SwineTime with Pipestone

Latest Episodes:

Episode #75: Next-Gen Ag: What Young Talent Really Wants Apr 08, 2025

Show notes

Dr. Spencer Wayne sits down with Carly Bates, a soon-to-be college graduate, to discuss what young professionals look for in agriculture careers and how employers can stand out. They cover the importance of mentorship, networking, and communication, as well as the strong sense of community in the swine industry. Carly shares insights on stepping outside comfort zones, building connections, and why the swine industry offers great opportunities for those willing to put in the work. Whether you're hiring or job hunting, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways!

Episode #74: Preparing for Future You Can't Predict Mar 07, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the SwineTime podcast, Dr. Spencer Waynewelcomes futurist and author, Jack Uldrich, along with Hannah Walkes, President of Pipestone Services to discuss how swine producers can prepare for an ever-changing future. Jack shares insights from his "BIG AHA" framework—Awareness, Humility, and Action—helping farmers stay ahead of emerging trends that will impact their operations.

From advancements in artificial intelligence to shifts in labor and technology, Jack emphasizes the importance of staying informed, unlearning outdated practices, and taking action to adapt. He highlights how AI is already influencing agriculture and why producers should invest time inthinking strategically about the future of their farms.

Whether it’s integrating new technology, preparing for market changes, or developing a forward-thinking mindset, this conversation is all about helping swine producers stay resilient and ready for what’s next.

Episode #73: Financial Freedom Through Risk Management Feb 18, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the SwineTime, Dr. Spencer Wayne sits down with Damon Vander Maten, Director of FarmBooks, an offering of Pipestone Business Services, to discuss the crucial role of risk management in farming and how financial discipline can make or break an operation. They explore the pitfalls of emotional decision-making, the importance of maintaining a consistent strategy, and the financial tools available to producers.

Whether you're just starting out or have been in the business for years, you'll hear valuable advice on balancing risk, usingthe right financial tools, and maintaining a disciplined approach to farming—ensuring that you're ready for the opportunities and challenges ahead. Tune in to learn why disciplined risk management leads to greater freedom andsuccess in agriculture.

Episode #72: Ready for Anything - The Essential Role of U.S. SHIP Feb 03, 2025

Show notes

In the latest episode of the SwineTime podcast, host Dr. Spencer Wayne takes a deep dive into the U.S. Swine Health Improvement Plan (US SHIP), joined by experts Drs. Tyler Holck, Tom Wetzell, and Vienna Brown, all of whom play key roles within the program.

U.S. SHIP is a voluntary program designed to safeguard, improve, and represent the health status of swine across participating farm sites, supply chains, states, and regions. Dr. Holck breaks down how this program isn’t just about compliance—it’s about giving producers the tools and resources to protect their herds and stay competitive in the global market.

Dr. Wetzell shares how U.S. SHIP builds teamwork, bringing together farmers, veterinarians, packers, and regulators to focus on herd health and disease preparedness. From practical tips for tracking herd status to how this program can open market opportunities even in the face of a foreign animal disease outbreak, the conversation is packed with real-world insights for producers who want to stay ahead of the curve. If you’ve been hearing about U.S. SHIP and wondering what it’s all about, this episode is for you.

Dr. Vienna Brown outlines how U.S. SHIP is transitioning from a pilot program into a fully recognized U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) initiative, set to be acknowledged by U.S. trade partners. Tune in to hear how this move is paving the way for a stronger, more secure future for U.S. pork production.

Learn more here:

Find USDA draft rule and proposed standards: www.regulations.gov. U.S. SHIP website: https://usswinehealthimprovementplan.com/

Official State Agencies:

Iowa: https://iowaagriculture.gov/ship

Minnesota: https://bah.state.mn.us/swine

South Dakota: https://aib.sd.gov/swine.html

Episode #71: Roots & Responsibility - Empowering Your Next Generation Dec 30, 2024

Show notes

In this continuation of our discussion on succession planning, host Dr. Spencer Wayne sits down again with Jim Marzolf of Pipestone Business Services to dive deeper into building the next generation of family farm leaders. While the first episode focused on family dynamics, this part tackles the structural and strategic elements of succession, including organizational roles, accountability, and leadership development.

Learn how to create clear job descriptions, define responsibilities, and empower future leaders while navigating the challenges of transitioning control from one generation to the next. Jim shares insights on fostering intentional growth, balancing authority, and avoiding common pitfalls in family business transitions. If you're navigating succession in your own operation, this episode offers valuable advice and practical steps to build a strong foundation for future success.

Episode #70: Succession Planning for the Family Farm Dec 11, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the SwineTime Podcast, Dr. Spencer Wayne sits down with Jim Marzolf, Executive Vice President of Pipestone Business Services, to discuss a topic that hits close to home for many farm families: succession planning. Passing the torch to the next generation isn’t just about keeping the farm running—it’s about protecting a legacy.

Jim shares practical tips and stories from his years of experience working with farmers, offering insight into how to approach some of the trickiest parts of the process. They discuss everything from setting up a solid plan and handling family dynamics to making sure the farm can keep thriving as it changes hands.

Whether you’re just starting to think about the future or knee-deep in conversations with your family, this episode is packed with advice to help you take the next steps toward a smooth transition—and set the next generation up for success.

Episode #69: BONUS EPISODE - New Roots Haiti Nov 26, 2024

Show notes

In the latest episode of SwineTime, host Dr. Spencer Wayne sits down with Dr. Joel Nerem from PIPESTONE and Nikki Stolberg from New Roots Haiti, an organization doing incredible work to improve the lives of people in and around a small Haitian village. Together, they dive into the amazing ways New Roots Haiti is tackling poverty, hunger, and social challenges through sustainable farming, education, and building strong communities.

You’ll hear stories about the real struggles the Haitian people face every day and the creative, hands-on solutions New Roots has developed to make a difference. From teaching farming techniques that help families grow their own food to programs that empower kids through education, New Roots Haiti is about building a brighter, more sustainable future.

Dr. Nerem and Nikki also discuss why PIPESTONE is proud to support New Roots Haiti and how this partnership is making a real impact. It’s a powerful look at how agriculture and education can transform lives—and a reminder of the amazing things that happen when people come together to make a difference. Don’t miss it!

Episode #68: Journey Through Pig Production in the UK Nov 07, 2024

Show notes

In this SwineTime episode, Dr. Spencer Wayne sits down with UK swine veterinarian, Dr. Alex Thomsett, and explores the ins and outs of UK pig farming. Dr. Thomsett shares how UK farms operate under very different rules: weaning at 28 days, tail docking restrictions, minimal castration, and higher welfare standards. Each of these regulations creates unique challenges—and opportunities—that shape the way British farmers run their operations.

Dr. Thomsett also discusses how UK farms handle outdoor systems, manage tail biting, and stay prepared for health threats like swine fever. This episode gives U.S. producers a valuable look at pig farming beyond our borders, offering insights into what drives welfare and productivity across the pond.

Episode #67: Maximize Profits with Market Sales & Selection Oct 22, 2024

Show notes

In the latest SwineTime Podcast, host Dr. Spencer Wayne chats with Alex Kremer, FarmPro’s new Market Sales Manager, about the crucial role pig selection plays in boosting profits. Kremer shares insights on how selling pigs at the right weight and at the right time can make a big financial difference for farmers.

They break down key terms like coefficient of variance (CV) and standard deviation and how tighter weight ranges in pigs lead to better payouts at market time. Kremer reveals that moving from a 10% to 7% CV can mean an extra $5 per pig—a game-changer for producers.

Alex offers practical tips on improving pig selection and explains how small changes in the marketing phase can significantly impact your bottom line. Tune in and learn how to maximize your profits!

Episode #66: Mastering Climate Control for Healthier Pigs Oct 08, 2024

Show notes

Join Dr. Spencer Wayne as he chats with Dr. Jeff Blythe and FarmPro Production Consultant, Nick Enfield about the everyday ventilation challenges pig farmers face. They dive into practical solutions to improve barn conditions, focusing on the importance of getting airspeed right, placing temperature probes effectively, and keeping equipment well-maintained. The trio discusses how poor ventilation can lead to high humidity and health issues for your pigs.

Take away with easy-to-follow tips on boosting fan efficiency, preventing air stratification, and adjusting ventilation based on how your pigs are behaving and the current barn conditions. By putting these expert strategies into action, you can create a healthier environment for your herd and help them thrive.

PIPESTONE’s mission is “Helping Farmers Today Create the Farms of Tomorrow.” The SwineTime podcast was created for pig farmers and individual pork producers around the country. Hosted by Dr. Wayne, the podcast contains pork industry news, advancements in animal care, and how to enhance your productivity.

Monthly podcasts are available on Pipestone.com and your favorite streaming platform.

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