

Bred to Perfection
Kenny Troiano
Bred to Perfection is a podcast that will help you to master the art of selective breeding, and become a master breeder of chickens and gamefowl. The podcast is hosted by Kenny and Nancy Troiano. Kenny Troiano has more than 40 years of experience, and has authored two books on the subject of breeding. If you are interested in creating, maintaining, and improve your strain, this is the place for you.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 19, 2025 • 54min
Ep247 - Exploring the Breeding Process: Q&A Session with Kenny Troiano and Frank Bradley
Welcome to Bred to Perfection with Kenny, Nancy, and Frank – the go-to podcast for serious breeders who want to master the art and science of selective breeding. Hosted by master breeder Kenny Troiano, his wife and co-host Nancy Troiano, and fellow breeder Frank Bradley, this show talks about the principles of genetics, strain development, health management, and everything you need to breed, raise and maintain high-quality chickens and gamefowl. Each episode offers practical advice, expert interviews, live Q&A sessions, and real-world insight drawn from decades of hands-on experience. Backed by the Breeders Academy, our online learning platform, Bred to Perfection equips breeders of all levels with the knowledge and tools to build strong, sustainable, and productive breeding programs. New to the show? We're glad you're here! Tune into today’s episode to get a feel for what Bred to Perfection is all about. Whether you're just starting out or refining your own strain, you'll find something valuable in every conversation. Fridays at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTubeJoin Kenny Troiano and guests as they explore advanced breeding techniques, poultry nutrition, health management, and genetic sustainability—all with one goal: helping you create high-quality, long-lasting strains. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy" We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl. If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place. We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com

May 12, 2025 • 1h 16min
Ep246 - What Are the Obstacles to Becoming A True Breeder?
Our continuing theme throughout this series has been, “Are You a True Breeder or a Multiplier?” There are many benefits in becoming a true breeder, and we discussed this in the last episode, however, not everybody can become a true breeder, due to what it takes to make that happen. So, what are the obstacles? The list is long, but here are some of the points we will address: · How do we find the right information? · How do we find the right Mentor? · And, how do we find the right Seed Fowl? Information, especially good information, is harder to find than ever before, even though we have the internet. Finding mentors who know what they are talking about is getting harder, because most are stuck on old wives’ tales. And, Seed Fowl are getting harder to find, because most birds don’t represent their breed, and are nothing more than mongrels. And then there are the peddlers. The sad truth is that there are very few true breeders today. In fact, there are more peddlers than there are true breeders. They use medications to hide weakness to disease, they play the name game and percentage game, and they say they have pure fowl, but only sell crosses. What are we to do, when there seems to be so many obstacles in our way to becoming a true breeder? That is exactly what we will be talking about in this episode. Make sure to join us, this is a show you do not want to miss. Make sure to follow and watch our future shows. We plan to dive deep into the world of breeding and genetics, nutrition and health management, and provide essential tips, so you too can create high quality strains. Whether you're breeding domestic chickens, gamefowl, or various types of livestock, this show is for you. Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday’s at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy" We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl. If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place. We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com

May 5, 2025 • 1h 19min
Ep245 - Embrace the Journey – The Benefits and Challenges of Becoming a True Breeder
In this episode of Bred to Perfection, hosts Kenny Troiano, Nancy Troiano, and Frank Bradley talk about what it truly means to become a true breeder—someone who takes full control of their breeding program, develops their own strain, and builds a lasting legacy. Whether you're tired of buying subpar birds from other breeders or you're ready to take your breeding skills to the next level, this episode will guide you through the real benefits and challenges of the breeder’s path. From understanding genetics and maintaining proper conformation, to the discipline of selective breeding and culling, this episode offers both inspiration and practical advice. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why creating your own strain gives you a major advantage The long-term value of knowledge, execution, and patience How to avoid the pitfalls of relying on other breeders’ stock The creative and rewarding side of breeding your own birds The importance of conformation, performance, and genetic health Why being a true breeder means building a legacy—not just raising birds Becoming a breeder isn’t easy—it takes time, effort, and a commitment most are unwilling to make. But for those who accept the challenge, the rewards are life-changing. If you're ready to build something truly your own, this episode will show you how to start that journey. Join the Breeders Academy to gain exclusive access to expert resources, coaching, and a community dedicated to helping you succeed. Listen now and take the first step toward becoming the breeder your birds deserve. #BreedersAcademy #GamefowlBreeding #ChickenBreeding #PoultryPodcast #SelectiveBreeding #PoultryHealth #BredToPerfection #LivestockBreeding Make sure to follow and watch our future shows. We plan to dive deep into the world of breeding and genetics, nutrition and health management, and provide essential tips, so you too can create high quality strains. Whether you're breeding domestic chickens, gamefowl, or various types of livestock, this show is for you. Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday’s at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy" We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl. If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place. We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com In this episode of 'Bred to Perfection,' Kenny Troiano, along with co-hosts Nancy and Frank Bradley, discuss the science and art of breeding, focusing on the challenges and benefits of becoming a dedicated breeder. They emphasize the importance of learning proper breeding methods, the necessity of understanding genetics, and the intricacies involved in maintaining strain purity. The discussion covers personal anecdotes, member questions, and the significance of avoiding breeder myths and misinformation. Additionally, they touch upon their experiences with the American Poultry Association's standards and the challenges of standardizing American Gamefowl. The episode also offers insights into the tools and support available through the Breeders Academy. #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #gamefowl #Epigenetics #dogbreeding #gamefowlnation #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #bredtoperfection #PoultryBreeding #KennyTroiano #BackyardChickens #ChickenBreeding #SelectiveBreeding #Linebreeding #PoultryGenetics #HeritageBreeds #ChickenStrains #LivestockBreeding #SustainableFarming #HomesteadingLife #PurebredPoultry #FlockManagement #PoultryPodcast

Apr 29, 2025 • 1h 12min
Ep244 - What’s Happening Now?
In today’s episode, we’re diving into everything that’s been going on lately in our world of chickens and gamefowl—and trust us, there’s been a lot happening! From recent developments to exciting behind-the-scenes updates, we’re pulling back the curtain and filling you in on all the action. But that’s not all—this episode also features a special Q&A segment where we’ll be answering your questions about breeding techniques, strain selection, and the art (and science) behind creating quality strains. Whether you're just getting started or looking to fine-tune your bloodlines, there’s something here for everyone. And don’t miss our exclusive offer—we’ve got something special lined up that you won’t want to miss! So tune in, join the conversation, and let’s have some fun. This one’s packed with value, insight, and of course… no fluff, no feathers—just the facts. Make sure to follow and watch our future shows. We plan to dive deep into the world of breeding and genetics, nutrition and health management, and provide essential tips, so you too can create high quality strains. Whether you're breeding domestic chickens, gamefowl, or various types of livestock, this show is for you. Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday’s at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy" We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl. If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place. We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com The Bred to Perfection podcast, hosted by Kenny Troiano and his wife Nancy, focuses on supporting breeders in improving their strains and tackling various breeding challenges. The episode includes updates on the Breeders Academy and a special Mother's Day promotion offering first-month access to the Breeders Academy for $1. They discuss the importance of clean incubation practices, the potential impacts of California’s AB 928 bill on poultry breeders, particularly those breeding gamefowl, and stress on maintaining responsible breeding and presentation practices. The episode covers hen selection, handling inbreeding depression, and breeding strategies. Additionally, they share information on utilizing nature’s principles for effective culling and breeding. The session ends with a reminder about joining the Breeders Academy and the benefits it offers. #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #gamefowl #Epigenetics #dogbreeding #gamefowlnation #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #bredtoperfection #PoultryBreeding #KennyTroiano #BackyardChickens #ChickenBreeding #SelectiveBreeding #Linebreeding #PoultryGenetics #HeritageBreeds #ChickenStrains #LivestockBreeding #SustainableFarming #HomesteadingLife #PurebredPoultry #FlockManagement #PoultryPodcast

Apr 28, 2025 • 37min
Ep243 - AB 928: A Potential Threat to All Breeders
In this urgent episode of Bred to Perfection, host Kenny Troiano is joined by Jesse Ortega, California poultry health inspector and APG President, to discuss the far-reaching implications of California’s proposed Assembly Bill 928. Though proposed as an anti-cockfighting measure, AB 928 could severely restrict rooster ownership for all breeders—gamefowl and domestic alike—threatening heritage lines, biosecurity, and local economies. Learn what this bill really means, why breeders should be concerned, and how you can take action to protect your rights and the future of poultry breeding. Don’t miss this critical call to action! Make sure to follow and watch our future shows. We plan to dive deep into the world of breeding and genetics, nutrition and health management, and provide essential tips, so you too can create high quality strains. Whether you're breeding domestic chickens, gamefowl, or various types of livestock, this show is for you. Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday’s at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy" We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl. If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place. We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com The Bred to Perfection podcast episode from the Maximus Troy Publications Broadcasting Network features Kenny Troiano discussing a proposed California bill, AB 928, which aims to limit the number of roosters an individual can own. Joined by Jesse Ortega, a poultry health inspector and California APG President, the discussion goes into the implications of the bill for breeders, both gamefowl and domestic chickens. Key points include the bill's broad definitions, fines of $2,500 per rooster, per day for exceeding allowed numbers, and potential impacts on biosecurity and local economies. The episode calls for collective action from the breeder community to contact assembly members and senators to oppose the bill, emphasizing the need for a united front to protect breeder rights and prevent economic fallout. #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #gamefowl #Epigenetics #dogbreeding #gamefowlnation #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #bredtoperfection #PoultryBreeding #KennyTroiano #BackyardChickens #ChickenBreeding #SelectiveBreeding #Linebreeding #PoultryGenetics #HeritageBreeds #ChickenStrains #LivestockBreeding #SustainableFarming #HomesteadingLife #PurebredPoultry #FlockManagement #PoultryPodcast

Apr 21, 2025 • 1h 8min
Ep242 - The Unscripted Strain: Real Talk on Breeding, Genetics, and Resilience
In this off-the-cuff episode of "Bred to Perfection", hosts Kenny and Nancy Troiano, along with co-host Frank Bradley, turn a technical hiccup into a golden opportunity for unfiltered discussion and community Q&A. While the planned deep dive into in-and-in breeding was postponed due to internet issues, the trio delivers a value-packed session filled with practical advice, genetic insights, and real-world breeding strategies. Listeners are treated to an informative mix of topics—from the genetics behind leg color and the significance of black spurs in Clarets, to the pros and cons of different poultry feeds and breeding for natural disease resistance. With stories, science, and straight talk, the episode emphasizes the power of selective breeding over medication and the importance of resilience in both birds and breeders. Whether you’re a seasoned breeder or just starting out, this episode showcases the heart of the "Bred to Perfection" mission: empowering breeders through education, community, and real experience. Don't forget to check out the Breeders Academy—where knowledge meets application, and strains are bred to thrive. Make sure to follow and watch our future shows. We plan to dive deep into the world of breeding and genetics, nutrition and health management, and provide essential tips, so you too can create high quality strains. Whether you're breeding domestic chickens, gamefowl, or various types of livestock, this show is for you. Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday’s at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy" We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl. If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place. We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com The Maximus Troy Publications Broadcasting Network presents another episode of 'Bred to Perfection' with Kenny Troiano, his wife Nancy, and co-host, Frank Bradley, as they focused on helping breeders in improving their strains. Although the intended discussion on in-and-in breeding was postponed, due to technical difficulties, the hosts responded to various listener questions. Topics included the genetics behind leg color in chickens, the challenges and benefits of different types of poultry feed, and the intricacies of breeding for specific traits, like black spurs in clarets. The conversation stressed the importance of selective breeding, maintaining a disease-resistant strain without heavy reliance on medications, and reaping the benefits of proper nutrition. #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #gamefowl #Epigenetics #dogbreeding #gamefowlnation #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #bredtoperfection #PoultryBreeding #KennyTroiano #BackyardChickens #ChickenBreeding #SelectiveBreeding #Linebreeding #PoultryGenetics #HeritageBreeds #ChickenStrains #LivestockBreeding #SustainableFarming #HomesteadingLife #PurebredPoultry #FlockManagement #PoultryPodcast

Apr 14, 2025 • 1h 28min
Ep241 - Embracing the Science of Breeding
Have you ever wondered if you have what it takes to become a true breeder? Or, whether you are a true breeder right now? This can be subjective, depending on who you talk to. The truth is, there is a big difference between a true breeder and someone who breeds. Some breeders select based on performance alone, while some look for the prettiest birds. However, it’s the breeders who embrace all areas of breeding, and select for the complete package that are the most successful. As breeders, we must be willing to learn all areas of breeding, which includes the sciences that so many dread. I say embrace science. Learn why genetics and the laws of inheritance matters, and why evolutionary biology not only relates to how we breed our fowl, but aids us in breeding and creating better breeds and strains. By knowing the science of selective breeding, we can produce higher quality strains that will last for future generations. Join us as we discuss this controversial topic, and you can decide for yourself. Make sure to follow and watch our future shows. We plan to dive deep into the world of breeding and genetics, nutrition and health management, and provide essential tips, so you too can create high quality strains. Whether you're breeding domestic chickens, gamefowl, or various types of livestock, this show is for you. Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday’s at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy" We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl. If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place. We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com This episode of 'Bred to Perfection,' is a podcast hosted by Kenny Troiano that is focused on educating and inspiring breeders of chickens and gamefowl. It is produced by the Breeders Academy, which offers workshops, courses, and resources designed to enhance breeding skills and help breeders create and improve their strains. The discussion addresses the importance of genetics, selective breeding, systematic breeding programs, and health management, while debunking common misconceptions. Interactions with listeners include discussions on disease prevention, and creating, improving and maintaining a high quality strain. Kenny and guests emphasize the value of evidence-based methods over traditional but flawed practices, advocating for a science-driven approach to breeding, and offer insights on the significance of environment and management. #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #gamefowl #Epigenetics #dogbreeding #gamefowlnation #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #bredtoperfection #PoultryBreeding #KennyTroiano #BackyardChickens #ChickenBreeding #SelectiveBreeding #Linebreeding #PoultryGenetics #HeritageBreeds #ChickenStrains #LivestockBreeding #SustainableFarming #HomesteadingLife #PurebredPoultry #FlockManagement #PoultryPodcast

Apr 7, 2025 • 52min
Ep240 - Unlocking the Genetic Potential of our Fowl with Brian Reeder
In the ever-evolving world of poultry breeding, understanding genetics is a game-changer for breeders looking to improve their bloodlines and strains. In this episode of Bred to Perfection hosted by Kenny and Nancy Troiano, they shine a spotlight on the fascinating world of poultry genetics. Geneticist and breeder Brian Reeder shares invaluable insights on various aspects of genetics, epigenetics, and their impact on poultry breeding. From enhancing disease resistance to selecting for desirable behaviors, this conversation provides crucial knowledge for breeders seeking to improve their bloodlines and strains. Make sure to follow and watch our future shows. We plan to dive deep into the world of breeding and genetics, nutrition and health management, and provide essential tips, so you too can create high quality strains. Whether you're breeding domestic chickens, gamefowl, or various types of livestock, this show is for you. Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday’s at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy" We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl. If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place. We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com In this episode of Bred to Perfection, the host Kenny Troiano and Brian Reeder discusses the intricacies of poultry breeding, focusing on genetics, epigenetics, disease resistance, and effective selection practices. Kenny and Brian emphasize the importance of selecting for the 'complete package' rather than singular traits, and share insights on how environmental factors and nutrition impact genetic expression. The episode also touches on the role of various genetic factors, the importance of disease resistance through natural selection, and tips for adapting birds to different diets. Additionally, resources, such as Brian Reeder's books on poultry genetics are recommended for breeders interested in improving their fowl. #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #gamefowl #Epigenetics #dogbreeding #gamefowlnation #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #bredtoperfection #PoultryBreeding #KennyTroiano #BackyardChickens #ChickenBreeding #SelectiveBreeding #Linebreeding #PoultryGenetics #HeritageBreeds #ChickenStrains #LivestockBreeding #SustainableFarming #HomesteadingLife #PurebredPoultry #FlockManagement #PoultryPodcast

Mar 31, 2025 • 54min
Ep239 - Mastering Breeding: Guest Appearance on the Poultry Nerds Podcast with Insights from Kenny Troiano
In this episode of Bred to Perfection, we dive deep into the world of poultry breeding with Kenny Troiano, alongside his wife, Nancy Troiano. Together, they share their wealth of knowledge on creating and maintaining strong, healthy poultry strains. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned poultry enthusiast, Kenny and Nancy offer practical tips, proven methodologies, and invaluable advice to help you master the art of poultry breeding. We also take a moment to highlight Kenny’s recent appearance on The Poultry Nerds Podcast. There, he joined hosts Carey and Jennifer for an insightful discussion about various breeding techniques, including inbreeding, line-breeding, clan mating, and double mating. Kenny breaks down these methods and clears up common misconceptions, while offering tips on selecting the best genetic traits for a healthy strain. Key Highlights: Springtime Breeding Tips: Kenny and Nancy discuss the seasonal preparations that breeders face, from setting up brood pens to navigating the challenges of maintaining a chicken yard before the hatching season begins. Breeding Methods Explored: Kenny delves into the various breeding strategies, including inbreeding, line breeding, clan mating, and double mating, providing clarity on their benefits and drawbacks. He emphasizes the importance of careful selection and the pitfalls of complicated techniques like double mating. New Blood and Strain Purity: The episode also tackles the controversial topic of introducing new genetics into an established strain, with Kenny advising against it in favor of maintaining strain purity through selective breeding. The Necessity of Culling: Kenny offers an honest and insightful perspective on culling, explaining how this crucial practice ensures the quality and health of your strain by eliminating undesirable traits. Join the Conversation: This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in elevating their poultry breeding practices. Whether you’re looking to start your breeding journey or refine your techniques, Kenny and Nancy provide the knowledge and guidance you need. Plus, they invite you to join the Breeders Academy community for continued learning and support. Tune in to gain expert insights and take your breeding efforts to the next level! Make sure to follow and watch our future shows. We plan to dive deep into the world of breeding and genetics, nutrition and health management, and provide essential tips, so you too can create high quality strains. Whether you're breeding domestic chickens, gamefowl, or various types of livestock, this show is for you. Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday’s at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy" We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl. If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place. We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com This episode of the podcast 'Bred to Perfection' focuses on advanced breeding techniques for poultry, aimed at both novice and experienced breeders. Hosted by Kenny Troiano, founder of the Breeders Academy, and co-hosted by his wife Nancy, the episode covers topics, such as inbreeding, line-breeding, clan mating, and double mating. The importance of proper selection, genetic diversity, and understanding genetic drift are discussed. Kenny also shares his thoughts on introducing new blood, the role of culling, and how environmental factors and epigenetics impact breeding outcomes. Additionally, Kenny talks about his recent interview on 'The Poultry Nerds Podcast,' offering further insights into various breeding strategies. #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #chickenbreeders #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultrygenetics #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #kennytroiano #gamefowl

Mar 24, 2025 • 51min
Ep238 - Breeders’ Insights – Beyond Common Sense in Breeding
Breeding is more than a tradition—it’s an intricate dance of genetics, health, environment, and experience. In this episode of Bred to Perfection, Kenny and Nancy Troiano delve into the art and science behind breeding to perfection. Whether you're a seasoned breeder or just getting started, this conversation offers valuable insights into the crucial decisions and strategies needed to improve your strains. Key Takeaways: Breeding Challenges: Discover why selecting brood stock based on health, vigor, and conformation is vital. Kenny highlights the importance of addressing defects and deleterious genes, while keeping health and vigor at the forefront of breeding decisions. Inbreeding: A deep dive into the pros and cons of inbreeding, particularly brother and sister matings. Kenny explains how this method, when used strategically, can help strengthen strains, but warns against using it with weaker birds. Environmental & Nutritional Factors: Learn about common breeding pitfalls, such as over-worming, over-medicating, and poor feeding practices. Kenny and Nancy stress the importance of proper nutrition and environmental management to ensure optimal breeding success. Selecting Breeding Stock: Get tips on how to choose the right birds, prioritizing traits like health, vigor, type, conformation, and color. Kenny explains why accepting faults in these areas can lead to their perpetuation in future generations. Genetics: The episode dives into the complexities of genetic traits, focusing on how strategic matings can fix traits like color and type. Kenny underscores the importance of understanding genetic dominance and recessive traits in successful breeding. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to refine their breeding practices and produce healthier, more robust bloodlines and strains. Whether you’re working with a small backyard flock or pursuing more advanced breeding goals, Kenny and Nancy’s advice will help you take your breeding to the next level. Final Thoughts: Join the Breeders Academy community to further your breeding knowledge and access a wealth of resources designed to help you thrive. Take your strain to new heights—listen now! Make sure to follow and watch our future shows. We plan to dive deep into the world of breeding and genetics, nutrition and health management, and provide essential tips, so you too can create high quality strains. Whether you're breeding domestic chickens, gamefowl, or various types of livestock, this show is for you. Join us on Bred to Perfection Live, Friday’s at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy" We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl. If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place. We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com In this episode, Kenny Troiano, host of the 'Bred to Perfection' podcast and founder of the Breeders Academy, discusses various aspects of breeding. Kenny emphasizes the importance of health, vigor, and type over purely aesthetic traits when selecting breeding stock. He answers listener questions about inbreeding, brother-sister matings, and using supplements. The episode highlights the challenges of breeding, the importance of selective breeding over hybridizing, and the need to cultivate a sustainable and robust lineage. #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #chickenbreeders #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultrygenetics #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #kennytroiano #gamefowl