Poultry Keepers Podcast

In Part 2 of this Poultry Keepers Podcast, Jeff Mattocks and Carey Blackmon return to tackle more proven, real-world strategies for preventing heat stress in your birds. From ventilation hacks and nutrition adjustments to water system improvements and coop cooling tricks, this episode is packed with practical insights every poultry keeper can use.We dive into:Airflow and coop design for better temperature regulationWhy chickens prefer apple cider vinegar in summer water Frozen treats: fun or flawed? What it does to your eggs High-protein treats—helpful or harmful in summer? Smart watering systems: misting, recirculating lines, and temperature targets Cleaning tips for nipple lines and drinkers Emergency cooling strategies (frozen blocks, standing water, fans)Water pH, alkalinity, and why it matters more than you think Winter water heating tips (yes, summer prep helps with winter, too!)Whether you raise birds for show, production, or pets, this is a must-watch episode that brings clarity to common summer challenges. Learn how to listen to your birds, balance their diet, and keep them cool, hydrated, and healthy through the hottest months.Learn more at: www.thepoultrykeeperspodcast.com#PoultryKeepersPodcast #PoultryKeepers360 #ShowProFarmSupply #ChickenHeatStress #BeatTheHeat #BackyardChickens #ChickenCoopCare #HotWeatherFlockCare #ACVForChickens #PoultryHydration #PoultryBreedersNutrition #SmallFlockSolutions #ChickenWateringTipsYou can email us at - poultrykeeperspodcast@gmail.comJoin our Facebook Groups:Poultry Keepers Podcast - https://www.facebook.com/groups/907679597724837Poultry Keepers 360 - - https://www.facebook.com/groups/354973752688125Poultry Breeders Nutrition - https://www.facebook.com/groups/4908798409211973Check out the Poultry Kepers Podcast YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@PoultryKeepersPodcast/featured

Hot 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 to keep water cool and palatable during extreme tempsTips for birds stuck at shows or in fair cagesDebunking myths about apple cider vinegar in hot weatherWhether you're raising show birds, backyard layers, or a mixed flock, this episode gives you real-life solutions to help your poultry thrive through summer’s toughest days.Don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss Part 2 next week. Listen now at: www.thepoultrykeeperspodcast.com#PoultryKeepersPodcast #PoultryKeepers360 #ShowProFarmSupply #BeatTheHeat #HeatStressInPoultry #BackyardChickens #ChickenHealth #HotWeatherCare #FlockCareTips #ChickenWatering #PoultryBreedersNutrition #LivestockHeatManagementYou can email us at - poultrykeeperspodcast@gmail.comJoin our Facebook Groups:Poultry Keepers Podcast - https://www.facebook.com/groups/907679597724837Poultry Keepers 360 - - https://www.facebook.com/groups/354973752688125Poultry Breeders Nutrition - https://www.facebook.com/groups/4908798409211973Check out the Poultry Kepers Podcast YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@PoultryKeepersPodcast/featured

In 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 for new breeders, insights on choosing birds suited to your climate, and the importance of setting clear, long-term goals before selecting your foundation stock.Plus, we talk about culling practices, chick evaluations, and how Jason is working toward an "Ontario Barred Rock" that thrives in his cold Canadian climate while maintaining productivity and heritage breed standards.Whether you're a seasoned poultry breeder or a small flock owner just getting started, this episode is packed with tips and perspective that will help you move your flock forward.To listen now and subscribe for more episodes on poultry breeding, nutrition, and flock management go to www.thepoultrykeeperspodcast.com #PoultryKeepersPodcast #PoultryKeepers360 #ShowProFarmSupply #BarredRockBreeding #HeritageBreedImprovement #SmallFlockSuccess #DualPurposeChickens #FlockManagement #HomesteadPoultry #ColdClimateChickens #CompensationMating #PoultryBreedingTips #EggProductionBreedsYou can email us at - poultrykeeperspodcast@gmail.comJoin our Facebook Groups:Poultry Keepers Podcast - https://www.facebook.com/groups/907679597724837Poultry Keepers 360 - - https://www.facebook.com/groups/354973752688125Poultry Breeders Nutrition - https://www.facebook.com/groups/4908798409211973Check out the Poultry Kepers Podcast YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@PoultryKeepersPodcast/featured

In this episode of Poultry Keepers 360, we kick off Part 1 of an in-depth conversation with poultry breeder Jason, who shares his hands-on experience and strategies for restoring production qualities in the Barred Plymouth Rock. From his early setbacks with show birds to discovering the secrets of line breeding, nutrition, and evaluating skeletal structure, Jason walks us through his journey of breeding for dual-purpose excellence.Discover how historical context, purposeful selection, and proper feeding programs (including Project MAD) are helping him reestablish pre-war standards of productivity, including egg laying, fleshing, and bird temperament. Learn what traits Jason prioritizes, how he tracks progress, and why he's focused on adapting his flock to his unique climate in Ontario.This is a must-listen for poultry keepers working with heritage or dual-purpose breeds—and especially for those looking to improve the utility value of their birds without sacrificing long-term sustainability.Subscribe to follow Part 2 and other episodes focused on poultry breeding, nutrition, and management.#PoultryKeepersPodcast #PoultryKeepers360 #BarredRockBreeding #DualPurposeChickens #HeritageBreeds #PoultrySelection #BackyardChickens #EggProduction #PoultryBreeding You can email us at - poultrykeeperspodcast@gmail.comJoin our Facebook Groups:Poultry Keepers Podcast - https://www.facebook.com/groups/907679597724837Poultry Keepers 360 - - https://www.facebook.com/groups/354973752688125Poultry Breeders Nutrition - https://www.facebook.com/groups/4908798409211973Check out the Poultry Kepers Podcast YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@PoultryKeepersPodcast/featured

Dive into the emotional and ethical landscape of humane culling in poultry breeding. Discover techniques that emphasize compassion while navigating the challenges of managing straight run chicks. Learn how dual-purpose breeds enhance sustainability and reduce waste. Explore the balance between perfectionism and genetic diversity, emphasizing the importance of record-keeping and mentorship. This discussion champions open conversation about culling, inviting poultry keepers to share experiences and foster growth in their breeding practices.

Dive into the world of poultry with a nuanced view on culling! It’s all about strategic decision-making—finding the right birds for your flock's future and refining breeding goals. Explore performance culling, and learn how visual defects can impact your success. Unpack the ethics behind tough choices and the importance of maintaining your reputation. Hear real-life stories that emphasize thoughtful selection and address the complexities of managing underperforming birds while prioritizing their well-being.

Summer heat can be brutal—but your poultry don’t have to suffer through it. In this episode of The Poultry Keepers Podcast, host Rip Stalvey shares real-world, down-home strategies to help your flock stay cool, safe, and productive during the hottest months of the year. From water and shade solutions to ventilation tricks, frozen treats, low-sodium electrolytes, and breed choices that beat the heat—this episode is packed with practical advice tailored for backyard and small flock poultry keepers. Whether you're just starting out or you've been raising chickens for decades, you'll come away with tools and tips that could save lives, eggs, and peace of mind.Visit www.thepoultrykeeperspodcast.com to listen now, full podcast episodes and for more bonus content, and lot’s more small flock education. #PoultryKeepersPodcast #PoultryKeepers360 #BackyardChickens #ChickenHeatStress #SummerFlockCare #PoultryManagement #ShowProFarmSupply #CoolYourCoop #ChickenKeepingTips #FlockHydration #RaisingChickensRight #HomesteadPoultry #HotWeatherPoultryCareYou can email us at - poultrykeeperspodcast@gmail.comJoin our Facebook Groups:Poultry Keepers Podcast - https://www.facebook.com/groups/907679597724837Poultry Keepers 360 - - https://www.facebook.com/groups/354973752688125Poultry Breeders Nutrition - https://www.facebook.com/groups/4908798409211973Check out the Poultry Kepers Podcast YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@PoultryKeepersPodcast/featured

In this deep-dive bonus episode of The Poultry Keepers Podcast, Rip Stalvey explores one of the most misunderstood components of poultry nutrition: fats. Whether you’re raising layers, broilers, breeders, or show birds, fat plays a crucial role in energy, feather quality, fertility, and even immunity.Host Rip Stalvey explains how dietary fats impact vitamin absorption, hormone production, feed palatability, and overall flock health. You'll learn the differences between animal- and plant-based fats, how omega-3s affect egg and feather quality, and ideal fat levels by bird type—from chicks to mature breeders.You'll also get practical strategies for using fats to condition birds for cold weather, molting, or show season—and tips to avoid common pitfalls like obesity or rancid oils.Discover why the right kind—and amount—of fat may be the missing link in your flock’s performance.Listen now at www.thepoultrykeeperspodcast.com #PoultryKeepersPodcast #PoultryNutrition #BackyardPoultry #ChickenFeedingTips #PoultryBreedersNutrition #ShowProFarmSupply #FatsInPoultry #ChickenHealth #Omega3ForChickens #DualPurposeChickens #ConditioningChickens #HomesteadPoultry #SmartPoultryFeeding #FeedingShowBirds  You can email us at - poultrykeeperspodcast@gmail.comJoin our Facebook Groups:Poultry Keepers Podcast - https://www.facebook.com/groups/907679597724837Poultry Keepers 360 - - https://www.facebook.com/groups/354973752688125Poultry Breeders Nutrition - https://www.facebook.com/groups/4908798409211973Check out the Poultry Kepers Podcast YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@PoultryKeepersPodcast/featured

In this powerful continuation of our Smart Selection series, we dig deeper into how to make informed, effective breeding decisions for your poultry flock. Whether you're selecting for meat, eggs, show quality, or broodiness, this episode is packed with real-life examples, practical tips, and honest conversations about how to assess and improve your birds.We cover the importance of early environment, tracking maturity rates, identifying “early bloomers” vs. late-developers, the power of journaling your observations, and the tools and techniques serious poultry keepers use to evaluate birds objectively and efficiently.You’ll hear about managing emotional bias, selecting from the middle of the bell curve, using calipers, color-coded bands, and even lighting tips to enhance bird evaluation. Plus, we discuss trap nesting, pedigree mating, and creating sustainable, well-balanced flocks that meet your goals—whether you’re breeding for the table, the egg basket, or the showroom.#PoultryKeepersPodcast #SmartPoultrySelection #BackyardBreeders #PoultryBreedersNutrition #FlockManagement #ShowProFarmSupply #ChickenBreeding #DualPurposeChickens #PoultryKeepers360 #HomesteadPoultry #PoultryPodcast #EggLayers #MeatBirds #PedigreeMating #TrapNestSystemYou can email us at - poultrykeeperspodcast@gmail.comJoin our Facebook Groups:Poultry Keepers Podcast - https://www.facebook.com/groups/907679597724837Poultry Keepers 360 - - https://www.facebook.com/groups/354973752688125Poultry Breeders Nutrition - https://www.facebook.com/groups/4908798409211973Check out the Poultry Kepers Podcast YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@PoultryKeepersPodcast/featured

In this bonus episode of The Poultry Keepers Podcast, host Rip Stalvey takes a deep dive into a topic every breeder and exhibitor should understand: how feather development affects poultry type. Drawing insights from a timeless 1915 article by renowned poultry judge and illustrator Arthur O. Schilling, this episode explores how feathers influence our perception of conformation, structure, and maturity—and why learning to judge beyond the feathers is crucial.Discover the difference between soft-feathered and hard-feathered breeds, why early feathering can be misleading, how cockerels and pullets develop differently, and what molting reveals about your birds. Whether you're evaluating show birds or selecting future breeders, this episode gives you the tools to train both your eye and your hand for better results in the coop and the showroom.Visit us at www.thepoultrykeeperspodcast.com for more expert content, breeding tips, and bonus episodes. Don’t forget to subscribe, share this episode with a fellow poultry keeper, and keep breeding with purpose!#PoultryKeepersPodcast #FeatherDevelopment #PoultryType #ChickenBreeding #ExhibitionPoultry #ShowBirdEvaluation #SelectiveBreeding #CockerelDevelopment #PulletsAndFeathers #MoltingInPoultry #BackyardChickens #HeritageBreeds You can email us at - poultrykeeperspodcast@gmail.comJoin our Facebook Groups:Poultry Keepers Podcast - https://www.facebook.com/groups/907679597724837Poultry Keepers 360 - - https://www.facebook.com/groups/354973752688125Poultry Breeders Nutrition - https://www.facebook.com/groups/4908798409211973Check out the Poultry Kepers Podcast YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@PoultryKeepersPodcast/featured