Invaluable information on the latest trends, news, and research from various experts that guide the global pork industry.

Presented by

Invaluable information on the latest trends, news, and research from various experts that guide the global pork industry.

Presented by

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Recent Episodes

The Founding of Freking Cattle | Brad Freking


About the Guest

New Fashion Pork is headquartered in Jackson, Minnesota with Brad Freking as its CEO and managing partner.  Founded in 1994, New Fashion Pork (NFP) employs over 400 people and owns 53,000 sows in six states, along with having interests in several related businesses (i.e., Triumph Foods and Daily’s Premium Meats). Annually, NFP markets roughly 1.2 million hogs.

Brad Freking

What can you expect to learn from this episode of Popular Pig?

  • Background Knowledge: An overview of New Fashion Pork’s (NFP) evolution from a small operation to a significant player in the pig farming industry.
  • Relevance and Current Trends: How NFP incorporates sustainability into its business model, emphasizing the importance of integrated farming systems.
  • Industry Challenges: Strategies NFP employed to navigate market volatility and external challenges, such as economic downturns and health crises.
  • Expansion Strategies: The process and rationale behind NFP’s diversification into cattle farming and the acquisition of farmland, highlighting the benefits of a diversified agricultural business.
  • Valuable Takeaway: Brad’s “Golden nugget”.

 

Strategic Acquisitions in Manufacturing | Jeff Schellenberg


About the Guest

Jeff is the CEO of Decisive Dividend Corporation, an acquisition-oriented company that owns 11 manufacturing businesses across Canada and the UK. Decisive Dividend employs a “Buy, Build and Hold” business model with the purpose of being the sought-out choice for exiting, legacy minded business owners. Jeff oversees the head-office team of operational, M&A and financial personnel as well as the leaders of its 11 operating subsidiaries that operate as standalone businesses under Decisive Dividend’s decentralized model.

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Edgewood Locker’s Journey of Innovation and Family Tradition | Luke Kerns


About the Guest

Luke Kerns is part of the third generation that represents Edgewood Locker, an essential component of the Edgewood, Iowa, community, and agricultural fabric. Inheriting the legacy of his grandparents, Tom and Joan Kerns, who founded the business in 1966, and with the guidance of his father, uncle, sister, and two cousins, Luke stepped into the family enterprise in 2019.

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Understanding Prop 12’s Impact on Animal Welfare | Dr. Cara Haden


About the Guest

Dr. Cara Haden received her degree as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2014 from the Iowa State College of Veterinary Medicine. After graduation, she joined Pipestone Vet Clinic as an associate Veterinarian working with independent pig farm clients throughout the Midwest. Today she serves as the Director of Animal Welfare for Pipestone. Cara is also active on social media, showcasing the swine industry and the ways farmers care for their pigs.

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Family-Driven Innovation in South African Pork Production | CP Kriek


About the Guest

CP Kriek, at the forefront of Taaibosch, embodies a unique blend of expertise and passion. An Industrial Engineer by training, CP, alongside his wife Gerda, has turned their family heritage in farming into an advanced, sustainable pork production enterprise in South Africa. Their journey from engineers to innovative farmers showcases a deep commitment to animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and cutting-edge agricultural practices.
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Cultivating an Interest in Animal Agriculture | Gracee Poorman


About the Guest

Gracee Poorman’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. Emerging as a beacon of inspiration in the agricultural community, she has carved a unique path, defying the constraints of her challenging upbringing. Raised amidst the struggles of mental illness and addiction within her family, Gracee was driven by a vision of a different life for herself and her future children. With no prior experience in agriculture, but armed with an unwavering resolve, Gracee plunged into this new world.
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