Poultry Nerds: Backyard Chickens, Quail & Hatching Eggs

Jennifer Bryant and Carey Blackmon

Want healthier birds, better hatches, and fewer costly mistakes? Poultry Nerds gives backyard flock keepers and breeders practical, science-informed answers about chickens, Coturnix quail, hatching eggs, incubation, breeding, nutrition, brooding, biosecurity, housing, and flock health.Jennifer Bryant of Bryant’s Roost and Carey Blackmon of Show Pro Farm Supply bring real-world poultry experience to honest conversations with breeders, researchers, poultry professionals, and other people who truly know birds. We explain not only what to do, but why it works, so you can make better decisions for your own flock.Whether you are setting your first incubator, raising breeding stock, shipping hatching eggs, or managing an established farm, every episode gives you useful information you can put to work.Learn more: https://www.poultrynerdspodcast.comBuild your incubation skills: https://www.incubationmasterclass.comCoturnix quail education: https://www.quailmania.comFind hatching-egg breeders: https://www.hatchingeggdirectory.comHatching-egg and live-bird shipping supplies: https://www.eggfoam.comValley Hatchery is a proud partner of the Poultry Nerds Podcast, providing hard-working birds for hard-working people: https://www.valleyhatchery.com

  1. 4d ago

    Poultry Nutrition Just Changed: The First Major Update Since 1994

    send us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond! For the first time since 1994, the National Academies has released a major revision of the nutrient requirements for poultry. What does that mean for the feed in your barn—and should you change anything? Jennifer and Carey break down why crude protein alone does not describe a complete diet, how digestibility and amino-acid balance affect what birds can actually use, and why species, genetics, age, reproductive workload, environment and water all matter. In this episode: • What the new 2026 Nutrient Requirements of Poultry report is • Why the feed tag is a starting point, not the whole answer • Digestible amino acids, energy and mineral availability • Nutrition for breeders, growing birds and molting flocks • How feed changes, water quality and environment affect birds • Why supplements and high-protein treats cannot repair an unbalanced diet • How to use new research without abruptly changing your flock’s feed Read Nutrient Requirements of Poultry: Tenth Revised Edition online: https://www.nationalacademies.org/read/25395 Explore the official publication: https://www.nationalacademies.org/projects/DELS-BANR-15-01/publication/25395 Learn more from the Poultry Nerds: https://www.poultrynerdspodcast.com Need help with incubation? https://www.incubationmasterclass.com This episode discusses poultry nutrition research alongside practical experience. Nutrient needs vary by species, age, genetics, environment and production stage. Confirm health concerns through appropriate testing and veterinary guidance. Valley Hatchery is a proud sponsor of Poultry Nerds, find more at ValleyHatchery.com Support the show Feel Free to email us at - PoultryNerds@gmail.com Join us on Facebook at - https://www.facebook.com/PoultryNerds Sign up for News at PoultryNerds.com EggFoam.com get your egg shippers and live shipping boxes and always get free shipping! ShowPro feed supplement for all your feathered friends! Grow them bigger and healthier with the best ingredients. Coturnix Quail hatching eggs from Bryant's Roost, including jumbo celadons! Quail cartons and Supplies from Double R Farms Please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review, we appreciate you.  And if you have a subject request, email us. PoultryNerds@Gmail.com

  2. Aug 6

    Buying and Selling Hatching Eggs

    send us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond! How do you choose a reputable poultry breeder—and what should you ask before buying birds or hatching eggs? In this video, we cover 10 important questions every buyer should ask before placing an order. You’ll learn how to evaluate a breeder’s experience, breeding goals, nutrition program, recordkeeping, biosecurity practices, shipping methods, replacement policy, and customer support. We also explain the green flags that inspire confidence, the red flags worth investigating, and why NPIP participation alone doesn’t guarantee breeding quality. Whether you’re choosing a chicken breeder, looking for a quail breeder, or buying hatching eggs online, this guide will help you compare breeders fairly and set realistic expectations. 🐣 Read the complete guide: www.PoultryNerdsPodcast.com/how-to-choose-a-poultry-breeder 🥚 Browse the HatchingEggDirectory.com  🌾 Learn more about Show Pro: ShowProFarmSupply.com Price should never be the only question. Instead, ask: Does this breeder inspire confidence? Subscribe to Poultry Nerds for practical information about poultry breeding, nutrition, incubation, and flock management. #PoultryBreeder #HatchingEggs #ChickenBreeder #QuailBreeder #PoultryNerds Valley Hatchery is a proud sponsor of Poultry Nerds, find more at ValleyHatchery.com Support the show Feel Free to email us at - PoultryNerds@gmail.com Join us on Facebook at - https://www.facebook.com/PoultryNerds Sign up for News at PoultryNerds.com EggFoam.com get your egg shippers and live shipping boxes and always get free shipping! ShowPro feed supplement for all your feathered friends! Grow them bigger and healthier with the best ingredients. Coturnix Quail hatching eggs from Bryant's Roost, including jumbo celadons! Quail cartons and Supplies from Double R Farms Please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review, we appreciate you.  And if you have a subject request, email us. PoultryNerds@Gmail.com

  3. Jul 30

    Summer Chicken Feeding Myths: Do Chickens Need Electrolytes? | Poultry Nerds Podcast

    send us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond! Every summer, backyard chicken owners hear the same advice—but how much of it is actually true? In this episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast, we separate fact from fiction as we tackle common summer feeding myths, including: Does scratch corn cool chickens down—or make them hotter?Should treats replace layer feed during hot weather?Can chickens have unlimited watermelon and frozen fruit?Does protein make chickens overheat?How nutrition affects egg production during summer.Why balanced feed matters more when birds eat less.Along the way, we share real-world experiences, practical feeding advice, and explain the science behind what chickens actually need during periods of heat stress. Whether you raise backyard chickens, homestead poultry, or manage a larger flock, this episode will help you make better feeding decisions and avoid common nutrition mistakes. Topics covered: summer chicken care, chicken nutrition, scratch grain, treats for chickens, layer feed, protein requirements, heat stress, backyard chickens, poultry nutrition, egg production. Valley Hatchery is a proud sponsor of Poultry Nerds, find more at ValleyHatchery.com Support the show Feel Free to email us at - PoultryNerds@gmail.com Join us on Facebook at - https://www.facebook.com/PoultryNerds Sign up for News at PoultryNerds.com EggFoam.com get your egg shippers and live shipping boxes and always get free shipping! ShowPro feed supplement for all your feathered friends! Grow them bigger and healthier with the best ingredients. Coturnix Quail hatching eggs from Bryant's Roost, including jumbo celadons! Quail cartons and Supplies from Double R Farms Please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review, we appreciate you.  And if you have a subject request, email us. PoultryNerds@Gmail.com

  4. Jul 23

    Keeping Chickens Cool in Summer Heat

    send us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond! Are frozen treats really dangerous? Should you close the coop to keep hot air out? Does ice water hurt chickens? Summer is full of advice about keeping poultry cool—but not all of it is accurate. In this episode of Poultry Nerds, Jennifer Bryant and Carey Blackmon tackle some of the most common heat stress myths they see online and explain what actually helps birds survive hot weather. Drawing from current research and years of practical experience raising poultry, they discuss ventilation, shade, cool drinking water, fans, broody hens, obesity, breed differences, and why simply "giving them shade" isn't always enough. Jennifer also shares what has worked on her own farm during extreme heat and why understanding your environment is just as important as understanding your birds. Whether you raise backyard chickens, Coturnix quail, or other poultry, this episode will help you separate fact from fiction and better prepare your flock for the hottest days of the year. In this episode you'll learn: Common heat stress myths and what the research saysWhether ice water and frozen treats are actually harmfulWhy ventilation is often more important than shade alonePractical cooling methods that have worked on Jennifer's farmWhy broody hens are at greater risk during hot weatherThe relationship between obesity and heat stressSigns your birds are coping—and signs they need immediate attentionSupporting Partner This episode of Poultry Nerds is brought to you by Show Pro Feed. Their support helps make free, research-backed poultry education possible while allowing us to continue sharing practical information for backyard poultry keepers. Learn more about Poultry Nerds, browse our Research Library, and explore additional educational resources at https://www.PoultryNerdsPodcast.com. Support the show Feel Free to email us at - PoultryNerds@gmail.com Join us on Facebook at - https://www.facebook.com/PoultryNerds Sign up for News at PoultryNerds.com EggFoam.com get your egg shippers and live shipping boxes and always get free shipping! ShowPro feed supplement for all your feathered friends! Grow them bigger and healthier with the best ingredients. Coturnix Quail hatching eggs from Bryant's Roost, including jumbo celadons! Quail cartons and Supplies from Double R Farms Please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review, we appreciate you.  And if you have a subject request, email us. PoultryNerds@Gmail.com

  5. Jul 16

    Backyard Chickens and Apple Cider Vinegar

    send us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond! Episode DescriptionCan apple cider vinegar prevent disease? Is bleach water ever safe for chickens? Are homemade remedies helping your flock—or creating new problems? In this episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast, Carey Blackmon and Jennifer Bryant play Fact or BS? as they tackle some of the most common chicken health myths circulating online. From apple cider vinegar and water additives to dangerous cleaning myths and summer flock care, they separate evidence-based poultry management from internet folklore. You'll learn: Why some popular remedies contain a small grain of truth—but don't tell the whole story.When apple cider vinegar may have a limited role—and when it can create problems.Why clean, cool water is one of the most important tools for keeping chickens healthy.The dangers of mixing household chemicals around your flock.How to evaluate poultry advice before trying it on your birds.Whether you're new to backyard chickens or have years of experience, this episode will help you make more informed decisions based on research, practical experience, and good flock management. Resources Mentioned Dangerous Homemade Chicken Remedies: When Good Intentions Can Harm Your FlockApple Cider Vinegar for Chickens Research LibraryAssessing Your Chickens for HealthHow Birds Stay Cool: The Science Behind Heat StressIf you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to the Poultry Nerds Podcast, leave a review, and share it with another poultry keeper who appreciates science over speculation. Support the show Feel Free to email us at - PoultryNerds@gmail.com Join us on Facebook at - https://www.facebook.com/PoultryNerds Sign up for News at PoultryNerds.com EggFoam.com get your egg shippers and live shipping boxes and always get free shipping! ShowPro feed supplement for all your feathered friends! Grow them bigger and healthier with the best ingredients. Coturnix Quail hatching eggs from Bryant's Roost, including jumbo celadons! Quail cartons and Supplies from Double R Farms Please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review, we appreciate you.  And if you have a subject request, email us. PoultryNerds@Gmail.com

  6. Jul 9

    How to Build a Poultry Business Without Burning Out

    send us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond! Quick Look In this episode, we discuss: Why so many poultry keepers and homesteaders experience burnout.The difference between working in your business and working on it.Why social media shouldn't be your entire business strategy.How websites, blogs, and email lists create long-term growth.The story behind why Jennifer created Beyond the Egg.Most people start raising poultry because they love the animals—not because they want to spend every evening answering Facebook messages, updating social media, or repeating the same customer service conversations. In this episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast, Jennifer shares the philosophy behind Beyond the Egg, a new educational membership designed to help poultry breeders and small farm businesses build smarter systems instead of simply working longer hours. Carey and Jennifer discuss what they've learned about growing a poultry business, setting boundaries, using automation wisely, and creating assets you actually own—like websites, blogs, and email lists—instead of relying entirely on social media. Whether you're selling hatching eggs, breeding stock, farm products, or simply dreaming about turning your hobby into a business, this episode offers practical insights into building a business that supports your homesteading lifestyle instead of taking it over. Mentioned in this episode Beyond the EggBryant's RoostHomestead burnoutEmail marketingFarm websitesAutomationCustomer serviceSmall farm businessPoultry marketingIf this episode resonated with you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another poultry keeper or homesteader who's trying to grow their business without losing the joy that started it all. Valley Hatchery is a proud sponsor of Poultry Nerds, find more at ValleyHatchery.com Support the show Feel Free to email us at - PoultryNerds@gmail.com Join us on Facebook at - https://www.facebook.com/PoultryNerds Sign up for News at PoultryNerds.com EggFoam.com get your egg shippers and live shipping boxes and always get free shipping! ShowPro feed supplement for all your feathered friends! Grow them bigger and healthier with the best ingredients. Coturnix Quail hatching eggs from Bryant's Roost, including jumbo celadons! Quail cartons and Supplies from Double R Farms Please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review, we appreciate you.  And if you have a subject request, email us. PoultryNerds@Gmail.com

  7. Jul 2

    Flies in the Coop: Causes, Prevention, and Control

    send us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond! What Flies Are Really Telling You About Your Chicken Coop Flies are more than just an annoyance—they're often an indicator of what's happening in your coop and run. In this Poultry Nerds Podcast clip, we discuss why flies are attracted to chickens, the environmental conditions that encourage them, and practical management strategies to reduce fly populations. Whether you keep a small backyard flock or manage a larger operation, understanding the root causes of fly problems can help you create a healthier environment for your birds while making your coop a more enjoyable place to work. This episode covers: Why flies are attracted to chicken coopsCommon causes of fly infestationsManagement practices that reduce fly breedingPractical tips for long-term fly controlIf you enjoy this discussion, be sure to listen to the full Poultry Nerds Podcast for more science-based conversations on poultry health, management, and husbandry. Valley Hatchery is a proud sponsor of Poultry Nerds, find more at ValleyHatchery.com Support the show Feel Free to email us at - PoultryNerds@gmail.com Join us on Facebook at - https://www.facebook.com/PoultryNerds Sign up for News at PoultryNerds.com EggFoam.com get your egg shippers and live shipping boxes and always get free shipping! ShowPro feed supplement for all your feathered friends! Grow them bigger and healthier with the best ingredients. Coturnix Quail hatching eggs from Bryant's Roost, including jumbo celadons! Quail cartons and Supplies from Double R Farms Please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review, we appreciate you.  And if you have a subject request, email us. PoultryNerds@Gmail.com

  8. Jun 25

    Poultry With Purpose: Harrison's Hatchery and Carolina Rooster Solution

    send us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond! What happens when a simple incubator turns into a mission?In this episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast, we visit with Laurie Pineda of Harrison's Hatchery to hear the inspiring story of how her family's poultry journey began with one young man's fascination with hatching chicks.Harrison, who is on the autism spectrum, discovered an incredible passion for incubating eggs. That passion eventually grew into Harrison's Hatchery, where the family now hatches thousands of chicks while creating meaningful opportunities for learning, responsibility, and independence.We also discuss Laurie's vision for "Poultry With a Purpose," including her Carolina Rooster Solution, a program that rehomes unwanted roosters—including placing some with veterans experiencing loneliness and depression—and her goal of helping more neurodivergent individuals discover the value of caring for poultry.Along the way, we also nerd out about:Starting and growing a hatcheryScaling from one incubator to over 1,000 eggsChoosing the right poultry business modelNPIP guidance for beginnersHy-Line Brown ready-to-lay pulletsDeveloping new breeding projectsAnd, of course... why naked neck chickens are so controversial!Whether you're interested in poultry, entrepreneurship, or the unexpected ways chickens can change lives, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.SEO Keywords autism and chickenspoultry with a purposeHarrison's Hatcherybackyard chickensincubating chicken eggsneurodiversitybackyard poultryhatchery businessNPIPHy-Line BrownCarolina Rooster Solutionpoultry entrepreneurship Valley Hatchery is a proud sponsor of Poultry Nerds, find more at ValleyHatchery.com Support the show Feel Free to email us at - PoultryNerds@gmail.com Join us on Facebook at - https://www.facebook.com/PoultryNerds Sign up for News at PoultryNerds.com EggFoam.com get your egg shippers and live shipping boxes and always get free shipping! ShowPro feed supplement for all your feathered friends! Grow them bigger and healthier with the best ingredients. Coturnix Quail hatching eggs from Bryant's Roost, including jumbo celadons! Quail cartons and Supplies from Double R Farms Please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review, we appreciate you.  And if you have a subject request, email us. PoultryNerds@Gmail.com

4.4
out of 5
23 Ratings

About

Want healthier birds, better hatches, and fewer costly mistakes? Poultry Nerds gives backyard flock keepers and breeders practical, science-informed answers about chickens, Coturnix quail, hatching eggs, incubation, breeding, nutrition, brooding, biosecurity, housing, and flock health.Jennifer Bryant of Bryant’s Roost and Carey Blackmon of Show Pro Farm Supply bring real-world poultry experience to honest conversations with breeders, researchers, poultry professionals, and other people who truly know birds. We explain not only what to do, but why it works, so you can make better decisions for your own flock.Whether you are setting your first incubator, raising breeding stock, shipping hatching eggs, or managing an established farm, every episode gives you useful information you can put to work.Learn more: https://www.poultrynerdspodcast.comBuild your incubation skills: https://www.incubationmasterclass.comCoturnix quail education: https://www.quailmania.comFind hatching-egg breeders: https://www.hatchingeggdirectory.comHatching-egg and live-bird shipping supplies: https://www.eggfoam.comValley Hatchery is a proud partner of the Poultry Nerds Podcast, providing hard-working birds for hard-working people: https://www.valleyhatchery.com

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