Episode 34: Celebrating Excellence: Ron Shoup, 2025 Ed McKinley Poultry Worker of the Year

In this episode of In the Coop, Charlotte Wall sits down with Ron Shoup, recipient of the 2025 Ed McKinlay Poultry Worker of the Year Award, along with his nominator, Dave Stanfield. Together, they discuss Ron's journey in the poultry industry, the dedication and teamwork that define his work ethic, and why he was selected for this prestigious honour. Dave shares what inspired him to submit the nomination, offering insight into the leadership and quiet excellence that the Ed McKinlay Poultry Worker of the Year Award was created to recognize. It's a conversation about pride in poultry, commitment to the craft, and the people who keep Ontario's industry strong—one barn, one flock, and one team at a time.

Winter can be one of the toughest seasons on the farm, and in this timely episode of In the Coop, hosts Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall turn the conversation toward something just as important as flock health — farmer mental wellbeing. Joined by Jennifer MacTavish, Chair of the Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing (CCAW), the discussion explores the realities of stress, isolation, and burnout in agriculture, especially during the long days and heavy workloads that define February for many poultry and livestock producers. Jennifer shares insights from national research, outlines common stressors facing farm families, and highlights practical strategies producers can use to support their own mental health and that of their crews. The episode also spotlights key supports available to farmers, including CCAW's education initiatives and the National Farmer Wellness Network, which provides confidential, 24/7 crisis support tailored specifically to agriculture. Listeners are encouraged to continue the conversation, reduce stigma, and stay connected to resources designed by and for the farming community. You can call the crisis support 24/7/365 at 1-866-FARMS-01 or dial 1-866-357-6701.  To find more information about CCWA, including programs and resources, please visit their website: ccaw.ca        

🎙️ New Episode: In the Coop – A Year in Review with PIC Chair Caroline Gonano Join hosts Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall as they sit down with Caroline Gonano, Chair of the Poultry Industry Council and representative with Turkey Farmers of Canada, for a lighthearted but insightful look back at PIC's past year of education, events, and industry impact. Caroline shares highlights from 2025, reflects on the value of PIC's founding members and executive sponsors, and gives listeners a sneak peek at the exciting lineup of 2026 programs and events. From Producer Updates to PSIW and hands-on extension opportunities, this episode dives into how PIC continues to support a strong, connected, and informed poultry community across Ontario. A perfect listen for producers, service providers, and anyone curious about how PIC keeps the industry learning, collaborating, and moving forward.

In the Coop – Fogging, Fresh Starts & Farm-Ready Disinfection  In this episode of In the Coop, Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall sit down with Bill Ireland of Arbourdale to explore how their proprietary fogger technology and Arbrox stabilized peroxide solution are changing the way poultry barns are disinfected. From 10-micron dry fog particles to whole-facility coverage, Bill breaks down how this innovation helps farmers boost biosecurity, save time, and achieve a deeper clean with confidence. Tune in for a practical, insightful conversation about smarter sanitation and the future of barn hygiene.

From the days of cassette tapes and clunky waterers to today's smart barns and data-driven decisions — innovation in poultry has come a long way! Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall sit down with Kelly Sommerville from the Livestock Research Innovation Corporation (LRIC) to talk about how Ontario's poultry farmers are leading the charge in adopting new technologies, collaborating across sectors, and shaping a sustainable future for farming. 🎧 Tune in for a fun, insightful look at how innovation has evolved — and what early adopters are gaining by staying ahead of the curve.

🥚 In the Coop – Cracking into Ontario Ag Week with Egg Farmers of Ontario 🐔 It's Ontario Agriculture Week! Anneke Donkers-Stickney from Egg Farmers of Ontario to celebrate the egg industry and the farmers who keep Ontario supplied with fresh, local eggs year-round. She shares how she went about building a new barn, finding the best fit for the birds and her busy life as well as how an early adopter can succeed as the pave the way forward.  From the importance of connecting with consumers, to fun ways to celebrate Ag Week at home or in your community, this lighthearted conversation reminds us why eggs are a true staple—and why Ontario agriculture matters every day. 🎧 Tune in for a cracking good chat about eggs, farming, and celebrating Ontario's food and farmers!

🌱 In the Coop – Sustainability in Poultry 🐔 Sustainability is more than just a buzzword—it's shaping the way Ontario's poultry sector grows, innovates, and connects with consumers. In this episode of In the Coop, Tom Lewis and Charlotte Wall welcome Christoph Wand to break down what sustainability really means for poultry production. From defining the term in practical farm-focused language to discussing real-world examples, Christoph shares insights on balancing economics, environment, and animal care, while also building public trust in Ontario-grown food. 🎧 Tune in for a lighthearted but meaningful conversation that explores how poultry farmers can approach sustainability with confidence and clarity.

As summer temperatures rise, so does the pressure on poultry farmers to keep their barns comfortable and their birds thriving. In this hot-topic episode of In the Coop, Tom and Charlotte welcome Luke Groszeibl, Poultry territory manager at Trouw Nutrition and owner operator of Site Solutions, to talk all things ventilation. (Contact information below). Luke shares practical tips and insights on how to manage airflow, reduce heat stress, and avoid common summertime mistakes in broiler and layer barns. Whether you're troubleshooting fan performance, tweaking inlets, or just trying to beat the humidity, this episode offers real-world advice to keep your flock cool and productive. Tune in for a breezy conversation full of useful strategies, a few laughs, and a fresh perspective on barn management—just in time for Ontario's summer heat. 🐔 Listen now to keep your barn—and your birds—ahead of the heatwave!   Looking to speak with Luke directly? Here's how: Site Solutions 905-359-4496 or Trouw Nutrition - Poultry Territory Manager 519-801-7128

In this episode of In the Coop, Charlotte Wall and Tom Lewis sit down with Maggy Watson, the newly appointed General Manager of the Feather Board Command Centre (FBCC). Maggy shares her vision for strengthening Ontario's poultry biosecurity, how FBCC supports producers during disease outbreaks, and what tools and training are available to help you stay prepared. Learn about Rapid Response Teams, proactive planning, and why staying informed matters more than ever. For more information and resources, visit www.fbcc.ca.

Local Food Week Special Just in time for Local Food Week 2025, we're cracking open an important conversation about how farmers can confidently engage with the public about poultry production. Our guest this week is none other than Janelle Cardiff—Field Operations Manager at Grey Ridge Eggs and Chair of Farm & Food Care Ontario. Janelle brings her passion for farming, her experience in egg production, and her leadership in public outreach to the coop. We talk about why public trust matters, how to tackle tricky questions from consumers, and simple ways farmers can share their stories—whether it's at the farmers' market, on social media, or around the BBQ. Whether you're a seasoned producer or new to public engagement, this episode is full of practical insights and encouragement to help you be part of the bigger conversation about Ontario-grown food. To learn more about Farm & Food Care Ontario, there resources and more; checkout their website! farmfoodcareon.org Show your support, and story during Local Food Week 2025. Tag your posts with #loveONfood To help you on your way to show your love for Ontario you can download posts from Farm & Food Care Ontario here: farmfoodcareon.org/download/local-food-week-2025