. Having a clear sense of why you do what you do and believing your actions contribute to something larger than yourself and lend to a life of purpose.

As another new year approaches, now is the perfect time to ask yourself the hard questions to make sure you are living in alignment with your purpose.

One Mile at a Time: Life Lessons Learned in a Farm Truck

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 15:06:01 GMT

For a second, I wanted to close my eyes. Bouncing along the country roads of north-central Iowa with Mike Wenger took me back to riding with my grandpa when I was a kid. Our best conversations took place in his old farm truck.

I loved riding with grandpa when it was just the two of us. His truck smelled like cherry tobacco and was filled with the original fidget toys: wrenches, screws, fence testers and more. Of course, he also had candy in the seat protectors that he couldn’t resist sharing when I asked.

Those moments by his side opened the door to lessons I continue to take with me. A few came to mind recently:

1. It’s a good thing to put others first.
Riding around in his farm truck, I began to understand the important responsibility farmers take on to care for the land and livestock. Chores aren’t optional, and the livestock always come first. The selflessness my grandpa possessed helped me see the good things that can happen when you put others first — even if you can’t control all the other stuff.

2. Life is full of unexpected hardships — don’t give up.
Farming is hard. My grandpa passed away when I was 14. Though I really don’t understand firsthand what happened in the early 1980s, I remember hard days and difficult conversations that were too big for my ears. I have flashbacks of tears and sobs at the kitchen table. But oh, the farm truck. It was always there for grandpa to go take a drive in and figure out a new plan. He kept doing what he had to do in order to continue to farm.

3. Share your dreams with someone.
One of the things I loved most about riding in grandpa’s truck is telling him all about my dreams. It felt like a safe space to process my thoughts and ideas. There were no interruptions, and my quiet-natured grandpa could offer up his wisdom regarding my plans. He believed in me; and isn’t that the best gift someone can give you? I can still hear him telling me I had a good idea.

I don’t know why grandpa’s old brown Chevy truck came to mind when I jumped into Mike Wenger’s much nicer F-450 this past summer. But as I drove away from our interview, I was reminded about how much life gets lived in those trucks.

Wenger grew up riding around in a farm truck with his grandpa, too. It’s where he learned the value of hard work and sweat equity. It’s where he dreamed. It’s where he determined to create opportunities for his family.

Wenger’s story reminds me to work hard in life because it’s never too late to forge a new path. I admire his story of grit and redemption — of overcoming the mistakes of his past —to pursue his passion for the pork industry and helping farmers along the way.

Although our farm trucks might be equipped differently today, don’t miss the opportunity they present to connect with the people who mean the most to us in life. Maybe you have a rider to take along to do the chores or maybe it’s an opportunity to make a call to someone you love. Create the memories, have the conversations and find the good in the bumps ahead.

Read my 3-part series on Mike & Nick Wenger:
Grit and Redemption: How the Past Helps a Father and Son Build a Future in Pork

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3 Stock Show Lessons That Don't Make the Highlight Reels

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 13:49:55 GMT

Even though I know the easy path is rarely the best path, I will admit it would be nice to be on it once in a while. Juggling three children, numerous animals, two jobs and little sleep while traveling to three national shows within a month was beginning to make my husband and I just a little grumpy this summer.

I’m pretty sure he’s not the only stock show dad who threatens, “We could just buy a boat and go to the lake next summer instead of showing livestock.”

No one ever raises their hand for that idea, so we keep at it. And if we are truthful, even though the lack of sleep and possibly too much time together can take its toll, there is nothing we would rather spend our summers doing than showing livestock together.

Although the champion animals often make the highlight reels and headlines, I would argue the most important things happening at shows are less talked about. Here are three lessons I re-learned that go far beyond bringing home a banner.

1. There is more in you than you know.
As I sat on the bleachers during the closing ceremonies in Louisville, Ray Perryman shared a message with the families in attendance that I think more people need to hear.

“There is more in you than what you know,” Perryman said. “You were born for a purpose – to make this world better. Quit fitting in and begin to show out.”

We waste our time comparing our lives to others when we really need to be living into the unique talents and skillsets we have been given. There’s a lot of pressure on our kids today to fit into the mold and prioritize what their teachers, coaches and even parents want them to prioritize. We need to help them realize their voice has a purpose.

2. You have to be uncomfortable to grow.
I like to say I embrace change, but sometimes it’s just not fun to change. It’s fun to change things like your outfit, your vehicle or the TV series you are binging. It’s not fun to change things like your schedule, your passwords or your focus. That can be uncomfortable, and who wants that?

“Sometimes you’ve got to step out of where you are comfortable so you can go where you are needed,” Perryman continued.

Every time I’ve been uncomfortable, I’ve grown. I’ve also been a little scared and worried about what would or wouldn’t happen in those moments. But in the end, I was better. As I watched my youngest get ready to step into the ring that week, her nerves were on full display. When the gate opened and she drove her pig to the judge, I could see the nerves begin to lift and the focus form.

Being uncomfortable makes her better. It makes her discover parts of herself that she didn’t know were there. It opens doors for her to go new places and try new things.

3. You aren’t alone.
As humans, we want to know that we aren’t alone. In fact, experts suggest the desire to belong was critical for our ancestors’ survival. The need for social connection is a fundamental human drive rooted in our biology and essential for both mental and physical health.

It makes sense why our family feels such a deep connection with other families who do what we do at these shows. There’s an understanding of what it took to get to the show, the sacrifices made and the expenses incurred.

I love how the stock show industry connects us and brings us together around shared goals and passions. In a world that often feels so divided, it feels pretty good to know that we’re all coming together for a common purpose in the show ring.

We aren’t even two weeks out from a busy summer showing livestock, but we are already missing it. I guess that makes the sleepless nights and grumpy moods worth it.

Read More:
There’s No Tired Like State Fair Tired
Odd One in the Room? Embrace It
The Power of a Mentor: How You Can Inspire the Next Generation

There's No Tired Like State Fair Tired

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 14:58:46 GMT

You don’t know tired until you know end-of-state-fair tired. I’m on day 1,247 of the state fair or so it feels today. I’m not sure what day of the week it is or what’s happening in the next hour. I know I showered today, but it probably wasn’t obvious as I was instantly covered in dirt, sweat and who knows what within my first hour in the barn.

I realize I am not the only one who feels this way as I’m greeted by fellow show parents suffering from the same affliction. We knowingly nod and putter on, cleaning pens, tidying up our tack areas and adding more ice to the cooler.

Sadly, state fair mini donuts and coffee aren’t enough to wake us from the state fair stupor.

But goodness, it’s a good kind of tired. It’s the kind of tired that reminds me there is nothing better than working hard for something and knowing you gave it your best.

It’s the kind of tired knowing that this week you anticipate all year is coming to an end, requiring you to move on to the next thing. But truth be told, you just want time to stand still for a few minutes so you can soak it all in through those tired eyes.

Because these are the moments we live for as show parents.

The fierce determination on her face as she takes her first sheep into the show ring at the state fair.

(Cindy’s Livestock Photos)
The conversations and coaching on the way to the show ring.

(Jennifer Shike)
The laughter of kids united by a common passion, kids who see the world through a different lens than others.

(Jennifer Shike)

The friend who always steps in to help without being asked.

(Jennifer Shike)

The smile she can’t contain as she shakes the judge’s hand.

(BROOKLYNN SALO/Cindy’s Livestock Photos)
The connection between kids and animals that reminds you there are some places in your heart that humans can’t fill.

(Jennifer Shike)

We live a lot of life in these show barns. Some of it’s fun to talk about and some of it’s not. But in the good times and in the tough times, we grow and we learn. We find out how to understand others better and we realize this world isn’t all about us. We get humbled, we get praised, we get hurt, we get redeemed, and we gain perspective.

These tired eyes aren’t just for lack of sleep during state fair week, but rather for a lot of life lived.

Parents aren’t the only tired ones!

(Jennifer Shike)

Read More: No, He’s Not a Buffalo: Why We Can’t Avoid Their Questions Anymore

Ozempic is Reshaping the Future of Pork

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 16:40:31 GMT

The surge of GLP-1 drugs, initially designed for diabetes but now hailed for weight loss, is transforming dietary patterns with significant implications for the pork industry. These medications, including semaglutide and others, are reducing cravings and shifting consumer preferences toward lean proteins, offering pork producers a chance to adapt to a health-driven market. With 40% of the global population overweight or obese —nearly double the undernourished—health systems are under pressure. GLP-1 drugs are catalyzing a dietary revolution that could usher in a new era for pork if the industry embraces change.

A Gallup survey reports 15.5 million U.S. adults currently use injectable weight-loss drugs, with projections estimating 9 % of Americans will adopt them by 2030 . The global GLP-1 market, valued at $47 billion, could expand tenfold by 2032, according to Pharmaceutical Journal . Users are cutting calorie intake by up to 20%—approximately 800 kilocalories daily—while moving away from fatty, sugary, and processed foods toward nutrient-rich options. For pork producers, this presents a clear directive: prioritizing lean, unprocessed pork could position the industry to meet evolving consumer demands.

Pork’s Protein Advantage
GLP-1 drugs mimic a hormone that suppresses appetite, slows digestion, and enhances feelings of fullness. Users not only consume less but also gravitate toward healthier foods, avoiding processed, high-fat options. A September 2023 Morgan Stanley report notes a decline in demand for processed foods like sugary beverages and salty snacks among GLP-1 users. A Canadian survey of over 8,600 users found a 30% reduction in consumption of sweets and carbonated drinks . For pork, this shift highlights an opportunity: lean cuts like loin could gain popularity as consumers turn away from fat-heavy processed products such as sausages or bacon.

Pork is a protein-rich food, but its processed forms often feature high levels of fat, salt, and sugar—qualities misaligned with the preferences of GLP-1 users, particularly given the drugs’ digestive side effects, such as discomfort or diarrhea, according to an article in The Economist . Experts foresee a growing demand for “lower-fat animal proteins,” suggesting pork could surpass beef if producers focus on leaner offerings . This could involve breeding pigs for reduced fat content, modifying feed to produce leaner meat, or promoting lean cuts over fattier ones like ribs.

Economic Opportunities and Challenges
The economic implications are substantial. Morgan Stanley projects that by 2035, 9% of Americans using GLP-1 drugs could reduce consumption of processed snacks and drinks by up to 4%. For pork producers, this creates a divide: those specializing in lean protein may see growth, while producers of fatty, processed products could face declining demand. Retail data from 2023 links GLP-1 use to reduced sales of indulgent foods, signaling potential challenges for pork’s processed segment. Adapting to prioritize lean cuts may require investments in new breeding programs or processing facilities, which could strain short-term profits but secure long-term viability.

Agricultural and Environmental Impacts
This dietary transformation extends to agriculture. As GLP-1 users favor whole foods—lean meats, fruits, and vegetables—over processed options, demand may shift from pigs bred for fatty cuts to leaner ones . Analysts suggest land use could move away from crops supporting processed food supply chains , such as corn for sweeteners, toward those sustaining leaner diets. Pork’s versatility positions it to compete with poultry, particularly for lean cuts, while its processed products lose appeal.

Innovations in feed or genetics could facilitate pork’s transition to leaner profiles, though some predict a gradual 0.5–1% decline in farm output over the next decade. Environmentally, reduced demand for fat-heavy pork could decrease waste and emissions by diverting resources from unsold cuts. A U.S. airline study offers a parallel: a 10-pound weight reduction per passenger saves 100 million liters of fuel annually. Leaner pork diets could yield similar efficiencies in resource use.

Strategic Pathways Forward
Pork producers face a critical decision: embrace lean protein or risk obsolescence with processed products. The food industry is already responding, with some introducing GLP-1-compatible offerings . Pork can differentiate itself by emphasizing unprocessed, lean cuts. Experts advocate reducing reliance on salt and sugar in processed foods , a call that applies directly to pork’s processed segment. With 9% of the population projected to use GLP-1 drugs by 2030 , particularly among influential demographics, their preference for clean protein could drive industry-wide change.

GLP-1 drugs are more than a health phenomenon—they are redefining pork’s trajectory. Producers who pivot to lean, unprocessed offerings can lead this transformation, while those anchored to fatty, processed products may struggle. The pork industry must decide: will it seize this opportunity to align with a leaner, healthier future?

Somewhere in the Middle’s Just Fine

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 11:34:15 GMT

My wife and I are naturally very competitive people. Our daughters Ella and Rose have tried a wide variety of activities throughout elementary and middle school, but the two they are the most excited about are 4-H and softball. Our evenings and weekends are packed with meetings, practices, games and working with show pigs.

Both girls play softball, and Ella joined her first travel team a year ago. Ella has shown pigs for about eight years and Rose has had the chance to exhibit some of those in showmanship. Currently, Rose is preparing the first barrow of her own for the Florida National Barrow Show in September. Soon, she will be picking out pigs for the Florida State Fair and our county fair in Spring 2026. Playing softball and showing pigs are activities that our girls enjoy, and my wife and I are excited to help them pursue their interests.

Ella joined her first travel softball team last fall as a 12-year-old playing on a 14-and-under team. Her inexperience playing at this level combined with being one of the youngest players on the team meant she was drinking from a firehose. Ella worked hard, learned to take critique and direction, and was a starting player this past spring. Most of her teammates complemented travel softball with school softball and a few other interests.

Both my wife and I exhibited pigs, and both of our dads raised pigs while we were growing up. Our girls have been showing pigs since 2018 with modest success, but we have not won a class at a national show or even had the county fair grand champion. We have more swine experience and knowledge than most county fair families, but we don’t have a 12-pen trailer and we work within a defined budget.

This spring our older daughter played 44 softball games, nine of which were lost by eight or more runs and eight of which were won by eight or more runs, analogous to playing college teams or marginal rec league teams. A good friend pointed out that there is no longer a middle ground -- today’s culture is all or nothing. I see this in the college students I teach. Parents have children specialize in extracurricular activities at a very young age, to such a level they minimize the well-rounded, jack-of-all-trades, master of none, ideology.

It is unlikely that my daughters will become Division I athletes or win a national swine show. However, my wife and I aim to raise winners both on and off the field and in and outside the ring. Softball and showing pigs serve as awesome opportunities to improve grit, confidence, work ethic, problem solving and leadership skills. In the last year, we’ve seen these skills in action as our girls have chased their interests and strived to improve every day. While winning a game or the county fair would be great, we are acutely aware of the long-term benefits that our daughters will develop through striving to improve every day.

My wife and I want to compete at a high level, but within reason (even though I’m still trying to convince my wife to purchase a nicer trailer!). Parenting is obviously a hard job, but it is absolutely one of the greatest joys in life. By supporting our girls’ interests in the middle while keeping the focus on life skills, we can raise exceptional young leaders that will make an impact on whatever careers they pursue.

Carr is a meat scientist at the University of Florida.

The Power of a Mentor: How You Can Inspire the Next Generation

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 17:12:45 GMT

I learned an important lesson early in life – find someone to look up to and help someone find a reason to look up to you. I know this is easier said than done. In theory, it is a great idea. But in reality, how do you put this into practice?

I spend a lot of time thinking about the next generation and ways to connect bright, promising young people to a life-giving future in agriculture. Over the years, a few things have become apparent to me when it comes to building connections between generations.

1. Make the first move.
Who cares if you get a cold shoulder? All too often we fail to make the first move because we let our doubts have more power than they deserve in our lives. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve heard farmers and other agricultural leaders express their desire to have young people reach out to them with questions. People want to be needed. The next generation will be more successful if they are armed with valuable lessons learned by today’s agricultural leaders.

It reminds me of the day I met Angie Denton at the National Western Stock Show in Denver. Admittedly, she tells the story with more drama than I recall. She says, “I was at the pen and carload show taking photos and this firecracker of a college girl came up and said she wanted to be my intern. I’ll never forget the passion and drive in her voice and her sincere desire to want to learn and grow as a livestock communicator.”

This makes me laugh because I was shaking in my boots – literally. But I also knew that if I wanted to intern with Angie, I needed to create a connection. Email wouldn’t do (and no, we didn’t have social media so don’t even joke about that). Most importantly, that quick conversation was a starting point for a lifelong friendship. But in the short term, it helped me land one of the greatest mentoring experiences of my life at the Angus Journal.

Fast forward a couple decades and it was my honor to encourage my mentor to apply for the Drovers editorial position. I’m excited Angie and I have the privilege of working together at Farm Journal as we seek innovative ways to serve America’s cattle and swine producers.

2. Listen more than you speak.
As one of the youngest executive directors of a state swine organization, Seth Mitchell’s path is one that’s turning heads. He is the first person selected for the Pork Industry Immersion Program, a two-year deep dive into organizational leadership in the swine industry. I’ll never forget my husband telling me Seth was one to watch when he was a student at the University of Illinois. I try not to admit this too much, but my husband was right.

Seth Mitchell on the stage at the National Pork Industry Forum.

(Jennifer Shike)

To say I was fascinated with Seth’s journey in the Pork Industry Immersion Program is an understatement. The forward-thinking approach of the industry leaders who helped create this program reminds me why the pork industry is so special. While other agricultural industries are finding it challenging to engage Generation Z, the pork industry has a different story to tell.

“I’m a firm believer that the pork industry’s greatest asset is its people,” Mitchell told me during a recent conversation we had on The PORK Podcas t. “Some of our tremendous leaders in the industry are starting to age out and we need a bench of good folks to come in and fill those potential vacancies coming down the road.”

Seth learned many valuable lessons during the immersion experience, but I couldn’t agree more with the perspective he gained on listening.

“When you understand that producers drive most of what we do as state and national pork organizations, you understand the value of sitting across the table and listening to what they have to say,” he says. “I believe there is more value in listening than speaking in those circumstances. I like to use the adage, ‘be interested, not interesting.’”

3. Feedback is a gift.
My experiences in FFA and 4-H helped me discover the blessing behind constructive guidance. We’ll never be so smart that we can’t benefit from someone else’s viewpoint.

Seth discovered this early and it’s serving him well in his new role as executive director of the Nebraska Pork Producers Association.

“One thing I’ve tried to be cognizant of is welcoming feedback,” he says. “Lean into it. Be curious and ask good questions. There are a lot of things I can’t fix unless someone makes me aware of it, so being receptive to feedback is helpful.”

Oftentimes the best thing we can do is invest in someone else. How will you accept the challenge to mentor the next generation? Don’t forget that it may be equally important to give someone else the opportunity to help you along in your journey. This is an industry that wouldn’t work without people. An investment in people always pays off in the end.

Your next read: In the Foxhole with Army Veteran and Pig Farmer Scott Hays

Don’t Ignore the Nudge: Why Listening Matters More Than You Think

Wed, 14 May 2025 19:39:21 GMT

Have you ever found yourself unsure of how to take a step forward? I clearly remember a day last summer when I was out of time. The procrastination needed to stop. I had an hour-long talk to prepare for and my mind was blank.

Of course, I realized this was not a good situation to be in. Sure, I had my topic and key points, but in my mind, it needed a dash of heart.

Then, my phone buzzed.

At first, I ignored it. I didn’t have time to get sidetracked. But I eventually checked it. It was Maddie, a young woman and friend who shared her vulnerable and powerful story with me a few years ago about her attempts at suicide.

Start the Conversation
She texted, “I know you’ve been so busy lately and I didn’t want to bother you. But I’ve been thinking about this all day and felt urged to share this story with you.”

Maddie had been speaking on her mental health journey in front of a group of farmers in Ohio. She didn’t know anyone at the event and admittedly, was a little nervous to share her story. When she arrived, a middle-aged man in work boots and overalls came right over to her and asked if he could help carry her things.

She politely said, “Sure, I’d love that.”

They got to talking as they carried in her tubs of stuff. Eventually they got to the reason she was in Ohio to speak.

This 250-lb. farmer then teared up and said, “I know why you are here. Ma’am, I just thought you should know that you’re the reason I’m here.”

Although the details of his story are not what matters here, he was contemplating suicide when he scrolled upon Maddie’s story on Facebook .

“For whatever reason, I saw your parents’ side of the story first,” he told her. “I decided that I didn’t want my wife and children to find me like that. I didn’t want to leave them like that.”

I messaged back to my friend and said, “Wow. I don’t know what else to say.”

She simply responded that she didn’t know what to say in that moment either. So, she hugged him hard and that was it.

“It was exceptionally hard to compose myself the rest of the day,” Maddie texted back. “Thank you, Jennifer. You took a chance on me and whether you know it or not, you saved a life, too. I was just a small part in it.”

‘Fine’ Doesn’t Cut It
Can I be honest that I felt completely uncomfortable when she said this? (And even more so sharing this with you.) But in that moment, I was reminded that the very best thing we can do in this world is listen to others. We think we need to say something back or have the right words, but we don’t.

People just want to be heard. They want to be known. They may not say it out loud, but as humans, one of our greatest needs is to be understood by someone.

We all have stories that need to be shared, and we need people to step in and listen to them. Listening is one of the most powerful healing tools.

Almost a year ago, I wrote about my friend Mary and how she takes the time to truly see people . She’s a busy lady and balances several jobs and volunteer opportunities. But she is never too busy to genuinely look you in the eye and ask you how you are doing. Mary doesn’t ask in a way that gives you any option except to say how you are really doing. ‘Fine’ doesn’t cut it with her.

I hope you don’t let ‘fine’ cut it in your life, either. Pay attention to the people you run into every day and the people you love who you don’t get to see very often. I’m thankful Maddie didn’t ignore the nudge to text me that day. She gave me just the dash of heart I needed.

Your Next Read: By Her Own Hand: A Farm Girl’s Miraculous Journey from Death to Hope

May is Mental Health Awareness Month . Millions of Americans live with mental health conditions. Whether by sharing your story, spreading awareness, or advocating for change, every action helps break the stigma and build a more supportive world for all.

Exclusive Op-Ed: American Farmers and Ranchers Win With U.K. Trade Deal

Fri, 09 May 2025 18:06:30 GMT

By Brooke L. Rollins, 33rd Secretary of Agriculture

President Trump has done it again. Yesterday’s historic trade deal with the United Kingdom, announced on the 80th anniversary of Victory Day for World War II, is a major victory for American producers, consumers, and, above all, American farmers and ranchers.

What became an imbalanced trade relationship between us and the U.K. did not develop by accident. Before yesterday’s deal, the weakened position of American farmers emerged through a combination of three factors:

The average tariff imposed on American agricultural producers by the U.K. has been 9.2% while our average tariff has been 5%.
The U.K. imposed other non-tariff barriers that limited American access to British markets such as limited quota limits, geographical indicators, irregular inspections, and arbitrary health, animal welfare, or environmental concerns not backed by science or data.
The previous administration did our farmers and ranchers no favors by refusing to institute a new deal with any country, including the U.K.

Yesterday’s announcement reverses course and gives American farmers a fair shot at competing in British markets, creating a $5 billion opportunity for new exports for U.S. stakeholders, including U.S. farmers, ranchers, and producers.

While our team finalizes the trade deal, we are working hard to eliminate U.K. tariffs from all agricultural products. The deal secures a decrease from 19% to 0% in the U.K.’s ethanol tariff, offering an opportunity for corn farmers in states such as Iowa and Nebraska to further expand this important, second-largest market for U.S. ethanol. British energy users will likewise benefit from additional homegrown biofuel produced here in the U.S. This week’s trade deal offers our corn and ethanol producers the opportunity to export $700 million in product to a market that was previously closed to them.

Cattle ranchers also have cause for celebration. Beef produced by American ranchers in states like Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas is the best in the world, and British consumers will now have access to a product that is the envy of the world. This trade deal creates the opportunity for our cattle ranchers to export millions more, which will end up in the pockets of American ranchers who saw a global trade surplus in beef during President Trump’s first term crash to a deficit under the previous administration.

Our rice farmers in states such as Arkansas and Louisiana will also see increased production because of this deal. Consumers in the U.K., which does not grow rice, will now have access to nutritious rice grown in American fields, creating a market potential of $100 million with free access.

We at USDA will not let this moment pass without energetic promotion of our products to British markets. My team and I are traveling to the U.K. next week to share the bounty of American agriculture to a market that is now open to our products. The trade deal announced yesterday commits our two countries to work together to enhance agricultural market access, closes loopholes, and fast-tracks customs procedures for U.S. exports.

The U.K. is the sixth-largest economy in the world and the fourth-largest to which we export. This week’s trade deal is a momentous step forward in our relationship with the U.K. and for the American agricultural industry. During my trip next week, I will stand ready to collaborate with our counterparts in the U.K. and ensure British consumers know American farmers and ranchers are open for business.

Protect Our Legacy Through Transparency and Advocacy

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 15:29:28 GMT

As the fifth generation on our Ohio family farm – paving the way for the sixth and seventh generations – I can attest to how much our business has changed over the years. Across the industry, we have embraced advancements and science-based best practices that have helped us produce safe, high-quality pork in ways that are better for the animals we care for, as well as for our people and the planet. I’m proud of how we raise pigs today.

However, increased activism has forced us to play defense. I firmly believe we are on the right side of these issues, so I’ve always strived to meet them head-on. In fact, I have welcomed thousands of visitors to my farm, including policymakers and nonfarming audiences, to provide a firsthand view of the realities of pork production. As a result, we’ve successfully changed misperceptions about how our animals are cared for, how our land is utilized, and how modern farms operate.

As president of the National Pork Producers Council, I am bringing that same commitment to transparency to share the work NPPC is doing on behalf of the nation’s 60,000-plus pork producers. Often, this work may not make headlines, but incremental steps result in important wins. I want producers to know what we’re doing and to understand the impact that persistent and strategic advocacy can have on industry. Not only will this approach show producers what they get for their investment, but it also sets each of us up for success.

Let’s start that process by highlighting NPPC’s long-range strategic plan, as this road map will guide our decisions in the years to come.

NPPC exists to ensure pork producers have a voice in the rooms where decisions about our future are made. We are committed to consistent, proactive engagement with policymakers at the international, federal, and state levels. Our long-range strategic plan places an emphasis on advocacy efforts that ensure the industry stays ahead of evolving regulations, market trends and corporate demands.

This plan was not created in a vacuum. We sought out and incorporated input from producers to ensure our advocacy efforts are aligned with the long-term goals of the hardworking men and women NPPC represents. From an organizational level, our long-range strategic plan will help us better anticipate and mitigate disruptions across the industry. It will create more effective engagement with producers, which will allow us to be more impactful advocates at every level of government.

Ultimately, we have a much larger goal. We all share the conviction that our family farm is our legacy. Protecting that legacy is the reason I found myself in the advocacy space in the first place. I am committed to ensuring we are all able to pass our family farms on to the next generation. NPPC’s long-term strategic plan will help us get there.

Your Next Read: 5 Ways to Protect Your Farm from Animal Activists

Odd One in the Room? Embrace It

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 14:24:16 GMT

I have a love-hate relationship with March. I mean, it almost seems like March feels the same about itself. Tornadoes, snow, lightning, sunshine, rain, wind, wind, wind. You never know where you’ll find yourself in March and I’ll admit I’m not sad to say goodbye to it for now.

That felt a little like my travel schedule this month. I started the month off in San Francisco, Calif., at the American Association of Swine Veterinarians (AASV) annual meeting . A week later I was in Orlando, Fla., for the National Pork Industry Forum . A week after that, I had the opportunity to speak to students at Black Hawk College East Campus. All three trips reminded me of why I do what I do.

What a March it has been traveling all across the country to serve America’s pig farmers!

(Jennifer Shike)

It’s always been and always will be about the people.

Porkbusiness.com was filled with stories in March highlighting the incredible people who make up our industry – the people who fight for it , sustain it , challenge it and look for ways to make it better every day .

Look Around the Room
It’s my privilege to share those stories with not only the pork industry, but with all of agriculture and hopefully, the world in some small way. But if I can be honest, I often feel like the odd one at these events. I don’t quite blend into the crowd. I’m often seen typing away on my laptop, trying to keep up with the speakers. No one is trying to sell me anything and I’m not looking to buy anything. I may even scare away a person or two because I bear the badge of media.

This feels a little silly to admit, but it’s true.

I think that’s why my recent conversation with the National Pork Producers Council Past President Lori Stevermer resonated with me. She said, “Don’t be afraid to be the only person like yourself in the room.”

As I thought about my career, it struck me how often I’ve felt (and looked) like the only one like myself in the room. I know I’m not the only one who feels this way or has felt this way at some time. Sometimes, I think we need to be reminded of why that is a very good thing.

“We need diversity of thought in agriculture because everybody brings a different perspective,” Stevermer said in the latest episode of The PORK Podcast. “Whether you’re male or female, old or young, you bring a different perspective. I think we have to acknowledge that those differences can make us stronger.”

Say Yes
If everyone in the room looks like we do, I think it’s time for us to take another piece of advice from Stevermer.

“I can’t overstate how important it is for us to think of people that we need to tap on the shoulder and let them know we see potential in them,” she shared.

So, here’s my tap on the shoulder to the pork industry. I want to encourage you to apply for one of these awards sponsored by Top Producer, recognizing and honoring agriculture’s best. I believe the depth of talent in our industry is worthy. And if not you, who can you lift up to apply?

Top Producer of the Year
The Top Producer of the Year Award identifies and honors agricultural producers from whom our readers can learn business concepts, ranging from value-added ventures to succession plans to overcoming adversity. Deadline to enter is Sept. 1.

Women in Agriculture Award
The Women in Agriculture Award will be given to a female producer who is a shining example for her peers. The winner will be an advocate for agriculture and represent an innovative farming or ranching operation. Deadline to enter is Sept. 1.

Next Gen Award
The Next Gen Award will be given to a producer under the age of 40, who demonstrates excellence in the business of farming, including marketing, farm finance, family and employee relations, technology and environmental stewardship. Deadline to enter is Sept. 1.

I’m in awe of the resiliency and character of U.S. pork producers. Your hard work and contributions are worthy of this recognition, so go apply. We need pork producers to engage not only in the pork industry, but beyond. As Stevermer says, “Pork producers need to have a seat at the table.”

Your Next Read: Don’t Be Afraid to Be You: Lori Stevermer Challenges Pork Industry to Show Up

Are You an Owner or a Participant in Your Life?

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 17:34:09 GMT

Leadership titles can seem a little glitzy at times, that is until you find yourself holding a leadership title. The truth is most leadership roles require hard moments that go unseen and unappreciated. It’s in those moments, when you think no one notices, that your true leadership capabilities shine.

I’ll never forget when my first boss Darrell Anderson stooped down to pick up trash at one of our pig shows. He was serving as the CEO of the National Swine Registry at the time — the big chief in command. What on earth was he doing worrying about the trash?

In that moment, when he didn’t think I was watching, I learned one of the most valuable leadership lessons of my life: Take ownership.

Although this wasn’t the first time I saw ownership in action, it was the first time I witnessed it in such contrast. Growing up on a farm, I remember some of my first experiences with “ownership.”

Raising livestock taught me you must work hard to get results and take responsibility for your weaknesses and strengths. I learned how to better support others by elevating the people around me. I also realized ownership requires extra effort that might not be valued at first and sacrifice to give up things you want sometimes.

Who Are You?
We all have opportunities to be owners or participants in this world. As a parent, I hope I’m raising owners who will accept responsibility for their actions, work hard to make the world around them better by going above and beyond, and remain humble, realizing it’s not all about them.

After interviewing Lance Dunbar, our newest barn hero , I couldn’t stop thinking about the topic of ownership. He said something I won’t forget: “For me, the job doesn’t end at 3 p.m. For example, if you have an alarm call, you go verify and make sure the pigs in your building are good, regardless of the time of day or night. I believe it’s important to treat people and the pigs like they are yours. I always manage the business like it’s my money going into it.”

Who wouldn’t want Dunbar leading their team? As director of production for Professional Swine Management, he takes incredible pride in his job. He is invested from beginning to end, whether that’s answering an alarm call or fixing a process that isn’t working right in a barn.

When he’s not at work, he’s serving as a firefighter and first responder. In his mind, it’s all about doing the right thing. For him, that means answering the call to help others in need 24/7. He models ownership at work, in his community and in his family.

He’s learned living a life of ownership creates greater purpose and deeper joy.

I believe we’ve all been put in different places for a reason. What we do with where we’re placed is up to us. Dunbar’s example challenges us to think about ownership in our own lives. It might be picking up trash to leave things better than you found them or working late hours to help a teammate. Don’t doubt the cumulative power of the little things. I’ve seen them add up to make a big difference in the world.

Your Next Read: Lance Dunbar: A Hero by Day and Night

4 Things You Can Do to Separate Yourself from the Competition

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 13:00:00 GMT

“Be unrelenting and show up every day with the best effort you can give.” When Chad Greenway, former linebacker with the Minnesota Vikings, shared that message at the Iowa Pork Congress, it made me think about what that looks like in my own life.

What stops us from giving our best effort? It seems easy enough, but sometimes life gets in the way. We listen to the negative voices in our lives. We get distracted by too many things. We forget to take time to rest. We try to do it in our own strength.

Maybe that’s why so many of Greenway’s points really resonated with me – they centered on how your purpose helps set the course for the decisions you make in life. In short, he says when you know your purpose and understand your “why,” it allows you to focus on your priorities and makes decision-making easier.

As a former professional football player, Greenway spent his entire 11-year career with the Vikings. He grew up on a hog and cattle farm in South Dakota where he earned the value of hard work, determination and perseverance.

Over the years, he says he learned four things you can do every day that separate you from others.

1. Display Character
“Integrity, responsibility, self-discipline and teamwork make up our character that is on display in both our personal and professional lives,” he says.

2. Be Consistent
“Set goals. Prioritize. Practice how you play,” Greenway says. “Be meticulous and obsessive as you work toward your goals.”

3. Grit
“Talent alone is not enough,” Greenway says. “You’ve got to be willing to do what it takes. That requires persistency, determination and resiliency.”

4. Pursue Accountability
“Be your harshest critic – raise your hand when it’s your fault,” he explains. “Find people who will challenge you. Don’t just be around people who tell you what you want to hear.”

One of the things that strikes me about this list is that they aren’t quick fixes. They don’t just happen without intention. They require commitment – they are cultivated slowly over time.

During a recent conversation with Pat and Phil Hord on The PORK Podcast , we discussed how their family has passed their farming business from generation to generation. But the thing that struck me most was not the wise planning they followed, but the emphasis they place on values guiding their decisions in their business and in their family.

For example, Pat gave both of his children who wanted to join the family business a project to help them better understand the business from the ground level.

In addition to gaining knowledge, the projects allowed them to build trust and understanding with the rest of the team. The landscape was much different than when Pat transitioned into the family farm, he points out. Years ago when he came to work for the family farm, they had one employee. When Phil came back 10 years ago, the farm had grown in size and already had an established management team.

“Phil had to prove his competency, as well as develop communication and build trust,” Pat says. “It was earned. At times, he had to work harder than everybody else, because he didn’t start at zero. He started at less than zero because everybody knew he was my child.”

To me, that exemplifies how character, consistency, grit and accountability can separate you from the competition.

There’s no doubt the past several years have been incredibly challenging for the U.S. pork industry. It’s motivating to hear stories of pork producers display these things as they strived to remain profitable and reach their goals despite the obstacles thrown their way.

With a more positive outlook ahead for 2025, how can the pork industry take advantage of the opportunity to continue to separate itself from other sectors? How can you build on these things to strengthen not only your business, but also yourself personally?

Your Next Read: Don’t Leave Anything on the Table

Lessons from a Small Town

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 16:22:57 GMT

“Well, I was born in a small town, and I live in a small town…”

It’s easy to take small town life for granted. I admit there were times I thought small town life was boring. When I moved off to college, I thought it was amazing to live down the street from a Dairy Queen and be less than 10 minutes from multiple shops and stores. The best part? Walking a few houses down the street to see my friends.

But as time wore on, I longed to be back in rural America. There’s nothing like it – especially if your small town embraces the concept of community.

I think that’s what drew me into learning more about the story behind Audubon, Iowa. The thought of a small town of 2,100 people coming together to make their community an inviting place to raise a family was simply a story I couldn’t pass up.

One of Audubon’s residents, Kate Hargens , said something that really struck me.

“In order to continue to recruit people back into rural communities for jobs, we need to support the growth and essential businesses like a grocery store and stores that improve quality of life such as a rec center, coffee shop or movie theater,” she says. “Young professionals currently entering the workforce with young families are not willing to sacrifice the comforts of a larger town or city when looking for a job.”

Animal agriculture needs small towns that thrive to attract the right kind of people. It’s true that you aren’t just recruiting people to a job – you are recruiting them to a life.

I thought about the small town that I live in today. It’s not very big, and it’s not perfect. But I’m proud of the work community members have done to improve the park, rally around our local 4-H club, and support a local restaurant that has delicious (and enormous) tenderloins that draw people in from hundreds of miles away. I appreciate that my neighbors cheer on our kids and would not falter to step in and help if needed.

I’ll never forget what our community was preparing to do 11 years ago. We were bracing for what was later named “Snowmageddon,” and most importantly, I was preparing for the birth of our youngest child. The forecast for our induction day looked awful so we decided to head to the big city early and stay at a hotel until it was time.

A neighbor later told me that they were prepared for the Shike baby to come in the storm and had outlined a plan for the trucks to clear our road if needed. I think they were a little disappointed we didn’t put them to test!

My point is this doesn’t just happen everywhere. But that’s not uncommon in a small town.

Regardless of where you live, I challenge you to be a Kate or a Jason or a Steve or a Nicki. Be someone who thinks about others and puts the needs of the whole above their own. There’s no question there’s an upside for these Audubon, Iowa, community members. But the reality is they didn’t have to spend their evenings and weekends raising money, writing grants and cleaning up their town – literally and figuratively.

In the paraphrased words of John Mellencamp, if you had the privilege of growing up in a small town, don’t forget where you came from.

Your Next Read: The Power of Community in Rural America

Don’t Leave Anything on the Table

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 15:37:24 GMT

One thing my dad taught me at an early age was that if I didn’t keep myself busy, he would. When you live on a farm, there is always something to do. There’s always an animal that could use attention, a barn that needs cleaning or a skill that needs practicing.

It can be an exhausting life, but it’s rewarding. It’s rewarding to know that you’ve put the time in and gave it your all. It’s rewarding to know that your work makes a difference and has an impact somehow.

And while my dad was right – that there is always something to do – I’ve also learned that there is always something to do. No matter how hard I work, there will still be work to do tomorrow.

You Can’t Pour Out of an Empty Cup
So, it’s important to also find time to rest. Taking some time off over the holidays is exactly what my soul needed. It’s easy for me to go hard and forget to rest. Then, I wonder why it’s so hard to pour myself into everyone and everything else.

Rest reminds us that we’re human and we can’t control it all. It helps us take a step back and regain perspective. It allows us see more clearly when we’ve taken a bit of a break from the grind.

Time for a Reboot
A recent conversation with my husband has been on my mind a lot lately. He said, “If you aren’t putting in full effort and trying to be the absolute best version of you that you can be, you’re leaving something on the table.”

I’m not a resolutions girl. I’m more of a “use the new year as a time to reboot” kind of girl. For me, the new year is a time to ask important questions.

• What are the things I care about most?
• Does my schedule reflect my priorities?
• Am I investing my time in stuff that matters?
• How am I living up to my full potential?
• What am I leaving on the table?

The U.S. pork industry has been wrestling with big questions, too. As a new year unfolds, I think it’s a good time to ask yourself a few reboot questions. We have limited days to make a difference in this life and fulfill our purpose. Are you on track to make your time count?

We Need You
If you haven’t been a part of the pork industry before, it’s hard to explain why it’s unique. But if you know, you know. My good friend Jan Archer recently retired from a 50-year career working in the pork industry. To say she’s seen it from all angles falls short.

“I’ve had an amazing career in this industry,” Archer says. “I’ve been able to feed my family and send my children to college. I’ve met the most amazing people on the planet -- the most honorable, the most hardworking, the most invested in other people. And that’s because I work in the pork industry.”

Archer says it’s critical that we let people know these stories of rewarding pork industry careers and lifetimes spent doing things that matter.

“We’ve got to let people know we’re here and we are a great career option,” she urges. “It doesn’t matter what you do or what your skill set is. If you are really good at social media, we’ve got a job for you. If you have a flip phone and never want to look at a computer, we have a job for you. If you love animals, we have a job for you. If you don’t really love animals, but love people, we have a job for you. There’s a place for everybody.”

Archer believes the industry’s cohesiveness and dependency on each other is part of why it’s special.

“The guy that’s got 150 pigs and is selling pork out his back door for a lot of money, we need him,” she says. “Those kids with show pigs that are chasing the banners, learning how to be FFA speakers, discovering how to have independent thought, learning how to get up every day and do the work, we really need them. There is a place for everybody.”

Sometimes I question if my role matters. Am I helping? Do I make a difference? The reality is we may never know in this lifetime. But if we prioritize and invest time pursuing a life that matters, using our gifts to the best of our ability, we will find incredible satisfaction living a life that doesn’t leave anything on the table.

Your Next Read: How My Insecurities Made Me More Grateful

I'm Going Into 2025 With Increased Concerns About HPAI H5N1

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 15:14:49 GMT

As we leave 2024 behind and start the New Year, the U.S. needs to step up its efforts to stop the spread of HPAI H5N1 — for all our sakes.

Based on the official numbers of virus cases reported in the dairy industry and beyond, in poultry and wildlife, it doesn’t appear we are moving fast enough individually or collectively to rein in this virus.

I’m trying to tread lightly on this topic, but candidly, I’m afraid.

The Impact On People

I’m very concerned about what this virus has the potential to do to human beings — our dairy farmers, farm workers, veterinarians — and, yes, the rest of us.

While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says the “current risk to individual and population health remains low in the U.S.,” that statement is less reassuring to me as time marches on and the virus spreads.

As of Dec. 30, 2024, the CDC has confirmed “only” 66 cases of the virus in people. See H5 Bird Flu: Current Situation.

That number is likely very low, based on what veterinarians have told me since March 25, 2024, when the virus was first confirmed in dairy cattle.

More importantly, consider what scientists are saying.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reported on Dec. 30 that “the virus strain found in dairy cows in the U.S. may only need one mutation for it to be able to spread among humans, according to a study published in the journal Science in early December.”

Dr. Les Sims, a veterinary consultant who has worked internationally for over 30 years on the prevention and control of major infectious diseases of food-producing animals, warns in the article: “The longer this virus circulates unchecked, the higher the likelihood it will acquire the mutations needed to cause a pandemic. We need to act urgently to prevent this scenario.”

The AVMA’s complete article is available here:
Novel bird flu strain continues to threaten animal, public health

Virologists Share Their Perspectives
Another insightful article is The state of H5N1 infections and research as 2025 approaches, posted on Dec. 24 by Chemical & Engineering News. It notes:

“As more cows get infected with H5N1 bird flu, and more people get exposed to infected animals, there’s increased opportunity for the virus to evolve into a version that’s more capable of spreading between people,” says Ed Hutchinson, a virologist at the University of Glasgow. “The process could result in the virus accumulating mutations that allow for better replication and transmission, including between people.”

“Virologists are also concerned about a situation where a person simultaneously gets infected with H5N1 and human influenza virus H3N2 or H1N1, each of which is currently circulating as flu activity gains pace . But it’s hard to predict whether genetic reassortment between those viruses would create a version of H5N1 that’s more adept at spreading in humans,” says Richard Webby, an influenza virologist at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, in the Chemical & Engineering News article.

Consider what one physician told NBC News Science Reporter Evan Bush on Dec. 23:

“The traffic light is changing from green to amber,” said Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, a professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, who studies infectious diseases. “So many signs are going in the wrong direction.”

See Bird flu warning signs are going in the wrong direction

Impacts In Dairy, Poultry, Wildlife
The virus continues to spread in the dairy industry, and it’s alarming the toll it’s already taken in domestic poultry and wildlife. In summary:

In Dairy: On March 25, 2024, the USDA, CDC and FDA made their official confirmation of the virus in dairy herds in two states, Texas and Kansas. A short nine months later, on Dec. 30, 2024, we officially had 913 herds affected in 16 states, according to the CDC. See Domestic Summary.

In Poultry: the USDA says HPAI H5N1 outbreaks in poultry have been detected in all 50 states —1,324 commercial flocks and 729 backyard flocks—resulting in the depopulation of more than 125 million turkeys and chickens. See the Full Report .

In Wildlife: The virus has affected more than 200 wildlife species across the U.S. See Detections of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Mammals.

Do What You Can
I don’t want to experience “another Covid” or a virus that could be even worse. I’m sure no one else does, either.

We must act individually and collectively to stem the spread of HPAI H5N1.

Please don’t “kick the can” on down the road and expect someone else to do your part. Take the steps you can to help, however small they might be.
That’s what I’m trying to do, too.

HPAI H5N1 is Content Focus of Special Issue

A Message to the Ag Industry about H5N1

California Issues State of Emergency Warning in Response to More Bird Flu Found on Dairies

New Zealand Reports First Case of HPAI

USDA Reports First H5N1 Detection in Swine

Navigating HPAI: Supporting Producers and Safeguarding Cows

The Value of Networking

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Networking can be defined as the practice of building relationships and exchanging information with others to create mutually beneficial connections. I recognized the value of networking at a young age and have tried to instill that understanding in my children as well.

Many have reminded me that who you know can get you in the door, and what you know will keep you there. I have seen evidence of this in my career.

Thank you, 4-H
I credit much of this skill of networking to my years in 4-H and being on our county horse judging team. Our coach would take us across my home state of Kansas to compete, and we would travel to national contests in Texas and Oklahoma. I was building relationships with my peers and adults within the industry.

My first college adviser was one of those people I met while being on the judging team. Decades later in Idaho, I was having my horse shod and the farrier was good friends with that adviser when they lived in Manhattan. Talk about a small world. Making connections like this happens a lot within the agriculture industry.

It goes both ways
While I have benefited from building relationships, I also want to be able to reciprocate. As I’ve gotten older and further in my career, I find it just as satisfying to reach into my network and share that knowledge with others. It’s gratifying to see someone with a need and be able to guide them to a resource. Recently, I saw an announcement for contract video work and reached out to someone whose work I follow and admire. I thought he would be a good fit for the position and sent him the notice.

The road to success
It’s the ability to introduce yourself and meet other people and their willingness to build those relationships as well that keep the world moving forward in a positive direction.

None of us operate in this industry as an island, and learning how to collaborate, communicate and exchange ideas respectfully are the skills needed to maintain good relationships that lead to success for all of us.

As you look to the final weeks of the year and into 2025, think about your personal and professional network. How can you use it to meet your individual goals, and how can you be a relationship builder for others?

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Go Practice Thanksgiving

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 20:06:42 GMT

I love Thanksgiving and cannot wait to spend time with our family. I’m especially grateful during this month of November for the opportunity to speak to a variety of audiences from stock show families to the women in my church. Every time I’m invited to share a little perspective with others, I’m challenged to gain more of my own.

As I searched for what I would say at an event last week, I realized I learned a lot about thanksgiving, or the expression of gratitude, from my mother-in-law Jane as she battled cancer years ago.

It was a brutal fight. I was young and remember learning the hard lesson that sometimes you can’t fix things, even though you desperately want to.

I’ll admit my husband and I often felt worried during those years, but Jane always had this peace about her. Even when so many of her days were filled with pain, she modeled thanksgiving, expressing gratitude for the good she could find in every situation.

She made us laugh, focused on helping others and kept herself busy finding ways to make sure we all knew how much she loved us. She taught me at an early age that gratitude is something we need to practice. And in all things, we can choose to find something to be grateful for.

Instead of focusing on how her life was changing, she focused on the gift of each day. She made our moments together count, teaching me about creating memories so I would have my own stories to share with my children someday.

I loved helping her prepare food for Thanksgiving while soaking in stories about my soon-to-be husband’s childhood. According to her, Dan was pretty near perfect. It always made me laugh to hear how ornery he could be, yet his smile got him out of trouble with her almost every time.

Now that I am a mother, I think of her every time our son Hunter makes me laugh at the most inopportune times while I’m trying to discipline him. It must run in the family!

Our memories are a gift that I am so thankful for during this time to pause and reflect. May this holiday be one where you can practice thanksgiving and find joy in all you do have.

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How My Insecurities Made Me More Grateful

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 20:29:13 GMT

Do you ever dwell on what you think you lack?

Not long ago, I was in San Angelo, Texas, getting ready to speak to a group of about 350 kids and parents at Lackey Livestock’s Training Day. I was excited to share some of my story while encouraging the attendees to be brave and share theirs. The theme was YOUR Story with an emphasis on “our” – the idea that “your story is our story” because our collective story has power to change the world and make an impact.

I couldn’t have loved this theme more. It’s why I do what I do. I spent hours trying to think through my approach. The more time I spent thinking about it, the more I found myself focusing on what I felt like I didn’t have.

I wasn’t fun enough.
I wasn’t motivational enough.
I wasn’t prepared enough.
I wasn’t smart enough.
Even my outfit wasn’t cool enough.

Shift Your Focus
I tried to shift my focus to what I knew to be true. At the core it’s simple - I love being able to connect with people – and in this case, families who share the same passions as mine. I knew this door was opened for a reason. I had to let go of my insecurities and trust any mistake I might make would be forgiven because I was going to be surrounded by good people.

I think that’s what I appreciate most about the gift of gratitude. Gratitude is not just a response to our circumstances – it’s an attitude we’re called to develop. Gratitude isn’t a gift – it’s something we are called to work on and grow.

Once I shifted my mind from focusing on what I lacked to being grateful for the opportunity before me, everything changed. I walked up to the stage with confidence, trusting God with everything I felt I lacked in that moment, and I spoke from the heart.

Be A Little More Vulnerable
Not only did I share my story, but I weaved in stories I’ve helped tell over the years. I shared how those stories helped open my eyes, change my perspective and most importantly, grow me.

At the end of my time on stage, I shared a little from my story about Maddison Caldwell . I knew it was risky because my audience was a mix of ages. I carefully talked about mental health – the reality that life isn’t easy, and we shouldn’t assume so much about other people.

I shared that Maddison had reached out to me recently to let me know she met a farmer at a conference who shared he was at a breaking point in his life. Suicide felt like his only option. But at just the right time, he ran across this story , which led him to Maddison’s story . Because of those stories, he stopped what he was about to do and chose to keep fighting in life. He told her he didn’t want his family to suffer like Maddison’s did.

When she told me that over a text, I didn’t even know how to respond. I broke down in tears. I still get emotional every time I think about Maddison’s encounter with the farmer. A life was saved because someone chose to be honest and vulnerable about their struggles.

There is Power in Your Experience
When I got done speaking that day in San Angelo, conversation after conversation confirmed that when we let go of our insecurities, incredible things can happen. I know it’s not always easy to share our stories, but there’s power in our vulnerability and honesty as humans.

As the holiday season approaches, I’m encouraged to not only share stories with my loved ones and friends, but to also truly listen and help people open up about theirs. This year hasn’t been an easy one for many people, but there’s great power in those stories of struggle – much more than our stories of “wins” if we’re being honest.

How can you stop focusing on your insecurities and let your story help someone else?

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From Subsistence Farming in Namibia to Modern Pig Farming in North Carolina

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 19:13:44 GMT

As a foreign resident, I often find myself oscillating between multiple cultures, navigating the space where they intersect. In this dynamic, I continually compare my experiences and seek opportunities to merge these worlds. During my second semester at North Carolina State University, our professor introduced us to a developmental opportunity called the Emerging NC Pork Leader program.

This initiative aims to equip young leaders in North Carolina for careers in the pork industry and as ambassadors for the sector. I was fortunate to be selected as one of the members of the program’s first cohort, an experience that has stayed with me long after I graduated, left North Carolina, and transitioned into opportunities outside the pork industry. I gained invaluable insights into leadership and learned how intentionality can profoundly impact an industry and its people.

Growing up in a village in the northern part of Namibia, subsistence farming combining both animal and plant-based practices was essential for survival. However, hog farming was uncommon, and several myths surrounded it. For instance, farmers believed that hog manure couldn’t be used as fertilizer and that pigs were unruly and difficult to manage. I witnessed small-scale, informal hog farming through my grandmother, who would feed the pigs whatever food scraps were available since “pigs can eat anything.” The slaughter of pigs was a rare and exciting event, given the scarcity of pork.

Being part of the Emerging NC Pork Leader program exposed me to a stark contrast in approaches to pork farming between North Carolina and Northern Namibia. In addition to large-scale farming, the North Carolina Pork Council has demonstrated a clear sense of intentionality and commitment to the pork industry. It has fostered collaboration among academia, farmers, and government agencies, which I believe has a significant impact on animal welfare.

They have also implemented initiatives to reduce their environmental impact, such as reducing methane emissions. This is achieved using microbiology, specifically employing microbes in manure digestion. The process converts pig manure into soil nutrients, while the released methane is captured and used as biofuel. This initiative highlights the industry’s commitment to both its community and the environment.

The North Carolina Pork Council has also taken on significant roles in the industry, including serving as the voice of the pork industry and providing excellent mentorship to young professionals in North Carolina by connecting them with accomplished individuals in various positions within the industry. Additionally, the Council plays a vital role in public health, education, and fostering meaningful leadership, which I believe is crucial for the growth and sustainability of hog farming.

I believe that such a commitment to the pork industry could be highly beneficial if implemented in Namibia. It could improve community livelihoods and contribute positively to the socio-economic status of rural areas in the country.

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Swine Foreign Animal Disease Preparation: A reflection through the legacy of Gord Downie

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 16:50:19 GMT

When we think about foreign animal diseases (FADs) in the swine industry, such as African swine fever (ASF), foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), and classical swine rever (CSF), we are reminded of the fragility of our agricultural systems. The threat of an outbreak demands vigilant preparedness, rapid response and a community-wide effort to mitigate damage.

Interestingly, the legacy of Gord Downie, the lead singer of The Tragically Hip, offers lessons that can be applied to swine foreign animal disease preparation. His activism, art and advocacy provide a framework for approaching such complex issues with urgency, empathy and a forward-looking perspective.

The Importance of Preparation
In the iconic song “Ahead by a Century,” Downie sings the powerful line, “No dress rehearsal, this is our life.” This sentiment could not be more relevant to the swine industry’s approach to foreign animal disease preparedness. There is no second chance when a disease outbreak occurs. As Dr. Kay Russo recently pointed out, the dairy industry did not stop movement of animals in the evolving H5N1 dairy cattle situation, and that has enabled significant transfer of the virus across the industry. The swine industry must continue to plan for the expected USDA mandated 72-hour standstill in the event of a foreign animal disease detected in the U.S.

Preparation for foreign animal diseases in swine populations requires a multi-pronged approach: enhanced biosecurity measures, including Secure Pork Supply (SPS) plans; tracking of animal movements through programs, such as AgView; early detection and surveillance through ongoing testing at veterinary laboratories, like the Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (ADRDL) at South Dakota State University; rapid response protocols, as outlined in the Foreign Animal Disease Preparedness and Response (FAD PReP) document; and international cooperation. ASF, for example, has already devastated pig populations in Asia and Europe, highlighting how unprepared many regions were for its rapid spread. Canada, the United States, and other countries have made strides in preparing for potential outbreaks, but the constant evolution of pathogens and the ever-present risk of globalization mean that preparedness must be continuously reviewed and improved.

Downie’s work, particularly his advocacy for Indigenous rights, was also a lesson in preparedness. He pushed Canada to reckon with its past and present in order to prepare for a better future. Similarly, the swine industry must learn from past outbreaks, such as the appearance of porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) in the spring of 2013, and commit to forward-thinking strategies, understanding that the cost of inaction or delayed action is far greater than the investment in readiness.

The Power of Community
Gord Downie’s fight against terminal brain cancer and his final tour underscored the value of community support in the face of adversity. When faced with an impending crisis, Downie rallied, not just his band, but an entire nation around important causes, notably the healing journey with Indigenous communities. In the same way, addressing foreign animal diseases requires a community effort. Farmers, veterinarians, researchers, policymakers and consumers must all play their part. Just as Downie used his platform to raise awareness of reconciliation, the swine industry must continue to raise awareness of biosecurity practices, disease transmission risks, and the global impact of animal disease.

The Role of Empathy
Downie was not just a rock star; he was a man deeply connected to the human condition. His lyrics often dealt with empathy, memory, and the fragility of life. These themes are important to reflect on when considering the potential devastation caused by an outbreak of swine foreign animal disease. The lives impacted are not only those of animals, but also the livelihoods of farmers, the food security of populations, and the economic stability of entire regions.

An outbreak of a foreign animal disease, like ASF, could have catastrophic consequences for small- and large-scale pig producers alike. It’s easy to look at these issues in purely economic terms, but Downie’s legacy reminds us that human lives and emotions are deeply connected to agricultural systems. The psychological and financial stress caused by losing herds to disease mirrors the emotional burden Downie carried during his illness, and the outpouring of support he received reflects the empathy we must extend to those on the front lines of an agricultural crisis.

As such, empathy must be at the core of preparation. Policies and practices should not only be aimed at disease containment, but also at supporting the mental health and economic resilience of those affected. Just as Downie’s lyrics urged us to care for one another in the face of hardship, the agricultural community must ensure that its response to foreign animal diseases is humane, compassionate, and considerate of the ripple effects on society at large.

A Legacy of Action and Reflection
Gord Downie’s legacy is one of the actions he used through his platform to create meaningful change and confront uncomfortable realities. In a similar way, the swine industry must confront the uncomfortable reality of foreign animal diseases head-on, taking proactive steps rather than reactive ones. Downie’s music and advocacy provide a roadmap: prepare, support your community, act with empathy, and understand that there is no dress rehearsal when dealing with crises. The swine industry must heed this wisdom, ensuring that when a foreign animal disease threatens, it is prepared not just to react, but to protect the future of food systems worldwide.

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I’ll Never Regret Giving Them the Stock Show Life

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 15:55:14 GMT

It’s often in the moments you least expect, that someone is watching and learning from what you’re doing. As a mom of three, I think about that a lot. We spend a huge chunk of spring, summer and fall attending livestock shows where our kids have the opportunity and privilege to learn from many different people.

Breeders, judges, industry leaders, family friends – I sincerely want to thank you for helping us raise our kids to know that there is something bigger in this world than just what we see in our hometown.

Raising our kids in the livestock industry has given them a “family” far bigger than I ever dreamed. Our youngest daughter, Harper, considers Sarah Yantis as another “aunt” who she can always trust and turn to for help.

(Jennifer Shike)

Because of your investment of time in their lives, they know the world is big. And isn’t that half of the battle? To realize there is so much more in our world besides us?

This hit home the other day when one of our kids remarked that they feel sorry for kids who don’t have those opportunities.

“I can go almost anywhere in the country and know someone because of the livestock industry – that’s pretty amazing,” my unidentified child told me. “And I know they’ll be there for me.”

At the end of the day, the relationships they are developing, the connections they are making, the ideas they are forming and the knowledge they are gaining, are helping them build a confidence that we simply can’t give them on our own.

So I wanted to stop for a minute to say thank you.

To the families we show with all summer, thank you for asking our kids questions and showing that you are interested in their lives. A little comment about their new hair style or asking them about their recovery from an injury means you saw them. It may sound silly, but in a world where people are so preoccupied, you took time to make a teenage kid feel seen. (Oh and thanks for sharing your snacks, too!)

It’s an incredible gift to be surrounded by stock show families who aren’t afraid to step in, show up and love your kids like their own. Our friend Emily Spray is known for her famous good-bye hugs.

(Jennifer Shike)

To the breeders who graciously allow us to buy and show your pigs, thank you for trusting our kids to do their best to care for the animals you raised. Thanks for investing time into checking in on them, listening to their perspectives and offering your advice. You’ll never know what a big impact you’ve had on shaping how they see livestock and how they see the agriculture industry.

I appreciate it when breeders take time to explain the why behind their decisions to help our kids learn. Our son Hunter (left) learned so much this summer from the time he spent helping Brandon Yantis (right), one of the breeders we buy pigs from each year.

(Legacy Livestock Imaging)

To the organizers of the junior shows who pour their time, talents and energy into making youth livestock shows possible, thank you. The doors you open for young people to find their place in the livestock industry is a gift I don’t take for granted. A lot of things vie for the hearts and minds of young people today. Thank you for making these events and shows possible.

(L to R): Olivia and her friend Hannah Miller thank Team Purebred Director of Junior Activities and Events Chelsea Schminke Grieder (center) after a busy week for her work organizing the Team Purebred National Junior Show.

(Legacy Livestock Imaging)

To the judges who step into the ring and make hard decisions all day long, who share their expertise and knowledge, and inspire our kids to be like them someday, thank you. Every time I look at the pictures of judges congratulating our kids this summer, I tear up. Your hugs and handshakes will be felt in their life long past that moment in the show ring.

Judge AJ Genter shakes Olivia’s hand at the 2024 Team Purebred National Junior Show.

(Legacy Livestock Imaging)

The Long Game
Our kids miss out on many social opportunities locally because they have chores or are gone showing on the weekends. Admittedly, it can be tough at times when they get left out of things. As a parent I’ve asked myself a time or two if the sacrifice is worth it.

Parenting is a long game. We’re building resilient decisionmakers capable of doing hard things – but also capable of kindness, gratitude and appreciation for others. As parents, we need to remember the momentary losses for the long-term gains are worth it. Don’t lose sight of what you are doing to open up their eyes to future opportunities. No, the stock show lifestyle isn’t easy, but it’s worth it.

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Outside Advisor Can Provide Fresh Eye for Production Gains

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 15:49:11 GMT

In 2023, Dustin Coleman was facing a dilemma familiar to many producers right now in the swine industry. A farmer in Middletown, Mo. — where he and his team operate a breed-to-wean facility with approximately 2,500 sows — he found that while his animals were performing well enough, he wanted to learn how he could improve their condition while possibly saving money.

A significant issue he confronted was how to keep sows at a good, consistent weight throughout breeding and farrowing. He was having trouble with underlines and teats since they weren’t as full as he thought they ought to be, to produce the piglets he wanted to sell. Another challenge was high feed prices — something to which a lot of producers can relate.

My work with Coleman illustrates the value an outside advisor can bring to the farm, providing a fresh set of eyes and a specialized industry focus. I generally visit a producer’s operation to do a walk-through and observe the operations, feeding system, animals and environment, then provide recommendations for potential improvements. In this case, making some feed, and feeding, changes resulted in noticeable production gains.

Impressive Results
One of the first notes I provided to Coleman was that he was potentially overfeeding sows for no added production benefit. He instituted stricter weighing of feeders instead of sometimes just estimating the volume of feed, to ensure he and his team were delivering the proper amount per animal based on body condition scoring. This resulted in some cost savings by conserving feed.

Another recommendation I made was based on thinner sows and conception issues. When he would try to breed back these animals soon after weaning, some would have difficulty staying bred. We determined that if he kept the thinner sows on feed a bit longer and let them bulk up some more before breeding back, this improved conception — in fact, after he changed his feed formulation about a year ago, he began seeing an increase of about 3 percent in conception rates.

One of the changes I recommended in altering the formulation of the feed Coleman was providing his sows was to increase the additive of lysine by a small amount, less than 0.5 percent. Lysine is an essential amino acid for growth and performance, but occurs naturally only in relatively low quantities in the raw materials commonly used in the manufacture of swine feed.

While there was nothing incorrect in his previous feed formulation, as it did what was required in providing the sows adequate nutrition, the aim of my recommendations is to pull at least a little more robust performance from each animal that will result in a cumulative return on investment for the producer. The change in formulation did result in some cost savings for Coleman on additive ingredients (base feed such as corn, of course, doesn’t come down in price per bushel just because a producer reformulates their ration) — but his gains at market time have been much more significant.

After the formulation change, the sows’ udder quality improved, becoming fuller and showing much more definition, and udder edema went down through his herd. Over the last year, Coleman has also seen an increase in live births, averaging one more pig per two litters, and a bump in wean weights of an average 0.8 pound per piglet. This has allowed him to deliver better-quality, larger pigs to his buyers.

Perhaps the most significant result showed itself a month or two after we instituted the feed formulation change. His farm was hit with a porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) viral break, but despite the potential health challenges it could have presented for the herd, the sows still exhibited improved performance compared to their previous diet and piglets were surviving at a strong rate through the ordeal.

An Advocate in Change
One understandable worry this producer had in making a change to his feed formulation was that some or all the sows’ feed intake might dip, since changing any animal’s diet sometimes has that effect. Fortunately, the sows stayed at a steady intake level on average of about 28-32 pounds per day through the farrowing phase.

Another concern involved communicating effectively with feed mill personnel and switching his additive ingredients supplier since Coleman was already busy enough running the farm and not extensively experienced in negotiating feed formulations. Part of my task as an outside advisor is to try to smooth such transitions, so I worked with the mill to ensure the ingredients and feed quality met his standards.

Additionally, my role is to focus on recommending the best actions and products for a swine producer, which means I don’t endorse any particular products but instead, evaluate what is on the market for each individual situation based on performance and value. My goal is to provide information based on my experience and nutrition knowledge, with the producer electing to act on that data or not.

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The Best is Ahead: Stop Being Stuck in the Past

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 15:59:26 GMT

How often do you spend time thinking about the past? This question struck a nerve with me recently. Maybe more than I should?

“It’s easy in this industry to think about the good old days, but we have to believe the best is yet to come,” said Milt Lowder , a Clemson University psychologist, during the 34th Annual Swine Conference.

During one of the most challenging economic times of the U.S. pork industry, I couldn’t help but think: How exactly do we do that?

Grit Matters
Lowder says it starts with believing who you are becoming is better than what you are now. Through awareness, action and accountability, we can all keep growing.

“Awareness without action leaves you worse off than you were before,” he says.

How often do we know something isn’t working right but we fail to do something about it? Admittedly, we can’t fix all the problems we are up against in the pork industry now, but we can control our effort, Lowder points out.

That’s why grit matters. We can start again. We can use our strengths to pursue action. We can be more grateful and mindful of how to use our resources.

I really liked this question he asked: Can you be thankful for what you do have and not let what you don’t have interfere with what you do?

I can look so deeply into how to fix a problem that I find myself focused solely on the problem and can miss everything else I have going well in my life.

This past month has been full of hard things like our daughter going off to college , the death of my uncle, the death of my colleague and the end of a season for my family that I just didn’t want to be over quite yet. Within five days, all of those things happened, and I felt like I couldn’t breathe because I wasn’t sure what to grieve in that moment.

Invest in Tomorrow
Here are a few points Lowder shared that have helped me think about my grief.

1. Focus on what you can control. We can’t control the past, other people, the economy or our own future, but we can control our attitude, actions, decisions, responses, emotions, preparation and habits.

2. Forgive. Sometimes the past seems better than the present, but sometimes it doesn’t. If your past brings feelings of pain and hurt, choose forgiveness.

3. Shut out negativity. Our brains process a lot of our own negative thoughts. Make your thoughts work for you, not against you. Write down who you want to be.

Each day I’m reminded of challenges producers face from getting the farm bill passed to revising budgets and work plans for 2025 . If anything, this past month has challenged me to find the good in the tough.

We aren’t alone in the struggles, though we often think we are. If life is going well, remember others might be fighting battles. Reach out. Check in. If life is tough and you aren’t sure what to grieve next either, go be the person you need for someone else. Fight to believe the best is yet to come and invest in who you want to be tomorrow.

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