Jim Eadie recently sat down with Rachel Fishback for an insightful interview, exploring her journey in the pork industry, her innovative work with Swine Web and People of Ag, and her vision for the future. From celebrating the Iowa Pork Congress to championing video media as a powerful tool for connection and education, Rachel shares her passion for agriculture, her commitment to supporting producers and vendors, and her dedication to showcasing the heart and innovation behind the pork industry.
Q: The Iowa Pork Congress is just around the corner. What does this event mean for you, and why is it so important for the pork industry?
A: For me, this event is all about the value of connecting in person. It’s an incredible opportunity for producers and vendors to come together, share knowledge, and work toward the common goal of advancing pork production in Iowa. It’s not just about education for ourselves but also for everyone we interact with along the way.
Q: You’ll be at the Swine Web booth (#1215) at the event. What can attendees expect from your live coverage, and how will you engage with Swine Web customers?
A: I’ll be at the Swine Web booth (#1215) providing live coverage to bring the Iowa Pork Congress to those who can’t attend due to family or work commitments. I’ll be creating videos to give viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the event, connecting with vendors and producers, and showcasing products. These videos will be shared on People of Ag platforms and Swine Web to keep followers updated. Whether you’re a producer, work in the pork industry, or just want to learn more about pork production, you’ll get an inside look at what’s happening at the Iowa Pork Congress. If you are at the show, please introduce yourself or stop by the Swine Web booth (#1215)!
Q: For vendors at the Iowa Pork Congress, how can they get involved with Swine Web, and what opportunities are available for them to showcase their products?
A: Vendors at the Iowa Pork Congress have a fantastic opportunity to showcase their products and connect with the pork community through Swine Web. Jim and I are available to coordinate times for video features that highlight your company, products, and innovations. I’ll be on-site at the Swine Web booth and attending various events throughout the Congress, ready to help vendors share their stories.
Swine Web and People of Ag provide a platform that connects vendors with like-minded individuals, offering meaningful ways to promote your brand. Through our videos, we aim to share your message and provide valuable education to the pork industry, helping you reach an engaged and knowledgeable audience. Let’s work together to amplify your impact!
Q: The pork industry plays a significant role in your career. What does it mean to you personally, and how has your passion for the industry shaped your journey?
A: The pork industry is deeply personal to me. As a farmer in Southeast Iowa and someone who has been both a producer and a customer, I’ve experienced the challenges and triumphs firsthand. My passion comes from knowing how vital this industry is—not just for our livelihoods but for feeding families and supporting rural communities.
My background in marketing, combined with my firsthand knowledge of what producers value when making decisions about equipment or learning about new products, allows me to bridge the gap between innovation and the needs of the people on the ground. It’s incredibly rewarding to use my creativity to support and educate others in the industry that means so much to me.
Q: You’re also behind People in Ag. Can you tell us more about what People in Ag does and how you’re helping to shape the future of the agricultural sector?
A: I launched People of Ag in 2024 as a way to amplify the voices of agriculture and help companies share their stories through video and social media. Agriculture is filled with incredible people and innovations, but not everyone feels comfortable stepping in front of a camera to talk about it. That’s where I come in—I aim to guide and support individuals, helping them build the confidence to share their passion and knowledge.
People of Ag is about more than just marketing; it’s about connecting people, fostering understanding, and shaping a positive future for the agricultural industry. By creating meaningful content and helping companies navigate social media, I hope to bridge the gap between agriculture and the broader public, showing the heart and hard work behind this essential industry.
Q: Swine Web has become a powerful resource for the industry. How do you see video media shaping the future of the pork sector, and what role does Swine Web play in this evolution?
A: Video media is becoming an essential part of any company’s marketing strategy, and its impact on the pork sector is undeniable. With the rise of social media, video offers a dynamic and engaging way to connect with audiences, share stories, and educate both producers and consumers. It allows companies to highlight their innovations, showcase their values, and create a stronger connection with the agricultural community.
Swine Web plays a vital role in this evolution by serving as a trusted news resource for the pork industry. By incorporating video into its platform, Swine Web not only delivers valuable information but also provides a creative and impactful way for companies to reach their audience. This combination of trusted news and innovative media ensures the pork industry stays informed, connected, and ready to embrace the future.
Q: What’s your favorite memory from working in the pig farming industry, and how has it influenced your approach to your work today?
A: One of my favorite memories in the pig farming industry is witnessing the transformation of a vision into reality—seeing a farmer’s dream of building a new barn or launching a product come to life, step by step. Not everyone gets the privilege to step inside a hog barn and see the incredible effort, collaboration, and expertise that go into these projects. It’s a journey filled with hard work, tough decisions, sleepless nights, and reflection, but also immense pride in building something that can sustain a family and a legacy for generations.
As a business owner, I deeply relate to the challenges and dedication it takes to bring a new concept or product to life. It’s not just about the end result but the teamwork and passion behind every step—vendors, builders, and farmers all working together. I love capturing this process through video and showing how every moving part contributes to the bigger picture.
For me, it’s about more than just the barns or products; it’s about showcasing the heart of the pork industry. I want to creatively share these stories so others can truly understand the care, innovation, and effort behind providing a safe, sustainable meat source to the world.
Q: Looking ahead, what are your primary goals and vision for the future of Swine Web and your broader impact on the pork industry?
A: My primary goal is to expand the video sector on Swine Web, enabling us to share more stories that matter to the pork industry. Video is a powerful tool for education, connection, and storytelling, and I want to use it to highlight the incredible work happening across the industry.
I also aim to increase presence at pork shows, building stronger relationships with producers, vendors, and industry professionals. By staying connected and actively engaging with the community, we can ensure Swine Web continues to be a trusted source for meaningful and impactful stories. My vision is to keep everyone informed, inspired, and united in advancing the pork industry for future generations.
