Best Swine Genetics Podcasts (2025)

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The Squeal_0238: Cold-Weather Checklist: Barn Preparation_Part 2 30:13

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2h ago30:13

30:13

When cold weather hits, it’s natural to want to tighten up barns to hold in as much heat as possible. But cutting back too far on ventilation can create problems that are just as harmful as the cold itself. In this second episode of our Cold Weather Preparation series, host Isaiah Spath, PIC Technical Services Manager, is joined by Nat Stas, PIC We…

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The Journey of Full Program Testing 12:30

2h ago12:30

12:30

In this episode, Drs. Amanda Cross and Vishesh Bhatia explore the journey of full program testing on the DNA Genetics' market pig, discussing how the concept was born, developed, and brought to life as a project. They share insights into the evolution of full program testing — from its early vision and goals, to the challenges and lessons learned a…

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Is It Time to Upgrade Your Herd's Health? 18:01

6d ago18:01

18:01

In this episode, Dr. Christine Mainquist-Whigham breaks down when a herd depopulation and repopulation strategy makes sense and what producers need to consider before making the decision. From identifying the right timing to understanding the key factors that influence success, this conversation will help you plan a smooth and effective herd health…

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The Squeal_0237: Cold-Weather Checklist: Barn Preparation_Part 1 25:45

16d ago25:45

25:45

As temperatures begin to drop, making sure barns are ready for winter is critical to maintaining pig comfort and performance. In the first episode of the Cold Weather Preparation series on The Squeal, host Isaiah Spath, PIC Wean-to-Finish Technical Services Manager, sits down with Nat Stas, PIC Wean-to-Finish Director, and Curtis Possberg, Senior P…

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The Squeal_0236: Maximizing Breeding Efficiency: Understanding CAI and PCAI 32:49

1M ago32:49

32:49

In this episode, we break down two key artificial insemination techniques — Conventional AI (CAI) and Post-Cervical AI (PCAI) — and explore how each can impact productivity, labor efficiency, and reproductive success. Jorge Cajamarca (PIC Technical Services Sr. Specialist), Bruno Cortes Espejo (Supervisor, Farm Operations), and Dr. Brad Didion (PIC…

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Breeding on Your Terms: Mastering the Estrous Cycle & Reproductive Tools 19:04

28d ago19:04

19:04

Join Dr. Steve Terlouw in the second part of the reproductive management series as he discusses various tool for managing the estrous cycle. Dr. Terlouw shares various insights for managing gilts and sows for improved cyclicity and synchronization. Join us to gain a better understanding of these reproductive tools and how to appropriately apply the…

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To Induce or Not to Induce: Striking the Right Balance in Farrowing Management 15:48

2M ago15:48

15:48

Dr. John Sonderman joins us to launch a two-part series on reproductive tools. In this episode, we unpack the practice of sow induction—its benefits, risks, and how it can shape farrowing outcomes. Dr. Sonderman walks us through key protocols and decision-making factors to consider when planning induction in your herd. If you’re aiming for tighter …

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The Squeal_0235:The Road to PRRS-resistance 29:14

2M ago29:14

29:14

In this episode of The Squeal, we reflect on the critical role farm teams played in achieving FDA approval of the gene edit used to breed PRRS-resistant pigs. From rigorous data collection to enhanced biosecurity protocols, the journey required years of dedication and precision. Throughout the process, pigs were raised just like any other—managed w…

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Are All Sires Created Equal? The Truth About Pooled Semen 17:48

2M ago17:48

17:48

In this episode, Dr. Ashley Hartman dives into the science behind pooled semen in the U.S. swine industry. She explains what pooled semen is, why it's used, and what recent research reveals about how sires are represented within litters. If you’ve ever wondered how pooling impacts genetic diversity, fertility, or litter performance—this one’s for y…

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The Squeal_0234:Summer Feeding Strategies for Lactating Sows_Part 2 20:27

2M ago20:27

20:27

In Part 2 of our summer feeding series, host Brie Quick (PIC Technical Services Manager) returns with Dr. Lori Kociemba (PIC Technical Services Manager) and Jordi Camp (European Nutritionist Manager) to dive deeper into strategies for keeping sows productive and comfortable during the heat of the season. This episode focuses on real-world adjustmen…

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Digital Phenotyping: Advancing the Next Generation of Genetic Progress 23:20

3M ago23:20

23:20

At DNA Genetics, we’re always looking for ways to deliver a better pig. In this episode, Dr. Tom Rathje explores how digital phenotyping can accelerate genetic progress—both in traits we already measure and those we haven’t been able to. He also shares how DNA is using this technology today and where it could go in the next five years.…

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The Squeal_0233: Summer Feeding Strategies for Lactating Sows_Part 1 18:40

3M ago18:40

18:40

As temperatures rise, so do the challenges of keeping lactating sows eating, healthy, and productive. In this episode of The Squeal, our nutrition and production experts dive into practical summer feeding strategies to combat heat stress and maintain sow performance. Our host, Brie Quick (PIC Technical Services Manager) leads the conversation with …

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The Legacy of the Boar: Building Longevity in the Stud 13:02

3M ago13:02

13:02

Bringing boars to the stud takes a significant investment—but keeping them there is where the real return lies. In this episode, Dr. Cory Faust shares practical strategies to optimize boar management and extend their productive life, helping you protect your investment and boost long-term performance.…

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The Squeal_0232: Biosecurity Breakdown: Controlling Fomites and External Threats_Part 2 18:19

3M ago18:19

18:19

In Part 2 of our biosecurity series on controlling fomites and external threats, we move from identifying risks to implementing solutions. Our expert guests return to share real-world examples of how farms are successfully managing external threats and reducing the risk of disease introduction. From enhanced sanitation protocols to controlled acces…

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Gene Editing: Revisiting a Timely Topic 20:04

3M ago20:04

20:04

Gene editing holds great promise for advancing the swine industry, offering opportunities for genetic improvement and the potential eradication of specific pathogens like the PRRS virus. However, before this technology can be widely implemented, the industry must address several key challenges—particularly in supply chain logistics and both domesti…

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The Squeal_0231: Biosecurity Breakdown: Controlling Fomites and External Threats 27:41

4M ago27:41

27:41

In today's episode of The Squeal, we take a deep dive into the hidden risks posed by fomites—objects and materials that can carry disease—and explore the strategies producers can use to mitigate external threats to herd health. From contaminated boots and feed deliveries to visitors and equipment, our expert guests break down where the vulnerabilit…

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Perception vs. Progress: The Real Story of Today’s L241 13:44

4M ago13:44

13:44

In this episode, Dr. Ashley Hartman and Brady McNeil bust some of today’s biggest misperceptions about the DNA Line 241 female. Backed by data and real-world results, they dive into how this sow has evolved—becoming more efficient, easier to manage, and ultimately helping producers reduce labor costs without compromising performance.…

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The Squeal_0230: Building Better Sows: Strategies for Parity 1 Development_Part 2 20:45

4M ago20:45

20:45

On today's follow-up episode of The Squeal, we continue the conversation on parity 1 development and its lasting impact on sow longevity and herd profitability. Our host, Brie Quick (PIC Technical Services Manager) returns with Kendall Weger (PIC Technical Services Manager) and Nathan Schleman (Director of Sow Production, Belstra Milling Group) to …

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Barn Cam Series, Part 2: Using Cameras to Strengthen Biosecurity 7:38

5M ago7:38

7:38

We’re continuing our barn camera series with a closer look at how video monitoring is helping safeguard biosecurity at the highest level. Joining us is Jenna Mencke, Biosecurity Specialist at DNA Genetics, to share how cameras are used across our nucleus farms, the layers of protection they offer, and how team members are actively involved in their…

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The Squeal_0229: Building Better Sows: Strategies for Parity 1 Development 21:24

5M ago21:24

21:24

On today's episode of The Squeal, we dive into the critical role of parity 1 development in building better, longer-lasting sows. Our host, Brie Quick (PIC Technical Services Manager) is joined by Kendall Weger (PIC Technical Servcies Manager) and Nathan Schleman (Director of Sow Production, Belstra Milling Group) to discuss the keys to setting you…

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Barn Cam Series, Part 1: A Look Through the Lens with Andy Jakubowski 15:16

5M ago15:16

15:16

In this episode, Andy Jakubowski launches the first installment of a three-part series exploring the evolution of camera technology in barns. Drawing from years of hands-on experience, Andy takes us on a journey from the early days of camera use to the cutting-edge systems in place today. Along the way, he shares valuable insights and lessons learn…

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The Squeal_0228: Beating the Heat: Preparing Barns for Warm Weather_Part 2 17:55

5M ago17:55

17:55

In this second installment of our "Beating the Heat" series on The Squeal, our host, Tori Walers (PIC Technical Communications and Wean-to-Finish) dives deeper into strategies for keeping pigs comfortable and healthy as temperatures rise. Our expert guests, Nat Stas (PIC Wean-to-Finish Director) and Isaiah Spath (PIC Wean-to-Finish Manager) return …

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The Value of Teat Count and Loading Strategy 13:18

5M ago13:18

13:18

In this episode with Brady McNeil, he will dive into a study on functional teat count and piglet weaning. Each additional functional teat supports weaning about one-third more pig. Loading up to one pig over teat count increases pigs weaned without raising pre-weaning mortality, but exceeding this threshold leads to higher losses without improving …

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The Squeal_0227: Beating the Heat: Preparing Barns for Warm Weather_Part1 17:47

6M ago17:47

17:47

As temperatures rise, keeping your barn cool and comfortable is essential for the health and performance of your pigs. Our host, Tori Walters (PIC Technical Communications Specialist) is joined by Nat Stas (PIC Wean to Finish Director) and Isaiah Spath (PIC Wean to Finish Manager) to discuss tips and recommendations on preparing for the upcoming wa…

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Split Suckling: Myth or Must? 30:19

6M ago30:19

30:19

In this episode, PhD student Mikayla Spinler shares insights from our summer research trial, where she explores the outcomes of two distinct split-suckling strategies.By DNA Genetics

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The Squeal_0226: The Future of the PRRS-Resistant Pig in Consumer Markets_Part 2 24:51

6M ago24:51

24:51

In this episode of The Squeal, host Dr. Lindsay Case (PIC Technical Director of Product Sustainability) continues the conversation on the future of the PRRS-resistant pigs in consumer markets. Joining her are Marisa Pooley (PIC Director of Communications & Engagement) and Staci Covkin (Circana, Principal of Innovation Consumer & Shopper Insights), …

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From Concept to Reality: The Journey of New Trait Development 16:00

6M ago16:00

16:00

Have you ever imagined a new or unique trait and wondered how it becomes a reality? In this episode, Dr. Randy Borg takes us behind the scenes of genetic innovation, exploring the process that transforms an idea into a tangible trait that producers can observe in the field.By DNA Genetics

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The Squeal_0225: The Future of the PRRS-Resistant Pig in Consumer Markets_Part 1 23:49

7M ago23:49

23:49

On today's episode of The Squeal, our host, Dr. Lindsay Case (PIC Technical Director, Product Sustainability) is joined by Marisa Pooley (PIC Director of Communications and Engagement) and Staci Covkin (Principal, Innovation Consumer & Shopper Insights - Circana.) The guests share insights into consumer acceptance in anticipation of the PRRS-Resist…

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The mystery cough: Could it be Astrovirus 4? 12:28

7M ago12:28

12:28

Does your nursery have a lingering cough, yet they continue to test negative for influenza or PRRS? It could be Astrovirus 4. In this episode, Dr. Jamie Madigan, Veterinarian, discusses the presentation and management of Astrovirus 4 as well as a recent trial evaluating a new vaccine that can be given to sows pre-farrow.…

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The Squeal_0224: People and Biosecurity 16:59

7M ago16:59

16:59

On today's episode of The Squeal, we are joined by Jason Pooley (PIC Health Programs Manager) and Megan Mitchell (PIC Health Operations Manager) to share insights on how people can impact the biosecurity of a farm. Our host, Dr. Rebecca Robbins (PIC Health Assuance Veterinarian) leads the conversation to better explain the importance of biosecurity…

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To Buy or Not to Buy: Deciding the Best Path for Sourcing Gilts 21:27

8M ago21:27

21:27

Are you weighing the options for sourcing gilts? Wondering if raising them yourself might be the right move? In this episode, Brady McNeil, Multiplication Business Lead, dives into the pros and cons of purchasing gilts from a retail multiplier versus raising them on your own. Discover the various strategies available to producers and gain insights …

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The Squeal_0223: Selecting the right females 17:57

7M ago17:57

17:57

On today's episode of The Squeal, our host, David McGee (PIC Supply Chain Senior Specialist) is joined by Reda Salimi (Country View Family Farms - Production Manager) and Gustavo Parizotto Santian (Country View Family Farms - Sow Farm Manager) to discuss the selection process to maintain high quality females in a system.…

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So You Want to Be a Geneticist? Insights with Dr. Randy Borg 19:38

8M ago19:38

19:38

So you want to be a Geneticist? Tune in to this episode as Dr. Randy Borg breaks down the fundamentals of genetic advancement and shares key insights into implementing a successful genetic program.By DNA Genetics

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The Squeal_0222: The Value of a Genetic Index Point 24:33

8M ago24:33

24:33

On today's episode of The Squeal, Jack Kelly (PIC Key Account Manager) leads a conversation with Saskia Bloemhof (PIC Genetic Services Director) and Megan James (PIC Genetic Services Geneticist) to explain the value of an index point. The group explains what an index point is, how it is determined, how often the data is evaluated, and how it can pl…

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Decades of Advancements: The Evolution of American Genetics 34:17

8M ago34:17

34:17

In this episode, Dr. Tom Rathje shares how becoming the only independent, American-owned genetics company transformed the North American swine market. He also explores our distinctive approach to developing a genetic selection program centered on the most critical factor driving profitability in American production economics - throughput.…

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The Squeal_0221: Reaching a Milestone with the Compass Program 26:54

8M ago26:54

26:54

On this week's episode of The Squeal, our host, Clay Eastwood (PIC Applied Meat Scientist) is joined by Neal Matthews (PIC Applied Meat Scientist) and Alexandre Furtado da Rosa (AgroCeres PIC). During this conversation, our guests share about the recent Compass milestone of adding 50 plants to the benchmark program and provide more details on how t…

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Breeding Smarter: Unlocking Efficiency and Performance with PCAI 18:39

9M ago18:39

18:39

Are you looking for ways to optimize labor efficiency in the breeding barn while leveraging higher-indexing boars? In this episode, Dr. John Sonderman dives into the game-changing potential of PCAI—explaining how this innovative technique can streamline operations, boost productivity, and deliver real benefits for producers. Tune in to discover how…

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The Squeal_0220: Genetics on your plate: Selecting for Meat Quality 43:23

9M ago43:23

43:23

On this episode of The Squeal, our host, Dr. Clay Eastwood (PIC Applied Meat Scientist) is joined by Brandon Field (PIC Product Development Senior Manager) and Dr. Justin Holl (PIC Product Development Senior Director) to discuss the relationship between genetics and meat quality. The guests dive deeper into the areas of focus for meat quality and h…

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Flipping the switch on F18: Genetic Solutions to F18 E.coli 14:58

10M ago14:58

14:58

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a major contributor to post-weaning diarrhea in nursery pigs. In this podcast episode, Dr. Randy Borg joins us to discuss a groundbreaking DNA Swine Genetics study that explores genetic resistance to F18 E. coli in nursery pigs.By DNA Genetics

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The Squeal_0219: Preparing a Barn for Winter Temperatures 40:22

10M ago40:22

40:22

On this episode of The Squeal, our host, Tori Walters (PIC Technical Communications Specialist) is joined by Nat Stas (PIC Technical Services Director), Adam Walters (Tosh Farms Finishing Manager), and Austin Baker (Hogslat Ventilation Manager) to discuss the process of preparing a barn for cooler temperatures. This conversation provides many helpf…

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Room to Grow: Optimizing Space Allowance for Nursery Pigs 17:27

10M ago17:27

17:27

Floor space is a critical factor in swine production, often serving as a fixed cost that significantly influences overall production economics. Optimizing the use of this space can help reduce costs, by decreasing the square footage allocated per pig. Dr. Ashley Hartman, Research Coordinator with DNA Genetics and Pillen Family Farms, explores resea…

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The Squeal_0218: Body Condition Management, Part 2: Proper Caliper Use 29:12

10M ago29:12

29:12

On today's episode of The Squeal, our host Nichole Wilson (PIC Account Manager) is joined by Dr. Lori Kociemba (PIC Technical Services Manager) and Dr. Kyle Coble (JBS Live Pork, Director of Nutritional Services) as they walk through the importance of a body condition management program. On this episode, our guests share tips on how to use the cali…

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The most important part of a productive sows life: Managing the farrowing transition 17:34

11M ago17:34

17:34

Having a successful lactation involves multiple processes going correctly. In this episode Paul Faris with DNA Technical Services discusses the key steps team members need to think about to minimize wean 0 sows, maximize the number weaning more than 11 and have 90% of the females cycle back in 5 days. The discussion starts with setting the female u…

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The Squeal_0217: Body Condition Management and Using the Caliper, Part 1: Sow and Gilt Body Condition Management Program 23:32

11M ago23:32

23:32

On today's episode of The Squeal, our host Nichole Wilson (PIC Account Manager) is joined by Dr. Lori Kociemba (PIC Technical Services Manager) and Dr. Kyle Coble (JBS Live Pork, Director of Nutritional Services) as they walk through the importance of a body condition management program for the females on your farm. Our guests explain what data sho…

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The World’s Largest Semen Distribution Network 22:17

11M ago22:17

22:17

In this episode of "Inside the Helix," Deb Augustine discusses how DNA Genetics has the largest semen distribution network in the world. With a strong emphasis on biosecurity, streamlined online ordering, and rigorous quality control, DNA Genetics’ Customer Service team manages the delivery of millions of fresh semen doses annually from their gene …

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The Squeal_0216: What to Expect from a Technical Services Visit 32:53

11M ago32:53

32:53

On this episode of The Squeal, our host Tori Walters (PIC Technical Communications Specialist) is joined by Carine Vier (PIC Nutrionist), Lori Kociemba (PIC Technical Services Manager) and Nat Stas (PIC NA Wean to Finish Director) to discuss the process of a Technical Services visit from PIC. The guests offer tips to prepare for the visit, what sho…

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The Impacts of Lower Energy Rations on Finishing Pig Performance 11:03

12M ago11:03

11:03

As soy crush facilities expand, they bring with them the anticipation that soy hulls could become a valuable feed product, however we first must understand the impacts of lower energy rations. In this episode of “Inside the Helix,” Ethan Stephenson, Nutritionist for DNA Genetics and Pillen Family Farms, discusses research about the impacts of low e…

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The Squeal_0215: The Importance of Research 36:02

12M ago36:02

36:02

There are constantly new discoveries and data shared to improve swine production. These discoveries are found by research projects to enhance and improve the way pigs are raised to ultimately impact the end product that is purchased by consumers. On today's episode of The Squeal, our host, Luis Zaragoza (PIC Product Development Manager) leads the c…

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New vs. Old Crop 15:36

12M ago15:36

15:36

In this episode of “Inside the Helix,” Dr. Jason Schneider discussed the key items to think about as we transition from new vs. old crop ingredients. The discussion focused on controlling nutrient variation, production parameters, and understanding mycotoxin prevalence and mitigation.By DNA Genetics

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Managing Barn Environment & Ventilation through the Fall Transition Period 10:51

1y ago10:51

10:51

Are you and your team prepared for cooler weather and the ventilation challenges that come with fall temperature variation? In this episode of “Inside the Helix,” Paul Faris discusses managing the barn environment during the fall transition period. Paul explains the challenges of managing ventilation during this time and provides recommendations sw…