MEAT People

meatpeople
  • 0.0 (0)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

MEAT People is the official podcast of SMA (Southwest Meat Association)— a twice-monthly audio and video series designed to connect, celebrate, and inform SMA members and industry stakeholders. Hosted primarily by SMA Member, Neil Dudley with Pederson’s Farms, with rotating co-hosts and guests. MEAT People will showcase stories from across the meat processing and packing industry, highlight SMA’s resources and events, provide updates, and foster networking within this unique and collaborative industry community. The tone will be welcoming, conversational, and informative — like catching up with family at a reunion (except with more brisket).

  1. 2D AGO

    Dr. Drew Cassens: How Meat Judging Transforms Lives

    Neil welcomes Dr. Drew Cassens from the Southwest Meat Association (SMA). The conversation dives into the impactful work of SMA, particularly focusing on the scholarships they provide to students in the Animal Science Department at Texas A&M University. Drew shares his academic journey, from undergraduate studies to obtaining a Ph.D., and emphasizes the importance of networking and the valuable opportunities that come with participating in SMA events and meat judging contests. The discussion also highlights the family-like atmosphere within the meat industry, the importance of hands-on education, and the significant accomplishments of Texas A&M's meat judging team, including their recent championship wins. Drew underlines the value of student involvement, mentorship, and the development of skills such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving, which are essential for a successful career in the meat industry.   Topics 01:06 The Impact of SMA Scholarships 02:08 Networking and Career Opportunities 03:56 The Importance of Meat Judging 06:37 Coaching and Mentorship in Meat Science 11:46 Recruitment and Career Development 17:05 Building Relationships and Networking 17:47 Effective Teaching Styles 18:13 Hands-On Learning in Meat Production 19:40 Student Experiences and Adaptability 20:46 Judging and Decision Making 24:07 National and International Competitions 27:41 Team Dynamics and Coaching 30:21 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    31 min
  2. Generations of Dedication: Jim and Cathey Ondrusek

    JAN 28

    Generations of Dedication: Jim and Cathey Ondrusek

    Jim and Cathey Ondrusek share their extensive history with the Southwestern Meat Association (SMA) and the meat industry. Jim, whose family has been involved in the meat business and with SMA for generations, recounts his family's immigration story and the evolution of their meat market from its early days to now. Jim talks about the work ethic instilled in him by his great-grandfather and grandfather and the legacy he's built over his 50-year career in the meat industry. Cathey shares her perspective on the familial bonds formed through SMA and the impact of their scholarship programs. The episode highlights the importance of relationships, work ethic, and community within the industry.   Topics 00:50 Jim's Family History in the Meat Business 02:35 Work Ethic and Early Career Lessons 05:10 Legacy and Relationships in the Meat Industry 07:48 Consulting and Product Development Challenges 11:43 SMA Community and Personal Reflections 20:56 Navigating Tough Times with Faith 21:57 The Value of Hard Times 23:46 Community Support in Crisis 26:57 Mentorship and Heroes 33:35 Succession Planning and Retirement 36:02 Father-Son Dynamics in Business 38:18 Unexpected Career Paths 40:08 Concluding Thoughts and Invitation

    41 min

  3. JAN 13

    Family & Community in the Meat Industry: Cody & Chrissy Lane

    Neil hosts a heartfelt conversation with his best friend Cody Lane and Cody's wife Chrissy, delving into their long-standing relationships and shared experiences within the Southwest Meat Association (SMA) and Peterson's. They share personal stories, professional challenges, and the significance of the SMA as a supportive community and family in the meat industry. The discussion includes how they started their careers at Peterson's, the benefits of being part of the SMA, and the importance of maintaining strong personal connections within the industry. Through anecdotes and reflections, the episode underscores the value of friendship, family, and community in both personal and professional spheres.   Topics 01:19 The SMA Family and Personal Reflections 02:05 Emotional Conversations and Support 04:52 Confidence and Faith 05:47 The Value of SMA and Community 07:20 First Encounters with SMA 08:23 Funny Stories and Memories 10:04 How We Started at Peterson's 14:56 Chrissy's Journey with Peterson's 16:43 Parenting and Childhood Memories 17:13 SMA: A Family Vacation and Business Opportunity 18:00 The Role of SMA in Business Networking 18:46 Aggies and Meat Judging 19:21 Impact of COVID on Education and Business 19:47 Leadership and Service in SMA 21:16 Building the SMA Community 23:42 SMA's Evolution and Services 26:42 Encouragement and Personal Growth 30:47 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    32 min

  4. 2025-12-24

    Building a Cold-Storage Construction Legacy: Wade Hudson

    Neil speaks with Wade Hudson from the Southwest Meat Association. Wade shares insights into his background, starting with his father's transition from a commercial kitchen rep to a full-time construction business in the 1970s. Wade discusses his path into the family business, which involved hands-on experience in the field before moving into the office, and emphasizes the importance of earning respect through hard work. He also touches on the demanding nature of the construction industry, the importance of networking and support through associations like the SMA, and the challenges of finding reliable employees.    Topics 00:55 Wade Hudson's Background and Family Business 04:57 Challenges and Insights in the Construction Business 09:10 Parenting and Career Choices 13:53 Current State of the Construction Industry 15:19 Reflections on Industry Events 16:03 Insights on Political Perspectives 18:52 Generational Differences and Technology 19:54 The Value of Mission Trips 20:57 The Importance of SMA Membership 23:16 Challenges and Successes in Business 29:29 Employee Appreciation and Longevity 30:32 Closing Thoughts and Farewell

    31 min
  5. ‘Sausage Royalty’ Rodney Roth of Double R Brand Foods

    2025-12-10

    ‘Sausage Royalty’ Rodney Roth of Double R Brand Foods

    Neil interviews Rodney Roth, CEO of Double R Brand Foods. Roth shares insights into his family's multi-generational business, starting from his grandfather, a Holocaust survivor and butcher, to his current leadership. The discussion covers the origins of the family business, the success and challenges faced, the introduction of innovative products such as sausage slices, and the importance of marketing and consumer relations. Rodney also talks about his involvement in the community and the role of his sons in continuing the family legacy. The episode is filled with anecdotes about historical figures related to the business and strategic moves that have kept the brand competitive and growing over the years.   Double R Brand Foods: https://rrbrandfoods.com/   Topics 01:28 Rodney Roth's Family Legacy 04:26 The Rise of Blue Ribbon 05:46 Acquiring Home Smokehouse 07:51 The Role of SMA 11:28 Innovations in Sausage Marketing 15:33 Evolution of Sausage Products 17:03 Challenges in Sausage Production 18:24 Innovation and Consumer Preferences 19:55 Legacy and Family Business 24:07 Community Involvement and Awards 25:31 Future Generations in the Business 28:25 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    29 min
  6. David Cone: The Journey of Chappell Hill Sausage

    2025-11-26

    David Cone: The Journey of Chappell Hill Sausage

    The guest is David Cone of Chappell Hill Sausage, who shares the history and evolution of the family business, starting from a custom kill plant in 1968 to becoming a renowned sausage company. David delves into the entrepreneurial spirit of his parents, the transition from a slaughter facility to a sausage company, and the challenges faced along the way. He also emphasizes the importance of community involvement and maintaining the legacy of his family's business. Throughout the conversation, David reflects on the values of hard work, family cooperation, and the support of the SMA community.   Visit https://www.chsausage.com/   Topics 01:48 David Cone's Background and Chappell Hill Sausage Origins 04:12 Family Involvement and Business Evolution 07:50 Challenges and Transitions 15:43 Current Operations and Community Impact 17:55 Discussing Faith and Religion 22:01 Volunteering and Community Involvement 27:57 Challenges and Successes in Business 31:51 The Importance of SMA and Networking

    35 min
  7. Navigating the Meat Industry With Amy Springer

    2025-10-29

    Navigating the Meat Industry With Amy Springer

    Neil welcomes Amy Springer, who has been with Handtmann for 15 years. Handtmann specializes in selling meat processing equipment. Amy shares her journey in the meat industry, including her roles on the board of SMA and organizing the 'Best of the Wurst' contest, an annual blind vote event judging sausages from various companies. Amy discusses her success strategies, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships and her unique perspective as the first woman in sales for Handtmann. The episode also touches on Amy's involvement in the bakery industry, how her volunteer efforts have contributed to her success, and her personal life, including her travels and family. The conversation highlights the camaraderie and community within the meat industry, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in sales, the meat business, or organizational involvement.   Topics 00:34 Meet Amy Springer: The Sausage Equipment Expert 01:01 Amy's Journey with Handtmann and SMA 03:33 Success in Sales and Building Relationships 06:55 The Best of the Wurst Contest 09:19 Leadership and Involvement in SMA 13:40 The Excitement of the Dove Hunt Event 18:29 Balancing Work and Personal Life 20:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    20 min
  8. Meet the Meat Board: Nick Nickelson, Don Rea & Greg Kimmel

    2025-10-15

    Meet the Meat Board: Nick Nickelson, Don Rea & Greg Kimmel

    Neil talks with Nick Nickelson, Don Rea & Greg Kimmel at the Meat Board in Fort Worth, Texas. The discussion delves into their rich careers within the meat industry, covering topics from their unique backgrounds, the evolution of their business, and their leadership styles. The episode highlights Greg's role as General Manager and his cowboy heritage, Don's journey from a small packing house to running large-scale operations, and Dr. Nick's expertise in meat inspection and microbiology. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of the Southwest Meat Association (SMA) in their careers, underscoring the value of networking and community within the meat industry. The episode concludes with reflections on the dynamic nature of their work and the impact of their collaborative efforts at The Meat Board.   Topics 01:25 Greg: The Meat Cutter and General Manager 03:17 Greg's Cowboy Heritage and Family Background 05:20 Don Ray's Journey in the Meat Industry 07:42 Dr. Nick's Path from Academia to Industry 11:19 The Challenges and Triumphs in the Meat Business 14:16 Building a Successful Partnership 33:59 Leadership Styles and Industry Insights 35:29 The Strategic Acquisition of KPR Foods 37:39 Defining Leadership Styles 39:50 The Rosenthal Family Legacy 41:47 Career Transitions and Challenges 47:38 The Butcher Shop Vision 52:04 The Role of SMA in the Meat Industry 01:03:12 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

    1h 7m
See All (20)

About

MEAT People is the official podcast of SMA (Southwest Meat Association)— a twice-monthly audio and video series designed to connect, celebrate, and inform SMA members and industry stakeholders. Hosted primarily by SMA Member, Neil Dudley with Pederson’s Farms, with rotating co-hosts and guests. MEAT People will showcase stories from across the meat processing and packing industry, highlight SMA’s resources and events, provide updates, and foster networking within this unique and collaborative industry community. The tone will be welcoming, conversational, and informative — like catching up with family at a reunion (except with more brisket).

Information

  • Creator
    meatpeople
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    MEAT People