Patio Ponderings
Exploring the Expected and the Obscure in Agriculture
From a lifetime in agriculture to deep dives into leadership, rural life, and the evolving food system, Patio Pondering is a podcast where thoughtful conversations meet the open air. Hosted by [Your Name], a seasoned Swine Nutritionist, agricultural thinker, and storyteller, this podcast explores the connections between our agricultural roots and the broader world.
What started as daily reflections—scribbled with a morning coffee in hand—has grown into a podcast that uncovers the insights, challenges, and sometimes-forgotten history of the industry that feeds us all. Whether solo pondering or engaging in candid discussions with guests, this show digs into everything from livestock production to food trends, rural business shifts, and the personal stories that shape agricultural life.
Now available in both audio and video formats, Patio Pondering brings these discussions to life on YouTube and podcast platforms alike. Whether you prefer to listen on the go or watch the conversation unfold, you’ll find fresh perspectives, candid storytelling, and the kind of conversations that make you think twice.
Subscribe and join the conversation—because agriculture is more than just dirt and livestock. It’s a story worth telling.
Patio Ponderings
Episode 35: From Sheep to Pigs - Amanda Minton on Ag Roots, Swine Innovation, and Resilient Leadership
Episode Description (Final Version):
In this episode of Patio Pondering, we sit down with Amanda Minton, Manager of Reproductive Solutions at AcuFast Swine Genetics and Purdue University alum, to explore the journey from rural farm kid to leading expert in swine breeding and reproduction.
Amanda shares how her agricultural roots and mentorship from Dr. Alan Schinckel laid the foundation for her career in swine genetics, from graduate research to cutting-edge work with AI-driven fertility tools. We dive deep into how failure and setbacks—both in the lab and in life—have shaped her leadership style, built resilience, and strengthened her ability to guide others.
In a candid discussion about grit, resilience, and leading with empathy, Amanda reflects on how the book The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday has influenced her perspective, reinforcing the idea that the path to success often runs straight through adversity.
Whether you're a swine professional, ag student, or someone navigating your own challenges, this conversation blends science, humanity, and hope—with practical takeaways for building stronger teams and finding purpose in persistence.
Tune in to hear how Amanda Minton turns failure into fuel—and how her journey from sheep to pigs shaped the leader she is today.