Bred to Perfection

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.

Ep307 - Defects of the Fowl - The Road-blocks of Perfection 10/12/2026

Ep307 - Defects of the Fowl - The Road-blocks of Perfection Bred to Perfection with Kenny Troiano and Nancy Troiano What stands between you and a truly exceptional strain of fowl? Sometimes, it’s the defects hiding right in front of you. In Episode 307 of Bred to Perfection, Kenny and Nancy Troiano take an in-depth look at one of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of breeding: identifying, understanding, and managing defects. Many breeders fail to recognize the flaws in their own birds, whether due to being “yard blind” or simply not knowing what to look for. But overlooking these defects can have serious consequences for the quality, consistency, and future of an entire strain. From duck toe, wry tail, and squirrel tail to eye abnormalities, head and beak deformities, crooked breastbones, wing faults, and leg and toe problems, this episode explores the many defects breeders need to recognize. Kenny and Nancy explain how to evaluate a bird’s type, balance, structure, vigor, and overall conformation, and why careful observation and proper selection are essential to a successful breeding program. Not all defects have the same causes or require the same approach. Some result from environmental conditions, poor nutrition, or management issues, while others are genetic and can be passed from one generation to the next. Recessive defects can remain hidden for generations before appearing in offspring, making them especially important to understand. Other defects involve multiple genes and may be improved over time through informed selection and a well-planned breeding strategy. You’ll also learn why recognizing defects early matters, when culling is necessary to protect your strain, and how to approach the improvement of a line affected by certain inherited faults. In the after-show discussion, Kenny explores another important consideration for serious breeders: gene flow, and how introducing outside birds can affect the consistency and long-term development of an established strain. Whether you’re an experienced breeder or just beginning your journey, this episode will help sharpen your eye, strengthen your selection practices, and give you a better understanding of the challenges standing between your current flock and your breeding goals. #BredToPerfection #PoultryBreeding #BreedingProgram #GeneticSelection #SelectiveBreeding #LineBreeding #Crossbreeding #Outcrossing #Backcrossing #Inbreeding #ClanMating #PoultryGenetics #StrainDevelopment 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Friday’s at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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 /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/43247398

Ep306 - Breeding Methods Explained: What separates a successful breeding program from simply breeding birds? 10/05/2026

Ep306 - Breeding Methods Explained: What separates a successful breeding program from simply breeding birds? Understanding why, when, and how to use the right breeding method. In this episode of Bred to Perfection, Kenny Troiano and Nancy take an in-depth look at the major breeding methods used by serious poultry and gamefowl breeders, and explain why no single method should be relied upon indefinitely. Each method has a specific purpose, and each must be applied at the right stage, for the right length of time, within a structured breeding program. The discussion begins with crossbreeding, including the advantages of hybrid vigor and the challenges of producing predictable offspring when crosses are bred forward. From there, Kenny and Nancy examine outcrossing, explaining why introducing genetics from another strain of the same breed can be useful but also carries significant risks if not carefully controlled. They then explore backcrossing as a short-term strategy for gathering specific traits from an exceptional parent, followed by inbreeding, not simply as a breeding system, but as a powerful tool for intensifying genetics and exposing both strengths and weaknesses. The episode also takes a detailed look at line-breeding, including its ability to concentrate the influence of a superior ancestor and the dangers of continuing too long until a family reaches the genetic "dead-end zone." The conversation continues into clan mating and rotational systems, showing how breeders can maintain genetic diversity and preserve an established family without continually introducing unrelated blood. Kenny explains record keeping, and the importance of retaining superior replacements. For more advanced breeders, the episode covers double mating, a specialized approach for sexually dimorphic birds, as well as recombinant reciprocal selection, a commercial strategy that allows breeders to produce valuable hybrids while protecting their pure breeding lines. Finally, Kenny and Nancy discuss grading and how disciplined selection can progressively transform a mongrel or crossbred population toward a more uniform family or strain. Throughout the episode, one principle remains consistent: Breeding methods are tools. A breeding program is the strategy that tells you which tool to use, when to use it, and when to stop. In This Episode Why breeding methods must be part of a structured breeding program Crossbreeding and the benefits and limitations of hybrid vigor The risks and proper use of outcrossing Backcrossing to capture traits from superior parents Inbreeding as a tool for intensifying genetics and exposing faults Line-breeding and the dangers of reaching the "dead-end zone" Clan mating and rotational systems for long-term preservation When and how to rotate cocks Selecting and retaining superior replacement birds Double mating and sexually dimorphic characteristics Recombinant reciprocal selection and commercial hybrid production Grading mongrel or crossbred populations toward a uniform strain Why planning several generations ahead matters The Founders Program and its role in creating, improving, and maintaining a strain Whether you are establishing a new family, improving an existing strain, or developing a long-term preservation strategy, this episode provides a framework for thinking about breeding at a much deeper level. Listen now and learn why the real advantage isn't knowing one breeding method, it’s knowing which method to use, when to use it, and how to make every method work together as part of a deliberate breeding program. #PoultryBreeding #BreedingProgram #GeneticSelection #SelectiveBreeding #LineBreeding #Crossbreeding #Outcrossing #Backcrossing #Inbreeding #ClanMating #PoultryGenetics #StrainDevelopment 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Friday’s at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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 /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/42840350

Ep305 - Unlocking Genetic Potential Through the Power of Vitamins with Peter Brown 09/28/2026

Ep305 - Unlocking Genetic Potential Through the Power of Vitamins with Peter Brown What does it take to turn a lifetime of breeding experience into a library of respected reference books? Unlocking fertility, hatchability, immunity, and Making of Great Bloodlines through smart vitamin supplementation. This is not about supplements, it’s about providing the proper nutrition for your Brood Fowl and their growing and developing offspring. In this episode, we will talk about one of the most overlooked, but most powerful tools in poultry and gamefowl breeding: vitamins. Building on the work of Peter Brown, “The Chicken Doctor,” we explore how water and fat-soluble vitamins influence everything from fertility to hatchability, growth, immunity, and long-term strain performance. You’ll learn why many modern feeds fall short, how stress dramatically increases vitamin requirements, and which vitamins directly impact brood cock fertility, hen hatchability, chick vigor, and embryo development. We also connect the dots between nutrition and genetics, revealing how proper vitamins helps breeders unlock the full potential of their bloodlines. Whether you are developing a family of gamefowl, improving your show birds, or strengthening the productivity of your backyard breeding flock, this episode offers practical, science-based guidance to help you produce stronger, healthier, more consistent birds, generation after generation. #PoultryNutrition #VitaminSupplementation #PoultryBreeding #BroodFowl #FertilityAndHatchability #ChickVigor #PoultryImmunity #EmbryoDevelopment #BloodlineDevelopment #GamefowlBreeding #ShowBirds #BackyardPoultry 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Friday’s at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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 /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/42658195

Ep304 - Isolation and the Consequences of Gene Flow 09/21/2026

Ep304 - Isolation and the Consequences of Gene Flow The Essential Factor in Creating and Improving a True Strain How controlling Gene Flow preserves traits, accelerates selective breeding, and reveals the same evolutionary forces that drive Speciation In this episode, we explore one of the most powerful, and often overlooked tools in selective breeding: Isolation. Whether breeders are working with livestock like Chickens, or Gamefowl, controlling who breeds with whom is what turns ordinary populations into reliable, high-performance strains. We break down why isolation is critical for preserving the traits breeders work so hard to develop. When chickens or gamefowl are allowed to mix freely with outside populations, valuable characteristics like performance and production, proper growth, and development, disease resistance, or calmer temperament can quickly become diluted. By preventing gene flow, breeders protect the genetic combinations that make a strain unique and valuable. You’ll also learn how isolation increases genetic consistency, allowing a strain to produce predictable results generation after generation. When creating and improving a strain, predictability is everything, and isolation helps breeders fix desirable traits through careful selection and controlled breeding. The episode also talks about how isolation accelerates genetic improvement, protects against trait regression, and allows the development of specialized breeding lines that can later be crossed to produce high-performance hybrids. Finally, we discuss an often overlooked role of isolation - biosecurity. Diseases, parasites, and pathogens are powerful evolutionary pressures. When outside individuals, or the microbes they carry, enter a population, they can disrupt their immune system, alter selection pressures, and undo generations of careful breeding. In short, if selective breeding is the engine that drives improvement, isolation is the steering wheel that keeps it on course. This episode connects the dots between genetics, breeding, and evolution to explain how controlling Gene Flow shapes both the strains we depend on today and the diversity of life itself. #SelectiveBreeding #GeneticSelection #GeneFlow #GeneticIsolation #TrueStrain #PoultryBreeding #ChickenBreeding #GamefowlBreeding #BreedingProgram #GeneticsAndBreeding #Biosecurity #EvolutionaryBiology 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Friday’s at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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 /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/42818905

Ep303 – Writing the Champion Row Series: Jeff Duguay on Books, Breeding, and Legacy 09/14/2026

Ep303 – Writing the Champion Row Series: Jeff Duguay on Books, Breeding, and Legacy What does it take to turn a lifetime of breeding experience into a library of respected reference books? In this episode, we sit down with poultry breeder, author, and publisher Jeff Duguay, the creator of the acclaimed Making It to Champion Row series. While Jeff is widely known for his expertise in exhibition poultry, this conversation goes beyond the birds and into the story behind the books. Jeff shares how a passion for raising chickens evolved into a mission to preserve knowledge, document breeding practices, and create resources for serious exhibition breeders. We explore the challenges of writing in a highly specialized niche, the research required to separate tradition from proven fact, and why authoritative books continue to matter in an age dominated by online information. From his breed-specific works on Modern Game Bantams, Old English Game Bantams, Silkies, Cochins, Belgian d’Uccles, Sebrights, Belgian d’Anvers, and Crested Breeds, Jeff discusses what judges really look for, how successful breeding programs are built, and the recurring patterns he has observed among champion birds. The conversation also examines the realities of publishing niche hobby books, the responsibility of preserving knowledge before it disappears, and the lessons Jeff has learned as both a breeder and an author. Along the way, he reflects on the books that challenged him most, the feedback that shaped his work, and what he hopes future generations of poultry breeders will gain from his writings. Whether you're an exhibition breeder, a poultry enthusiast, an aspiring author, or simply fascinated by how expertise is captured and passed on, this episode offers a rare look at the intersection of breeding, writing, and legacy. In this episode, you'll learn: How Jeff Duguay became an author and publisher The inspiration behind the Champion Row book series Why serious breeders still rely on books in the internet age The process of researching and documenting specialized poultry knowledge Common misconceptions about breeding and exhibition success What separates champion birds from the rest The challenges of publishing in a niche field Why preserving breeding knowledge matters for future generations The legacy Jeff hopes his work will leave behind Join us for a conversation about craftsmanship, documentation, and the enduring value of putting hard-earned knowledge into print. #JeffDuguay #ChampionRow #PoultryBreeding #ExhibitionPoultry #PoultryBooks #ChickenBreeding #HeritageBreeds #PoultryPodcast #LivestockPublishing #BreedingForExcellence #AuthorInterview #PreservingKnowledge 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Friday’s at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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 /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/42586840

Ep302 – The Mindset of a True Breeder: How Open-Mindedness Builds Better Bloodlines 09/07/2026

Ep302 – The Mindset of a True Breeder: How Open-Mindedness Builds Better Bloodlines Why great breeding starts in the mind, not in the pen. Experience alone doesn’t make a master breeder, mindset does. In this episode, we explore how pride, misinformation, and closed-mindedness can destroy more bloodlines than bad feed ever could. Discover what it truly means to be a breeder who learns, listens, and evolves. From understanding genetics and recognizing real experts, to avoiding “overnight teachers” and peddlers, this episode will challenge how you think about breeding, and how your mindset shapes your birds. Because the truth is simple: better breeders build better birds, and better breeders begin with better minds. You’ll learn: Why mindset is more important than experience alone How pride and ego stop breeders from improving The difference between real expertise and “overnight teachers” How to identify misinformation and protect your bloodline Why many great teachers have stopped teaching, and how we can change that The steps every breeder can take to build lasting strains and better birds Whether you breed chickens, gamefowl, or any other strain, this episode will help you think differently about breeding, because improvement begins in the mind long before it happens in the pen. Listen now and take the first step toward becoming a better breeder, building better bloodlines, and leaving a legacy worth remembering. #BreedersAcademy #Gamefowl #ChickenBreeding #BreederMindset #Bloodlines #SelectiveBreeding #PoultryGenetics #GamefowlPodcast #BreedingBetterBirds 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Friday’s at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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 /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/42567760

Ep301 - Building Stronger Bloodlines from the Inside Out 08/31/2026

Ep301 - Building Stronger Bloodlines from the Inside Out The Critical Role of Gut Health in Poultry Breeding In this episode, we talk about one of the most powerful yet often overlooked factors in breeding high-performance chickens and gamefowl: gut health. Whether you're focused on conditioning show birds, raising hardy yard breeders, or developing elite strains, this episode uncovers how gut microbiota, probiotics, water quality, and stress management directly impact bird health, immunity, and genetic potential. We'll explore: How the gut acts as a bird's first line of defense Why multi-species probiotics outperform single-strain options How stress changes gut pH and opens the door to disease What makes water quality just as important as feed The hidden connection between feathers and gut health Practical steps to improve performance from the inside out If you're serious about breeding birds with strength, stamina, and longevity, this episode will give you science-backed strategies to build better bloodlines, starting with the gut. Perfect for: Gamefowl breeders, poultry enthusiasts, backyard keepers, and anyone building or improving chicken strains. #Gamefowl #GamefowlBreeding #ChickenBreeding #GutHealth #GutMicrobiome #PoultryHealth #ChickenHealth #Probiotics #BackyardChickens #PoultryPodcast #BirdNutrition #WaterQuality #SelectiveBreeding #Bloodlines #AvianHealth #Conditioning #BreedingTips #HealthyBirds #Homesteading #PoultryCommunity 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Friday’s at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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 /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/42283600

Ep300 - The 3 Laws of Selective Breeding 08/24/2026

Ep300 - The 3 Laws of Selective Breeding Beyond Best of the Best - The Science of Breeding Excellence What does it really take to build, improve, and preserve a successful breeding strain? It’s much more than simply putting two good birds together, or following the idea of “breeding the best to the best.” In this episode, I reveal the 3 Laws of Selective Breeding that transformed the way I approached breeding: Selective Breeding & Systematic Breeding Programs, Evolutionary Biology, and Genetics & Inheritance. I’ll share how I went from breeding what I thought were my best birds to understanding the importance of proper selection and culling, conformation, type, temperament, health, and breeding with a specific purpose and direction. I’ll also explain why continually crossing and introducing new blood can sometimes move a strain further away from the traits you’re trying to develop. You’ll learn why breeding methods, such as inbreeding, line-breeding, and outcrossing are simply tools, and why knowing when, how, and why to use them is what makes a systematic breeding program effective. We’ll also explore the breeding programs I developed and teach through the Breeder’s Academy: The Founders Program, Gene Shopping Program, and Improvement through Reduction Program. Each program has a specific purpose in creating, transforming, improving, or maintaining a strain. Then we’ll take a deeper look at evolutionary biology and genetic inheritance, including ancestry, uniformity, genetic variation, dominant and recessive traits, polygenic traits, sex-linked traits, and progeny testing. Understanding these principles gives breeders a greater ability to evaluate their birds, make informed mating decisions, and guide a strain in a deliberate direction instead of relying on luck or chance. The biggest lesson is simple: knowing what you want is one thing; knowing how to produce it is another. Once I understood how these three laws worked together, selective breeding finally started to make sense. I was able to put the power of selection in my hands and take both myself as a breeder and my fowl to the next level. If you’re serious about creating, improving, or preserving a strain, this is a lesson you won’t want to miss. #SelectiveBreeding #BreedersAcademy #ChickenBreeding #PoultryBreeding #Genetics #GeneticInheritance #EvolutionaryBiology #BreedingPrograms #Linebreeding #Inbreeding #PoultryGenetics #BreedingEducation 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Friday’s at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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 /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/42509820

Surviving the Summer Heat: Essential Tips for Chicken Care with Peter Brown 08/17/2026

Surviving the Summer Heat: Essential Tips for Chicken Care with Peter Brown Summer heat can take a serious toll on breeding flocks, affecting everything from egg production and fertility to the overall health and survival of your birds. In this episode of the Bred to Perfection podcast, host Kenny Troiano sits down with renowned poultry expert Peter Brown, better known as the "Chicken Doctor," to discuss practical, proven strategies for helping chickens thrive during hot weather. Together, they explore how heat stress impacts poultry, the early warning signs every breeder should recognize, and the steps you can take to reduce the risks before temperatures become dangerous. From providing adequate shade and ventilation to managing water, feeding schedules, and supplementation, Peter Brown shares actionable advice that breeders can implement immediately. You'll also learn why humidity matters just as much as temperature, how to safely use misters, what to do in heat-related emergencies, and why certain breeds require extra attention during the summer months. Kenny and Peter also discuss the importance of thoughtful breeding and gene selection in developing resilient strains that can better withstand environmental stress. Whether you're raising a few backyard birds or managing a serious breeding program, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you protect your flock, maintain productivity, and navigate the challenges of summer with confidence. In this episode, you'll learn: How heat stress affects chickens and how to recognize the warning signs. The importance of shade, ventilation, and humidity control. Best practices for keeping water cool and encouraging hydration. Why feeding times matter during hot weather. How vitamins, electrolytes, and other supplements can support your flock. Emergency measures for treating severe heat stress. Breed-specific considerations and building heat-resilient breeding stock. Tune in for expert insights that will help keep your birds healthy, productive, and thriving all summer long. #ChickenCare #PoultryHealth #BackyardChickens #ChickenBreeding #HeatStress #SummerChickenCare #PoultryFarming #FlockManagement #BreedingSuccess #ChickenDoctor #BredToPerfection #PoultryPodcast 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Friday’s at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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 /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/42353205

Proper Care During the Molting Season 08/10/2026

Proper Care During the Molting Season Why Our Birds Need Extra Attention at this Time of Year When do our birds require the utmost care and consideration? The answer is during the molt. This crucial period is marked by significant stress as birds undergo a complex process of feather renewal, muscle replenishment, and bone repair. Both cocks and hens experience this challenging phase, making it an essential aspect of their overall health. While many view molting as a negative phase, it actually presents an opportunity for improvement. As a breeder, it’s vital to understand how to navigate the molt effectively and use it to your advantage. A common pitfall for breeders is failing to grasp the nuances of the molt, which can hinder efforts to create, improve, and maintain a robust strain. Proper management of the molt is crucial; neglecting this process can significantly impact the upcoming breeding season and the quality of offspring. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of the molting season and explore strategies for achieving optimal results. 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 /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/42309460

Managing the Molt - The Costly Mistake of Cutting Protein and Weight 08/03/2026

Ep299 - Tony Saville and the Future of American Games 07/27/2026

Ep299 - Tony Saville and the Future of American Games For the first time ever, we welcome Anthony “Tony” Saville, a man whose influence on the American Gamefowl world runs deep. You’ve heard his voice in past episodes, but now you’ll experience him in real time as he shares decades of knowledge, insight, and hard-earned wisdom. This isn’t just another interview, it’s a masterclass. Tony Saville is a renowned authority on Old English and American Gamefowl, founder of the American Gamefowl Society, author of American Game Fowl Standards, and a respected judge with the Oxford Old English Gamefowl Club of South Africa. More than that, he’s been a mentor, teacher, and close friend for nearly 40 years, someone who helped shape the way many of us understand breeding, selection, and preservation. In this live event, we go far beyond the basics. Tony breaks down the true form and structure of the American Game, the importance of maintaining a functional standard, and why so many breeders today are unknowingly moving the breed in the wrong direction. We explore the history of the gamecock, how the breed nearly disappeared, and what must be done to ensure its survival moving forward. We also tackle some of the most controversial and misunderstood topics in the community today: Are modern judges truly qualified, and how are poor judging practices affecting the breed? The dangers of overusing a single judge and allowing shows to shape breeding decisions Crossbreeding, “refreshing blood,” and why it often does more harm than good The growing influence of misinformation from online voices and influencers The push to get American Games into the APA Standard—and what went wrong Tony doesn’t hold back as we dig into the proposed changes to the Standard, including debates over type, conformation, naming, and controversial traits like pea combs and white in the tail. We examine the genetic dangers of “progressive white,” why certain traits should never be bred for, and how misunderstanding genetics is putting the breed at risk. Whether you’re a seasoned breeder or just starting out, this conversation will challenge the way you think, and give you the tools to improve your birds the right way. This is more than an episode, it’s a turning point. Trust us—you’re going to want a pen and paper for this one. #AmericanGamefowl #GamefowlBreeding #PoultryGenetics #BackyardBreeders #ChickenBreeding #HeritageBreeds #GamefowlCommunity #SelectiveBreeding #PoultryPodcast #BreedStandards #FowlPreservation #AvianGenetics 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Friday’s at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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 /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/42053260

Ep298 - The Progressive White Debate: Science vs. Tradition 07/20/2026

Ep298 - The Progressive White Debate: Science vs. Tradition Today, we're sharing a prerecorded conversation I had with Brian Reeder about Progressive White, a deleterious trait that is affecting many poultry breeds and varieties, particularly American Games. Unfortunately, many breeders either don't believe Progressive White is a problem or are intentionally breeding to perpetuate the trait within their bloodlines. Even more concerning, there is a movement to have American Games accepted into the American Poultry Association's Standard of Perfection with Progressive White encouraged within the standard. In our opinion, this would only accelerate the deterioration of the breed rather than preserve it. Following my discussion with Brian, you'll also hear a conversation I had with Tony Saville. I wanted Tony's reaction to Brian's insights and his perspective on the issue. I believe Tony's experience and opinions provide valuable insight that every serious breeder should consider. Ever since Brian Reeder and I introduced the concept of Progressive White, it has sparked considerable discussion throughout the poultry and gamefowl communities. The response has been both encouraging and controversial. Many breeders have embraced the information and are working to eliminate Progressive White from their breeding programs, while others continue to deny its existence or defend its presence. Regardless of which side they take, the conversation has certainly created ripples throughout the industry. My hope is that this episode encourages breeders to take a closer look at Progressive White and reconsider how they select and breed their fowl. This is only the beginning of a much larger educational effort. I am currently developing an article and educational program devoted entirely to Progressive White. Brian Reeder has been an invaluable resource throughout this process, helping ensure that every conclusion is scientifically sound and accurately presented. At the same time, I have been carefully studying the opposing viewpoints. I want to understand every argument made in favor of retaining Progressive White or minimizing its impact so I can fairly evaluate those claims against the available scientific evidence. So far, I have yet to encounter an argument that withstands careful scrutiny. Once I complete the Breeders Academy course on Progressive White, I'll adapt that material into magazine articles, social media content, a Master's Class presentation, and future podcast episodes. My goal is to make this information accessible to breeders at every level. Ultimately, our mission is simple: to provide breeders with the knowledge and tools they need to eliminate this harmful trait from their breeding programs and help preserve these remarkable breeds for future generations. Thank you for joining us. Now, sit back, enjoy the conversation, and judge the evidence for yourself. #PoultryBreeding #Gamefowl #AmericanGame #SelectiveBreeding #PoultryGenetics #ProgressiveWhite #GamefowlBreeding #BreedersAcademy #ChickenBreeding #PreserveTheBreed #MastersClass #BredToPerfection 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Friday’s at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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 /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/42049030

Fan Favorite Episode - Wry Tails, Squirrel Tails and Broken Feathers 07/13/2026

Ep297 – Building a True Strain: The Long Game of Creating a Consistent and Lasting Line 07/06/2026

Ep297 – Building a True Strain: The Long Game of Creating a Consistent and Lasting Line What does it really take to build a bloodline that lasts generations? In this episode of Bred to Perfection, Kenny and Nancy Troiano uncover the long-term strategies behind creating a true breeding strain of chickens and gamefowl. If you're tired of unpredictable results and want to establish a flock that breeds uniform, consistent, and reliable offspring, this episode is for you. You'll learn: How to select your ideal foundation pair ("Adam & Eve") What makes a strain “true breeding” and how to know you’ve achieved it Why introducing new blood can destroy your progress The power of inbreeding, line-breeding, and clan mating (when done right) How the Founder’s Program can help you reach your goals faster And why patience, selection, and biosecurity are non-negotiable Whether you're just starting your journey or looking to refine your strain, this episode will give you the tools and mindset needed to breed with purpose, and leave a legacy in your poultry yard. Don’t just breed birds. Build a strain. #BredToPerfection #PoultryBreeding #ChickenBreeding #GamefowlBreeding #TrueBreeding #BloodlineDevelopment #LineBreeding #SelectiveBreeding #BreedingStrains #HeritagePoultry #PoultryGenetics #BreedWithPurpose 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Friday’s at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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 /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/41929065

Ep296 - Bloodlines Under Threat: What Every Breeder Needs to Know About Avian Leukosis 06/29/2026

Ep296 - Bloodlines Under Threat: What Every Breeder Needs to Know About Avian Leukosis In this eye-opening episode of Bred to Perfection, hosts Kenny and Nancy Troiano sit down with Dr. Rodrigo Gallardo, veterinary pathologist and avian disease expert, to uncover one of the most dangerous and overlooked threats in poultry breeding: Avian Leukosis Virus (ALV). Whether you're building a high-performance gamefowl strain, preserving heritage bloodlines, or improving your backyard flock, ALV could be silently sabotaging your work. In this must-listen episode, we dive deep into: What Avian Leukosis Virus really is - and why it's not “just another disease” The difference between ALV and Marek’s Disease (stop confusing the two!) How vertical transmission through the egg silently spreads ALV Why most infected birds look healthy - but can still ruin your strain The four classes of ALV infection- and which birds are safe to breed Real-world strategies to test, cull, and breed for resistance The critical role of biosecurity, quarantine, and record keeping How top breeders are eliminating ALV and future-proofing their flocks Dr. Gallardo also shares insights from the Gamefowl Wellness Program in Southern California and explains why targeted health and breeding strategies are more important than ever for today’s breeders. If you care about your birds, your program, and your reputation as a breeder, this episode is essential listening. Because breeding isn’t just about what you can see - it’s about eliminating the threats you can’t. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform! Want to learn more? Join the Breeders Academy for exclusive content, mentorship, and disease-prevention tools. #GamefowlBreeding #AvianLeukosis #PoultryHealth #BredToPerfection #Biosecurity #SelectiveBreeding #ChickenBreeding 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Friday’s at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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: /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/41788895

Ep295 - Progressive White - The Silent Threat to Breeding American Games 06/22/2026

Ep295 - Progressive White - The Silent Threat to Breeding American Games A discussion that addresses the Challenges, Standards, and Solutions Bred to Perfection: The Progressive White Problem, Standards Debate & Breeding Q&A In this episode, Kenny Troiano and his wife Nancy return and provide updates and announce that Tony Saville will be back on June 12 for a multi-episode discussion tackling some of the most debated topics in the gamefowl world, including inbreeding and the American Gamefowl standard. Kenny shares his frustration over a heated Facebook dispute involving a group to push a new American Gamefowl standard into the APA’s Standard of Perfection. He breaks down his objections to their proposals, ranging from the light red/yellow leg variety and pea comb inclusion to allowing progressive white and renaming the breed “American Pit Game.” Kenny explains why true standards must be built on uniformity, consistency, and repeatability, and why defects like progressive white should be bred out, not accepted. The conversation expands into the importance of breeder mindset, the difference between “pure families” and performance-based selection, and the long-term consequences of ignoring genetic fundamentals. Kenny also outlines his plan to collaborate with Brian Reeder to produce educational material focused on understanding and eliminating progressive white. The episode wraps up with a lively Q&A session covering practical breeding challenges, including: Feather picking in chicks Managing skittish behavior When and why to cull birds at any age Building strains from trios or crosses Color genetics, including spangled and blue varieties Packed with strong opinions, real-world experience, and actionable advice, this episode sets the stage for next week’s in-depth debates, while delivering valuable insights for breeders at every level. #PoultryBreeding #Gamefowl #ChickenGenetics #BreedingPrograms #AmericanGamefowl #PoultryStandards #SelectiveBreeding #BackyardPoultry #ChickenBreeders #LivestockGenetics #HomesteadingLife #AvianGenetics 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Mondays and Fridays at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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: /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/41602740

Ep225 - Building Better Bloodlines: An Inside Look at the Breeders Academy 06/21/2026

Ep225 - Building Better Bloodlines: An Inside Look at the Breeders Academy Have you ever wondered what it's really like to be a member of the Breeders Academy? In this special episode of Bred to Perfection, hosts Kenny Troiano and Nancy Troiano, take you behind the scenes for an exclusive tour of the Breeders Academy website and show you why it has become one of the most comprehensive educational resources available for gamefowl, poultry, and animal breeders. Whether you're just getting started or you're an experienced breeder looking to improve your breeding program, this episode will help you understand how the Academy can help you create, improve, and maintain superior strains through proven breeding methods, proper selection practices, and a solid understanding of genetics. During this in-depth tour, you'll discover: The different membership levels and what each includes Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced learning tracks The Founders Program and its step-by-step strain-building system The Masters Class Video Series Poultry genetics and inheritance courses Advanced breeding programs and mating systems Record-keeping and selection programs Health care, nutrition, and disease prevention resources Members-only coaching calls and live Q&A sessions Daily articles, video archives, audio programs, and podcast libraries Downloadable charts, study guides, glossaries, and breeder resources Private community groups and member forums Expert contributions from leading authorities in genetics, health care, and breeding Kenny also explains how the Academy helps breeders avoid costly mistakes, shorten the learning curve, and develop more consistent and predictable results in their breeding programs. You'll learn how members use the Academy to strengthen their understanding of genetics, improve brood fowl selection, preserve valuable bloodlines, and develop families of fowl that breed true generation after generation. If you've ever wanted to build your own strain, improve an existing bloodline, or simply become a more knowledgeable breeder, this episode offers a firsthand look at the tools, training, and support available inside the Breeders Academy. Breeding excellence doesn't happen by accident, it begins with education, proper selection, and a clear breeding plan. Join us as we explore the Breeders Academy and discover how serious breeders are using proven breeding principles to build better bloodlines and create strains that stand the test of time. #BreedersAcademy #PoultryBreeding #StrainDevelopment #BreedingGenetics #SelectiveBreeding #BreedersLife #PoultryGenetics #BackyardBreeder #LivestockBreeding #BreedingProgram #FatherDaySpecial #BuildBetterStrains 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: /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/41712920

Ep294 - Breeding Bulletproof Bloodlines - The Science of Disease-Resistance 06/15/2026

Ep294 - Breeding Bulletproof Bloodlines - The Science of Disease-Resistance How selective breeding, natural immunity, and smart management create healthier, stronger, long-lasting strains. In this episode, we will talk about one of the most important, and often misunderstood, topics in chicken and gamefowl breeding: developing true, natural disease resistance within your bloodlines. We break down why disease resistance is a polygenic trait, how epigenetics and mitochondrial DNA shape health, and why selective breeding paired with ruthless culling is the breeder’s most powerful tool. You’ll learn how to build healthier birds through natural exposure, proper environment, gut health, biosecurity, and management practices that support the immune system rather than replace it. We discuss the dangers of overusing medications, how to identify truly resistant birds, and the role hens play in passing on vitality and immune strength. Whether you’re building a new family or improving an existing strain, this episode delivers the practical steps and long-term strategy needed to create stronger, tougher, more resilient gamefowl, birds that thrive without medications and stand the test of time. If your goal is to produce birds that stay healthy, grow strong, and pass their vigor to the next generation, this is a must-listen. #DiseaseResistance #SelectiveBreeding #GamefowlBreeding #PoultryGenetics #NaturalImmunity #HealthyBloodlines #BreedingForVigor #GamefowlHealth #PoultryManagement #ResilientBirds #SustainableBreeding #StrongerStrains 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Friday’s at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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: /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/41640030

Ep293 - Purity and Show Go Hand-in-Hand: Why the Best Birds Are Always One Bird 06/08/2026

Ep293 - Purity and Show Go Hand-in-Hand: Why the Best Birds Are Always One Bird In this episode, we break down one of the most misunderstood topics in the breeding of chickens and gamefowl: the supposed divide between pure birds, show birds, and performance birds. Spoiler, when breeding is done right, these aren’t three different birds. They are the same bird, shaped through balanced selection, structural correctness, health, vigor, and strict adherence to the breed standard. We explore how true strains are built, not bought, through generations of disciplined selection, culling with purpose, and record keeping that preserves and improves your work. Learn why single-trait chasing weakens lines, how the breed standard becomes your roadmap, and why thinking in decades instead of seasons separates real breeders from hobbyists. If you’re serious about building a lasting bloodline or improving your current strain, this episode will help you unite purity, performance, and show quality into a single, complete bird, and create a legacy that stands the test of time. #GamefowlBreeding, #ChickenBreeders, #PoultryGenetics, #StrainBuilding, #ShowBirds, #PureBloodlines, #HeritageBreeds, #SelectiveBreeding, #BreedStandards, #BackyardBreeders, #PoultryPodcast, #BreedersMindset 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Mondays and Fridays at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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: /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/41545610

Ep292 - How to Select the Proper Brood Fowl: A Five Stage Process 06/01/2026

Ep292 - How to Select the Proper Brood Fowl: A Five Stage Process A Guide for Chicken and Gamefowl Breeders Are you ready to take your breeding program to the next level? In this episode, host Kenny Troiano and co-host Frank Bradley talk about the heart of what makes a true breeder: selection. Based on Kenny’s proven, five-stage method, this episode of Bred to Perfection is your blueprint for choosing the right brood fowl, whether you're starting a new strain or improving an existing one. You’ll learn how to go beyond surface-level traits and evaluate birds with a critical eye for genetic quality, conformation, and long-term potential. Through hands-on advice, practical grading systems, and decades of experience, Kenny breaks down how to select only the best to build and protect your strain. In This Episode, You'll Discover: Why selection, not just performance or looks, is the foundation of all great breeding programs How to assess genetic purity, type, and structural soundness The most critical defects to avoid (and how skipping this step can destroy your line) What physical and behavioral traits to prioritize during hands-on inspection How movement, posture, and presence reveal deeper genetic quality A practical grading system to help you rank and select elite brood fowl Whether you're breeding for show, performance, or preservation, this episode will help you move from multiplying birds to creating a legacy. #BroodFowlSelection #PoultryBreeding #GamefowlBreeding #ChickenBreeding #BreedingProgram #GeneticSelection #BroodFowl #PoultryGenetics #FowlBreeders #StrainDevelopment #LivestockBreeding #BredToPerfection 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Mondays and Fridays at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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: /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/41479545

Ep291 - Define Your Selection Points: The Blueprint for Building a True Strain 05/25/2026

Ep291 - Define Your Selection Points: The Blueprint for Building a True Strain What separates a flock from a true strain? In this episode, we discuss the uncompromising world of selective breeding. From disease resistance to maternal instinct, we break down the essential traits every serious breeder must define—and defend—to shape a predictable, high-performing bloodline. You'll learn: The key selection points that form the foundation of a lasting strain Why uniformity in type and color signals more than just beauty—it's genetic integrity How hidden defects can silently destroy years of progress if left unchecked The role of discipline, vision, and ruthless culling in achieving long-term success Whether you're breeding for show, function, or preservation, this episode will challenge you to sharpen your standards, make tough decisions, and take full ownership of your program’s direction. What you allow in your brood pen today will define your strain tomorrow.Tune in and take the next step toward breeding with purpose—and building your legacy. #PoultryBreeding #GamefowlBreeding #HeritageBreeds #SelectiveBreeding #BackyardBreeder #TrueStrain #BreedToImprove #ChickenBreeder #PoultryGenetics #CullToImprove #PoultryPodcast 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Mondays and Fridays at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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: /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/41400480

Ep290 - The Power of Selection - Transforming Mongrels into Masterpieces 05/18/2026

Ep290 - The Power of Selection - Transforming Mongrels into Masterpieces For every serious chicken and gamefowl breeder, the ultimate goal is to build a true strain, a consistent, high-performing, and reliable family of birds that reflects your vision and breeding ideals. But here’s the truth: no matter your starting point, you’ll never get there without mastering the power of selection. In this episode, we dive deep into one of the most misunderstood, and most essential, elements of successful breeding: Selection. Why is selection more than just picking pretty birds? What separates random breeding from purposeful strain-building? How do the principles of genetics, conformation, and performance come together to shape your flock? We’ll explore the science, the art, and the mindset behind selecting brood fowl that can take your program from mongrels to masterpieces. Whether you're breeding for show, performance, or preservation, understanding selection is the difference between progress and failure. Learn how proper selection molds type, strengthens health, and creates uniformity. Discover why basic knowledge of genetics is essential to long-term success. Hear how natural selection and artificial selection overlap, and what lessons Mother Nature teaches us. Whether you're new to breeding or refining a decades-old bloodline, this is an episode you do not want to miss. Tune in now and level up your breeding game. Your birds, and your legacy, depend on it. #GamefowlBreeding #ChickenBreeding #SelectiveBreeding #PoultryGenetics #StrainBuilding #BreedingProgram #FlockSelection #BreedingScience #GamefowlCommunity #PerformanceBreeding #PoultryBreeders #GeneticSelection 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Mondays and Fridays at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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: /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/41236285

Ep289 - Evolutionary Factors that can Change the Direction of Your Strain - Part 2 05/11/2026

Ep289 - Evolutionary Factors that can Change the Direction of Your Strain - Part 2 Have you ever wondered how we ended up with chickens that lay 300 eggs a year or grow to market weight in just a few weeks? In this episode, we take a deep dive into the science behind chicken breeds and commercial strains—and it's more than just DNA. Join us as we explore how evolutionary mechanisms like natural selection, artificial selection, genetic drift, gene flow, and mutation shape the chickens we know today. But we’re going even deeper—into the world of epigenetics, where genes can be switched on or off by the environment, diet, stress, or even selective breeding itself. We’ll uncover: How farmers and scientists use selective breeding to develop broilers and layers Why genetic drift and gene flow affect rare and local breeds The role of mutations in creating traits like feather type, color, and growth rate How epigenetic changes may influence productivity, behavior, and health—without changing a single base of DNA Whether you’re a poultry enthusiast, breeder, student, or just curious about how science shapes our food systems, this episode is packed with insights on the biology of chicken breeding and evolution. 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live #ChickenGenetics #SelectiveBreeding #PoultryScience #Epigenetics #AnimalBreeding #BroilersAndLayers #GeneticDiversity #SustainableFarming #LivestockGenetics #FarmScience #FoodSystems #BredToPerfection 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Mondays and Fridays at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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: /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/41171715

Ep288 - What Can Go Wrong, Does Go Wrong 05/04/2026

Ep288 - What Can Go Wrong, Does Go Wrong Cutting through feed myths and faulty practices to focus on the genetics, selection, and standards that shape better chickens. Kenny Troiano and his wife Nancy kick things off with a series of audio and setup mishaps that quickly turn into a lively, unscripted Friday night Q&A. Shifting gears, Kenny shares exciting announcements, including upcoming guests, like Mike Sayers of M&M Exhibition Poultry Podcast and the President of the American Bantam Association, and a special live appearance from his longtime mentor Tony Saville, who will join to debate hot topics, like breed standards, inbreeding, and controversial traits, such as white in wings and tails. Additional guests on the horizon include, Douglas Bruce, Jeff Duguay, and Jane Cowan of The Chuck Journal Podcast. Kenny also reveals he’s now writing for the new magazine “Gamefowl Times.” In the Q&A, Kenny tackles some of the most misunderstood topics in gamefowl and poultry breeding. He emphasizes that while proper nutrition supports overall health, it does not change a bird’s genetics, pushing back on the overuse of supplements and most layer feeds, and recommending practical feeding strategies like Nutrena All Flock, while using bird condition as the ultimate guide. The discussion goes into genetics, including sex-linked traits, inheritance of leg color, and how to correct traits through selective breeding. Kenny explains factors influencing broodiness, from genetics to environmental stress, and why it should be bred intentionally rather than managed reactively. He also addresses complex color genetics, warning about the risks associated with dominant, recessive, and progressive white, particularly their potential link to weakened birds and reduced reproductive performance. The episode closes with an insightful look at the challenges of preserving true Silver Duckwing coloration, and why proper hen selection is critical to maintaining strain integrity. Packed with candid moments, strong opinions, and practical advice, this episode blends humor, hard-earned experience, and deep genetic insight, setting the stage for an upcoming live debate you won’t want to miss. #PoultryGenetics #SelectiveBreeding #Gamefowl #ChickenBreeding #BreedStandards #BackyardPoultry #PoultryPodcast #FlockManagement #ChickenHealth #BreedingStrategies #AvianGenetics #PoultryWisdom 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Mondays and Fridays at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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: /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/41015465

Ep287 - The Crucial Role of Selection in Breeding Success 04/27/2026

Ep287 - The Crucial Role of Selection in Breeding Success In this episode, we talk about one of the most misunderstood—but absolutely essential elements of successful breeding: SELECTION. While health, structure, and well-planned breeding programs are important, without strategic selection, long-term success is impossible. We explore why selection is the driving force behind strain improvement, how it supports the development of new lines, and why so many breeders fall short by misapplying, or completely misunderstanding this critical process. You’ll learn: Why selection is more than just choosing the best-looking bird The difference between monogenic and polygenic traits, and why it matters How phenotype, genotype, epigenetics, and mitochondrial DNA all play a role in genetic progress Why culling is just as important as selecting We break down the Six Key Factors of Selection every breeder must master and offer practical quiz-style prompts to test your knowledge along the way. Whether you’re a novice or experienced breeder, this episode will sharpen your understanding of the selection process and help you build a stronger, more consistent strain. It’s not optional, it’s foundational. Tune in and transform your breeding strategy through the power of selection. #BreedingSuccess #SelectiveBreeding #GeneticSelection #StrainImprovement #BreedingStrategy #PhenotypeVsGenotype #Epigenetics #PolygenicTraits #MonogenicTraits #SmartBreeding #CullingMatters #BreederEducation 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live - Mondays and Fridays at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube - Join 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: /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/41014450

Ep286 - Unlocking the Secrets of Chicken Breeding with Brian Reeder 04/20/2026

Ep286 - Unlocking the Secrets of Chicken Breeding with Brian Reeder Inbreeding, Genetics & Feeding for the Future In the world of poultry breeding, few names stir thoughtful conversation quite like Brian Reeder. Known for his deep understanding of avian genetics and dedication to the craft of creating true strains, Brian recently hosted a live session diving deep into some of the most misunderstood, and often controversial, aspects of chicken breeding. From polygenic traits and disease resistance to feeding practices rooted in history, the discussion offered a masterclass in breeding with purpose. Genetics & Breeding Philosophy You often emphasize the importance of inbreeding in creating a true strain. For those wary of it, how do you define the difference between smart inbreeding and harmful inbreeding? When starting a new strain, what timeline or number of generations do you typically expect before you start seeing true consistency? Can you walk us through what “locking in genes” really means in a practical, observable way? What common mistakes do people make when they attempt to outcross, and how can they avoid "blowing up" their strain? Tune in to learn how to create and improve your strain for future generations! #PoultryBreeding #ChickenGenetics #InbreedingDoneRight #AvianGenetics #SelectiveBreeding #TrueStrain #BackyardBreeders #LivestockGenetics #SustainableBreeding #BreedingForTheFuture #HeritagePoultry #GeneticSelection 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live Mondays and 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: /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/40815530

Ep285 - The Ugly Truth About Outcrossing: The Double-Edged Sword of Breeding 04/13/2026

Ep285 - The Ugly Truth About Outcrossing: The Double-Edged Sword of Breeding In this episode, we talk about one of the most polarizing topics for many breeders: outcrossing. Is it a powerful tool to refresh a bloodline, or a fast track to genetic chaos? From hybrid vigor and genetic diversity to the loss of breed identity and the dangers of scatter breeding, we break down the pros and cons of outcrossing in clear, practical terms. Whether you're a seasoned breeder or just getting started, this episode offers a no-nonsense look at what outcrossing really does to your birds, and your breeding program. We explore: Why breeders turn to outcrossing (and when it works) The hidden risks that can undo decades of selection How to outcross responsibly, if at all Why line-breeding and selection still reign supreme Outcrossing isn’t a magic bullet. It’s a high-stakes strategy that demands precision, planning, and purpose. If you're serious about building a consistent, high-quality strain, not just chasing quick fixes, this is the episode you can’t afford to miss. Tune in and learn why the best breeders don’t just breed birds… they build legacies. #OutcrossingDebate #BreedingStrategy #GeneticDiversity #HybridVigor #LineBreeding #SelectiveBreeding #BreederMindset #PoultryBreeding #GeneticsInBreeding #BreedingProgram #BloodlineManagement #BuildYourStrain 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live Mondays and 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: /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/40766130

Ep284 - Misinformation vs. Education - Building Better Bloodlines Through Truth and Accurate Knowledge 04/06/2026

Ep284 - Misinformation vs. Education - Building Better Bloodlines Through Truth and Accurate Knowledge Breaking Down the Biggest Breeding Myths Breeders Face and how finding a way to Move Forward In this episode of Bred to Perfection podcast, hosts Kenny Troiano and Frank Bradley sits down with Douglas Bruce for a candid, wide-ranging conversation on breeding, education, and the growing problem of misinformation in the gamefowl community. Together, they explore how they first connected through their shared commitment to accurate inbreeding practices and discuss their journeys as writers, educators, and mentors. From publishing articles and building educational platforms to managing overwhelming mentorship requests, they pull back the curtain on what it really means to teach in a space flooded with constant noise. The discussion takes a critical turn as they address the biggest threats facing breeders today—especially the rise of social media “experts,” the spread of bad information, plagiarism, scams, and the dangerous culture of illegal exposure. They challenge common but flawed practices like chasing bloodline names and percentages, constantly adding new blood, breeding unproven stags, and trying to manage too many lines at once. Instead, Kenny and Douglas emphasize the fundamentals: disciplined selection, maintaining true families, proper conditioning and nutrition, and the importance of record-keeping. They also break down the myth of “refreshing blood,” explaining how genetic recombination actually changes a family rather than restoring it. This episode is a must-listen for breeders who want to move beyond hype and shortcuts, and focus on building high-quality strains through proven principles, collaboration, and education that truly serves the community. #Gamefowl #GamefowlBreeding #PoultryBreeding #BreedingExcellence #SelectiveBreeding #GeneticsMatters #BreedingTruth #BloodlineMyths #BreedersLife #FarmLife #AnimalBreeding #EducationMatters 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live Mondays and 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: /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/40707295

Ep283 - When Good Strains Go Bad: How to Fix Hidden Flaws in Your Bloodline 03/30/2026

Ep283 - When Good Strains Go Bad: How to Fix Hidden Flaws in Your Bloodline Unwanted Traits, Recessive Surprises, and the Genetic Tools Every Serious Breeder Must Master Every breeder eventually faces it, that moment when a hidden flaw suddenly appears in a line you’ve spent years refining. Is it a throwback? Bad luck? A hidden recessive? Or a deeper genetic issue waiting to surface? In this episode, we break down why good strains sometimes reveal bad traits, and more importantly, how to correct those problems without losing the heart of your bloodline. You’ll learn how recessive genes operate, why purity creates predictability, and how disciplined selection can transform setbacks into improvements. We’ll discuss how to identify monogenic vs. polygenic traits, why adding outside blood almost always makes things worse, and how to rebuild your strain from one cock and one hen, your Adam and Eve. Whether you’re breeding chickens or gamefowl, for show, performance, or utility, this episode teaches you how to think like a geneticist and breed like a master. Good strains don’t fall apart, they reveal what’s been hidden all along. Your job is to read the clues, make smart decisions, and refine your line for generations to come. #PoultryBreeding, #GamefowlBreeding, #ChickenGenetics, #StrainBuilding, #RecessiveGenes, #Line-breeding, #SelectiveBreeding, #BackyardBreeders, #HeritagePoultry, #BreedersMindset, #GeneticPurity 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. Watch Bred to Perfection Live Mondays and 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: /episode/index/show/bredtoperfection/id/40663495

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