Valley Hatchery Podcast

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeIn this special episode, Cortney sits down with Connie, one of Valley Hatchery's longest-serving and most requested customer support representatives, to share what years of helping backyard flock owners have taught her. Instead of our usual educational topic, this conversation takes you behind the scenes of customer support and explores the questions, concerns, and memorable moments that come with helping thousands of first-time poultry keepers. From brooder setup and mail-order chick arrivals to common seasonal questions and customer success stories, this episode offers practical insight into the real conversations happening every day at Valley Hatchery.Customers are encouraged to call Valley Hatchery's main support line at 1-800-652-7606 whenever they have questions before or after their chicks arrive. Whether you need guidance on brooder preparation, shipment timing, or caring for your new chicks, our customer support team is here to help every step of the way.For additional guidance, explore Valley Hatchery's educational resources covering mail-order poultry care, brooder preparation, chick care, and raising healthy backyard flocks. If you enjoyed this special behind-the-scenes episode, be sure to subscribe to Chicken Support Insights for more practical poultry education, customer support conversations, and backyard flock guidance.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeSummer heat can quickly become dangerous for backyard flocks if early warning signs are missed. In this episode of the Chicken Insights Podcast, Tina and Nikki discuss how to recognize heat stress, avoid common heat-wave mistakes, and make simple changes that improve airflow, ventilation, shade, and water access. They also share practical tips on coop setup, feeding schedules, and flock monitoring to help keep birds healthy, productive, and comfortable throughout the hottest months of the year.If you're planning to add chickens to your flock this summer, Valley Hatchery has some of the most heat-tolerant breeds that ship across 48 contiguous states.For additional raising chicken guide, backyard poultry education, breed selection guidance, brooder setup recommendations, flock planning support and flock management resources, explore Valley Hatchery’s educational content focused on raising healthy and productive backyard flocks. If this episode helped you better protect your flock during summer heat, be sure to subscribe for more practical poultry education and backyard chicken insights.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeThinking about adding guinea keets, ducklings, or goslings to your flock? In this episode of Chicken Insights Podcast, Cortney and Matt discuss common misconceptions first-time specialty poultry owners have and what to know before ordering. The conversation covers brooder setup, feeding, water management, space requirements, noise levels, and seasonal availability.Check out our available breeds now at Valley Hatchery!!For additional raising duck guides, backyard poultry education, breed selection guidance, brooder setup recommendations, and flock management resources, explore Valley Hatchery’s educational content focused on raising healthy and productive backyard flocks. If this episode helped you better understand specialty poultry and prepare for your next flock addition, be sure to subscribe for more practical poultry education and backyard chicken insights.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeSummer flock management is about a lot more than just surviving hot weather. In this episode of Chicken Insights Podcast, Tina and Connie break down how backyard flock owners can prepare their birds, coops, and routines for the realities of summer before the first major heat wave arrives. From recognizing early signs of heat stress to improving ventilation and managing clean water access, this episode focuses on practical seasonal preparation that reduces stress for both birds and flock owners.Check out our available breeds now at Valley Hatchery!!For additional backyard poultry education, breed selection guidance, brooder setup recommendations, and flock management resources, explore Valley Hatchery’s educational content focused on raising healthy and productive backyard flocks. If this episode helped you better prepare your flock for summer conditions, be sure to subscribe for more practical poultry education and backyard chicken insights.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeChoosing chicken breeds is about a lot more than appearance. In this episode of Chicken Insights Podcast, Matt and Nikki break down how backyard flock owners can choose breeds that actually fit their goals, climate, space, and daily lifestyle. From egg layer production and dual-purpose breeds to temperament, free ranging ability, and beginner-friendly flock planning, this episode helps explain why intentional breed selection creates a healthier and lower-stress backyard flock experience.Whether you are building your first flock or expanding an existing setup, understanding breed compatibility can make a major difference in flock management and overall success. Check out our available breeds now at Valley Hatchery!!For additional backyard poultry education, breed selection guidance, brooder setup recommendations, and flock management resources, explore Valley Hatchery’s educational content focused on raising healthy and productive backyard flocks. If this episode helped you better understand how to choose egg layer breeds for your flock, be sure to subscribe for more practical poultry education and backyard chicken insights.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeMost customers do not realize this, but one of the biggest rookie mistakes on shipment day is waiting too long to communicate concerns after opening the box. In this episode of Chicken Insights Support Podcast, Cortney and Tina explain why fast communication during live poultry deliveries can directly affect chick recovery, customer support outcomes, and guarantee protection during those critical first 24 hours. Customer support does not end after the sale, but many customers mistakenly assume they are on their own once the chicks arrive.Customers are encouraged to call Valley Hatchery’s main support line at 1-800-652-7606 for shipment-day questions, reporting concerns, or live poultry delivery support.For additional shipment preparation guidance and brooder setup recommendations, explore Valley Hatchery’s educational resources covering mail-order poultry care, brooder preparation, chick care, and raising healthy backyard flocks. If this episode helped you feel more prepared for delivery day, be sure to subscribe for more practical backyard poultry guidance and flock support education.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeBringing home mail-order chicks starts long before the box arrives at your door. In this episode of Chicken Insights Support Podcast, Tina and Nikki break down what your brooder setup actually needs before chicks arrive, and why preparation during those first few hours matters so much for long-term flock success.From brooder temperature and bedding choices to warm water and proper heat sources, this episode focuses on the small setup details that can make a major difference during the first week. Tina and Nikki also explain why shipped chicks have different recovery needs compared to locally hatched birds, and why stable heat and preparation are critical after transit.Instead of overcomplicating the process, this conversation walks through the practical basics that backyard flock owners should double-check before delivery day. They also cover common mistakes people make with brooder size, bedding materials, and heating source use during the early recovery stage.For a full setup checklist and additional brooder guidance, explore Valley Hatchery’s educational resources on brooder preparation, chick care, and raising healthy backyard flocks. If this episode helped you feel more prepared for chick season, be sure to subscribe for more practical, experience-based poultry guidance.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeMoving chicks out from the brooder is not dependent on age alone. It is also about recognizing when they’re truly ready. In this episode of Chicken Support Insights, Cortney and Connie break down the key signs that tell you your chicks can safely transition, helping you avoid common mistakes that lead to stress, setbacks, or losses.Instead of relying on timelines alone, this conversation focuses on what actually matters: feather development, behavior, and weather conditions. They explain how to read your birds, what a realistic transition timeline looks like from week one through six, and why rushing the process can do more harm than good.For a step by step breakdown, check out this guide from Valley Hatchery: "When Can Chicks Move to the Coop?" It walks through the timeline week by week, including when chicks can start spending time outside and when they’re ready for full coop living.For more practical guidance on brooder management, chick readiness, and coop setup, explore Valley Hatchery’s resources designed to support every stage of raising your flock. If this episode helped you better understand your birds, be sure to subscribe for more straightforward, experience-based insights.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodePlanning egg production starts with understanding your needs, not just choosing popular breeds. In this episode of Chicken Support Insights, Nikki and Matt walk through how to approach egg production with a clear plan, helping you avoid common mistakes that lead to too few eggs or more than you can realistically use.Instead of guessing or relying on breed reputation alone, this conversation focuses on defining your household’s egg needs first, then building a flock that supports that goal. They break down how to estimate weekly egg use, what realistic production looks like from different types of birds, and why consistency matters more than chasing maximum output.How could your flock change if you planned your egg production based on real usage, not assumptions?For more straightforward guidance on flock planning, chick care, and long-term productivity, visit Valley Hatchery and explore practical resources designed to help you build a more reliable backyard system. If this episode helped you think more intentionally about your flock, be sure to subscribe for more conversations focused on real, working setups.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeBringing home chicks in the spring feels straightforward, but small mistakes in those first few days can quickly lead to bigger problems. In this episode of Chicken Support Insights, Connie and Tina break down five common mistakes that often lead to early chick losses, especially for beginners.Before your chicks even arrive, have you fully prepared your brooder, temperature, and daily care routine to support them from the moment they get there?If you want to dive deeper on chick care, brooder setup, and avoiding common early losses, you can read “7 Spring Chick Raising Mistakes” from our website, offering an additional layer of practical, step-by-step insight.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeOrdering chicks sounds simple, but choosing between straight run, pullets, or assortments can shape your entire flock. In this episode of Chicken Support Insights, Cortney and Matt break down what each option actually means and how it impacts your setup.To go even deeper, pair this episode with the guide “Straight Run vs Pullets vs Assortment: What Hatchery Buyers Should Know” from Valley Hatchery. It expands on the key differences and helps you align your chick order with what you actually want out of your flock. Before you place your order, have you thought through what you actually want from your flock and whether your choice supports that?For more straightforward guidance on flock planning, chick care, and backyard poultry education, explore Valley Hatchery’s growing library of practical resources. If this episode helped you plan with more clarity, be sure to subscribe to Chicken Support Insights for more real-world poultry insights.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeBringing chicks home is exciting, but it can also leave new flock owners second-guessing every detail in the brooder. In this episode, Nikki and Tina explain how chick behavior often reveals more than any thermometer, helping you recognize signs of comfort, stress, or imbalance through patterns like clustering, chirping, activity level, and spacing. Learning what normal behavior looks like in the first 24 to 48 hours after arrival can help you make calm, confident adjustments instead of reacting too quickly or guessing. What patterns are your chicks showing right now, and what might those behaviors be telling you about their environment?For more educational resources on brooder setup, chick care timing, and planning your flock intentionally, explore our Care Guide available through Valley Hatchery. Subscribe to the podcast for more practical guidance designed to support confident, well-prepared flock owners.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeSummer stress doesn’t start in summer. It shows up later, but the causes usually begin weeks earlier. In this episode of Chicken Insights Podcast, Cortney and Tina walk through what early heat stress actually looks like in a backyard flock, from increased panting and water intake to drops in egg production and overcrowding in shaded areas.If a stretch of high heat started tomorrow, what part of your setup would need immediate attention?For more straightforward guidance on flock planning, seasonal care, and practical backyard poultry education, explore Valley Hatchery’s growing resource library. If this episode helped you think ahead for the warmer months, subscribe to Chicken Insights Podcast so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeSpring is the most common time for new chicks to arrive, but it’s also when many beginners run into avoidable brooder problems. In this episode of Chicken Support Insights, Connie and Nikki walk through three of the most common spring brooding mistakes: overheating, overcrowding, and excess moisture in the brooder. These issues may seem small at first, but they can quickly affect chick health if they aren’t managed early.Before your chicks arrive, have you checked whether your brooder temperature, space, and bedding conditions are set up to support healthy growth?For more straightforward guidance on flock planning, chick care, and backyard poultry education, visit Valley Hatchery and explore the growing library of practical resources available to help you build a stronger flock. If this episode helped you prepare for chick season, be sure to subscribe to Chicken Support Insights so you don’t miss upcoming conversations.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeChickens can do more than provide eggs. When used intentionally, they can also support a healthier and more productive garden system. In this episode of Chicken Support Insights, Cortney and Nikki talk through how backyard chickens can help improve soil health, manage pests, and assist with seasonal garden cleanup.Instead of treating chickens and gardens as separate parts of the homestead, this conversation focuses on how the two systems work best when they are planned together. The discussion covers timing chickens around planting cycles, using birds to prepare beds before the growing season, and keeping them out during delicate plant growth stages.How could your chickens support your garden’s productivity through better timing, compost use, and seasonal planning?For more straightforward guidance on flock planning, chick care, and homestead education, visit Valley Hatchery online and explore our growing library of practical resources. If this episode helped you think differently about integrating chickens into your garden system, be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss upcoming conversations.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeStarting a backyard flock often begins with popular breeds or eye-catching birds, but experienced keepers take a different approach. In this episode of Chicken Support Insights, Tina and Matt discuss why choosing chicken breeds based on purpose leads to a stronger, more manageable flock.Instead of chasing trends, the conversation focuses on planning birds around real goals such as egg production, temperament, climate suitability, and available space.What specific job do you want each breed in your flock to serve this season?For more straightforward guidance on planning, breed availability, and chick care, visit Valley Hatchery online and explore our educational resources. Our team is here to help you make informed, confident decisions for your flock. If this episode was helpful, be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss upcoming conversations.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeStop waiting for the "perfect" moment to order. Shipping itself does not slow down or speed up with the season, but demand and breed availability absolutely shift as spring approaches. In this conversation, Cortney and Tina break down what really changes during this transition and how to think about your order more intentionally.Transit time stays the same, 1 to 3 days. Availability is what shifts as demand rises. With our watchdog system, you can lock in your order and have us monitor for sooner ship dates if space opens up. Have you already aligned your breed preferences, ship timing, and brooder preparation?For more straightforward guidance on planning, breed availability, and chick care, visit Valley Hatchery online and explore our educational resources. Our team is here to help you make informed, confident decisions for your flock. If this episode was helpful, be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss upcoming conversations.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeStarting chicks in February can feel exciting until something seems slightly off in the brooder. Maybe they’re louder than expected. Maybe bedding feels damp. Maybe you’re second guessing your heat setup. In this episode, Connie and Matt walk through what early season brooder troubleshooting really looks like and why small, steady adjustments matter more than quick reactions.If you’re brooding chicks right now, this conversation will help you pause before overcorrecting. It highlights the difference between normal chick behavior and true stress, along with simple setup tweaks that can prevent bigger issues later. It is practical, calm, and focused on building confidence early in the season.Brooder problems are rarely disasters. Most are small course corrections. Knowing when to adjust and when to observe is what builds long term flock success.Are you observing first or reacting first in your brooder? For more practical chick care guidance and seasonal planning resources, visit Valley Hatchery. Subscribe to Chicken Support Insights so you’re ready for every stage of the flock building process.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeIf you’re expecting chicks to arrive this month, those first moments can feel exciting and overwhelming all at once. In this episode, Tina and Matt walk through what chick arrival actually looks like, helping you understand what to do first and what can wait. The focus is on staying calm, prepared, and confident as you welcome new chicks into your care.When you think back to your first chick arrival, what surprised you the most about those first 24 hours?Valley Hatchery is dedicated to supporting confident, prepared flock owners through clear education and realistic guidance. Explore more learning resources on our website to support each stage of your flock’s journey and subscribe to the podcast for continued conversations centered on planning, care, and long-term flock success.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeReceiving chicks during colder months can bring a lot of questions, especially if it’s your first winter delivery. In this episode, Cortney, our Customer Support Manager, and Nikki from the support team walk through what cold-weather chick shipping actually looks like, and how to prepare with confidence instead of stress. The goal is simple, to help you understand what’s normal, what’s planned, and what really matters when chicks arrive in low temperatures.Cold weather doesn’t have to be a barrier to success, but it does require planning, patience, and shared responsibility between hatchery and customer.Valley Hatchery is committed to helping backyard flock owners build confidence through clear guidance and realistic expectations. Visit the Valley Hatchery website to explore educational resources designed to support thoughtful planning and long-term flock success and subscribe to the podcast for more conversations rooted in preparation, care, and self-sufficiency.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeIf you’ve ever felt rushed placing a chick order or unsure whether your setup was truly ready, this episode is for you. In this episode of Valley Hatchery’s Chicken Support Insights, Nikki and Matt walk through why early ordering matters and how it directly impacts a smoother, more successful spring flock season.This conversation focuses on planning with intention instead of urgency. Nikki and Matt explain how ordering early gives you more control over timing, breed selection, and availability, helping you avoid last-minute compromises that often lead to stress or disappointment later.A key part of the discussion focuses on trust when ordering chicks. Nikki and Matt explain why choosing an NPIP-certified hatchery matter. Valley Hatchery raises and ships birds under National Poultry Improvement Plan standards to support flock health and approved interstate shipment.If you want to dig deeper into physical setup, our blog “Chicken Coop Must-Haves: 7 Essentials Every Chicken Keeper Needs” walks you through essential coop considerations and readiness tips. It’s a helpful next step for listeners who want to double-check their setup before chicks arrive.Is your coop and brooder truly ready for chicks today, or are you counting on fixing things after they arrive?For more educational guidance on planning, preparation, and raising backyard flocks with confidence, explore the learning resources available through Valley Hatchery. If you find these conversations helpful, subscribe to the podcast so you can stay prepared and informed throughout the season.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeThinking about ordering chickens but not sure if you are truly ready? In this episode of Chicken Insights Podcast, Cortney and Connie encourage chicken keepers like you to slow down and plan your flock intentionally before the spring rush hits.Building on ideas introduced in Episode 7, they walk through how to define your homestead goals, whether that means eggs, meat, compost support, or calm temperament, and why those goals should guide every flock decision. They also discuss how to match flock size to your available space, time, and labor, and how mixed breed planning can help smooth production throughout the season.Cortney and Connie break down why early February ordering matters and how planning ahead helps reduce stress while setting your flock up for long-term success. They also reference our blog Guide to Choosing Breeds that Meet Your Backyard Flock Needs as a helpful next step for aligning your goals with the right breeds.By the end of this episode, you will be better prepared to plan, not rush, your flock decisions. Before you order, take a moment to write down your flock goals and compare them to your space and resources.Are you planning your flock intentionally or by impulse?Explore more planning tools, breed guides, and educational resources at Valley Hatchery, and do not forget to subscribe for more backyard chicken insights.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeStruggling to choose the right chicken breeds for your backyard flock? In this episode of Valley Hatchery's Chicken Support Insights, we break down the essential questions every beginner should ask before buying chickens. From climate and space considerations to temperament and egg-laying potential, we got you covered.Join Nikki and Tina as they guide you through practical tips for selecting hardy, friendly breeds like Buff Orpingtons and more breeds available at Valley Hatchery and share resources to verify breed information before you buy. By the end, you’ll feel confident starting your flock with the right chickens for your home.Want to learn more about different chicken breeds and find detailed guides? Visit Valley Hatchery for breed profiles, care tips, and expert advice. Make sure you’re not the last to know. Subscribe today for all the must‑hear backyard chicken episodes

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeIn this episode of Chicken Support Insights, Cortney and Tina walk through common situations that prompt customers to call support and explain which ones are normal, which should be addressed right away, and which usually resolve on their own. They share real examples, quick guidance, and what they wish customers understood before calling, all to help customers feel more confident while knowing support is always there when needed.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeA sudden drop in eggs can be alarming—but most of the time, it’s completely normal. In this episode of Chicken Support Insights, Connie and Tina break down the most common reasons hens stop laying, including age-related decline, molting, and seasonal daylight changes. We also cover nutrition gaps, stress, broodiness, hidden nests, and when a slowdown may signal a health issue. This episode helps chicken keepers understand what’s expected, what’s not, and when action is actually needed—so you can stop worrying and start reading your flock with confidence. 

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeChoosing the right flock size starts with space, not guesswork. In this episode, Cortney, Customer Support Manager at Valley Hatchery, and Matt from the support team break down coop and run requirements, egg expectations, and simple planning steps to help you build a healthy, manageable backyard flock.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeHeat lamps work — when they’re set up correctly. In this episode, Nikki and Connie walk through how to use heat lamps safely and effectively for brooding chicks, including proper setup, testing, positioning, and reading chick behavior. You’ll learn how to avoid common mistakes, hit the right temperatures for mail-order chicks, and brood with confidence from day one. Heat Lamp Safety - Checklist:Clamp secured Chain secured Cord out of reach 250W poultry heat bulb No teflon-coated bulbs Lamp clear of bedding Nothing touching the lampCheck that the bulb is tightened regularlyNever use a heat lamp inside a confined container like a barrel

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeNikki and Tina walk keepers through the simple brooder adjustments that make a big difference. With the right heat, bedding, space, and setup, anyone can give their chicks a strong, confident start — and avoid the common pitfalls we see every season.

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeEpisode 1 kicks off our new Chicken Support Insights segment, bringing real conversations from the Valley Hatchery Support Team straight to our listeners. Cortney and Connie break down what beginners need to know, what experienced keepers are refining, and why flock planning for 2026 is already underway. Clear guidance, honest expectations, and practical takeaways — all designed to help every chicken keeper raise a stronger, more confident flock. 

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeJoin us for this frank discussion about "the Dark Side" - those times when you start to question your decision to raise chicks. When they get sick. When they die. Heck, when you look up one day and you just have too many to keep track of! It's a thing we all know as Chicken Math and it's real. In this episode, we're going to talk about the basic health issues faced by chicken folks all over the country and cover treatments and preventive actions that help you to be more proactive in managing the health of your flock - and hopefully it will pull you back from "the Dark Side." 

Have a poultry question? Send it for the next episodeJoin us for our 2025 round-up of all of our key VH Essentials video content, summarized for you in one podcast! This is Season 1, Episode 1 of Beyond the Brooder: Mastering the First Year with Backyard Chickens.