The Meat Mafia Podcast #141: The Next Generation of Farmers featuring Joe Koopsen
Jan 28, 2023
Joe Koopsen, a 27-year-old poultry farmer from Michigan, brings new insights into the future of food. He shares his journey from 4-H beginnings to scaling his poultry business and introduces the concept of low PUFA chicken. The conversation addresses the challenges of raising chickens sustainably and the importance of regenerative practices. Joe also tackles the 'orange egg yolk scam' and discusses his transition into beef production, emphasizing the critical role of consumer relationships and the impact of social media in direct sales.
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Boredom to Business
- Joe Koopsen started farming chickens out of boredom after joining 4-H and raising chicks in a fish tank.
- Selling eggs sparked his entrepreneurial spirit, leading him to scale his operation despite city regulations.
Eggs vs. Meat
- Regular egg sales provide consistent weekly income, unlike meat sales, which are less frequent.
- Koopsen scaled to 6,000 egg-laying chickens by 2020 before fully transitioning to meat production.
Young Entrepreneur
- At 14, Koopsen acquired a 2.5-acre lot and began farming.
- His mother supported his venture by driving him to farmers' markets and facilitating egg sales, unlike other parents focused on sports.