How does a PhD microbiologist end up leading the Iowa pork industry through its greatest modern crisis? In this milestone 50th episode of The PORK Podcast, host Jennifer Shike sits down with Mike Paustian—a man who sits at the unique intersection of cutting-edge science and generational farming.

Paustian takes listeners behind the scenes of his 2020 Iowa Pork Producers Association presidency, sharing the lessons learned from leading during a global pandemic. He also takes a deep dive into the "nerdy" side of agriculture, discussing:

• Gene Editing vs. GMOs: The why and what behind genetic tools that could be a game-changer for animal agriculture.
• Building Your Own AI: How Paustian uses his computer programming skills to turn barn data into smarter decisions.
• The "Full Value" Goal: Why we should never settle for "good enough" in pig production.
• The Journey Home: Why Paustian traded a USDA research career for the chance to raise his kids on the farm.

Whether you're interested in the molecular biology of a disease-resistant pig or the grit required to manage a century farm, this episode offers a deep perspective in leadership, innovation and authenticity.

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In Episode 49 of The PORK Podcast, host Jennifer Shike sits down with two heavyweights of the industry: Dr. David Newman, CEO of the National Pork Board, and Dr. Glynn Tonsor, Agricultural Economist from Kansas State University.

The goal? A radical vision called "One More Pound."

If every American consumed just one more pound of pork per year without a price decline, it would inject over $1.5 billion in retail value into the industry. But this isn't just about eating more—it’s about a strategic "pull" strategy driven by data, innovation and a deep understanding of the future consumer.

In this episode, we dive deep into:

• The Power of Belief: Why the industry must align on a vision of growth to move the needle.
• The "Meat is In" Phenomenon: Why vegan/vegetarian trends are receding, and protein demand is hitting a fever pitch.
• Innovation Beyond the Chop: How ground pork and "Boston Butt Burgers" are capturing the air-fryer generation.
• The Hispanic Market Opportunity: Tapping into the $4.2 trillion GDP of the most pork-loyal demographic in the US.
• Supply vs. Demand: Balancing world-class production efficiency with a new focus on consumer value.
• Swine Health & Economics: How tackling PRRS and disease is the ultimate "Grow the Pie" strategy.

Whether you are a producer at the farm gate or an industry stakeholder, this conversation offers a data-backed dose of confidence for the future of the U.S. pork industry.

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In this episode of the Pork Podcast, host Jennifer Shike sits down with Ashley Hengen, human resources manager for PIC North America, to explore the intersection of human resilience and modern agricultural operations. Ashley’s path to the swine industry was anything but linear—spanning from kinesiology studies to public policy work—but a pivotal mountain hike and a life-altering health challenge at age 14 shaped her into the leader she is today.

Ashley shares how she moved PIC’s HR department from a transactional, "elementary" function to a strategic business partnership. Listeners will gain practical insights into:

• Recruitment with the End in Mind: How to attract talent that aligns with long-term production goals.
• Retention Strategies: The shift from traditional career ladders to "jungle gyms" and the importance of transparent development paths.
• The Power of Listening: Why simple tools like suggestion boxes and Net Promoter Scores are essential for understanding the "slat-level" needs of a workforce.

Whether you are managing a small team or a global operation, Ashley’s "work hard, play hard" mentality and her focus on leading with empathy provide a roadmap for building a more engaged and successful team.

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