SwineTime with Pipestone

In this episode of the SwineTime podcast, host and swine veterinarian, Dr. Spencer Wayne, is joined by Dr. Kim VanderWaal from the University of Minnesota to tackle a complex but critical topic for pig farmers: PRRS virus classification.Dr. VanderWaal is an associate professor in Veterinary Population Medicine with expertise in swine disease ecology, epidemiology, and big data research. She has spent nearly a decade studying swine viruses, particularly PRRS (Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome)—one of the most costly and persistent diseases in pork production. With more than 80,000 virus sequences collected in the U.S., researchers now have a wealth of genetic data to study how PRRS evolves and spreads.The discussion highlights how the industry has shifted fromthe old RFLP typing system, which often gave confusing or misleading results, to a new framework built around lineages, sub-lineages, and variants. This updated approach offers veterinarians and producers more consistent, accurateinformation to evaluate outbreaks and determine whether a farm is facing a repeat infection or something entirely new.Dr. VanderWaal also explains why some PRRS variants—like the well-known 1C.5 strain—spread so aggressively. These viruses require only a tiny infectious dose to jump between pigs, making traditional biosecurity measures more difficult to hold. The conversation further explores how new viruses emerge, whether through gradual mutation or recombination, when pigs carry multiple strains at once.For farmers, veterinarians, and others in the swine industry, this episode offers valuable insight into how PRRS is studied, why accurate classification matters, and how ongoing research is equipping the industry to better respond to emerging health challenges.

In this episode of the SwineTime Podcast, host Dr. Spencer Wayne talks with Paul Frahm, Director of Research Operations, about how research can help pig farmers make practical, informed decisions on their farms.Paul shares his background in the swine industry, starting in sow barns in Iowa before moving into research more than a decade ago. Today, he leads a team that focuses on answering real questions pig farmers face every day—questions about pig health, feed efficiency, genetics, and new technology in barns.Pipestone Applied Research operates 2,400-head barns set up like commercial pig barns, but with additional tools to measure results accurately. Automated feed delivery, precision scales, and split water lines allow the team to test everything from pig feed additives to vaccine programs under conditions that closely resemble what farmers see in their own barns.For producers, this kind of applied research offers meaningful value:Health and welfare – Trials comparing vaccines and treatments can help reduce pig losses and improve overall herd health.Cost efficiency – Studies on feed space, pig density, and nutrition strategies identify ways to get the most out of every pound of feed.Confidence in decisions – Results are based on unbiased data, giving farmers reliable information they can use.Relevant insights – Projects are chosen because they address current challenges in swine production, from disease prevention to barn management.Paul explains that not every study produces groundbreaking results, but even finding that two options perform equally well can help farmers make better choices. “Our job isn’t to prove a product right or wrong,” he says. “It’s to provide good data that farmers can trust.”The goal is simple: give producers the knowledge they need to raise healthier pigs, improve efficiency, and stay strong in a competitive industry. Farmers who want to learn more can connect with their Pipestone veterinarian, swine nutritionist, or production consultant to see how these findings might apply to their own herds.

What happens when you’ve got feed left in the bin after the pigs leave the barn? In this episode, Dr. Spencer Wayne is joined by experts Emily Radcliffe of Pipestone Nutrition and Kim Morgan with FarmPro, to talk through practical options—and potential pitfalls—of handling leftover feed.From when it’s safe to blend feed for the next group to when it needs to come out of the bin entirely, this conversation is packed with real-world advice on managing feed transitions, preventing health issues, and minimizing costly mistakes.

Ileitis might be one of the most common gut diseases in pigs—but that doesn’t mean it has to take a toll on your herd or your bottom line. In this episode of SwineTime, Dr. Spencer Wayne sits down with Dr. AJ Smit to unpack the real-world impact of ileitis and how producers can get ahead of it.From catching sub-clinical signs in the barn to making sense of diagnostics and choosing the right vaccination approach, Dr. Smit shares practical strategies that can help you minimize losses and protect performance.Whether you're battling ileitis today or planning ahead for tomorrow, this conversation has tools you can put to work.

On this episode of SwineTime, Dr. Spencer Wayne is joined byDr. Kiah Berg from Pipestone Nutrition and Erin Little from FarmStats to dig into how wean age affects pig growth, feed efficiency, market weights, and sow productivity. They share real-world data and tips to help you make smart, profitable decisions on your farm. Evaluating your weaningstrategy could be the key to improving swine health and overall farm profitability.

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!

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

In this episode of the SwineTime podcast, Dr. Spencer Wayne is joined by colleague Dr. Emily McDowell of Pipestone Veterinary Services for an in-depth discussion on managing E. coli in weaning pigs. They explore the evolving strategies and technologies, especially around weaning, a stage where pigs are most vulnerable to infections. Dr. McDowell emphasizes the importance of early intervention, outlining how industry best practices have shifted as E. coli strains adapt and become more resistant to treatments.  Preventing E. coli in weaning pigs starts with maintaining strict hygiene in barns. The use of “all-in, all-out” production methods, thorough cleaning between groups, and ensuring water quality through regular testing are vital steps. They also discuss antibiotics and water acidifiers as potential strategies to manage outbreaks. The episode stresses working closely with veterinarians and nutritionists to create comprehensive health plans. A holistic approach is crucial since E. coli resistance can render treatments ineffective, making integrated management tactics necessary for long-term success.

In this episode of the SwineTime podcast, hosted by Dr. Spencer Wayne of Pipestone Veterinary Services, listeners are treated to a fascinating discussion with Dr. Maggie Behnke, Director of the Animal Resources Unit and attending veterinarian at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, Kansas. Dr. Karyn Havas, PIPESTONE’s Director of Foreign Animal Disease also joins the conversation.   Dr. Behnke provides an in-depth look at NBAF, an advanced research facility dedicated to studying and combating the world's most dangerous animal diseases. The facility, which will replace the aging Plum Island Animal Disease Center, is designed to protect the U.S. from transboundary, emerging, and zoonotic diseases that threaten the food supply, agricultural economy, and public health. With stringent safety protocols, NBAF features biosafety level-2, -3 and -4 containment laboratories. It’s BSL-4 containment spaces have the highest level of safety protocols and are capable of housing large livestock — a first for the United States. NBAF’s capabilities allow USDA to expand its research and diagnostic mission with foot-and-mouth disease to also include diseases like Japanese encephalitis and Nipah virus.   The conversation highlights NBAF's crucial role in rapid diagnostics, research on disease transmission, and vaccine development. Dr. Wayne and his guests discuss the strategic location of NBAF in Manhattan, Kansas and emphasize the facility's transparency and public engagement efforts, ensuring community trust and safety. This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the cutting-edge work at NBAF and its significant impact on the pork industry and beyond.  

In this episode of SwineTime, host Dr. Spencer Wayne dives into critical health issues and their impact on industry relations and trade with guests Terry Wolters, VP of Customer & Industry Relations with PIPESTONE, and Dr. Joel Nerem, a practicing veterinarian and Director of Industry Relations with Pipestone Veterinary Services. The discussion centers around the global spread of African Swine Fever, which has reached more countries in the past five years, underscoring the need for ongoing vigilance. The episode also addresses the implications of High Path Avian Influenza, especially its cross-species transmission risks, and the importance of biosecurity measures. Wolters and Dr. Nerem highlight the crucial role of health-related efforts in maintaining trade channels, which constitute 25% of total production, emphasizing the necessity of preserving these channels amidst health challenges. They stress the significance of traceability in managing outbreaks of foreign animal diseases, detailing its pivotal role in current disease prevention and control strategies. The conversation also touches on trade agreements between countries. 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.

In this episode of SwineTime, Dr. Spencer Wayne sits down with Jake Geisler and Hayden Kerkaert, both with Pipestone Nutrition, to chat about the basics of commodity management. They discuss the tools farmers can use to save money on better ingredients and boost their bottom line.  Jake emphasizes the importance of customer service, simplifying the process, and delivering high-quality ingredients straight to the mill, so farmers can focus on what matters most—their farms. 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.

In this episode of the SwineTime podcast, host Dr. Spencer Wayne interviews Dr. Megan Niederwerder, Executive Director of the Swine Health Information Center (SHIC). SHIC, established in 2015, focuses on identifying and mitigating emerging disease risks for the U.S. swine herd.   SHIC is supported by pork checkoff funds and its mission involves global disease monitoring, data analysis, coordinated communications, preparedness activities, and targeted research investments to develop new tools and technologies for swine health. Drs. Niederwerder and Wayne discuss SHIC’s work surrounding emerging diseases like African swine fever (ASF), classical swine fever (CSF), pseudorabies, and Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). SHIC also supports programs like the Morrison Swine Health Monitoring Project and the Swine Disease Reporting System to track domestic disease trends.  Listeners are encouraged to visit SHIC’s website (swinehealth.org) for resources, biosecurity protocols, and to sign up for newsletters with monthly disease monitoring reports and research updates.  Tune in for practical insights and the latest in swine health!