The Sort

In this episode of The Sort podcast, host Dr. Brett Kaysen interviews two Iowa State University students, Hadley Broadwater and Kaitlyn Zeedyk, both deeply involved in livestock judging and animal science. Hadley, from Indiana, shares her journey from showing swine and sheep to pursuing a master's degree in reproductive physiology, crediting mentorship and Iowa State's supportive community. Kaitlyn, from Ohio, discusses her path from a grain and sheep farm to a nutrition and sales career, highlighting how livestock judging built her confidence and communication skills. Both guests emphasize hard work, mentorship, and the invaluable experiences gained through the Top Judge Program.

In this episode of The Sort, powered by Primo Feeds, host Dr. Brett Kaysen features two Texas A&M University students from the Top Judge program. Kylie Kunzler, raised on a commercial cow-calf operation in rural Utah, shares her journey from Butler County Community College to Texas A&M, crediting key mentors and encouraging youth to bet on themselves. Blane Warnken, a first-generation college student from Schulenburg, Texas, reflects on his family's registered Hereford operation and his path through Blinn College to Texas A&M. Both students highlight the value of mentorship, hard work, and the unique networking opportunities the Top Judge program provides.

In this episode, host Brett Kaysen interviews Jim McCoy, a respected leader in the swine industry known for his work with purebred and show hogs. Jim shares his journey from growing up on a commercial hog farm in Ohio to becoming a renowned judge and breeder, highlighting the mentors who guided him. He discusses overcoming challenges, the importance of perseverance, and his transition into consulting after selling his farm. Jim emphasizes the value of community, mentorship, and integrity in livestock shows, offering insights and encouragement for both industry veterans and newcomers.

In this episode, guest Nick Hofschulte shares his journey from growing up on a family farm in northeast Oklahoma to becoming a respected livestock judge and industry leader. Nick discusses the influence of his family, the importance of 4-H and FFA, and key moments in his judging and show pig career. He offers practical advice on building networks, balancing family and career, and the value of mentorship. Listeners gain insights into the challenges and rewards of livestock judging, as well as the importance of humility, relationships, and passion in the livestock industry.

In this episode, host Brett Kaysen interviews Bob Kimm, a respected livestock judge and educator. Bob shares his journey from growing up on an Iowa farm and competing in FFA, to coaching successful junior college livestock judging teams and teaching at Hawkeye Community College. He discusses the evolution of livestock contests, the importance of integrity, and his philosophy of breeding functional, balanced animals. Bob’s stories highlight mentorship, perseverance, and the value of hands-on learning. The episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for current and aspiring livestock judges, educators, and industry professionals.

In this episode of The Sort Podcast, host Brett Kaysen sits down with guest Brandon Callis—a respected livestock judging coach—to discuss Brandon’s journey from his Texas upbringing to a successful career in livestock judging and coaching. Brandon shares insights on the value of focusing on the process over results, the importance of mentorship, and how to balance professional ambition with personal values. He emphasizes starting small, continual self-improvement, and maintaining integrity both in and out of the ring. The episode offers practical advice and inspiration for livestock judges, students, and industry professionals, highlighting the deeper purpose and lifelong impact of livestock evaluation.