Poultry Keepers Podcast - podcast cover

Poultry Keepers Podcast

Rip Stalvey, John Gunterman, and Mandelyn Royalwww.thepoultrykeeperspodcast.com

Welcome to The Poultry Keepers Podcast

Cluck, Chat, and Rule the Roost! One Egg-cellent Episode at a Time!

At The Poultry Keepers Podcast, we’re building a friendly, informative, and inspiring space for today’s small-flock poultry keepers. Whether you're a seasoned pro with decades of experience or just beginning your backyard chicken journey, you’ve found your community. Here, poultry isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way of life.

Each episode is packed with practical, science-based information to help you care for your flock with confidence. From hatching eggs and breeding strategies to flock health, nutrition, housing, and show prep—we cover it all with insight and heart.

Hosted by Rip Stalvey, Mandelyn Royal, and John Gunterman, our show brings together over 70 years of combined poultry experience. We believe in the power of shared knowledge and the importance of accuracy, offering trusted content for poultry keepers who want to do right by their birds.

So pull up a perch and join us each week as we cluck, chat, and rule the roost—one egg-cellent episode at a time.


Visit our website at www.thepoultrykeeperspodcast.com 

 

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Episodes

Have A Good Flock From A Small Start-Part 2

This episode is a detailed discussion on breeding poultry, focusing on selecting high-quality stock and breeding to a written standard. We cover line breeding, finding good breeders, selecting traits, and the time and patience required for successful breeding. We emphasize the need for patience, dedication, and the importance of defining goals before breeding poultry. You can email us at - poultrykeeperspodcast@gmail.com Join our Facebook Groups: Poultry Keepers Podcast - https://www.facebook.co...

Mar 26, 202435 minSeason 2Ep. 39

Have A Good Flock From A Small Start-Part 1

The episode discusses starting a poultry flock with a small group of birds, emphasizing the importance of high-quality birds, strict culling, and continuous learning. We highlight the need for patience, mentorship, and thorough management skills to overcome setbacks and challenges. In addition, we also cover breeding methods, predator protection, and the importance of selecting only the best birds for breeding. You can email us at - poultrykeeperspodcast@gmail.com Join our Facebook Groups: Poult...

Mar 19, 202431 minSeason 2Ep. 38

Mandelyn Makes A Flock Visit-Part 2

In this podcast episode, Mandelyn, John, and Rip discuss the challenges and considerations involved in breeding and selecting quality birds. Some of the topics covered include the selection process, market traits, dealing with setbacks, and the importance of sustainability in raising standardbred poultry. 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.fac...

Mar 12, 202426 minSeason 2Ep. 37

Mandelyn Makes A Flock Visit-Part 1

This episode features a discussion between John Gunterman, Rip Stalvey and Mandelyn Royal about her visit to a poultry farm as a mentor. They discuss the farm's flock issues, culling, and potential solutions for improving the quality of the birds, with a focus on meat production for commercial purposes. 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.faceb...

Mar 05, 202424 minSeason 2Ep. 36

Reading, Understanding, And Applying A Written Standard-Part 4

The script is a comprehensive discussion from the Poultry Keepers podcast, covering various aspects of poultry evaluation including body conformation, feather quality, color, and breeding. The hosts stress the importance of referring to the written standards and seeking mentorship for specific knowledge, and conclude by seeking feedback for future podcast topics. You can email us at - poultrykeeperspodcast@gmail.com Join our Facebook Groups: Poultry Keepers Podcast - https://www.facebook.com/gro...

Feb 27, 202428 minSeason 2Ep. 35

Reading, Understanding, And Applying A Written Standard-Part 3

In this episode of the Poultry Keepers podcast, John Gunterman, Mandelyn Royal, and Rip Stalvey discuss various aspects of written poultry standards and their interpretation, including tail selection, body capacity, leg structure, feet, and keel alignment. They emphasize standards important for breeding for the optimal traits that contribute to the bird's health, functionality, and meat quality You can email us at - poultrykeeperspodcast@gmail.com Join our Facebook Groups: Poultry Keepers Podcas...

Feb 25, 202426 minSeason 2Ep. 34

Reading, Understanding, and Applying a Written Standard-Part 2

Unlock the secrets of poultry selection with us, Mandolyn Royal, John Gunerman, and Rip Stalvey reveal the subtle nuances of bird evaluation that go beyond mere aesthetics. This isn't your typical farm chat; our discussion wades into the intricacies of a bird's natural carriage and its dynamic response to the environment. By understanding the importance of patience and employing tools like video analysis, you too can perfect the art of recognizing the ideal tail posture, an indicator of your bir...

Feb 13, 202425 minSeason 2Ep. 33

Reading, Understanding, And Applying A Written Standard-Part 1

Venture back in time with us to a world where standardbred poultry was prized as much for their ability to lay eggs or grace our dinner tables as they were for their feathers. In our latest chat, we lift the veil on the historical tapestry of poultry breed standards, moving beyond the glossy sheen of the exhibition to reveal their profound influence on the breeds we adore today. From the Rhode Island Reds to the industrious Leghorns, we trace the impact of the 1874 American Standard of Perfectio...

Feb 06, 202433 minSeason 2Ep. 32

New Podcast Improvements

How can we make our Podcast better? Join us as we share the new planned improvement for this podcast. 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/@PoultryKeepers...

Jan 30, 20248 minSeason 2Ep. 31

Strategies For Growing A Strong Flock, Part 2

Unlock the secrets of poultry perfection with our experts Mandy, John, and Rip as they traverse the complexities of selective breeding and the magic of meticulous record-keeping. Whether you're a seasoned breeder or new to the coop, this week's episode is a treasure trove of insights. We’ll show you how a snapshot can speak a thousand words about lineage and progress, and why a breeder's watchful eye can reveal surprising traits in your feathered charges. Our conversation illuminates the heart o...

Jan 23, 202427 minSeason 2Ep. 30

Strategies for Growing a Strong Flock, Part 1

Have you ever wondered what it takes to amplify your poultry flock to the pinnacle of health and productivity? Let Mandolin Royal, Rips Talvi, and I, John Gunterman, guide you on a journey through the world of advanced poultry keeping. Mandolin, with her leap to managing 400 birds annually, spills the secrets on how she selects for the finest traits and the fascinating enigma of late bloomers among the roosters. We'll navigate the hurdles that come with a burgeoning flock, from stretching resour...

Jan 16, 202427 minSeason 2Ep. 29

The Poultry Keepers Guide to Advanced Flock Management, Part 2

Ever wondered how the cost of chicken feed trickles down to the eggs on your breakfast plate? Prepare to be enlightened as we discuss the economics of poultry keeping, examining the pivotal role of feed costs in egg production. We'll share with you the phenomenon of 'chicken math,' revealing the game-changing strategy of measuring feed by weight rather than volume. Through the episode, we navigate the textures of poultry meat and the importance of tailoring your cooking techniques to optimize th...

Jan 09, 202432 minSeason 2Ep. 28

The Poultry Keepers Guide to Advanced Flock Management, Part 1

Embark on a journey through the art of culling and flock management with us—Mandolin Royal, Rip Stalvey, and John Gunterman—as we share our tried-and-true strategies for ensuring the vitality of your chickens. Discover the transformative power of selective breeding and the meticulous care it takes to cultivate a flock that's not just surviving, but thriving. We delve into the tough choices of which birds to cull, and how traits like comb size, laying patterns, and even the enthusiasm a chicken s...

Jan 02, 202426 minSeason 2Ep. 27

Heritage Poultry: Flavor and Cooking, Part 2

Unlock the secrets to succulent poultry as we dissect the myths surrounding self-basting turkeys and brining. Say goodbye to bland birds and hello to full-flavored feasts; our discussion sheds light on how brining techniques employed by commercial brands may not be the moisture miracle you've been led to believe. Get ready to learn why additives aiming for consistency could be sacrificing the quality of your poultry, and how you can avoid these pitfalls. We'll also let you in on our top methods ...

Dec 26, 202326 minSeason 1Ep. 26

Heritage Poultry: Flavor and Cooking, Part 1

Ready for a culinary journey to discover the true taste of chicken? Today, we’ll uncover why that store-bought bird lacks flavor and how heritage dual-purpose breeds enrich your palate with authentic depth of flavor. We’ll travel back to the 1940s, tracing the decline of flavor when uniformity stormed the food scene. You'll get a front-row seat to the world of terroir - the environmental factors affecting the taste of poultry. So, forget generic, join us in celebrating the diverse and delicious ...

Dec 12, 202326 minSeason 1Ep. 25

How To Get Chicks Off To A Strong Start Part 2

Are you ready to give your chicks the best start in life? We've got a lively discussion lined up for you, packed with crucial insights on the first 14 days of a chick's life. This episode is all about helping chicks build a strong foundation for a healthy future. We explore the importance of the right diet and why you should hold off on treats and mealworms. Instead, we suggest a piece of sod can provide an immune-boosting playground for your chicks. From the ideal hatching egg size to debating ...

Dec 05, 202329 minSeason 1Ep. 24

How To Get Chicks Off To A Strong Start Part 1

Ever wondered about the tiny details that can make or break the first week in a chick's life? Whether you're a poultry aficionado or just getting your feet wet, our chat with poultry guru Jeff Mattocks is a must-listen. Together, we delve into the fascinating world of baby chicks, highlighting the necessity of close monitoring in the first week. Jeff explains how a chick's body weight increasing three to four times can offer valuable insights about their health. We also offer useful tips and sha...

Nov 28, 202330 minSeason 1Ep. 23

Unlocking the World of Dual Purpose Poultry Breeds

This episode is a must-listen for anyone keen to better understand dual-purpose poultry breeds and their benefits. Get ready to expand your insights into the world of egg and meat production, as we explore the differences and nuances between heritage, standard, and show-quality breeds. We reveal the importance of selecting strong layers and share our top tips for transitioning between breeding generations. We embark on a discussion about heritage poultry breeds and standards, shedding light on t...

Nov 21, 202338 minSeason 1Ep. 22

From Newbie to Expert: Essential Chicken Keeping Tips and Strategies Part 3

Ready for a deep dive into the world of poultry nutrition? We're shedding light on everything you need to know. From tailored feed formulas to winter feed adjustments, no details are spared. We delve into the very backbone of poultry health and productivity, discussing the differences between regular chicken feed and game bird feed. All of this knowledge is fortified with insights from Jeff's book, Niche Poultry Nutrition, and Management, an essential read for all poultry enthusiasts. But nutrit...

Nov 14, 202333 minSeason 1Ep. 21

From Newbie to Expert: Essential Chicken Keeping Tips and Strategies Part 2

Ready to enhance your knowledge about poultry keeping? This episode of the Poultry Keepers podcast promises to equip you with practical tips and valuable insights. We're talking about line breeding, the spiral clan mating system, and the importance of selecting the right birds. Our focus is on the essentials of breeding and incubation, with an emphasis on ethical considerations when dealing with birds that don't make the cut. We share firsthand experiences with space needs, housing scenarios, an...

Nov 07, 202333 minSeason 1Ep. 20

From Beginner to Pro: Mastering Chicken Keeping Strategies (Part 1)

Join poultry experts Rip Stalvey, Mandelyn Royal, and John Gunterman in this episode of the Poultry Keepers Podcast as they delve into essential chicken-keeping strategies. They discuss the pros and cons of pastured versus cooped birds, addressing predator threats and weather considerations. The conversation also covers effective breeding strategies, the use of electric fencing, and training birds to avoid potential dangers. As colder weather approaches, the hosts provide insights on cold-weathe...

Oct 31, 202330 minSeason 1Ep. 19

Insights and Strategies for Poultry Breeding - Part 3

Ever wondered about the fine line between successfully showcasing your poultry and making grave mistakes that cost you the prize? This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge as we discuss the critical process of wing and leg banding, handling techniques, and how the Scale of Points in the SOP guides breeding decisions. Prepare to gain a new perspective and hear some game-changing advice! This episode is also a deep dive into the challenges and risks of breeding for extreme sizes, with the Corn...

Oct 24, 202332 minSeason 1Ep. 18

Insights and Strategies for Poultry Breeding - Part 2

Ready for a deep dive into the world of poultry breeding? This episode offers a wealth of insights that will help you understand the intricacies of flock quality and the biological marvels inside your birds. We kick things off with a look at how the behavior of male birds can affect fertility and overall flock quality. You'll be surprised to learn about the critical function of grit in a bird’s diet and how internal organs like the gizzard play a pivotal role in extracting nutrients. The story d...

Oct 17, 202329 minSeason 1Ep. 17

Insights and Strategies for Poultry Breeding - Part 1

Ready to embark on a thrilling journey into the world of poultry breeding? This episode promises to arm you with all the know-how to start your own breeding program, right from selecting your initial flock, determining goals and understanding your operation's scale, to seeking expert advice and grasping the importance of quality breeders. We'll share our top tips, tricks, and some insider secrets that will make your poultry breeding endeavor a resounding success. Record-keeping, intentional earl...

Oct 10, 202325 minSeason 1Ep. 16

How To Begin A Successful Journey With Poultry: Part 3

Ever pondered how the timing of hatches influences your chickens' behavior and health? Brace yourself for an enlightening conversation where we dissect this intriguing aspect of poultry keeping. We share our first-hand experiences on the effects of hatching in different seasons and how they shape your birds' habits. Ignite your understanding of the crucial role timing plays, especially when preparing your feathery friends for shows. Discover the magic of introducing chicks to the great outdoors ...

Oct 03, 202327 minSeason 1Ep. 15

How To Begin A Successful Journey With Poultry: Part 2

Calling all poultry enthusiasts! Are you ready to elevate your bird game? This episode unravels the science and art behind poultry breeding and selection, a path that can take your casual interest in birds to a whole new level. We guide you through the maze of information, from understanding the essential factors like egg laying rates, persistence and molting rates to the different breeding strategies that can set a solid foundation for your flock. Be warned, though - in-breeding can be a double...

Sep 26, 202323 minSeason 1Ep. 14

How To Begin A Successful Journey With Poultry: Part 1

Get ready for an invigorating journey into the world of poultry, as we unravel the intricacies of laying cycles, bird selection, and egg production. Our expert guides are seasoned veterans in the poultry hobby. We'll draw on their wealth of knowledge to delve into the impact of various factors on the laying cycle, from lighting to regional variances. They reveal golden strategies for keeping track of the best eggs and spotting poot quality hens, emphasizing the importance of selecting for vigor ...

Sep 19, 202333 minSeason 1Ep. 13

Understanding Post-Molt Poultry Care and the Importance of Properly Balanced Nutrients

Get ready for an eye-opening discussion as we navigate through expert advices on post-molt poultry care, with our guest Jeff Maddox. Ever wondered why your birds' feather quality deteriorates? Or why the color changes occur? You'll learn how to create an ideal environment that promotes healthy feathers, including the significance of ample space, enrichment items, shade and cleanliness. But that's not all, we'll also throw light on the often overlooked dangers of ammonia. You'll walk away with a ...

Sep 12, 202320 minSeason 1Ep. 12

Understanding the Benefits of a Well-Managed Molt in Poultry Keeping

How often do you find yourself perplexed about managing the molt of your poultry Flock? Ever wondered how a well-managed molt can augment your birds' health and productivity? Join us as we dissect this topic with our seasoned experts, Jeff Maddox, Karen Johnston and Rip Stalvey. They unpack the complexities of molt, its natural occurrence, and the profound effects it can have on your flock. Discover the critical steps to ensure your birds’ comfort and productivity during molt occurrence. Jeff al...

Sep 05, 202322 minSeason 1Ep. 11

Navigating the World of Poultry Educational Resources, Part 2

Ready to step up your poultry keeping game? In today's episode, we unpack a treasure trove of educational resources to transform your poultry journey. We cover everything from Morley Jull's 'Poultry Breeding', to Jeff Maddox's "Niche Poultry:N Nutrition and Management" covering insights on nutrition, and management for Standard Bred Poultry and even delve into the depths of the online world with resources from the University of Kentucky extension program, Archive.org, Ferttell Company, and Mandy...

Aug 29, 202330 minSeason 1Ep. 10
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