The Pork Podcast: Jackie Bowman Ponder: From the Coal Mine to the Pig Barn | Episode 54

What can a 25-year trial lawyer, a University of Chicago MBA, and a former coal mining executive teach us about the future of the pork industry? A lot more than you might think.

In this episode of The PORK Podcast, host Jennifer Shike sits down with Jackie Bowman Ponder, owner and chief legal officer of Bowman Family Holdings, and board member for both the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) and Indiana Pork.

Jackie shares her incredibly unique journey—from growing up on an Indiana horse farm and litigating in courtrooms, to navigating her family’s massive transition from the coal industry into a highly sophisticated, multi-state hog operation utilizing reclaimed coal ground.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

The Critical Warning: How the coal industry’s complacency allowed outside activists to control the narrative, and the urgent lesson the agriculture sector must learn to protect its future. The Lawyer's Approach to Advocacy: How Jackie uses her courtroom storytelling and data-synthesis skills to make a bulletproof case for pork to lawmakers in Washington, D.C. High-Tech Farming: Why modern agriculture is far more data-driven than the public (and even politicians) realize—including how AI fits into the equation. Succession Planning Done Right: Hard-won advice on preparing the next generation for the family business, starting early and keeping plans relevant. The Power of Community: How the pork industry welcomed Jackie's family with open arms, proving we are stronger when we collaborate.

Whether you are a multi-generational farmer, an industry advocate or simply passionate about the future of food, Jackie’s fierce passion and sharp business intellect will change the way you think about ag advocacy.

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