The Squeal_0229: Building Better Sows: Strategies for Parity 1 Development
Release Date: 04/29/2025
The Squeal_0242: The Power of One More Pig_Managing the Transition After Weaning
The Squeal
In this episode of The Squeal, host Brie Quick, PIC Technical Services Manager, continues our series The Power of One More Pig—exploring what it takes to help that extra pig thrive after leaving the farrowing room. Brie is joined by Isaiah Spath, PIC Wean-to-Finish Technical Services Manager, and Kendall Weger, PIC Technical Services Manager, to discuss post-weaning management strategies that set piglets up for long-term success. Together they cover key topics including ideal weaning age and weight targets, minimizing stress during transport and transition, early disease prevention,...
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The Squeal_0241: The Power of One More Pig_Maximizing Piglet Performance
The Squeal
In this first episode of The Power of One More Pig series, host Isaiah Spath, PIC Wean-to-Finish Manager, is joined by Kendall Weger and Brie Quick, both PIC Technical Services Managers, to discuss how producers can get the most out of every piglet born. Together, they explore practical strategies to maximize piglet performance—from cross-fostering and supporting underperforming sows to improving survivability and growth potential. Tune in to hear how small management decisions early in life can make a big difference in reaching that “one more pig” goal.
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The Squeal_0240: The Price of PRRS: Economic Toll and Genetic Breakthrough_Part 2
The Squeal
In the second episode of The Price of PRRS series, host Dr. Lindsay Case, PIC Technical Director of Product Sustainability, continues the conversation with Dr. Perry Harms, PIC Health Assurance Global Director, and Dr. Derald Holtkamp, Professor in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Iowa State University. Building on the discussion of PRRS’s economic toll, this episode dives deeper into how the disease spreads within and between herds, the ongoing challenges of control and elimination, and what progress the industry has made in reducing its impact. The guests share insights from...
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The Squeal_0239: The Price of PRRS: Economic Toll and the Genetic Breakthrough_Part 1
The Squeal
In this first episode of The Price of PRRS series, host Dr. Lindsay Case, PIC Technical Director of Product Sustainability, is joined by Dr. Perry Harms, PIC Health Assurance Global Director, and Dr. Derald Holtkamp, Professor in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Iowa State University, to explore the economic burden of one of the most costly diseases in swine production—Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS). Together, they break down what makes PRRS such a persistent challenge for producers, the factors that drive its financial impact, and why understanding the true cost...
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The Squeal_0238: Cold-Weather Checklist: Barn Preparation_Part 2
The Squeal
When cold weather hits, it’s natural to want to tighten up barns to hold in as much heat as possible. But cutting back too far on ventilation can create problems that are just as harmful as the cold itself. In this second episode of our Cold Weather Preparation series, host Isaiah Spath, PIC Technical Services Manager, is joined by Nat Stas, PIC Wean-to-Finish Director, and Curtis Possberg, Senior Production Manager at Olymel, to explore the consequences of under-ventilating barns. From poor air quality and higher humidity to increased disease pressure and reduced pig performance, the group...
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The Squeal_0237: Cold-Weather Checklist: Barn Preparation_Part 1
The Squeal
As temperatures begin to drop, making sure barns are ready for winter is critical to maintaining pig comfort and performance. In the first episode of the Cold Weather Preparation series on The Squeal, host Isaiah Spath, PIC Wean-to-Finish Technical Services Manager, sits down with Nat Stas, PIC Wean-to-Finish Director, and Curtis Possberg, Senior Production Manager at Olymel to talk about the fundamentals of preparing wean-to-finish barns for the cold months ahead. Together they discuss how barn environment impacts pig health, the importance of getting ahead of maintenance needs, and practical...
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The Squeal_0236: Maximizing Breeding Efficiency: Understanding CAI and PCAI
The Squeal
In this episode, we break down two key artificial insemination techniques — Conventional AI (CAI) and Post-Cervical AI (PCAI) — and explore how each can impact productivity, labor efficiency, and reproductive success. Jorge Cajamarca (PIC Technical Services Sr. Specialist), Bruno Cortes Espejo (Supervisor, Farm Operations), and Dr. Brad Didion (PIC Reproduction Services Manager) explain the practical differences between the methods, share tips for selecting the right approach for your herd, and discuss how improved breeding efficiency can boost overall farm performance. Whether you’re...
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The Squeal_0235:The Road to PRRS-resistance
The Squeal
In this episode of The Squeal, we reflect on the critical role farm teams played in achieving FDA approval of the gene edit used to breed PRRS-resistant pigs. From rigorous data collection to enhanced biosecurity protocols, the journey required years of dedication and precision. Throughout the process, pigs were raised just like any other—managed with the same high-quality care and commitment to animal well-being. Tune in to hear how this collaborative effort helped make PRRS resistance a reality and what it means for the future of swine health. Join our host, Marisa Pooley (PIC Director of...
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The Squeal_0234:Summer Feeding Strategies for Lactating Sows_Part 2
The Squeal
In Part 2 of our summer feeding series, host Brie Quick (PIC Technical Services Manager) returns with Dr. Lori Kociemba (PIC Technical Services Manager) and Jordi Camp (European Nutritionist Manager) to dive deeper into strategies for keeping sows productive and comfortable during the heat of the season. This episode focuses on real-world adjustments that can help drive feed intake, support litter performance, and maintain sow body condition through lactation.
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The Squeal_0233: Summer Feeding Strategies for Lactating Sows_Part 1
The Squeal
As temperatures rise, so do the challenges of keeping lactating sows eating, healthy, and productive. In this episode of The Squeal, our nutrition and production experts dive into practical summer feeding strategies to combat heat stress and maintain sow performance. Our host, Brie Quick (PIC Technical Services Manager) leads the conversation with Dr. Lori Kociemba (PIC Technical Services Manager) and Jordi Camp (PIC European Nutritionist Manager-Technical Services). From feed formulations and cooling systems to feeding schedules and hydration tips, you'll get actionable insights to keep your...
info_outlineOn today's episode of The Squeal, we dive into the critical role of parity 1 development in building better, longer-lasting sows. Our host, Brie Quick (PIC Technical Services Manager) is joined by Kendall Weger (PIC Technical Servcies Manager) and Nathan Schleman (Director of Sow Production, Belstra Milling Group) to discuss the keys to setting young females up for success — from gilt selection and management, environment, and early reproductive performance. Tune in for actionable insights and research-backed strategies that can help you improve sow longevity, lifetime productivity, and overall herd profitability.