Preparing gilts with purpose, managing to maximize genetic potential

Most farms chase averages and miss the levers that actually move sow productivity. We pull back the curtain on what truly drives reproduction and lifetime output: preparing gilts with purpose, managing health and stress to guard genetic potential, and leaning on objective, repeatable data instead of gut feel. With Dr. Chad Yoder of Elanco Animal Health, we connect the dots between environment, selection intensity, and the everyday choices that decide whether a sow flourishes or falls behind.

We start by challenging one-size-fits-all SOPs. Housing systems, health status, and pen design aren’t background details—they’re the contex...