Unplucked

Let's Talk Turkey

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Carrie Cremers to explore her journey from dairy practice to leading technical services in one of the nation’s largest turkey companies. With deep experience in broilers and turkeys and a passion for poultry health, Dr. Cremers offers a candid look at the biggest challenges facing the turkey industry today.
 
We discuss the impact of HPAI, biosecurity lessons learned across sectors, and the emerging concerns around avian metapneumovirus. Dr. Cremers also shares what research the turkey industry urgently needs, from data gaps in the field to collaboration opportunities that could drive real solutions.
 
Whether you're a student, veterinarian, or industry professional, this conversation is packed with insights on poultry welfare, career advice, and what makes turkeys such a rewarding species to work with.
 
Legal: The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.

H5 Influenza Uncovered: Policy Shortfalls and Future Solutions

In this episode of Unplucked, members of the AAAP H5N1 Task Force join us to discuss the critical gaps in policy and preparedness surrounding the ongoing H5 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza outbreak.
 
Dr. Carol Cardona, Dr. Michelle Kromm, and Dr. Kay Russo bring frontline perspectives from veterinary medicine, public health, and industry. Together, they unpack the limitations of current pre-movement testing protocols, the need for a comprehensive national strategy, and the ripple effects of H5’s spread to new livestock species.
 
Tune in for a candid discussion on what needs to change—and fast—to protect animal health, human health, and our food supply. Find the task force's recommendations in their report here: chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://aaap.memberclicks.net/assets/Positions/FINAL-AAAP%20summary%20position%20on%20H5N1%20in%20cattle%207.12.24%20pdf.pdf
 
Legal: The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.

Past, Present, and Publish

In this episode of Unplucked, we sit down with Dr. Paul Siegel—former Editor-in-Chief of Poultry Science (2002–2004) and a legend in the field of poultry genetics—for a deep dive into the evolution of PSA’s flagship journal.
 
From his early days at Virginia Tech in the 1950s to the digital transformation of publishing, Dr. Siegel shares insights on how the journal has shaped poultry research and why it remains central to the industry today. It’s part history lesson, part publishing primer, and all about the power of science in print.
 
This is the first of three historical episodes, so stay tuned for our next episode, which is in episode eight!
 
Legal: The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.

Breaking the Shell: How In-Ovo Sexing is Transforming Poultry Farming

Host Andy Vance sits down with Dr. Yuval Cinnamon, Principal Investigator at The Volcani Center in Israel and founder of NextHen, to discuss the groundbreaking advancements in in-ovo sexing technology—a solution that could eliminate the need for male chick culling in the poultry industry.Dr. Cinnamon, an expert in embryology and genetic transformation in chickens, shares insights into:
The latest in-ovo sexing methods and how they work.
How these innovations benefit animal welfare and industry sustainability.
The global momentum behind this technology, from European regulations to market-driven adoption in the U.S.
The challenges of implementing in-ovo sexing at commercial scale.
As in-ovo sexing gains traction worldwide, this conversation sheds light on the science, industry implications, and future of poultry farming.
 
Legal: The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.

Smart Farms & Fowl Tech: The Future of Poultry Automation

In this episode, we explore how robotics and automation are transforming poultry farming with guest Colin Usher, Senior Research Scientist and Robotics Systems and Technology Branch Head at Georgia Tech. With over two decades of experience in machine vision, robotics, and system integration, Colin shares insights into cutting-edge technologies designed to enhance efficiency, animal welfare, and sustainability in the poultry industry. He covers:
Current applications of robotics for monitoring and managing poultry flocks
Benefits and challenges of automation in farming operations
Future innovations, including drones and autonomous systems for poultry house management
Colin also highlights his recent research, including drone-assisted monitoring and autonomous floor egg collection, both of which have the potential to revolutionize the way farmers oversee flock health and optimize production. Tune in to discover how smart tech is reshaping poultry farming and what’s next for the industry!
 
Legal: The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.

Flu Fighters: Battling Avian Influenza in the Poultry Industry

Avian influenza (H5N1) continues to threaten poultry populations worldwide, leading to massive culls, economic strain, and rising egg prices. With over 166 million birds affected and human cases on the rise, what’s next in the fight against this devastating disease?
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Craig Rowles, DVM, General Manager of Cage-Free Production at Versova Farms, to examine the current state of the outbreak, its impact on the poultry industry, and the measures being taken to control its spread. With decades of experience in both veterinary medicine and animal agriculture, Dr. Rowles brings a unique perspective on biosecurity, vaccination strategies, and lessons learned from other livestock industries.
Join us as we discuss the latest developments, the role of vaccines in layer and broiler operations, and what the industry must do to prevent future outbreaks. Whether you're a poultry producer, veterinarian, or simply curious about food security, this episode offers critical insights into one of the most pressing issues in modern agriculture.
 
Legal: The information provided in this episode of Unplucked is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we discuss scientific research, public health, and industry practices, this podcast does not substitute for advice from qualified industry and scientific professionals. The views expressed in this episode are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of The Poultry Science Association, their respective affiliates, or employees.

Unplucked Podcast Trailer

Welcome to Unplucked, the official podcast of the Poultry Science Association.
 
Andy Vance, Executive Director of the Poultry Science Association, will go beyond the headlines, tackle tough questions, and dive into the scientific research shaping poultry production and processing. No jargon, no filter, just honest conversations with the experts.
 
Look for our debut episode of Unplucked coming on March 19th, 2025.