

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

Jun 30, 2025 • 1h 20min
Ep252 - The Power of Record Keeping
Why Every Breeder Needs to Document Everything In this episode of Bred to Perfection, we're going to talk about the crucial role of Record Keeping, in the creation, improvement and maintenance of your strain. Whether you're a veteran breeder or just starting out, you'll discover why meticulous record-keeping isn't just a formality—it's a cornerstone of a thriving breeding program. Join us as we talk about the significance of keeping detailed records and how they can transform your approach to breeding. Think of it like this: managing a breeding program without proper records is like running a business without bookkeeping—utter chaos. Accurate records are essential for tracking progress, fine-tuning your methods, and pinpointing areas for improvement. Join us for a discussion on this contentious yet crucial topic. 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

Jun 23, 2025 • 48min
Ep251 - Every Method has a Particular Function and Purpose
There are several breeding methods available to breeders for creating a strain. Each method serves a specific function and purpose. Understanding when and how to apply these methods significantly contributes to a breeder's success in establishing a true strain. However, many breeders are hesitant to practice inbreeding due to concerns about inbreeding depression. Instead, they often resort to outcrossing, believing it to be a universal solution. In this episode, we explore these breeding methods in depth, examining their respective forms and functions. Today, we challenge you to reconsider traditional breeding practices and their enduring impacts. Continual reliance on outcrossing risks disrupting the gene pool, thereby threatening the preservation of breeds and bloodlines. Join us for a discussion on this contentious yet crucial topic. 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

Jun 16, 2025 • 1h 9min
Ep250 - Necessary Requirements to Becoming a Successful Breeder
What does it really take to become a successful chicken or gamefowl breeder? Becoming a successful breeder involves a combination of education, experience, skills, and certain personal attributes. While a formal education isn't always a strict requirement, having a background in evolutionary biology and genetics, as well as knowing how to selectively breed for desired characteristics, can provide a solid foundation for understanding the principles of breeding. For example, understanding the principles of genetics is essential for effective breeding. This includes concepts such as dominant and recessive traits, as well as polygenic traits and expressions of traits due to epigenetics. Breeding and creating a new strain can be a long and challenging process that requires patience and persistence. It often takes many years to develop a successful new strain. In this episode, we will discuss what you will need to do and understand to become a true breeder. This is a show you do not want to miss! Topics Covered: The role of genetics and understanding phenotype vs. genotype The critical importance of selection, culling, and breeding with purpose Why commitment to a single strain is essential for consistency How inbreeding, when done right, reveals and refines genetic potential The dangers of peddler marketing and scatter breeding Why no bird is perfect—and why that's okay This is more than just breeding advice—it's a roadmap for creating a legacy of excellence. If you're ready to approach breeding with clarity, integrity, and long-term vision, this episode is your starting point. Tune in now and elevate your breeding program to the next level. 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

Jun 9, 2025 • 1h 18min
Ep249 - What Kind of Breeder Are You?
The Truth About Different Types Of Breeders In this episode of Bred to Perfection Live, we will talk about how some believe they are breeders, but don't know how to breed properly. We will talk about the different types of breeders that exist today, and how they affect the breed as a whole, this includes: Master breeders, Apprentice breeders, And, what we call, the 85 percenters. You can decide which one you are. Furthermore, we will talk about ways of improving the 85 Percentors, and what they should know, and why some will succeed and others will fail. This is a show you do not want to miss! 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

Jun 2, 2025 • 1h 20min
The New Blood Syndrome (fan favorite rerun)
In this episode we address a belief many breeders share, and that is, "it's better to introduce new blood rather than to create their own strain." Listen in as we discuss why adding and infusing new blood is not the answer, and that there is a better way. There are many misconceptions that breeders use to justify this practice, and we address them here. This episode is packed with great information, and one you do not want to miss. We specialize in the breeding of gamefowl and chickens, and other breeding related topics. This includes the proper use of breeding programs. Also, it's our mission to provide our members a greater understanding of poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of their fowl. If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are going to enjoy this show. 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, advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. To Listen to the show, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com

May 26, 2025 • 1h 25min
Ep248 - Good Mentor vs Bad Mentor - The Tony vs. Ray Factor
A good mentor is like a guiding light, illuminating the path ahead with knowledge and experience. They help their mentees grow, develop and reach their full potential. On the other hand, a bad mentor usually lacks the proper education and knowledge, which can skew their personal experiences, rendering their advice useless. This leaves the mentee feeling frustrated and lost. When we compare the two mentors, one tends to provide conflicting advice, which can confuse or even undermine their mentees' confidence. While the other is based on science and common sense. Every step forward should be a validation that they are on the right path. 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 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


