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.

  1. Christmas Special: The Gift That Keeps on Breeding

    1D AGO

    Christmas Special: The Gift That Keeps on Breeding

    A One-Time Holiday Offer, Big Announcements, and What's Ahead for the Breeders Academy Community Welcome to our Christmas Special! Bred to Perfection and the Breeders Academy are thrilled to invite you to this very special holiday episode packed with exciting announcements, heartfelt gratitude, and a one-time opportunity you won't want to miss. In the spirit of Christmas, and in honor of our incredible 4-H and FFA communities, we're opening the door wider than ever before. What began as a special offer for youth and students is now available to all breeders for a limited time only.  This holiday season, we're giving back with massive discounts on Breeders Academy memberships, and these prices will never be this low again. If you're a new member, this episode is especially for you. You'll learn how to get started, where to find the "Start Here" pages, how to prepare questions, and when to schedule coaching calls. Most importantly, you'll hear this clearly: you are never alone on this journey. Join us as we celebrate Christmas, community, and the future of poultry breeding. Take your time, enjoy the journey, and let's make this Christmas the best one ever. #BreedersAcademy #BredToPerfection #ChristmasSpecial #PoultryBreeding #HolidaySavings #4H #FFA #BackyardBreeders #BreederCommunity #PoultryPodcast #OneTimeOffer #BreedingTheFuture 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

    1h 1m
  2. The Importance of Test Matings and Testing the Progeny

    2D AGO

    The Importance of Test Matings and Testing the Progeny

    A Critical Tool for Creating a Successful Strain In this episode, we dive deep into the world of test matings, an essential practice for any breeder involved in chickens and gamefowl, poultry of all kinds, livestock, or other species with valuable genetic traits. Test matings are a vital tool for evaluating the genetic makeup of animals and making informed decisions about breeding practices. Without this knowledge, breeders risk making choices based on assumptions, which can hinder progress, especially when developing new strains or improving existing ones. We'll explore the key functions of test matings, from genetic evaluation and identifying hidden traits to uncovering defects, disease carriers, and beneficial variations. Learn how test matings allow breeders to maintain healthy strains, and make well-informed decisions for future generations. Additionally, we discuss the critical role of progeny testing in confirming the genetic value of breeding stock, as well as the importance of backcrossing for genetic purification. We also touch on the potential pitfalls breeders may face in test mating practices and how to avoid them to ensure long-term genetic health. Whether you're just starting out or managing an established strain, this episode covers everything you need to know about the importance of test matings and how they can be leveraged to create a successful and genetically robust breeding program. Tune in to learn how to improve your strain and make smarter breeding decisions! Tune in to learn how to create and improve your strain for future generations! 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, Monday's and Friday's at 6pm PST or 9pm EST on YouTube, as we discuss the benefits of creating your own strain. #TestMatings #ProgenyTesting #BreedingGenetics #SelectiveBreeding #StrainDevelopment #GeneticEvaluation #Backcrossing #GeneticHealth #PoultryBreeding #GamefowlBreeding #LivestockBreeding #BreedingProgram 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

    57 min
  3. Improving Your Bloodline: Breeding and Health Care Q&A

    3D AGO

    Improving Your Bloodline: Breeding and Health Care Q&A

    Brood Fowl Selection, Breeding Strains, and Health Care. Just in Time for the Holidays Christmas is almost here, and with the holidays upon us, it's the perfect time to slow down and connect. In this special Christmas Q&A episode, we're taking an easy day and answering your questions. It's been a while since we've done a Q&A, and we thought the holiday season was the ideal moment to bring it back. Have questions about selecting the right brood fowl? Curious about breeding practices and creating your own strain? Wondering about poultry health care and management? Gather your questions and join us for a relaxed, informative conversation designed to give you the answers you need most. We hope you can tune in, this one's shaping up to be a great show! #PoultryPodcast #ChickenBreeding #GamefowlBreeding #PoultryQandA #HomesteadLife #BackyardChickens #BreedingStrains #PoultryHealth #FarmPodcast #SustainableFarming 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

    1h 21m
  4. CLEANING UP THE GENE POOL - Essential Steps to Purify Your Bloodline and Create the Strain You Desire

    DEC 15

    CLEANING UP THE GENE POOL - Essential Steps to Purify Your Bloodline and Create the Strain You Desire

    In this episode, we tackle one of the most critical steps in breeding: cleaning up your gene pool. Many breeders aspire to create strong, healthy strains, but often find themselves working with birds that have multiple faults. Whether you're thinking of infusing outside blood or relying on random breeding, there's a crucial cleanup process you must follow before you can start developing the strain you desire. Join us as we explore the essential first steps for purifying your bloodline and creating the perfect strain. What if you already have birds that aren't ideal or have multiple faults? Don't worry – we've got you covered! Tune in to learn how to clean up your gene pool, even if your current birds aren't perfect, and set yourself on the path to success. Whether you're a seasoned breeder or just starting, this episode will provide you with the strategies and knowledge you need to make the right breeding decisions. Tune in to learn how to create and improve your strain for future generations! Don't forget to subscribe for more expert tips and insights into the world of breeding! Just go to www.breedersacademy.com #BreedingTips #StrainBuilding #GenePoolManagement #SelectiveBreeding #PoultryBreeding #BirdBreedingBasics #BreedingSuccess #Genetics101 #AnimalHusbandry #CleanUpYourGenePool #ImproveYourStrain #StrainImprovement #GeneticSelection #BreedingFoundation #QualityBreeding #HealthyStrains #BreedingStrategies #FaultFreeBreeding 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

    59 min
  5. The Principles of Strain Creation in Animal Breeding

    DEC 8

    The Principles of Strain Creation in Animal Breeding

    In this episode, we talk about the six foundational principles of strain creation in animal breeding, crucial knowledge for anyone serious about starting or improving a breeding program. Whether you're breeding birds, livestock, or other animals, understanding these principles can help you develop strains that not only represent their breed, but are genetically strong, healthy, and productive.  We start by giving a brief recap of the six principles, Consolidation, Maximization, Fixation, Duplication, Stabilization, and Isolation—and explain how they work together to form the backbone of a successful breeding program. The Principle of Consolidation: Learn how outcrossing and crossbreeding can increase genetic diversity and introduce desirable traits, but if used improperly, it can weaken your strain.  The Principle of Maximization: Discover the power of selective breeding and how to amplify specific traits to continuously improve your strain. The Principle of Fixation: Explore how inbreeding and line-breeding can lock in desirable traits for consistency and reliability. The Principle of Duplication: Understand the importance of creating a strain that is predictable and uniform across generations. The Principle of Stabilization: Find out how to maintain the integrity of your strain, while improving key traits through careful selection and culling. The Principle of Isolation: Learn how to safeguard your strain from contamination, disease, and outside genetic influences to maintain purity and health. We encourage you to put these principles into practice in your own breeding program, whether you're starting from scratch or looking to refine an existing strain. Tune in to discover how mastering these principles can elevate your breeding efforts. This episode is packed with actionable advice, so be sure to grab a notebook and take notes! Don't forget to subscribe for more expert tips and insights into the world of breeding! Just go to www.breedersacademy.com #AnimalBreeding #StrainCreation #BreedingPrinciples #GeneticImprovement #SelectiveBreeding #InbreedingAndLinebreeding #LivestockBreeding #PoultryBreeding #BreedingProgram #GeneticStability #HealthyStrains #BreedersAcademy 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

    1h 14m
  6. Thanksgiving Special - A Conversations with Kenny Troiano and Brian Reeder

    DEC 1

    Thanksgiving Special - A Conversations with Kenny Troiano and Brian Reeder

    Settle in, loosen that belt, and get ready for a Thanksgiving-sized conversation! In this special holiday episode of Bred to Perfection, Kenny Troiano and Brian Reeder team up once again for an unscripted, open-ended, and always entertaining deep dive into the world of breeding and poultry genetics. If you're stuffed with turkey and looking for the perfect show to veg out to, this is it. Join us as we "Talk Chickens," swap insights on breeding practices, explore genetic principles, and answer your questions live in the chat. Who knows how long we'll go? When Kenny and Brian get rolling, marathon sessions are almost guaranteed. The real question is: Can you slip away from the family long enough — and do you have the stamina to hang with us from start to finish? We've also got a few exciting announcements you won't want to miss — and trust us, you'll want to act fast before the offers expire. Grab a plate of leftovers, settle into your favorite chair, and enjoy the show!  #BredToPerfection #TalkChickens #PoultryBreeding #ChickenGenetics #ThanksgivingSpecial #KennyTroiano #BrianReeder #BackyardChickens #BreedersChat #PoultryPodcast  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

    56 min
  7. Avian Influenza & Biosecurity: What Every Poultry Breeder Must Know

    NOV 24

    Avian Influenza & Biosecurity: What Every Poultry Breeder Must Know

    In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Rodrigo Gallardo, poultry veterinarian from UC Davis, to unpack the critical connection between biosecurity and the prevention of Avian Influenza (AI) — a highly contagious and potentially devastating disease for all chickens and gamefowl breeders and their bloodlines. Whether you're a breeder or raiser, understanding how AI spreads and how to block it at the source is essential. We explore the differences between Low Pathogenic (LPAI) and Highly Pathogenic (HPAI) strains, the role of wild birds in transmission, and the economic and animal welfare impacts of outbreaks. You'll learn: How Avian Influenza is transmitted—and how quickly it can spread The early warning signs of AI in chickens What biosecurity really means and how to implement it effectively Why vaccination isn't a universal solution (and when it might be used) Key biosecurity practices every breeder should follow—regardless of flock size The role of veterinarians in disease surveillance, outbreak response, and long-term prevention Whether you're an experienced breeder or a first-time chicken keeper, this conversation offers practical advice and up-to-date insight to help you keep your birds — and your farm — safe from disease. #AvianInfluenza #Biosecurity #PoultryHealth #GamefowlBreeding #ChickenBreeders #HPAI #LPAI #BackyardChickens #PoultryVeterinaryCare #DiseasePrevention #FarmBiosecurity #UCDAvisPoultry 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

    56 min
  8. An Exhibition Built for Breeders: Inside the 3rd Annual American & Oriental Gamefowl Show

    NOV 18

    An Exhibition Built for Breeders: Inside the 3rd Annual American & Oriental Gamefowl Show

    A Conversation with Jim Anderson and Amanda Hughes of the Southern California Poultry Club In this episode of the Bred to Perfection, we sit down with Jim Anderson and Amanda Hughes of the Southern California Poultry Club to spotlight one of the most breeder-focused events in the country—the 3rd Annual American & Oriental Gamefowl Show, happening Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the Lake Perris Fairgrounds in Perris, California. This APA- and ABA-sanctioned event is truly a show built for breeders, featuring specialty classes for American Games, Oriental Games, and Seramas—complete with both cage and tabletop competitions. Jim and Amanda share what makes this year's show stand out, including the double-show format that gives exhibitors twice the feedback, twice the competition, and twice the opportunity to win, all in a single day. You'll also meet this year's judging panel: Ben Porter – Kentucky Amanda Clark – California Jeff Halbach – Arizona Mike Sayre – Ohio We talk about why poultry shows are vital for preserving and improving bloodlines, how they serve as living laboratories for gamefowl breeders, and the importance of competition, education, and community in sustaining breed standards. Whether you're a seasoned breeder or new to the world of exhibition poultry, this episode will get you fired up for a day dedicated to community, competition, and the preservation of our cherished breeds. Join us—and join the community—at the 3rd Annual American & Oriental Gamefowl Show. #BredToPerfectionPodcast #AmericanGamefowl #OrientalGamefowl #SouthernCaliforniaPoultryClub #PoultryBreeders #ExhibitionPoultry #APAABA #SeramaShow #PoultryCommunity #PreserveTheBreed #LakePerrisFairgrounds 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

    1h 1m
4.9
out of 5
42 Ratings

About

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.

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