JayJay Goodvin, the man who recently ate a pork tenderloin in every Iowa county, shines a light on rural America, agriculture and the food that unites people. Although he’s not engaged in production agriculture every day, the work he does on behalf of agriculture, particularly the pork industry, is changing lives and creating opportunities.

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Dr. Clayton Johnson is a champion of the pig, there’s no doubt about that. When he steps onto the stage to speak, the room instantly quiets and people can’t get enough of what he has to say. It’s his perspective and wisdom, his experience and application, but I think a big part of his draw is the passion and urgency in his messages. Johnson joins The PORK Podcast to discuss the hottest topic in the pork industry today – health. From porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) to porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) and from highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) to African swine fever, Johnson opens up about what he’s seeing and hearing in regard to the greatest challenges facing the industry. His advice for producers, perspective for allied industry and wisdom about barn management is something you won't want to miss.

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When you think about Josh Maschhoff, many things come to mind. He’s a husband, father, president, son, nephew, firefighter, friend, church elder, coach, sixth-generation hog farmer and director of production and flow for The Maschhoffs, to name a few. What he is not is an overly emotional person, says his wife, Angela, until you get him talking about the family business.

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Scott Hays never imagined a Missouri farm boy would be doing what he’s doing today. When he was told he couldn’t come back to the farm without trying something else first, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. His Army training taught him the value of courage and seeking to better understand other people. This served him well as he moved back home to raise pigs for the next 35 years and eventually rise up to lead the National Pork Producers Council as president in 2023-24. When that role ended, he was hired as the executive director of the Missouri Pork Association. Although he still farms with his family, his role is different today. He’s using his leadership skills in new ways to benefit other farmers in his state. Although Hays would rather spend time talking about pigs and people than himself, it’s easy to see why his friends and family say he is as genuine as it gets.

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Although she projects calm composure in nearly every situation, National Pork Producers Council Vice President of Government Affairs Maria C. Zieba admits some days are easier than others. Still, her passion for the pig farmers she represents fuels her to keep going despite challenging circumstances. She joins the podcast to discuss the hottest topics in Washington, DC, including trade, Proposition 12, labor and the farm bill. She also opens up about her role as a mother and how that drives her in her job every day.

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As one of the youngest executive directors of a state swine organization, Seth Mitchell’s path is one that’s turning heads. The first person selected for the Pork Industry Immersion Program, a two-year deep dive into organizational leadership in the swine industry, Mitchell is blazing trails at the Nebraska Pork Producers Association and reminding the younger generation of the important role they play in the future of the U.S. pork industry. Although other agricultural industries are finding it challenging to engage Generation Z, the pork industry has a different story to tell. Mitchell shares how engaging young people in swine leadership opportunities and experiences is paving the way for future longevity.

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As generations become further removed from the farm, the need for people who can educate and inspire the next generation of livestock industry leadership has never been greater. From the classroom to the judging contest to the show ring, Dan Hoge is one of the greatest of all times. He opens up about 55 years of inspiring the next generation.

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Whether she’s busy on the farm or speaking in front of the Senate on behalf of America’s pork producers, NPPC Past President Lori Stevermer models speaking out and showing up for who and what you believe in.

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