Shows
Poultry Keepers PodcastBeat the Heat: Proven Ways to Prevent Heat Stress in Your Birds-Part 1Hot weather can spell disaster for your flock if you're not prepared. In Part 1 of Beat the Heat, Jeff Mattocks and Carey Blackmon join us for a no-fluff, practical conversation about what poultry heat stress really is, how it affects your birds, and the proactive steps small flock keepers can take to reduce risk.We cover:What defines heat stress and when it becomes dangerousHow to spot early warning signs before birds crashProven shade and ventilation strategiesReal-world success with misting systems, fans, and frozen water tricksThe role of nutrition: high-fat diets, vitamin C, and reducing cornHow...2025-07-2926 min
Poultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorTiny But Mighty: Raising Button Quail for Fun, Breeding & Profitsend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!Discover the charming world of button quail! Jennifer shares her journey raising these tiny birds, tips on brooding, feeding, housing, and how custom nutrition boosted hatch rates. Whether you're breeding or keeping them as indoor pets, this episode covers it all. In this episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast, Carey and Jennifer dive into the care, breeding, and quirks of button quail. Learn how to brood them successfully, avoid feed pitfalls, and why these micro quail are becoming trendy indoor companions. A m...2025-07-2436 min
Poultry Keepers PodcastImproving Production In Barred Rocks-Part 2In this continuation of our in-depth series, host Carey Blackmon is joined by Jeff Mattocks and breeder Jason Yuke as they dive even deeper into Jason’s project to restore production quality in his Barred Plymouth Rocks. From managing harsh climates and selective breeding setbacks to measuring feed conversion, temperament, and thriftiness, this episode offers invaluable insights into the real-world challenges and breakthroughs of small-scale poultry improvement.Jason discusses genetic bottlenecks, feed errors, managing aggression, breeding for uniformity, and how to identify pivotal "aha" moments when a breeding plan starts to pay off. He also shares advice fo...2025-07-2225 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorRediscovering the Black Java Chicken: History, Homesteading, and Hope for a Critically Endangered Breedsend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!In this fascinating episode of Poultry Nerds, Jennifer is joined by Jeanette from The Livestock Conservancy and Deborah from High Ground Farm to shine a spotlight on one of America’s rarest heritage chicken breeds — the Black Java. Thought to be nearly extinct, these beautiful long-backed birds boast rich green iridescent plumage, gentle temperaments, and deep historical roots dating back to the early 1800s.Deborah shares her firsthand experience raising Java chickens since 1999 and explains why they’re perfec...2025-07-1733 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorLighting, Molting & Egg Production: How Day Length Affects Your Chickens & Quailsend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!What role does light play in your flock’s health, behavior, and egg production? In this episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast, we dig deep into how seasonal changes in daylight—like the summer solstice—affect your chickens and quail. From lighting tricks to manage molting, to using LED and rope lights for consistent laying, we share expert tips for lighting routines in brooders, barns, and breeder pens.Join Carey and Jennifer as they discuss the science behind light spectrums (blue v...2025-07-1035 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorRainbow Egg Genetics 101: Breeding Olive Eggers, Marans & More with Mojo Homesteadsend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!In this egg-citing episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast, Carey and Jennifer are joined by Nolie from Mojo Homestead Official to crack open the colorful world of rainbow egg genetics. From breeding true blue egg layers like Ameraucanas to creating Olive Eggers with rich, speckled shells, this episode dives deep into the science, myths, and breeding strategies behind green, pink, mauve, and even “dirty river water” eggs.Whether you're just starting out or refining a multi-generational olive egger line, you'll lear...2025-07-0347 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorHatching Shipped Eggssend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond! Support the showFeel Free to email us at - info@poultrynerdspodcast.com Join us on Facebook at - https://www.facebook.com/PoultryNerdsSign up for News at PoultryNerds.comEggFoam.com get your egg shippers and live shipping boxes and always get free shipping! ShowPro feed supplement for all your...2025-06-2637 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorSummer vs. Winter Hatching: Humidity, Hacks & Incubator Mythssend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!Is it better to hatch chicks in the heat of summer or the chill of winter? In this episode, Carey and Jennifer dive deep into the real-world challenges of seasonal hatching—humidity swings, dry incubation, fan failures, and wild advice from online groups. Whether you're rolling with tabletop incubators or running full hatching room setups, this episode unpacks tips, tricks, and a few hard lessons (including one about drilling eggs 😬). Plus, we reveal our favorite humidity hacks and why Mother Nature still wins...2025-06-2641 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorMarek’s Disease Exposed: The Truth About Vaccines, Symptoms, and Prevention with Dr. Morishitasend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!In this deep-dive episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast, we're joined once again by our resident poultry veterinarian, Dr. Morishita, to tackle one of the most misunderstood and hotly debated topics in the poultry world—Marek’s Disease.We break down the science behind this deadly herpesvirus, how it spreads through feather dander, and why vaccination is the only real defense. Dr. Morishita explains the four main symptoms of Marek’s, how to identify them, a...2025-06-1955 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorMolting Matters: How to Support Your Flock Through the Molt with Nutrition & Caresend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!Wondering why your chickens look half-naked and stopped laying? In this Poultry Nerds Q&A episode, we answer the top 20 questions about molting in poultry—what it is, when it happens, how to support birds with proper nutrition, and the best housing tips to reduce stress. Whether you're raising layers, show birds, or backyard chickens, you'll learn how to help your flock thrive during this natural but stressful season. We’ll talk molting rations, protein needs, lighting, housing, and common molt mistakes—so you...2025-06-1231 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorNext Level Nerds: From Backyard Birds to Full-Blown Farm Bizsend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!What starts with a few backyard chickens can spiral into a full-scale farming operation before you even know what hit you. In this kickoff episode of Next Level Nerds: From Hobby to Hustle, hosts Jennifer and Carey get real about how they each went from “just a few birds” to running multi-layered ag businesses — from breeding, shipping, and selling hatching eggs to creating feed brands, running delivery routes, and launching podcasts.If you’ve ever wondered how to offset your feed bil...2025-06-0536 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorPredator-Proofing Your Chicken Coop with the Chicken Coop Company | Backyard Flock Safety Tipssend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!In this episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast, we’re joined by Danny from the Chicken Coop Company to talk all things predator prevention for backyard chickens. Whether you're battling raccoons, foxes, coyotes, or the real danger—your neighbor’s dog—this episode breaks down practical, real-world solutions to protect your flock.We discuss coop design features that work, the best materials to use (like hardware cloth vs. chicken wire), how predators behave (from raccoons to hawks...2025-05-2941 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorChicken Math & Show Secrets with The Gypsy Hen – Behind the Scenes of Poultry Exhibitionsend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!In this episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast, we're joined by Jessica from The Gypsy Hen, a passionate poultry breeder with over 300 birds, including Americanas, Silkies, Morans, Cochins, and more! We dive into what it’s like managing over 30 breeding pens, navigating poultry shows, using incubators like the GQF Sportsman 1502, and preparing for exhibition season. Jessica shares real talk about chicken math, double mating for patterned varieties like Silver Duckwing Americanas, and tips for first-time poultry exhibitors. Whether you're showing backyard birds or...2025-05-2227 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorSummertime Hatching Hacks: Mastering Humidity & Avoiding Incubator Failssend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!Join Carey and Jennifer in this lively episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast as they crack open the secrets to successful summertime hatching! Discover essential tips on humidity control, preventing common incubator mistakes, and the hilarious realities of poultry parenting. From handling incubator maintenance (without breaking the bank) to navigating humidity spikes, this episode equips you with practical solutions to improve your hatch rates. Plus, enjoy some entertaining "egg-ventures" and cautionary tales from the world of poultry social media. Tune in for...2025-05-1541 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorWelsh Harlequins Uncovered: Breeding, Color Phases, and Mentorship with Tyrelsend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!In this episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast, we're diving deep into the world of Welsh Harlequin ducks with returning guest Tyrel, a seasoned breeder and duck enthusiast. 🦆 From the breed's unique Tennessee import history to the auto-sexing traits, color phase differences (silver vs. gold), and the nuances of eclipse vs. nuptial plumage, this episode is packed with insight for both beginners and serious waterfowl breeders.Tyrell shares stor...2025-05-0831 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorWhat the Crap Is Wrong With My Chicken? Jeff Mattocks Talks Poop, Feed & Mycotoxinssend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!💩 Welcome to the Poultry Nerds Podcast — where no question is too weird and no topic too gross to cover… especially when it comes to poop!In this explosively informative episode, we're joined by the legendary Jeff Mattocks, poultry nutrition expert and feed formulator, to answer the #1 mystery in backyard poultry: "What the crap is wrong with my bird?"Jeff breaks down:What normal vs. abnormal chicken manure looks likeSigns of m...2025-05-0149 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorCracking the Secrets of the 2025 Pips n Chicks Virtual Show with Breanna Patzsend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!Join us for an exciting episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast as we dive deep into the highlights and behind-the-scenes secrets of the 2025 Pips n Chicks Virtual Poultry Show with special guest Breanna Patz. Discover insider tips on winning poultry competitions, understand judging criteria, and learn how to prepare your flock for virtual shows. Whether you’re an experienced breeder or new to poultry competitions, this episode is packed with expert advice, practical insights, and fun poultry show stories that will he...2025-04-2828 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorMaster Exhibitor Tyrel Thurston Talks Saxony Ducks, Waterfowl Breeding & Show Secretssend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!In this episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast, we welcome a passionate and knowledgeable guest — Tyrel Thurston — for his first-ever podcast appearance! Based in Montana and soon relocating to Wisconsin, Tyrel is a Master Exhibitor with the APA and ABA, known for his dedication to quality waterfowl and poultry breeding.We dive deep into:The Saxony duck breed — history, temperament, egg production, and show potentialWhat makes Saxony ducks the quadruple threat: egg layers, meat birds, beauti...2025-04-2430 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorAmeraucana vs Easter Egger: Splash Color Genetics, Melanin, and Wing Banding Deep Dive – w/ Gina from Wrather Farmssend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!Welcome back to the Poultry Nerds Podcast! In this episode, we're joined again by Gina from Wrather Farms as we dive deep into the genetics, color varieties, and mislabeling surrounding the Splash Ameraucana. What's the difference between a true Ameraucana vs. Easter Egger? We break it all down – from melanin expression, APA standards, and blue egg genetics to leg color, pea combs, and the reality of chick color at hatch....2025-04-1741 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorFrom Backyard Chickens to Black Mottled Brahmas: Bronwen Brune w/Queen B Farm Poultry Journeysend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!Join us on the Poultry Nerds Podcast as we sit down with Bronwen Brune w/Queen B Farm in Missouri to discuss her incredible journey from accidental backyard chicken keeper to dedicated breeder of Black Mottled Brahmas. Bronwyn shares her experiences, from dealing with aggressive roosters to mastering complex poultry genetics to create a new, stunning variety. Learn about chicken math, breeding strategies, genetics of mottled feathers, overcoming common poultry challenges, and the reality of creating show-quality birds from scratch. Perfect for...2025-04-0940 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorBird Flu & Backyard Flocks: What Every Poultry Nerd Needs to Know (with Dr. Teresa Morishita)send us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!Everything You Need to Know About Bird Flu in Backyard Chickens 🐔 | Poultry Nerds Podcast w/ Dr. Teresa MorishitaIn this episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Teresa Morishita, a poultry veterinarian and professor of poultry medicine and food safety, to answer all your burning questions about avian influenza (H5N1) and how it affects backyard poultry flocks.👉 What is bird flu and how does it spread...2025-04-0345 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorPoultry Terminology 101: What’s a Pullet, a Cockerel & Why Grit Isn’t Just a Southern Thingsend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!Welcome to another cluckin’ awesome episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast! 🐣In this fun, info-packed session, hosts Carrie and Jennifer break down essential poultry terminology every chicken keeper, breeder, and backyard enthusiast should know. Whether you're raising Coturnix quail, managing laying hens, or wondering what the heck a "pullet" really is—this episode is for you!✅ Learn the difference between a chick, pullet, and hen ✅ What does "straight run" REALLY mean...2025-03-2738 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorMastering Poultry Breeding: Creating Your Own Strain with Kenny Troianosend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!In this episode of The Poultry Nerds Podcast, we welcome expert breeder and poultry genetics specialist Kenny Troiano to explore the process of breeding and developing your own strain. If you’ve ever wanted to establish a flock that is uniquely yours—consistent in type, performance, and quality—this episode is a must-listen!We discuss the fundamentals of selective breeding, linebreeding, culling, and maintaining genetic purity, along with common mistakes breeders make and how to avoid them. Kenny shares his years...2025-03-2041 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorHen or Rooster? How to Tell the Difference!send us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!🐔 Is your chicken a hen or a rooster? In this episode, we break down the key differences between a hen and a rooster, covering everything from physical characteristics to behavior and crowing. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced poultry keeper, this guide will help you determine if your bird is a rooster or a hen!🔍 Keywords:How to tell if a chicken is a hen or a roosterDifference between hen and...2025-03-1318 minPoultry Nerds Podcast: A conversation about chicken, quail and turkeys with a side of humorFrom Quail to Emu: Exploring the World of Poultry with Alexandra Dosssend us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!🎙 Quail & Homesteading Insights with Stellar Game Birds 🐔🌿In this episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast, we sit down with Alexandra Doss of Stellar Game Birds to talk all things poultry, homesteading, and resilient breeding. From her early days sneaking a quail chick into her apartment to becoming a USDA-certified transporter and author, Alexandra shares her journey of building a sustainable, diversified farm in Florida.What You’ll Learn in This Episod...2025-03-0638 min