

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

Aug 12, 2024 • 1h 23min
Ep208 - Chicken Chat on Modern Breeding Practices and Their Pitfalls
Join us for an engaging discussion on Modern Breeding Practices and Their Pitfalls! After a brief hiatus, we returned with plans to explore the topic of molting. However, we ended up diving into the fascinating world of breeding methods instead. We covered a range of techniques and what it truly takes to successfully breed and create a new strain. We believe you'll find this conversation both intriguing and informative, packed with valuable insights that you'll benefit from. 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 #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #gamefowlbreeders #dogbreeding, #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultrygenetics #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #kennytroiano #gamefowl

Aug 5, 2024 • 1h 19min
Ep207 - Breeding a Healthier Strain with Pigeon Breeder, Frank McLaughlin.
Success depends on you changing your mindset about health and disease prevention. As you know, I really like talking to breeders of all kinds. Breeding is breeding, and we can learn so much from great breeders, no matter the animal they are breeding. I too raise and breed pigeons, and having the opportunity to Interview a pigeon breeder has been on my bucket list for a long time. I was recently introduced to one of the top pigeon breeders and racers (Frank McLaughlin). The best part is when it comes to health care and disease prevention, I couldn’t have done better than Frank McLaughlin. He thinks a lot like me. In this interview, we will talk about why it’s best to stay away from antibiotics and medications. We will discuss a very interesting concept on improving the strains health, by challenging the strains immune system. And, we will compare pigeon breeding with chicken and gamefowl breeding. I know you will find this interview interesting, informative and educational. So, sit back, take notes, and enjoy the show with Frank McLaughlin. Frank McLaughlin Bio: Frank is from Massachusetts, and is one of the leading Racing Pigeon Breeders in the country. He is a tremendous promoter of natural health, and has a popular YouTube channel (McLaughlin Lofts). He is also famous for his "keep it simple, no nonsense" approach to pigeon racing topics. In addition to his YouTube channels, Frank operates BestPigeons.com, which is one of the leading racing pigeon auctions on the web. Frank has also been a pigeon fancier since he was seven years old and has always been well aware of the value of the best bloodlines available. For nearly 50 years, McLaughlin Lofts has been at the top of the sport. Frank has won nearly every possible Concourse and National prize, and his pigeons are winning in numerous countries. McLaughlin Lofts pigeons dominate major futurities and National awards each year, in all climates around the globe. Special Links: Oregano Product: Order here: https://agsuppliesdirect.com/ At Checkout use PIGEON5% YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FrankMcLaughlinPigeons Website: https://mclaughlinlofts.com/ Auction Site: https://bestpigeons.com/ https://youtu.be/t7chlIuS9bE?si=x4iGrZxhACDrq-Tg 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 #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #gamefowlbreeders #chickenbreeders #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultrygenetics #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #kennytroiano #gamefowl #chickens

Jul 29, 2024 • 31min
Ep206 - The Origins of the Domestic Chicken with Brian Reeder
This is an interview I did with Brian Reeder, on April 2, 2023. Since then, we did 4 more interviews, discussing the many aspects of chicken genetics and color of plumage. All these interviews will be available for our members of the Breeders Academy. The first interview was originally a 5 hour talk, and we talked about: Inbreeding and Hybrid Vigor Quantitative Inheritance and Polygenic Traits The importance of Autosomal Pheomelanin The Breeding and Genetics of Whites and Progressive White The Breeding of Blues and Red Piles And so much more. Although the majority of this discussion was made available to our members of the Breeders Academy, we are making this segment on “The Origins of the Domestic Chicken” available for you, our listeners. How did this conversation happen? One of my members of The Breeders Academy contacted Brian, and asked if he was interested in doing a show with me on poultry genetics, and color genetics, and he said yes. So I reached out to Brian, to set up an interview, and this is a small portion of that recording. Understand that this recording was not originally intended for the public. Brian and me were just having fun talking chickens and genetics, and geeking out and sharing information. Letting out this particular phone call recording to the public was a total afterthought. The quality of this recording is a bit rough, but the upcoming episodes on genetics are much better. Brian Reeder is a well known writer on poultry, and has done extensive research on Domestic Fowl and their Genetics. His books and articles have been based upon his experiences working with Domestic Fowl. And through the years he has collected important data, data that we can use today, in breeding and perpetuating higher quality fowl. He is also the author of two books on poultry genetics, “An Introduction to Color Forms of the Domestic Fowl” and “An Introduction to Form and Feathering of the Domestic Fowl.” With Brian's permission, I am making this segment of the recording (The Origins of the Domestic Chicken) available to our listeners. There’s a lot of great information in this recording that I know you will enjoy and learn from. I learned a lot too. In fact, Brian changed many of my old paradigms. Don’t miss out on this essential episode! So, sit back, take notes and enjoy the show with Brian Reeder. We will include links to his website, and the books he has written, in the show notes. His website on poultry is found at http://www.brianreederbreeder.blogspot.com . His books on poultry genetics are both easily accessible through Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Introduction-Color-Forms-Domestic-Fowl/dp/1425904211/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2XM9M6GD4Y75E&keywords=brian+reeder&qid=1708279856&sprefix=brian+reeder%2Caps%2C151&sr=8-1 https://www.amazon.com/Introduction-Form-Feathering-Domestic-Fowl/dp/1456747843/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2XM9M6GD4Y75E&keywords=brian+reeder&qid=1708279856&sprefix=brian+reeder%2Caps%2C151&sr=8-2 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 #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #gamefowlbreeders #chickenbreeders #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultrygenetics #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #kennytroiano #gamefowl #chickens

Jul 22, 2024 • 59min
Ep205 - Bred to Perfection Live Q&A
Join Kenny Troiano and his co-hosts Nancy Troiano, as they delve into the art of selective breeding and the development of new strains, discussing critical issues that impact breeders like yourself. In this episode of Bred to Perfection Live, we aim to address your questions and provide insights to propel you to the next level. Don’t miss out on this essential episode! 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 #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #gamefowlbreeders #chickenbreeders #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultrygenetics #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #kennytroiano #gamefowl #chickens

Jul 15, 2024 • 1h 26min
Ep204 - So, You Want to Become a Dog Breeder?
Join Kenny Troiano, as he talks about the interesting world of dog. In each topic, he will go deep into the art and science of breeding dogs. Becoming a reputable breeder requires more than just a love for dogs—it demands a profound understanding of genetics, evolutionary biology, animal husbandry, and the commitment to maintaining proper breed standards. From understanding the difference between "Phenotype" and "Genotype" to having the courage required to create a true family. Learn the importance of selection and culling, where producing a large number of dogs, some being culls, is essential to uncovering the true standouts in a lineage. Discover why pedigree alone does not define a dog's worth, and why the “Name Game” should be avoided in favor of improving essential traits. He talks about the myths and truths surrounding bloodlines and hybrid vigor, and debunks common misconceptions about purity versus hybridization. Gain a greater understand of inbreeding, COI (Coefficient of Inbreeding), and the delicate balance required to maintain genetic diversity, while striving for uniformity, consistency and improvement. Whether you're a beginner breeder, dreaming of starting a new line, or a seasoned breeder aiming to refine an established one, Kenny provides invaluable insights and practical advice. He also talks about the challenges, triumphs, and dedication needed to breed and create a true family or strain. This is a show that you do not want to miss! Topics: Understand the breed Experience, as a breeder, is important, but Knowledge of breeding is required Husbandry practices - what should you know Commitment to one family Courage to do what’s necessary Patience and Perseverance The importance of Selection and Culling It’s important to know the difference between “Phenotype” and “Genotype.” Must be willing to produce culls to find the standouts Make sure your animals are worthy of breeding The Numbers are Necessary One animal should never represent the foundation of a whole family Avoid the Name Game - it’s the peddlers playground Truth about bloodlines - purity of blood, or mongrelization? The offspring always prove the worth of the Parents Percentage Game is not real Don’t breed to extremes The Offspring must be better than the parents - Or you are not improving the family. Understand that “Nothing is Perfect” Maintaining hybrid vigor is not a good thing. The Myth about hybrids and outcrosses The problem with reintroducing old blood Inbreeding and Managing the COI Performance traits and gameness are never improved in one mating or cross Consistency and uniformity is only improved or maintained through inbreeding How long does it take to create a family? Is a pedigree important? 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 #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #gamefowlbreeders #chickenbreeders #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultrygenetics #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #kennytroiano #gamefowl #chickens

Jul 8, 2024 • 1h 11min
Ep203 - Bred to Perfection - Special Edition Breeders Q&A
Join Kenny Troiano and his co-hosts, Frank Bradley, as they delve into the art of selective breeding and the development of new strains, discussing critical issues that impact breeders like yourself. In this episode of Bred to Perfection Live, we aim to address your questions and provide insights to propel you to the next level. Don’t miss out on this essential episode! 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 #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #gamefowlbreeders #chickenbreeders #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultrygenetics #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #kennytroiano #gamefowl #chickens

Jul 1, 2024 • 1h 28min
Ep202 - Bred to Perfection Live Q&A
Join Kenny Troiano and his co-hosts, Nancy Troiano and members of the Breeders Academy, as they delve into the art of selective breeding and the development of new strains, discussing critical issues that impact breeders like yourself. In this episode of Bred to Perfection Live, we aim to address your questions and provide insights to propel you to the next level. Don’t miss out on this essential episode! 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 #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #gamefowlbreeders #chickenbreeders #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultrygenetics #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #kennytroiano #gamefowl #chickens

Jun 24, 2024 • 1h 21min
Ep201 - Purity of Blood and the Evolution Factor
Join Kenny Troiano, Nancy Troiano and Frank Bradley, as they discuss what it takes to create, improve and maintain a pure strain.” In this episode of Bred to Perfection, we are going to talk about the many similarities between selective breeding and evolution, and by understanding the mechanisms of evolution, you can not only improve the way you breed your fowl, but create new forms for better functions. Many are using breeding practices that are creating the results they are looking for. In fact, it’s holding them back. Kenny and Frank are here to show there is a better way. Also, we are aware that topics, such as these, are controversial, and some say that breeding to create a pure strain is nothing but a myth. We will show you that not only is it not a myth, but it’s very possible. This is a show you do not want to miss! 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 #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #gamefowlbreeders #chickenbreeders #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultrygenetics #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #kennytroiano #gamefowl #chickens

Jun 17, 2024 • 1h 16min
Ep200 – The Powers of Prepotency or the Allure of Hybrid Vigor
Ep200 – The Powers of Prepotency or the Allure of Hybrid Vigor One is temporary, the other is long lasting, but which is best? As a breeder, you have many tools that you can use to create and improve your strain. None are more important, or have the force to move your strain forward than that of Prepotency. The problem is, for many breeders, Hybrid Vigor gets all the credit. The truth of the matter, Prepotency and Hybrid Vigor are both incredible forces of nature, but are on opposite sides of the same coin. One is long lasting, and is passed down to future generations, while the other is short lived and can’t be reproduced or repeated. Listen in as we discuss the Powers of Prepotency, or the Allure of Hybrid Vigor, and how you can use these forces to improve the quality and performance of your strains. This is a show you do not want to miss! 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 #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #gamefowlbreeders #chickenbreeders #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultrygenetics #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #kennytroiano #gamefowl #chickens

Jun 10, 2024 • 1h 30min
Ep199 - The Truth About Crossbreeding and Infusion
Crossbreeding is a very common method of breeding, but many are using it for the wrong reasons. The truth is, there are some unintended consequences from using this method, many of them are long lasting, and could be detrimental to the breed. In this episode we will discuss what's good about crossbreeding, but also what's not so good about crossbreeding. We will tell you what others don’t want you to know. Hopefully, this episode will change the way you look at crossbreeding, and change the way you breed your fowl. This is a show you do not want to miss! 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 #breedinggamefowl #breedingchickens #gamefowlbreeders #chickenbreeders #gamefowlbreeding #chickenbreeding, #gamefowlnation, #selectivebreeding, #poultrygenetics #poultryhealth #backyardbreeders #breedersacademy #bredtoperfection #kennytroiano #gamefowl #chickens