To The Front

TTF Nutrition
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The show that answers questions for stock show families. Whether you show cattle, pigs, sheep or goats hosts Tony Morris and Thomas Gross along with special guests are here to listen to your challenges and guide you on the path to becoming a more confident feeder and more successful show family. New episodes weekly on YouTube and anywhere you listen to podcasts. To The Front is presented by TTF Nutrition - Livestock Supplements that Get You To The Front.

  1. 3d ago

    Everything County Fair

    Episode SummaryCounty fair season is one of the most exciting—and sometimes stressful—times of the year for livestock families. In this episode of To The Front, Tony Morris and Thomas Gross answer listener questions about preparing for your first county fair, managing livestock through long fair schedules, and why county fairs can feel more competitive than any other show. From practical feeding and hydration strategies to reminders about keeping the experience fun, this episode is full of advice to help exhibitors and families make the most of fair week while creating memories that will last a lifetime. Key Topics & Timestamps00:00 – 04:50 | County Fair Kickoff & Fair Season Traditions Tony and Thomas kick off county fair season by sharing stories about their own county fairs, discussing why kids love fair week, and reminding families to embrace the entire experience—not just the show ring. 04:50 – 13:20 | First County Fair? Here's Our Advice The guys answer a listener's question about attending their very first county fair, offering tips on managing expectations, letting kids enjoy the fair, and focusing on learning instead of winning. 13:20 – 19:10 | Keeping Livestock on Track During Long Fair Weeks Learn how Tony and Thomas approach feeding and hydration for county fairs that last several days. They discuss preparing animals before arrival, using hydration strategies throughout the week, and planning around your target show day. 19:10 – End | Why Is the County Fair So Competitive? The episode wraps up with a discussion about why county fairs often feel more intense than larger shows, how hometown expectations affect exhibitors, and why keeping the right perspective makes all the difference. Key TakeawaysThe county fair is about more than showing livestock—it's about making memories, building friendships, and enjoying the experience.Let kids experience everything the fair has to offer while still teaching responsibility and good stockmanship.Start preparing livestock before arriving by considering travel conditions, weather, and hydration.During long fair weeks, keep your target show in mind and avoid having animals at their peak too early.Hot weather and older fair barns can increase the need for proper hydration and livestock comfort.Stay disciplined with your feeding plan and avoid making emotional decisions based on day-to-day results.Parents play a huge role in setting the tone. Keeping expectations realistic and focusing on fun helps create a better experience for the whole family.At the end of the day, the county fair is about developing young people, creating lifelong memories, and enjoying time together as a family.

  2. Jul 16

    Walking Pigs, Beating the Heat & Helping Anxious Showmen

    Walking Pigs, Beating the Heat & Helping Anxious ShowmenEpisode SummaryIn this episode of To The Front, Tony Morris and Thomas Gross answer three timely listener questions covering everyday challenges faced by livestock exhibitors. They discuss effective walking routines for show pigs, practical ways to manage heat stress during the summer months, and strategies for helping young exhibitors overcome anxiety before entering the show ring. Whether you're preparing for your next jackpot, battling rising temperatures, or looking to build confidence in your young showman, this episode is packed with practical advice you can apply at home and in the barn. Key Topics & Timestamps00:00 – 08:30 | Building an Effective Walking Routine Tony and Thomas discuss how their approach to walking pigs has evolved, why shorter, purposeful workouts are more effective than long sessions, and how to build stamina without creating ring-sour pigs. 08:30 – 14:55 | Managing Heat Stress During the Summer Learn practical tips for keeping pigs comfortable during hot weather, including airflow, feeding schedules, hydration, rinsing, gut health, and electrolyte support to help maintain feed intake and performance. 14:55 – 24:55 | Helping Young Showmen Manage Ring Anxiety Tony and Thomas share personal experiences as parents, discussing ways to reduce anxiety before entering the ring, the importance of repetition, positive coaching, and keeping livestock showing fun for the entire family. Key TakeawaysWalking pigs consistently for 5–7 minutes is often more beneficial than long, exhausting workouts.Build stamina without overworking pigs to prevent burnout and ring sourness.During hot weather, prioritize airflow, hydration, cool water, and feeding during cooler parts of the day.Healthy gut function and proper hydration play a major role in maintaining feed intake during periods of heat stress.Confidence in the show ring comes through repetition and experience.Parents set the emotional tone—staying positive and keeping showing enjoyable helps young exhibitors perform their best.Remember to separate coaching from parenting, celebrating effort before focusing on corrections.Success in the show ring is important, but the lessons learned and memories made are even more valuable.

  3. Jul 10

    Show Pig Problems: Bad Hair, Fast Gains & Cracked Backs

    Show Pig Problems: Bad Hair, Fast Gains & Cracked BacksEpisode SummaryIn this episode of To The Front, Tony Morris and Thomas Gross answer three common questions from stock show families. They discuss how to improve dingy skin and hair on white pigs, the best strategies for putting weight on a pig quickly without sacrificing quality, and how to identify and treat cracked backs before they become a major issue. Along the way, they share practical management tips, product recommendations, and real-world experiences from the show barn. Key Topics & Timestamps00:00 – 03:40 | Podcast Reviews & Show Barn BanterTony and Thomas read listener reviews, share a few laughs, and kick off another listener Q&A episode. 03:40 – 11:30 | Fixing Dingy Skin & HairHow clean pens, healthy skin, quality water, proper washing routines, and whitening products can help white pigs look their best. 11:30 – 17:40 | How to Put Weight on a Pig FastThe hosts discuss increasing feed intake, feeding schedules, hydration, and practical ways to safely add weight before a show. 17:40 – 25:50 | Cracked Backs : Prevention & TreatmentWhat cracked backs are, early warning signs to watch for, why acting quickly is critical, and the importance of having a treatment plan with your veterinarian before problems arise. Key TakeawaysClean pens, healthy skin, and consistent daily management are the foundation for great skin and hair. When trying to add weight quickly, focus on increasing feed intake—not shortcuts—and use hydration to your advantage. Finally, cracked backs are much easier to manage when caught early, making daily observation and a relationship with your veterinarian essential for success.

  4. Jul 6

    How to Read a Feed Tag: Show Pig Edition

    Episode 10: How to Read a Feed Tag | Show Pig EditionEpisode SummaryIn this episode of To The Front, Tony Morris and Thomas Gross simplify one of the most intimidating parts of feeding show pigs: understanding the feed tag. They walk through what every feed tag includes, explain the purpose of key nutrients like protein, lysine, fat, and fiber, and discuss how those nutrients affect muscle, body condition, and gut health. They also cover the role of vitamins and minerals, common misconceptions about supplements, and why a balanced pig feed should always be the foundation of any feeding program. Key Topics & Timestamps00:00 – 05:05 | Expo Recap & Barn Updates Thomas shares the story behind his Reserve Champion Landrace Gilt at Exposition, while Tony and Thomas catch up on recent events before introducing the episode. 05:05 – 09:50 | Feed Tag Basics An overview of what every feed tag contains, including guaranteed analysis, ingredient lists, medication statements, feeding directions, and species-specific warnings. 09:50 – 15:20 | Protein & Lysine Explained Why protein and lysine are the foundation of muscle development, how they work together, and what the numbers on a feed tag really mean. 15:20 – 19:45 | Supplements vs. Complete Feed The importance of using supplements to fine-tune a feeding program rather than replacing the majority of a pig's complete feed. 19:45 – 22:50 | Understanding Fat How fat serves as an energy source, contributes to bloom and body condition, and when higher- or lower-fat diets make sense. 22:50 – 26:50 | Fiber's Role in Feeding How fiber influences gut health, body fill, digestive regularity, and holding diets, plus the difference between common fiber sources. 26:50 – 30:20 | Micronutrients Made Simple A look at calcium, phosphorus, selenium, zinc, vitamins, and why quality feed manufacturers formulate balanced diets you can trust. 30:20 – 32:10 | Final Feeding Advice The hosts wrap up with practical reminders to make pig feed the foundation of every feeding program and use supplements strategically. Key TakeawaysUnderstanding a feed tag doesn't have to be overwhelming. By learning the purpose of protein, lysine, fat, fiber, and essential micronutrients, exhibitors can make smarter feeding decisions throughout the project. A quality complete feed should always be the foundation of a successful nutrition program, while supplements are most effective when used strategically to fine-tune specific traits rather than replace a balanced diet.

  5. Jun 25

    How to Hold Show Pigs

    Episode 9: How to Hold Show PigsEpisode SummaryIn this episode of To The Front, Tony Morris and Thomas Gross discuss one of the biggest challenges in the show pig industry: holding pigs to hit a target weight without sacrificing quality. They break down the difference between slow rolling and holding, when to start making adjustments, the key nutrients involved, and how to avoid common mistakes. The conversation also covers compensatory gain, signs a pig is being held too hard, and why helping new exhibitors learn is important for the future of the industry. Key Topics & Timestamps00:00 – 03:45 | Show Barn Updates & Introducing Holding PigsTony and Thomas share updates from their barns before diving into the topic of holding show pigs. 03:45 – 06:30 | Slow Roll vs. HoldThe hosts explain the difference between managing growth over time and aggressively limiting gain to hit a weight target. 06:30 – 10:20 | When to Start HoldingWhy regular weigh-ins, average daily gain calculations, and early planning are critical to success. 10:20 – 13:30 | Nutrition Strategies for HoldingA look at the role fiber, fat, protein, and lysine play in maintaining shape while limiting growth. 13:30 – 18:25 | Signs You're on Track—or in TroubleHow to recognize when a holding program is working and when a pig is starting to lose too much condition. 18:25 – 22:20 | Compensatory Gain & Show Day PreparationUnderstanding rebound growth and how to freshen pigs up before a show. 22:20 – 25:30 | Holding Stories & Lessons LearnedReal-world experiences, mistakes, and a memorable story about a pig that ended up 38 pounds overweight. 25:30 – 28:10 | Supporting New ExhibitorsA reminder that everyone starts somewhere and that growing the industry starts with helping others. Key TakeawaysHolding show pigs successfully requires planning, routine weighing, and smart nutritional management. By making adjustments early, monitoring growth, and understanding how pigs respond to feed changes, exhibitors can better manage weight while maintaining quality and competitiveness in the show ring.

  6. Jun 18

    Meet the Intern – Livestock Judging, Internships & Preparing for Life After College

    Episode 8: Meet The Intern – Livestock Judging, Internships & Preparing for Life After CollegeEpisode SummaryIn this episode of To The Front, Thomas Gross sits down with TTF Nutrition intern McKenna Sobasky to discuss her journey through the livestock industry, her success in collegiate livestock judging, and the lessons she's learned preparing for life after college. From growing up raising show pigs to becoming a collegiate All-American livestock judge, McKenna shares practical advice for young exhibitors, future judging team members, and students looking to get ahead through internships and networking. Whether you're preparing for your senior year, considering collegiate livestock judging, or wondering how to start building your career, this episode offers valuable insight into making the most of every opportunity. Key Topics & Timestamps00:00 – 05:45 | Meet McKenna: From Show Pigs to Collegiate JudgingMcKenna shares her livestock background, growing up in a family show pig operation, and how her passion for livestock judging developed through youth and collegiate competition. 05:45 – 08:25 | Advice for Seniors Preparing for CollegeThe conversation focuses on making the most of your final years in the show ring, enjoying the journey, and developing the skills that will help you succeed once college begins. 08:25 – 10:10 | How to Get Started in Livestock JudgingMcKenna explains what young people should prioritize when joining a judging team, the importance of finding mentors, and why staying humble while remaining hungry to learn is key to long-term success. 10:10 – 12:55 | The Reality of Collegiate Livestock JudgingWhat does a judging team schedule actually look like? McKenna breaks down the time commitment, balancing academics with practice, and the accountability required to compete at a high level. 12:55 – 16:05 | Why Internships MatterThomas and McKenna discuss how internships help students gain experience, discover career interests, and develop professional skills before entering the workforce. 16:05 – 17:45 | Building Relationships & Preparing for the Real WorldThe episode wraps up with a conversation about networking, communication skills, and how the livestock industry provides opportunities to build connections that can impact your future career. Key TakeawaysEnjoy your senior year, but start preparing for what's next.Success in livestock judging comes from consistency, humility, and a willingness to learn.Collegiate judging requires significant commitment, discipline, and time management.Don't wait until you're "qualified" to pursue an internship—take initiative and ask for opportunities.Networking and communication skills can create opportunities long after the internship or judging contest ends.The relationships built through the livestock industry often become some of your most valuable professional connections

  7. Jun 11

    Confusing Judging Terms: Part I

    In this episode of To The Front, Tony Morris and Thomas Gross tackle some of the most commonly misunderstood terms heard in livestock judging. From "fresh" and "green" to "funneling at the ground" and "flat-caged," they break down what judges are really describing and how exhibitors can better understand the language used in the show ring. Whether you're new to livestock judging or looking to sharpen your evaluation skills, this episode helps translate judging jargon into practical concepts you can apply at your next show. Key Topics & Timestamps00:00 – 03:30 | Ice Cream Talk & Introducing Confusing Judging Terms Tony and Thomas kick off the episode with a discussion about favorite ice cream flavors before diving into judging terminology. 03:30 – 06:40 | What Does "Fresh" Mean? The hosts explain how judges use the term "fresh" to describe livestock that have the right balance of muscle, fat cover, presentation, and youthful appearance. 06:40 – 12:00 | Understanding "Green" and "Past Their Prime" A discussion on maturity, growth stages, and how animals can be either too immature ("green") or pushed beyond their optimal condition ("past their prime"). 12:00 – 17:00 | What Does It Mean to Funnel at the Ground? Tony and Thomas explain base width, skeletal alignment, and why judges reference animals that narrow from their chest or hip toward the ground. 17:00 – 19:45 | Truer Coming and Going The conversation covers structural correctness, movement, and why alignment matters when evaluating livestock on the move. 19:45 – 25:15 | Flat-Caged vs. Round-Ribbed The hosts discuss rib shape, body design, and how terms like "flat-caged," "spring of rib," and "round-bodied" relate to muscle expression and overall quality. Key TakeawaysUnderstanding judging terminology helps exhibitors better evaluate livestock, interpret reasons, and make more informed decisions at home and in the show ring.

  8. Jun 4

    How to Build Confident Showmen, Good Barn Habits and Red Flags for Buying Livestock

    Episode 106: How to Build Confident Showmen, Good Barn Habits and Red Flags for Buying LivestockIn this episode of To The Front, Tony Morris and Thomas Gross answer listener questions about building confidence in young showmen, developing habits that lead to success, and what to look for when purchasing livestock. Key Topics & Timestamps00:01:10 – 00:09:58 | Building Confidence in Young Showmen Tony and Thomas discuss how small wins, consistent practice, and positive encouragement help young exhibitors gain confidence both in and out of the show ring. 00:09:58 – 00:13:53 | Habits That Create Success The hosts share why consistency, accountability, and attention to detail are some of the most important habits families can develop in the barn. 00:13:53 – 00:18:49 | Red Flags & Green Flags When Buying Livestock Learn what Tony and Thomas look for when selecting livestock, from trustworthy breeders and strong partnerships to animal health and structural correctness. Episode TakeawaySuccess in the livestock industry isn't just about winning banners—it's about building confidence, creating strong habits, and surrounding yourself with good people along the way.

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4.7
out of 5
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About

The show that answers questions for stock show families. Whether you show cattle, pigs, sheep or goats hosts Tony Morris and Thomas Gross along with special guests are here to listen to your challenges and guide you on the path to becoming a more confident feeder and more successful show family. New episodes weekly on YouTube and anywhere you listen to podcasts. To The Front is presented by TTF Nutrition - Livestock Supplements that Get You To The Front.

Information

  • Creator
    TTF Nutrition
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 TTF Nutrition

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