Episode 56: Chloe Buchanan - From 4-H to Embryology - IVF, Leadership, and Ag Roots

09/09/2025 1h 7min Episodio 56
Episode 56: Chloe Buchanan - From 4-H to Embryology - IVF, Leadership, and Ag Roots

Listen "Episode 56: Chloe Buchanan - From 4-H to Embryology - IVF, Leadership, and Ag Roots"

Episode Synopsis

Send us a textChloe Buchanan grew up in Leo, Indiana, found her footing in 4-H, and now manages a Great Lakes team at Trans Ova Genetics as a professional services embryologist—doing on-farm IVF collections, embryo transfer (fresh & frozen), and supporting cattle and small-ruminant programs. We talk about what an embryologist actually does, the difference between lab IVF roles and field PSE work, and how advanced reproductive technologies accelerate genetic progress on both seedstock and commercial operations. Chloe shares her path through Southern Illinois University (SIU), the mentors who opened doors, and how she leads a remote, multi-state team at 28—covering one-on-ones, staying connected on the road, and “leading without a title.” We also touch on Temple Grandin, why friendships and community matter in ag, and how to bring more non-traditional students into animal agriculture. If you’re curious about practical IVF, ET, and day-to-day leadership in production ag, this one’s for you.Keywords: Trans Ova Genetics, embryologist, IVF cattle, embryo transfer, ET, small ruminants, cloning, 4-H, SIU, Leo Indiana, Great Lakes region, remote team management, Temple Grandin, advanced reproductive technologies.Guest: Chloe Buchanan — Professional Services Embryologist Manager, Trans Ova Genetics Host: Jim Smith, Ph.D. — Farmer, Swine Nutritionist, and Storyteller of Agriculture & Life

More episodes of the podcast Patio Ponderings