Patio Pondering
Reflections & Analysis from the Field, the Barn, and the Marketing Desk
Welcome to Patio Pondering – where agriculture’s stories come alive.
I’m Dr. Jim Smith, a farmer, swine nutritionist, and storyteller. From the quiet moments on the patio to the big lessons from the barn, I share reflections, insights, and laughs inspired by agriculture every day.
What began as simple reflections on farm life has expanded into a deeper look at agriculture’s inner workings. Patio Pondering isn’t a departure from my career in swine nutrition or production — it’s the mature integration of those experiences. As a practicing ag professional, I write and speak from the intersection of production, nutrition, and economics — exploring not just how we farm, but why we make the decisions we do in the real world.
Beyond the Page
Where ideas turn into conversations, interviews, and action.
The Patio Pondering Podcast
Long-form conversations with farmers, ag innovators, and industry leaders about the experiences that shape modern agriculture — from production and nutrition to markets, resilience, and purpose.
Written Reflections
Essays and daily reflections from the patio that dig into the forces shaping agriculture — weather, feed, policy, markets, and the people who live with the consequences of each decision.
Consulting and Speaking
I work with organizations that want real-world perspective from inside production agriculture — whether that’s a keynote, panel, board conversation, or strategic work on swine nutrition and farm economics.
About Jim Smith, Ph.D.
Swine nutritionist, farmer, writer, and podcaster — rooted in real production agriculture.
For nearly three decades, Jim has helped producers improve nutrition, farm profitability, and resilience while working alongside his family on their farm in Northeast Indiana.
With experience spanning feed, product development, crop production, animal health, research, agribusiness, and consulting, Jim brings a rare blend of practical farming, scientific training, and communication.
Today, his work sits at the intersection of nutrition, farm economics, and storytelling — connecting the realities of rural life with the decisions that shape agriculture.
