In this episode, we introduce Mia Thom , one of our new Poultry Keepers Podcast content creators. Mia shares her inspiring journey raising Black Silver Marans and Silver Cuckoo Marans in Southern Oregon. From her first $10 hen that sparked her passion, to carefully line breeding, selecting for dual-purpose traits, and overcoming challenges like egg color, heat stress, and hatch rates, Mia offers practical insight into the rewarding world of project varieties of Marans . She also discusses how sh...
Aug 26, 2025•27 min•Season 3Ep. 129
In Part 2 of Nature vs Nurture: Hatching Chicks with Hens or Hatchers , we explore the time-tested traditions of broody hens alongside the science of modern incubators. Discover: How to prepare housing and bedding for a broody hen Why moving a setting hen rarely works and what to do instead The benefits and drawbacks of peat moss, straw, and other bedding options Why incubator calibration is critical for success The importance of stable temperature and humidity for hatch rates What to feed chick...
Aug 19, 2025•20 min•Season 3Ep. 128
Thinking about letting a hen hatch her own chicks instead of using an incubator? In this Poultry Keepers Podcast episode, we explore the pros, pitfalls, and fascinating realities of hen hatching. Learn why some breeds—like Silkies—are famous for broodiness, how a mother hen’s natural care can boost chick survival and growth, and the environmental factors that trigger broodiness. We share practical advice on feed timing, managing aggressive flock members, and when (and if) you should move a brood...
Aug 12, 2025•31 min•Season 3Ep. 127
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 regulation Why chickens prefer apple cider vinegar in summer water Frozen treats: fun or ...
Aug 05, 2025•26 min•Season 3Ep. 126
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 dangerous How to spot early warning signs before birds crash Proven shade and ventilation strategies Real-world success with mis...
Jul 29, 2025•27 min•Season 3Ep. 125
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 bottlenec...
Jul 22, 2025•26 min•Season 3Ep. 124
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 prope...
Jul 15, 2025•26 min•Season 3Ep. 123
In Part 2 of “Culling With Clarity,” join Mandelyn, John, and Rip as they continue their honest and thought-provoking conversation about the art and responsibility of culling within a poultry breeding program. This episode digs deeper into the emotional challenges, humane techniques, and practical considerations that all poultry keepers face when selecting and removing birds from their flocks. You’ll hear personal experiences about predator recovery, humane euthanasia options, what makes dual-pu...
Jul 08, 2025•29 min•Season 3Ep. 122
In this insightful episode of The Poultry Keepers Podcast , Rip Stalvey, Mandelyn Royal, and John Gunterman have a deep and honest discussion on one of the most challenging but essential parts of poultry keeping: culling. But wait—culling isn’t just about processing birds. It’s about decision-making. It’s about your flock’s future. It’s about refining your breeding goals, making tough calls, and protecting your reputation as a poultry keeper. Whether you raise birds for meat, eggs, show, or dual...
Jul 01, 2025•28 min•Season 3Ep. 121
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 keeper...
Jun 28, 2025•9 min•Season 3Ep. 120
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 f...
Jun 26, 2025•9 min•Season 3Ep. 119
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 journali...
Jun 24, 2025•35 min•Season 3Ep. 118
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...
Jun 21, 2025•8 min•Season 3Ep. 117
In this bonus episode of The Poultry Keepers Podcast , host Rip Stalvey dives into one of the most critical yet overlooked components of poultry nutrition—amino acids. Whether you're raising layers, broilers, breeders, or show birds, understanding the role of amino acids can dramatically improve your flock’s health, productivity, behavior, and appearance. Learn how amino acids like methionine, lysine, and threonine affect feather development, muscle growth, egg production, immunity, and even tem...
Jun 19, 2025•7 min•Season 3Ep. 116
In this insightful episode of The Poultry Keepers Podcast , host Rip Stalvey is joined by Mandelyn Royal and John Gunterman to explore one of the most powerful yet misunderstood aspects of poultry breeding: Smart Selection . Whether you're raising birds for eggs, meat, show, or heritage preservation, this conversation breaks down how purposeful culling and intentional selection can make or break your flock's future. Discover when and how to begin selecting birds, how to use records and daily obs...
Jun 17, 2025•31 min•Season 3Ep. 115
In this bonus episode of The Poultry Keepers Podcast , host Rip Stalvey breaks down what it really takes to feed your quail for success at every life stage. From the high-protein, high-fat needs of newly hatched chicks to the adjusted calcium and vitamin requirements of breeders, this episode covers the full nutritional roadmap for small flock quail keepers. Based on insights from Jeff Mattocks’ “Quail Nutrition 101” presentation and his book Niche Poultry: Feeding and Management , you'll get pr...
Jun 14, 2025•8 min•Season 3Ep. 113
In this Coop Wisdom bonus episode of The Poultry Keepers Podcast , host Rip Stalvey walks you through a step-by-step, non-fasting molting method that supports your flock’s health, comfort, and future egg production. Learn what molting is, when it occurs, why it matters, and how you can manage it humanely without depriving your hens. You’ll discover how to adjust your flock’s diet, lighting, and care to guide them through this critical rest-and-renewal phase with confidence. Whether you're new to...
Jun 12, 2025•7 min•Season 3Ep. 112
In this episode of The Poultry Keepers Podcast , we continue our deep dive into the fascinating world of grow outs. Hosts John, Mandelyn, and Rip explore the subtle and not-so-subtle messages your young flock sends you every day—if you know how to look. From activity levels and social behavior to the impact of nutrition, grit, and space on development, this conversation is packed with real-world insights for backyard poultry keepers. You’ll learn how to spot early signs of issues, make smart cul...
Jun 10, 2025•30 min•Season 3Ep. 111
It’s mosquito season—and that means your birds may be at higher risk of Fowl Pox , a viral disease that spreads rapidly through bites, contact, and contaminated surfaces. In this bonus episode of The Poultry Keepers Podcast , host Rip Stalvey breaks down: What fowl pox is and how to recognize it How it spreads in your flock What treatments help reduce symptoms and secondary infections The best ways to prevent outbreaks before they start Whether you’re a backyard hobbyist or a seasoned breeder, t...
Jun 07, 2025•8 min•Season 3Ep. 110
In this bonus episode of The Poultry Keepers Podcast , we dive into a vital but often overlooked trait in poultry breeding: body capacity . Whether you raise birds for meat, eggs, or sustainability, understanding and improving body capacity can elevate your flock's productivity and long-term health. Hosted by Rip Stalvey, this episode covers: What body capacity really means in poultry How to evaluate it using hands-on methods Why it's a key trait for feed efficiency, egg production, and vigor Pr...
Jun 05, 2025•7 min•Season 3Ep. 109
Discover the secrets hidden in your young flock’s development! In this episode of The Poultry Keepers Podcast , we dive deep into the overlooked but crucial grow-out phase —the time between brooding and maturity. Learn how to observe, track, and interpret the subtle (and not-so-subtle) messages your birds are giving you. Join Rip, John and Mandelyn as they share proven tips on: Early growth indicators and what they mean Choosing future breeders through observation Managing nutrition, housing, an...
Jun 03, 2025•29 min•Season 3Ep. 108
In this bonus episode of The Poultry Keepers Podcast , host Rip Stalvey dives into one of the most important questions in poultry hatching: What is the most critical part of the incubation process—and when does it matter most? While many poultry keepers focus on temperature, humidity, and egg turning, Rip explains why the first 10 days of incubation are the true foundation for hatch success. You’ll learn what’s happening inside the egg during this window, how early mistakes can lead to weak chic...
May 31, 2025•10 min•Season 3Ep. 107
In this personal and down-to-earth episode, Rip Stalvey shares why poultry nutrition isn’t just about feed—it’s about the food we ultimately serve our families. When we raise backyard chickens, their health, egg quality, and meat flavor are a direct reflection of what we put in their feeders. That’s why we say: We are what we eat, eats. You'll learn how intentional poultry feeding choices—like balanced amino acids, calcium, high-quality fats, and grit—make all the difference. We’ll explore why p...
May 29, 2025•8 min•Season 3Ep. 106
In Part 2 of the Grow Out Secrets series on The Poultry Keepers Podcast , Rip Stalvey, Mandelyn Royal, and John Gunterman return to the conversation on raising and evaluating young poultry during the critical grow-out phase. This episode dives into the real-world decisions poultry keepers must make when selecting future breeders and culling out the rest. Learn how to spot activity levels, how nutrition impacts development, when to expect certain traits to appear, and how to manage your grow-outs...
May 27, 2025•29 min•Season 2Ep. 105
In this bonus audio, host Rip Stalvey introduces a simple but powerful model for raising better birds: The Poultry Keeper’s Pyramid . This foundational framework focuses on three equal, interconnected pillars— Genetics, Management, and Nutrition —and shows how balancing all three leads to healthier, more productive, and more consistent flocks. Whether you raise birds for eggs, meat, show, or sustainability, this conversation offers clear, relatable guidance for diagnosing problems and making rea...
May 24, 2025•8 min•Season 3Ep. 104
In this episode of the Poultry Keepers Podcast, we’re diving into one of the most critical yet overlooked phases of poultry keeping: the grow-out stage. From the moment your chicks leave the brooder until they reach maturity, every behavior and growth milestone offers clues—if you're paying attention. We guide you through the importance of daily observation, growth tracking, and hands-on evaluation to make informed decisions about which birds to keep, which to cull, and how to improve your flock...
May 22, 2025•5 min•Season 2Ep. 103
In this episode of the Poultry Keepers Podcast, we dive deep into the often-overlooked grow-out phase of poultry keeping—the critical time between brooding and maturity. Join Rip and guests John and Mandelyn as they explore the importance of observing your chickens’ behavior, tracking growth milestones, and making informed decisions about nutrition, genetics, and flock management. Learn how daily observation, record-keeping, and hands-on evaluation can reveal future breeder potential, uncover nu...
May 20, 2025•29 min•Season 2Ep. 102
Are rodents invading your chicken coop? In this bonus content of The Poultry Keepers Podcast, we dive deep into why rats and mice are drawn to backyard chicken coops, the damage they can cause to your flock, and—most importantly—how to eliminate and prevent them. Learn practical, humane, and effective strategies to keep your chickens safe, your feed secure, and your coop clean. From rodent-proofing tips to natural deterrents and smart feeding practices, this guide will help you take back control...
May 17, 2025•5 min•Season 2Ep. 101
In this clip Jeff Mattocks shares his thoughts on giving baby chicks electrolytes. You can email us at - poultrykeeperspodcast@gmail.com Join our Facebook Groups: Poultry Keepers Podcast - https://www.facebook.com/groups/907679597724837 Poultry Keepers 360 - - https://www.facebook.com/groups/354973752688125 Poultry Breeders Nutrition - https://www.facebook.com/groups/4908798409211973 Check out the Poultry Kepers Podcast YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@PoultryKeepersPodcast/featured...
May 15, 2025•2 min•Season 2Ep. 100
In Part 2 of our series on best practices for brooding baby chicks, Rip Stalvey and Jeff Mattocks continue their discussion on creating the ideal environment for young chicks. This episode dives deep into important factors like adjusting brooder temperature, choosing the right protein levels for chick starter feed, managing amino acid intake, monitoring crop fill, preventing pasty butt, and why grit and probiotics can make a big difference in early chick health. Topics covered include: · How to ...
May 13, 2025•29 min•Season 2Ep. 99
