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Unplucked
The Poultry Science Association
36 episodes
4 days ago
Unplucked -– Stripped-down, honest discussions about poultry science. No fluff. No filter. Just real, transparent, and topical conversations about the science, challenges, and breakthroughs shaping the poultry industry. Unplucked goes beyond the headlines and industry jargon to deliver candid discussions with the experts, researchers, and professionals who know poultry best. Whether it’s debunking myths, tackling tough questions, or exploring the latest innovations, Unplucked brings you the raw, unvarnished truth about poultry science—because the best insights come when we strip things down to what really matters.
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Science
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All content for Unplucked is the property of The Poultry Science Association and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Unplucked -– Stripped-down, honest discussions about poultry science. No fluff. No filter. Just real, transparent, and topical conversations about the science, challenges, and breakthroughs shaping the poultry industry. Unplucked goes beyond the headlines and industry jargon to deliver candid discussions with the experts, researchers, and professionals who know poultry best. Whether it’s debunking myths, tackling tough questions, or exploring the latest innovations, Unplucked brings you the raw, unvarnished truth about poultry science—because the best insights come when we strip things down to what really matters.
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Science
Episodes (20/36)
Unplucked
Biosecurity & One Health
In this episode of Unplucked, host Andy Vance talks with Dr. Rocio Crespo of North Carolina State University about what it really means to manage poultry health through a One Health lens. Dr. Crespo explains why many flock problems that appear to be infectious diseases often begin with nutrition and metabolism, and how delayed diagnosis keeps veterinarians chasing symptoms rather than causes. The conversation reframes production data as only part of the picture and makes a case for measuring what is happening inside the bird, from ionized calcium and mineral balance to early markers that flag risk before performance drops.   They explore the promise of precision livestock management and noninvasive monitoring that meets barns where they are. Dr. Crespo shares practical research on tools that can work at flock scale, including environmental gas sensing, sound analysis to detect changes in vocal behavior, and overhead camera systems that quantify eating, drinking, and movement without handling birds. She also walks through a realistic path to adoption, starting with randomized sampling and pilot measurements, then building toward smarter routines that fit labor, budgets, and equipment already on the farm.   If you want a grounded roadmap for moving from flock health to true animal health, this episode connects early diagnostics, precision monitoring, and economic biosecurity into a single, workable approach for modern poultry systems.   CREDITS Host - Andy VanceProducer - Lyndsey JohnsonAudio Editor & Engineer - Michael Lunt   LEGAL The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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4 days ago
32 minutes

Unplucked
Building Trust in Animal Agriculture
Trust is not something you buy. It is something you earn every day. In this episode of Unplucked, host Andy Vance talks with Kim McConnell, founder of AdFarm and a lifelong advocate for agriculture, about how the animal agriculture community can close the widening distance between producers and consumers. The conversation starts with first principles. Be transparent about how food is raised, show the benefits in plain language, and tell real stories that people remember. Kim explains why short, clear messages paired with strong visuals work better than long fact sheets, how to choose the right channel for each audience, and why credibility grows when the industry leads with values and invites questions rather than waiting for a crisis to shape the narrative.   From there, they dig into collaboration. Kim shares lessons from cross-sector initiatives that put everyone at the same table with a shared purpose, and why good leadership, a clear mission, and steady momentum are the difference between meetings and progress. He offers practical steps any organization can adopt, from agreeing on simple outcome statements to using quick, positive proof points that show improvement on welfare, sustainability, and community impact. The episode also looks ahead at the next generation, with a case for investing in youth leadership programs that teach both technical skills and communication, so young people can step into the role of trusted ambassadors for food and farming. This episode is a playbook for scientists, veterinarians, and producers who want to speak with confidence to people outside the industry. Start with why the work matters, translate complex ideas into benefits that feel relevant, and measure success not by how much you say but by how well it lands. If you are ready to build trust that lasts, this conversation shows how to move from good intentions to daily habits that change minds.   CREDITS Host - Andy VanceProducer - Lyndsey JohnsonAudio Editor & Engineer - Michael Lunt   LEGAL The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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1 week ago
33 minutes

Unplucked
Vaccine Roulette: Why NDV Strain Selection Could Be Costing You
Newcastle disease is largely under control in the United States, yet vaccination choices still shape flock health and performance. In this episode, host Andy Vance talks with Dr. Brian Jordan of Zoetis about why not all Newcastle vaccines behave the same inside the bird and how a data-first approach can reveal hidden gaps in protection.   Dr. Jordan explains the concept of vaccine take, how routine PCR monitoring shows whether birds actually received and replicated a live vaccine, and why low take rates can set up a rolling reaction that chips away at growth, feed conversion, and overall flock immunity. He compares popular live strains and clarifies where recombinant options fit, then walks through a simple plan for spot-checking hatchery applications, reading CT distributions, and deciding whether the problem is process or product. The conversation closes with questions veterinarians should ask suppliers, how to layer Newcastle programs with other respiratory vaccines, and why quarterly monitoring can keep protocols honest without adding constant lab costs.   CREDITS Host - Andy VanceProducer - Lyndsey JohnsonAudio Editor & Engineer - Michael Lunt   LEGAL The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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2 weeks ago
27 minutes

Unplucked
Pathogen Pursuit: Campylobacter
Campylobacter is not your typical poultry pathogen. In this episode of Unplucked, host Andy Vance talks with Dr. Issmat Kassem of the University of Georgia Center for Food Safety about why this bug survives where others do not, and what that means for food safety from farm to processing plant. Dr. Kassem explains how Campylobacter thrives in the chicken gut, why its biology and genetics break some of the rules we apply to Salmonella and E. coli, and how the diversity of strains on farm narrows to a persistent few that make it through processing. The conversation traces how those processing tolerant strains complicate detection and control, and why a single intervention is rarely enough. Listeners get a clear view of where the science is headed. Dr. Kassem outlines work to speed up detection and quantification, including modified media and approaches that target the microbe’s unique metabolism. He shares experimental results on antimicrobial light and new phytochemicals that can be layered with established interventions to improve reductions without sacrificing product quality. The discussion also zooms out to a practical message for the entire chain. Keep improving the system that already works, add smart hurdles where they fit, and invest in consumer education so safe handling keeps pace with scientific progress. Above all, remember that pathogens evolve, so our playbook must evolve too.   CREDITS Host - Andy VanceProducer - Lyndsey JohnsonAudio Editor & Engineer - Michael Lunt   LEGAL The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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3 weeks ago
23 minutes

Unplucked
Inside Perdue Farms: Reinventing Poultry Feed
In this episode of Unplucked, host Andy Vance sits down with Dr. Randy Mitchell, VP of Nutrition at Perdue Farms and a newly named Fellow of the Poultry Science Association, to examine how one of America’s most recognized poultry brands turns values into daily practice. Dr. Mitchell traces his path from a North Georgia farm to corporate leadership and explains how Perdue’s family-owned culture shapes decisions that reach from feed mills to grower barns. The conversation looks closely at two defining shifts for the company, the move to all-vegetarian feed and the transition to no antibiotics ever, and unpacks the research, cross-functional coordination, and grower engagement needed to make those commitments work at scale. Listeners get a practical view of formulation under new constraints, including how broader access to plant proteins, synthetic amino acids, and feed-grade vegetable oils helped close performance and cost gaps. Dr. Mitchell discusses why the hardest work was not removing in-feed antibiotics but redesigning hatchery and farm programs to protect chick quality, litter condition, and overall flock health. He shares how Perdue evaluates tradeoffs, from bird welfare to customer expectations, and how the company weighs the real "cost of being Perdue" while staying competitive on throughput and efficiency.   CREDITS Host - Andy VanceProducer - Lyndsey JohnsonAudio Editor & Engineer - Michael Lunt   LEGAL The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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1 month ago
22 minutes

Unplucked
How are AI & Robotics different?
Artificial intelligence and robotics are not the same tool, and understanding the difference changes how you plan, budget, and deploy technology in poultry science. In this episode, host Andy Vance talks with Georgia Tech’s Walker Bynes about where fixed automation ends and flexible robotics begins, and how AI fits in as the decision layer rather than the machine itself. Walker explains why most plants still rely on purpose-built machines for single tasks, and how the next wave aims for adaptable systems that can be reprogrammed to handle new jobs as conditions change in the house, the lab, or the plant.   The conversation breaks down embodied AI in plain language. Listeners hear how vision and language models help robots perceive space, generate action plans, and learn from complex sensor data, and why the quality of inputs, clear guardrails, and human oversight are essential for safety and reliability. In the lab, AI and automation act as a force multiplier by removing repetitive work and surfacing better experiment plans, while researchers stay in control of the science. Looking ahead, Walker sketches a practical roadmap that includes domain-specific models trained on poultry data, flexible robots that can be upskilled with software, and interdisciplinary teams that pair engineers with poultry experts to turn promising ideas into daily routines that save time and improve outcomes.   CREDITS Host - Andy VanceProducer - Lyndsey JohnsonAudio Editor & Engineer - Michael Lunt   LEGAL The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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1 month ago
32 minutes

Unplucked
Broiler House Management
Moisture control sits at the center of good broiler management. In this episode of Unplucked, host Andy Vance talks with Dr. Brian Fairchild of the University of Georgia about the house as a living system and how small environmental choices cascade into flock health, welfare, and costs. Dr. Fairchild explains why design and day-to-day execution both matter, how ventilation strategies should change with the season, and why chasing ammonia with more fan time often backfires by driving energy use without fixing the root problem. He walks through practical ways to keep a steady moisture balance, from programming controllers against real outdoor and indoor conditions to avoiding early morning evaporative cooling that only saturates the air. The conversation expands into the decisions producers face on lighting, energy, and water. Dr. Fairchild outlines how LED technology lowered power bills and why aging bulbs with uneven spectra can undermine dimming programs if replacements are not chosen carefully. He shares a simple framework for water management that starts with peak flow capacity, then looks at quality through the lens of equipment reliability, because leaky or worn drinkers can create wet floors long before bird performance suffers. Listeners also get an inside look at innovations with staying power, including variable-speed fans that move the right amount of air at lower cost and newer plastic evaporative pads that tolerate poor water quality and can be cleaned effectively. Throughout, Dr. Fairchild ties research to the barn, showing how field trials, extension newsletters, and producer feedback turn ideas into routines that protect margins and keep birds comfortable.   CREDITS Host - Andy VanceProducer - Lyndsey JohnsonAudio Editor & Engineer - Michael Lunt   LEGAL The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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1 month ago
34 minutes

Unplucked
Hatchability
Hatchability has quietly slipped in the United States over the last decade, and the cost shows up everywhere from breeder houses to the balance sheet. In this episode of Unplucked, host Andy Vance talks with industry veteran Doug Ward about why there is no single fix and why the biggest wins often come from getting the basics right. The discussion explores how older hatchery infrastructure, changing genetics, and uneven incubation can cloud what looks like a fertility problem. It also explains why male management matters just as much as hen nutrition, how litter quality and ventilation drive foot health and mating behavior, and where shell quality and egg handling intersect with new, high-throughput collection systems to make or break a hatch. Listeners will come away with a practical checklist for improving results. Focus on feed quality on breeders rather than shaving pennies, keep a rigorous biosecurity program, ventilate for dry litter, invest in hatchery QA and breakouts so teams can manage what they measure, and maintain equipment so it performs to design. The episode also looks ahead at tools that could shift the curve, from precision sorting and pullet uniformity to AI-assisted chick sexing and targeted microbial strategies that support both performance and food safety.   CREDITS Host - Andy VanceProducer - Lyndsey JohnsonAudio Editor & Engineer - Michael Lunt   LEGAL The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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1 month ago
21 minutes

Unplucked
The Coccidiosis Conundrum: Progress or Plateau?
In this episode of Unplucked, host Andy Vance talks with Dr. Kayla Price of Alltech Canada about what it really takes to make progress against coccidiosis, one of poultry’s most persistent and costly challenges. The conversation cuts through the assumption that a tidy parasite life cycle leads to tidy control. In the barn, multiple pressures collide, from bird behavior to management realities, and the simple model gives way to a complex gut ecosystem that demands better prevention, smarter diagnostics, and tighter collaboration between researchers and producers. Dr. Price explains how a deeper understanding of the microbiome can reshape control strategies, why host and species specificity matter when moving from lab results to farm decisions, and where genomics, metagenomics, and artificial intelligence can turn fecal samples into practical, point-of-care insights. She offers a clear case for rethinking diagnostics so that earlier detection does not always require opening birds, and for designing tools that fit the pace and constraints of commercial houses. The episode also explores how to speed innovation without losing rigor. Dr. Price shares lessons on closing communication gaps between academia and industry, aligning projects with funder goals without compromising scientific questions, and writing for journals in ways that help readers understand the why and the how. Her advice is simple and powerful: Invite field perspectives earlier, value negative results as much as positive ones, and build a pipeline that carries ideas from bench to broiler house through honest feedback and continuous iteration.   CREDITS Host - Andy Vance Producer - Lyndsey Johnson Audio Editor & Engineer - Michael Lunt   LEGAL The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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2 months ago
27 minutes

Unplucked
The Science Behind Modern Broilers
In this episode of Unplucked, host Andy Vance sits down with Dr. Doug Korver to unpack what decades of genetics and nutrition have really done to modern broilers, and what it means for the next decade of poultry production. Dr. Korver explains why visual storytelling matters just as much as data, reflects on the iconic side-by-side comparisons of broilers across eras, and lays out the simple truth that biology has limits. The conversation explores the trade-offs behind faster growth and improved feed efficiency, the consequences for bone health and meat quality, and why issues like myopathy and breeder restrictions require fresh thinking about selection goals, management, and maternal nutrition. They move from the bench to the barn, discussing why tightly controlled research does not always translate cleanly to 60,000-bird houses, and how to bridge that gap through practical trial design and collaboration. Dr. Korver shares insights from his work on the National Academies committee updating poultry nutrient requirements, including the push for models that keep pace with changing genetics and the reality that many vitamins and minerals are still fed with wide safety margins. This episode also looks at forces beyond the farm, from consumer perception to policy, and why true sustainability must include economics, welfare, environmental impact, and a product people still want to buy. Legal: The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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2 months ago
30 minutes

Unplucked
A Gut Feeling: Turning Gut Science into On Farm Results
In this episode of Unplucked, host Andy Vance talks with Dr. Lisa Bielke of NC State about what gut health really means in poultry and why bacteria in the gut are not just along for the ride. Dr. Bielke traces her path from early probiotic work to today’s omics era, explains how data is reshaping what we know about the microbiome, and shares why selecting probiotics for specific functions can deliver benefits that go well beyond food safety. The conversation covers emerging challenges in turkeys, including Eimeria and Histomoniasis, and unpacks how behavior, production systems, and regional disease pressure make turkeys a distinct scientific and management puzzle compared to broilers. Together, Andy and Lisa dig into vertical transmission from breeders to chicks, why this early microbial handoff may explain inconsistent probiotic results, and how Salmonella can quietly impair performance through inflammation even when birds look healthy. Dr. Bielke discusses practical ways to measure inflammation, the push to translate lab insights to on-farm decisions, and why the future of microbiome work is not only about disease control but also about improving nutrition and longevity. This episode is packed with great insights and advice for current and future poultry scientists out there. Legal: The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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2 months ago
29 minutes

Unplucked
Avian Influenza's Leap from Poultry to Cattle
On this episode of Unplucked, host Andy Vance sits down with Dr. Scott Kenney of The Ohio State University to unpack how highly pathogenic avian influenza appeared in dairy cattle and what that means for poultry producers. Dr. Kenney explains the virology in plain language, from receptor binding and reassortment to why certain tissues act like virus factories. He shares results from high-containment studies showing that intranasal exposure produced limited disease in cows, while direct exposure of the mammary gland led to severe illness and extremely high virus levels in milk, and he connects those findings to practical risks in milking parlors and waste-milk handling.   The conversation moves from lab to barn with clear takeaways on biosecurity and surveillance, including why pasteurizing waste milk and tightening traffic in and out of milking areas can reduce cross-species transmission risk. Dr. Kenney also frames the situation through a One Health lens, discussing how to monitor for mammalian adaptation, what producers should watch as migration season approaches, and how vaccines and antivirals fit into preparedness for animals and people.   Legal: The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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2 months ago
32 minutes 5 seconds

Unplucked
Can We Remove Inorganic Phosphorus? The Future of Poultry Diets with Phytase Innovation
In this episode of Unplucked, host Andy Vance explores the cutting edge of poultry nutrition and feed innovation, live from the Poultry Science Association’s annual meeting. Andy talks with Dr. Emma Song, Global Technical Director at Sunhy Biology, about her latest research into phytase and its potential to completely replace inorganic phosphorus in poultry diets. Dr. Song shares insights from her presentations at the conference, detailing how advanced phytase enzymes are making more phosphorus available to birds, improving feed efficiency, and significantly reducing feed costs without sacrificing animal health or performance.   The discussion moves beyond broilers, as Dr. Song outlines the next steps in researching phytase application in turkeys and layers, and what it could mean for the broader industry. Andy is also joined by Matt Einarson, Vice President of Sales and Business Development at SAM Nutrition and Nexus powered by SAM. Matt discusses the company’s sustainability-driven approach to novel feed additives and the importance of scientific partnerships with universities and researchers to drive true innovation. Together, they talk about the challenges and opportunities facing poultry producers today, from global supply pressures to the need for more sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective nutrition strategies.   Whether you are interested in new enzyme technologies, removing inorganic phosphorus, or the future of sustainable poultry production, this episode delivers a thought-provoking look at the science and strategy shaping tomorrow’s poultry diets.   Legal: The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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2 months ago
15 minutes 26 seconds

Unplucked
Unlocking Better Hatchability: The Impact of Micronutrients in Poultry Breeder Diets
On this episode of Unplucked, host Andy Vance speaks with Dr. Mercedes Vazquez-Añon, Novus Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives and Accounts, to explore a challenge facing poultry producers worldwide: declining broiler hatchability rates. Recorded at the Poultry Science Association’s annual meeting, this conversation dives into how nutrition, especially micronutrients and trace minerals, plays a critical role in breeder fertility, embryonic development, and the quality of day-old chicks.   Dr. Vazquez-Añon explains how decades of genetic progress have improved feed efficiency and growth rates in broilers, but sometimes at the expense of fertility and reproductive health in breeders. The discussion highlights the often-overlooked importance of micronutrients like zinc, copper, and manganese, and why a more precise, science-based approach to mineral nutrition can help optimize skeletal and reproductive development from the pullet phase onward. Listeners will learn why a “more is better” approach to minerals can backfire, and how rethinking mineral balance is key to supporting better eggshell quality, chick health, and overall hatchability.   The episode also explores how evolving genetic lines and industry challenges, from avian influenza to rising economic pressures, make every fertile egg count more than ever. Dr. Vazquez-Añon offers actionable insights for nutritionists and producers, emphasizing the value of early intervention, precision feeding, and maternal nutrition strategies that give chicks the best possible start.   If you’re involved in poultry production, animal nutrition, or just curious about the science behind food production, this episode offers practical information and forward-thinking perspectives on how nutrition can help reverse the hatchability decline and drive sustainable success in the poultry industry.   Legal: The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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3 months ago
14 minutes 7 seconds

Unplucked
Strong Animals, Strong Systems: Exploring Sustainability and Storytelling in Animal Agriculture
On this episode of Unplucked, host Andy Vance sits down with Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech, for an in-depth conversation about the future of food, the realities of animal agriculture, and the importance of connecting scientific progress with compelling storytelling. Recorded live at the Poultry Science Association’s annual meeting, their discussion takes listeners beyond the world of poultry to examine how cattle, culture, and the next generation of scientists are all part of creating a more sustainable food system.   Dr. Lyons shares the inspiration and vision behind A World Without Cows, a documentary film that explores the essential role of cattle in food security, nutrition, and environmental sustainability. The film was screened at the annual meeting and takes viewers around the world, sharing stories from farmers and communities whose lives are intricately connected to livestock. If you want to see more, you can watch the documentary and explore additional stories at https://worldwithoutcows.com.   The conversation also touches on the launch of Planet of Plenty, a company created by Dr. Lyons to further support initiatives that highlight innovation and optimism in agriculture. Andy and Mark dive into the challenges of communicating complex science to a broad audience and discuss why emotion and narrative are just as important as facts and data. They reflect on how food production and sustainability look very different depending on geography, culture, and local resources, and why it is so important to tell authentic, diverse stories from around the globe. The episode highlights the optimism and curiosity needed to lead in a rapidly changing agricultural landscape, and how true collaboration across disciplines, industries, and continents will shape the future of animal agriculture for years to come.   If you’re interested in how science, leadership, and storytelling intersect to shape our global food system, this episode offers insights, inspiration, and a fresh perspective on the stories that matter most in agriculture today.   Legal: The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.  
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3 months ago
29 minutes 57 seconds

Unplucked
PSA Annual Meeting Symposium 2025: Boots on the Ground
In this special episode, Unplucked takes you inside the 2025 Poultry Science Association Annual Meeting, held in Raleigh, North Carolina. Host Andy Vance sets up the podcast booth right at the heart of the event to bring you exclusive interviews with researchers, educators, and graduate students shaping the future of poultry science.   Join nearly 1,200 members and guests from 39 countries as they share groundbreaking research and practical solutions across 600 symposia, abstract presentations, and posters. Hear from Dr. Jason Emerett of the University of Illinois on the evolving challenges of teaching poultry science, the impact of AI in the classroom, and preparing the next generation of scientists. Listen as graduate students discuss their projects on poultry disinfection processes, immune responses in turkeys, Salmonella control, antibiotic alternatives, and genetic markers for broiler fertility. The episode also features Dr. Don McIntyre, a PSA legend with 45 years in the industry, reflecting on mentorship, the power of professional networks, and the collaborative spirit driving innovation in poultry science. Key topics this year include avian influenza, immunity, genetics, nutrition, smart farming, and food safety—all driving the poultry industry forward.   Whether you’re an industry professional, researcher, educator, or student, this episode offers a front-row seat to the PSA’s mission of advancing, sharing, and applying the latest in poultry science worldwide.   Learn more about upcoming PSA conferences and events at poultryscience.org.   Legal: The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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3 months ago
36 minutes 45 seconds

Unplucked
Outlook of Poultry in EMEA
What are the biggest challenges facing poultry producers and scientists across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa? In this episode, Dr. Behnam Saremi of CJ Bio shares his insights on navigating a diverse and dynamic market.We explore how a global company like CJ tailors its approach to different types of producers, and the region’s most pressing concerns, from feed costs to regulatory hurdles, and how innovation is helping move the industry forward in an often complex environment.   Legal: The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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3 months ago
25 minutes 23 seconds

Unplucked
Chicken or Egg: Is the Public Misinformed or Are We Miscommunicating?
In this week's episode, we chat with Hinda Mitchell, President of Inspire PR. We dig into how industry messaging shapes public trust, why science-backed information often struggles to break through, and what professionals can do to connect more meaningfully with consumers. Whether you're in academia, research, or production, this episode offers valuable insights into building stronger bridges between science and society.   Legal: The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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4 months ago
35 minutes 46 seconds

Unplucked
Egg Prices
In this episode of Unplucked, PSA Executive Director Andy Vance talks with Brian Earnest, Lead Animal Protein Economist at CoBank, to unpack the volatile state of the egg market. From the lasting impacts of high path avian influenza to the ripple effects of corporate cage-free egg commitments, Brian brings clarity to why egg prices spiked and what’s driving continued market pressure. The discussion dives into consumer behavior, protein value comparisons, and the broader protein landscape, including potential turkey shortages and the resilience of beef demand. Brian also explores biosecurity challenges, the impact of cage-free transitions, and the opportunities and risks ahead for poultry and other animal protein sectors. It’s a deep economic dive into the forces reshaping how we produce and price our most essential proteins.   Legal: The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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4 months ago
34 minutes 24 seconds

Unplucked
Extension
Today’s guest is Dr. Tony Pescatore, a longtime leader in poultry extension and education. As a freshly retired extension professor and associate chair at the University of Kentucky, Dr. Pescatore has spent decades advancing the mission of land-grant universities by connecting research to real-world impact.   From his first PSA presentation as a student in 1977 to serving as PSA President, his career reflects deep dedication to service, science, and mentorship. We’re thrilled to talk with him today about how extension has evolved and why it remains vital to the poultry industry and beyond.   Legal: The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.
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4 months ago
29 minutes 59 seconds

Unplucked
Unplucked -– Stripped-down, honest discussions about poultry science. No fluff. No filter. Just real, transparent, and topical conversations about the science, challenges, and breakthroughs shaping the poultry industry. Unplucked goes beyond the headlines and industry jargon to deliver candid discussions with the experts, researchers, and professionals who know poultry best. Whether it’s debunking myths, tackling tough questions, or exploring the latest innovations, Unplucked brings you the raw, unvarnished truth about poultry science—because the best insights come when we strip things down to what really matters.