Shows
The Poultry Leadership PodcastSeason 3 Kickoff: AI, a Hospice Nurse & a 4,000-Bird Leap of FaithSend a textSeason three opens with a candid, funny, and deeply human conversation that spans leadership change, end-of-life care, family milestones, and the surprising ways a poultry podcast can move people. Brandon shares what “managing up” looked like through a leadership transition at Prism Controls—how learning a new boss’s values and cadence sharpened communication and trust over time. Emily takes the mic to unpack her shift from a high-intensity med-surg unit to hospice nursing at a level one trauma center, showing how empathy, presence, and dignity can transform even the hardest days. Together, we reflect...
2026-02-1158 minThe Poultry Leadership PodcastThe Future of Chicken: Inside Cobb-Vantress's Genetic RevolutionSend a textEver wondered how the chicken on your plate became so efficient to produce? The answer lies in cutting-edge genetic science happening behind the scenes at companies like Cobb-Ventress. Brandon Mulnix sits down with William Herring, Vice President of Cobb-Ventress, at the Animal Ag Tech Innovation Summit in Dallas to uncover the fascinating intersection of artificial intelligence, camera technology, and poultry genetics.With experience spanning beef cattle, pork, and now broiler chicken genetics, Herring brings unique cross-species perspective to genetic improvement. He walks us through Cobb's three-pronged approach to innovation: developing new genetic...
2025-05-2123 minThe Poultry Leadership PodcastFrom Death-Defying Risks to Honoring Heroes — The Remarkable Journey of John GrahamSend a textJohn Graham's life reads like an adventure novel, but with a profound transformation at its core. At just 17, he left behind his sheltered existence in Tacoma, Washington, for a summer job on a freighter bound for the Far East. That voyage would set him on a path of increasingly dangerous adventures spanning decades and continents.Graham recounts harrowing experiences with remarkable candor – mountain climbing expeditions where avalanches narrowly missed him, hitchhiking through war zones, and navigating political revolutions. His seemingly insatiable hunger for adrenaline led him to the U.S. Foreign Service, wh...
2025-05-0757 minThe Poultry Leadership PodcastServant Leadership: Why Your Questions Matter More Than Your Answers with Jay HallidaySend a textJay Halliday of Vaxinova joins host Brandon Molnix for a heartfelt conversation about servant leadership that goes far beyond traditional management advice. Their candid exchange dives into how leadership principles transform not just workplaces but every human relationship.Jay shares his unexpected journey into agriculture through his language skills, which launched him into an international business development role requiring extensive global travel. While professionally exhilarating, this schedule created personal challenges that taught him valuable lessons about balance and priorities. His revelation came through discovering servant leadership and specifically the "Coach Approach"...
2025-04-2346 minThe Poultry Leadership PodcastThe Purpose Factor: Discovering Your Purpose And Fulfillment With Brian BoschéSend a textWhat drives you to get out of bed each morning? Is it just to collect a paycheck, or is there something deeper fueling your motivation? Brian Bosché, author of "The Purpose Factor," never expected his life to take such a dramatic turn. After achieving his dream job as a national journalist only to lose it a year later—along with his marriage ending and unresolved childhood trauma surfacing—Brian found himself in a dark depression searching for meaning.This crisis led him to develop a revolutionary approach to purpose discovery. Rather than viewi...
2025-04-0937 minThe Poultry Leadership PodcastHealthy Animals And Efficiency: Why Ventilation Is Your Farm's Unpaid EmployeeSend a textEric Rupnow's journey through agriculture—from his roots in Wisconsin to his role at J&D Manufacturing—reveals how ventilation technology transforms livestock operations across species. Driven by a passion for creating optimal environments where animals thrive, Rupnow brings practical solutions to complex airflow challenges in poultry, swine, and dairy facilities.The conversation dives deep into why ventilation serves as an "unpaid employee" on farms when implemented correctly. Drawing from real-world examples, Rupnow shares the story of a dairy operation that virtually eliminated calf treatments after switching to tunnel ventilation—challenging conventional wisdom...
2025-03-2645 minThe Poultry Leadership PodcastEggs for Ethiopia: A Child's Step of Faith That's Still Changing Lives 10 Years LaterSend a textA simple yet profound question sparked a movement that continues to transform lives across continents: "What if I raised chickens to help my friends back home?" When 8-year-old Biruk Van De Stroet posed this question to his adoptive parents in Iowa, no one could have predicted the remarkable journey that would unfold over the next eleven years.Having been adopted from Ethiopia where he once survived by rushing into restaurants to eat strangers' leftovers before being chased away, Biruk carried with him an unshakable concern for those he'd left behind. His childlike...
2025-03-1222 minThe Poultry Leadership PodcastBuilding a Legacy in the Egg Industry: Jim Dean's Inspiring StorySend a textLegendary poultry industry pioneer Jim Dean shares his remarkable journey, from a challenging childhood to a thriving career in the egg industry. With grit and determination, Jim made the tough choice to leave school early, supporting his family and ultimately building a successful career. His candid reflections on his experiences, including his time in Vietnam, reveal invaluable lessons on resilience and the power of learning through lived experiences.Discover the entrepreneurial spirit that sparked the creation of Fremont Farms and so many more. Our discussion highlights the innovative strategies an entrepreneur used...
2025-02-2638 minThe Poultry Leadership PodcastAron Ralston on Survival, Adversity, and the Unsung Heroes of FarmingSend a textWhat would you do if you found yourself trapped in a remote canyon with your survival hanging by a thread? Aron Ralston, whose incredible story of resilience was captured in both his book "127 Hours" and the film adaptation starring James Franco, joins us on The Poultry Leadership Podcast to share his remarkable journey. Facing a life-or-death decision after being pinned by a boulder, Aron reveals the mental strength and innovative thinking that saw him through 127 grueling hours to an astonishing rescue. His story is a testament to the power of human determination, transforming a...
2025-02-1226 minThe Poultry Leadership PodcastNest Fresh: First in the US to Raise In-ova sexed Chicks with Jasen UrenaSend a textJasen Urena, Executive Vice President of Nest Fresh Farms, takes us on a captivating journey from his beginnings in Southern California to becoming a trailblazer in the egg industry. Tune in to hear how Jasen's Hispanic heritage and bilingual skills became instrumental in forging strong relationships within the company and beyond. His story is not just one of personal growth, but also a testament to the power of community and family, both in life and in business. Jasen's narrative offers invaluable lessons on building trust and navigating the complexities of leading a major enterprise.
2025-01-2957 minThe Poultry Leadership PodcastAnticipatory Thinking and the Future of Agriculture with AI - Daniel BurrusSend a textWhat if you could harness the power of AI to revolutionize your approach to agriculture and beyond? Join us on the Poultry Leadership Podcast as we explore this fascinating frontier with Daniel Burrus, a visionary futurist lauded by the New York Times for his inspirational insights. Daniel takes us on a journey from his early days of federal research to his transformative ventures in the business world. He shares how his passion for teaching and critical thinking has fueled his innovative outlook, offering listeners unique perspectives on blending traditional wisdom with cutting-edge technology.
2025-01-1554 min
The Poultry Leadership PodcastBalancing Personal and Professional in Poultry: Insights from Brandon and Emily Mulnix on Leadership, Family, and Community TiesSend a textHow did a spontaneous idea during a high-altitude hike lead to an insightful conversation on The Poultry Leadership Podcast? Join me, Brandon Mulnix, and my incredible wife, Emily Mulnix, as we kick off Season 2 with a heartfelt dialogue that crosses the boundaries of personal and professional life. Emily gives us a glimpse into her fascinating journey from dairy farm roots to her vital role as a registered nurse, while we share amusing anecdotes from our life in a small Michigan town. As we chat, you'll learn about my diverse career path, from firefighting...
2025-01-0147 min
The Poultry Leadership PodcastTransforming 18 Acres: A Century of Farming at Kreher Farms - Hal Kreher- Episode 19Send a textWhat drives a family to persist and thrive in farming for a hundred years? Discover the remarkable history behind Kreher Farms as Hal Kreher shares his family’s century-long journey in transforming 18 acres of land into a flourishing farmstead. From his grandfather's initial purchase in 1924 and the bold expansion to a 1,200-bird flock by 1930, to overcoming the Great Depression and the establishment of innovative barn designs in the '60s, Hal takes us through the farm's evolution and the pivotal roles played by each family member.Organic farming isn't just a trend; it...
2024-08-2143 min
The Poultry Leadership PodcastPioneering No-Chick-Culling Agriculture: Silvin Faulstich on In-Ovo Sexing's Role in Transforming Poultry FarmingSend a textDiscover the groundbreaking advancements in poultry farming as we welcome Silvin Faulstich, Business Development Manager at Respeggt Group, to discuss in-ovo sexing. (In the egg) This revolutionary technology is set to transform the industry by identifying the gender of hatching eggs before they hatch, thus addressing the pressing issue of male chick culling. Silvin’s journey from Germany to his current role provides valuable insights into the innovations and challenges of implementing such cutting-edge solutions.Explore the essential steps toward transitioning to chick culling-free agriculture. Silvin emphasizes the importance of educating everyone alo...
2024-07-2252 min
The Poultry Leadership PodcastIncremental Change - Ryan Bennett - IPWA & US-RSPESend a textEver wondered how the poultry industry is shaping up globally? Join us as we welcome Ryan Bennett, the Executive Director of the US Roundtable for Sustainable Poultry and Eggs, and the International Poultry Welfare Alliance. Learn about Ryan's fascinating journey from a Maryland farm boy involved in 4-H to a key player in public policy and government relations, and eventually to his current role where he champions sustainability and animal welfare. He shares his experiences and the missions of his organizations, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and multi-stakeholder approaches in driving meaningful progress in...
2024-07-0249 min
The Poultry Leadership PodcastScaling Success: Greg Schonefeld's Journey from Auditing Derivatives to Transforming Agricultural Leadership with Ag Installers and EOS InsightsSend a textCan you imagine making a successful leap from auditing derivatives at a big four accounting firm to running a thriving business in agricultural installation? That's exactly what Greg Schonefeld did, and we're excited to bring you his inspiring journey on the Poultry Leadership Podcast. Greg, the owner of Ag Installers and host of the Eggheads podcast, shares his story of transitioning into the agricultural sector, scaling his company to over a hundred employees in its first year, and overcoming challenges despite lacking a construction background. He also reveals how the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS...
2024-06-0438 min
The Poultry Leadership PodcastFostering a Vibrant Poultry Team, Leadership Lessons with Hinda Mitchell Episode 15Send a textDiscover the secrets to building a resilient workforce in the poultry industry as Hinda Mitchell, president of Inspire PR Group, joins me, Brandon Mullnix, for an insightful conversation. Together, we unravel the complexities of not just attracting, but more importantly, retaining a dedicated team in the face of stiff competition from tech companies. We dive into the essence of becoming an employer of choice, where training and effective management become cornerstones for a sustainable labor force, especially in the agricultural sector's rural heartlands.Feel the pulse of a company's culture through the...
2024-05-2045 min
The Poultry Leadership PodcastHatching Humane Solutions in Poultry with Chloe Kleinheinz - Egg Innovations Episode 14Send a textStepping off the beaten path can lead to the most fascinating of destinations, a truth Chloe Kleinheinz knows all too well. From a moment of clarity in academia to her role steering the helm at Egg Innovations, Chloe's tale is one of passion, ethical advances, and the culinary delights of wild game. Join us as she unwraps the intricacies of fostering success through the bonds of trust with farmers and navigating the emotional landscapes wrought by avian influenza.This episode weaves a narrative of progress amidst challenges, with Chloe spotlighting a humane...
2024-05-0740 min
The Poultry Leadership PodcastCracking the Code of Poultry Genetics: Steve Welch on Shaping the Future of Egg Production and Personal Triumphs Episode 13Send a textImagine waking up to a world where hens are super-producers, laying 500 eggs over 100 weeks without a break! Steve Welch of Hendrix Genetics joins us to unfold the story behind this poultry prowess, offering an eye-opening perspective on the leaps in poultry genetics that are reshaping the industry. It's not all about the birds, though; Steve's own narrative is equally compelling, charting a course from a novice in the field to a leading figure in U.S. layer distribution. His tale is a testament to the growth and passion that fuels the sector and serves...
2024-04-2339 min
The Poultry Leadership PodcastPivoting with Purpose: Kim and Randy Weinstein on Mastering Career Transitions in Poultry Recruitment Episode 12Send a textEmbarking on a new career journey? Let Kim and Randy Weinstein of Scramble Staffing guide you with their personal stories of transformation within the poultry industry. This dynamic couple not only transitioned into poultry recruitment from diverse backgrounds but also created a niche in connecting talent with opportunity. Their shared expertise and entrepreneurial spirit will inspire those considering a leap into new professional realms, offering practical advice on everything from crafting a standout resume to navigating the interview process.This episode isn't just about the job hunt; it's about the art of...
2024-04-0942 min
The Poultry Leadership PodcastAdvocating for Agriculture: Emily Ellis Discusses Building Trust and Sustainable Practices in Animal Ag Episode 11Send a textEver wondered how the voices of farmers are heard amidst the clamor of consumer demands and activism? Tune in to an eye-opening discussion with Emily Ellis from the Animal Agriculture Alliance, where we peel back the layers of what it truly means to advocate for agriculture. Emily, with her roots firmly planted in cattle raising and honed by her studies at the University of Maryland, joins me to explore the power of connections, the strength in unity, and the unwavering mission of agricultural organizations to foster the future of farming. Our conversation takes you...
2024-03-2350 min
The Poultry Leadership PodcastCrafting a Blueprint for Sustainable Leadership and Personal Growth with Brian Fretwell, Finding Good, PEAK 2024 Episode 10Send a textWhen was the last time you felt truly connected? This question echoes at the heart of our latest episode with Brian Fretwell, an expert on the crucial interplay between leadership and human connection. We unpack the concept that forming deep, meaningful connections aren't just a nice-to-have, but a fundamental need on par with food and water. Brian's journey, from the confines of a correctional facility classroom to the vast expanse of the mining and oil industries, reveals his 'Finding Good' project's quest to build authentic relationships that combat loneliness and foster a sense of...
2024-03-1244 min
The Poultry Leadership PodcastUnscrambling the Dynamics of Egg Pricing with Market Reporter Karyn Rispoli, Urner Barry Episode 9Send a textUnlock the secrets of the egg industry as Karyn Rispoli, an undeniable force in agricultural market reporting, joins us for an insightful discussion on what really goes into the price of your morning scramble. With her unique blend of New Jersey charisma and an unexpected passion for college rugby, Karyn sheds light on the cyclical dance of egg economics, drawing laughter with a nod to cultural meme phenomenons. Together, we peel back the layers of Urner Barry's crucial role in price reporting and dissect the cultural influence of names like "Brandon" and "Karyn" that...
2024-02-2034 min
The Poultry Leadership PodcastThe life of a Poultry Editor - Meredith Dawson - Watt Publications Episode 6Send a textThis episode features Brandon Mulnix interviewing Meredith Dawson, an editor at Watt Publications, about her work and insights into the poultry industry. Here are the key takeaways:Meredith's Role at Watt Publications:Manages various publications, including the weekly Egg Industry Insight and the annual Top Broiler and Turkey Companies Review.Creates blog content and covers topics like Taylor Swift's impact on egg prices and advice for women entering the poultry industry.Analyzes data from various sources to compile reports and graphs on topics relevant to farm managers, such as industry trends...
2024-01-2437 min
The Poultry Leadership PodcastPassion & Purpose - Sean Ryan - Prism Controls (PMSI) Episode 5Send a textThis podcast episode features Sean Ryan, an engineer and product development expert at Poultry Management Systems, discussing his passion for the poultry industry and his contributions to the company. Here are the key takeaways:Sean's Background:Grew up on a farm and around animals, with a father who was an engineer.Developed an early interest in technology and electronics.Worked in various industries before joining Poultry Management Systems.Sean's Role at Prism ControlsDesigns and maintains all hardware products.Handles networking and communication between hardware components.Acts as an...
2024-01-0453 min
The Poultry Leadership PodcastFlock Planning & HPAI - Bruce Dooyema - Versova Episode 4Send a textBruce Dooyema, a veteran of the poultry industry with over 50 years of experience, shares his journey and insights in this podcast interview. Here are the key takeaways:Early Life and Career:Started with chickens at age 12, helping his family farm grow from dairy to chickens.Graduated from high school and couldn't afford college, so joined the family chicken business.Witnessed the consolidation of the egg industry in the late 80s and early 90s.Center Fresh and Versova:Founded Center Fresh with partners to reach the goal of 1...
2023-12-2933 min
The Poultry Leadership PodcastPeak Performance Coaching for Business Leaders - Brian Bosley - Episode 3Send a textWhat is Peak Performance and how can you grow as a leader is the topic of this episode. The host Brandon Mulnix interviews Brian Bosley on how to grow through being coached. Here are some key takeaways:Peak performance is living the best version of yourself every day. It's not about perfection, but about progress and purpose. Brian Bosley uses the analogy of sculpting away the layers of self-doubt and fear to reveal the true peak identity within us.Coaching can be a valuable tool for achieving peak performance. A g...
2023-12-1446 min