Bred to Perfection

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...

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 polyg...

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...

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 th...

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 im...

This episode talks about key glossary terms, scientific principles, and advanced concepts related to breeding, whether you're a novice or a seasoned breeder. This episode also unpacks critical terms, like gene recombination, selective breeding strategies, polygenic traits, and hybrid vigor, helping you expand your breeding knowledge and improve your vocabulary. Perfect for anyone looking to refine...

In this episode, we confront the growing crisis of misinformation and myth-driven practices in the chicken and gamefowl breeding community. From the misuse of crossbreeding to the rejection of inbreeding, breeders are abandoning common sense in favor of fads, trends, and flawed advice, and it's costing them the health and future of their birds. Breeding is not guesswork—it requires a balanced appr...

Join us for a special live episode of Bred to Perfection this Monday, February 23rd at 6 PM as we return after a six-week break with " The Come Back Show ." We've missed you, and we're ready to talk about what matters most: breeding and developing true strains of chickens and gamefowl. Whether you're a long-time member of the Breeders Academy or a dedicated follower of the Bred to Perfection Podca...

Have you ever found yourself questioning whether it's time to walk away from a strain you've been working on? Are you not seeing the results you expected? Or perhaps it feels like your progress has stalled, leaving you wondering if it's all been in vain? If you've ever asked yourself these questions, you're not alone. In this episode, we'll explore why some breeders, despite their hard work and de...

In this roundtable, we go beyond feathers and form to explore the heart and heritage of true breeding. Join us for a powerful and candid conversation with three of the most dedicated minds in the field, Kenny Troiano , Nancy Troiano and Sue Dobson —as they share the personal journeys, philosophies, and hard-won lessons that have shaped their lives as breeders. From humble beginnings sparked by cur...

In this episode of Bred to Perfection , we uncover one of the most underestimated factors affecting your birds' success: stress . While breeders often focus on bloodlines, conditioning, and nutrition, stress quietly undermines everything, from immune function to feather quality, behavior, and breeding results. Join us as we break down: What stress really means in gamefowl How it weakens your birds...

Join us as we   discuss the misconceptions surrounding worms. We all know about worms, and how they can affect the health of our strains. However, many don't realize that they are over-worming their birds, using toxic drugs and pesticides. In this episode we are going to talk about the effects of medications and wormers. In short, we will learn how to protect our fowl, and how often we should use...

In this episode, we will give you a number of useful tips, to get you ready for the upcoming breeding season. I had a great mentor who believed that preparation was the prerequisite to success. As a breeder, I took that to heart, and it has served me well for years. The breeder who prepares himself, and his birds, will be the successful breeding. This is an episode you do not want to miss.   We sp...

The Misuse and Abuse of Antibiotics, and their Consequences – The question I have for you, are you using Medications, Antibiotics and Vaccinations Properly? Our Special Guest is Dr. Rodrigo Gallardo a Poultry Veterinarian, from UC Davis is here to address this very important and controversial subject.   We all know how beneficial antibiotics and vaccinations can be. If used properly, and for the r...

Crossbreeding is a very common method of breeding, but many are using it for the wrong reasons. The truth is, there are some unintended consequences from using this method, many of them are long lasting, and could be detrimental to the breed.   In this episode we will discuss what's good about crossbreeding, but also what's not so good about crossbreeding.  We'll also talk about the difference bet...

In this episode of the Bred to Perfection Podcast , we sit down with Peter Brown to discuss the most common health problems faced by backyard poultry breeders, and what you can do to recognize, prevent, and treat them. Whether you're just getting started with chickens or you've been breeding poultry and gamefowl for years, this episode delivers practical, experience-based information you can use r...

In this episode, we talk about the fascinating and sometimes challenging world of breeding with a seasoned master breeder who shares their personal journey. Becoming a true expert in breeding isn't an overnight accomplishment, it takes years of hands-on experience, trial and error, and invaluable guidance from mentors. Join us as we explore the highs and lows of this journey, from the early mistak...

In this episode, we explore the relationship between nutrition and genetic potential in gamefowl and chickens. While genetics play a foundational role in a bird's growth and development, egg production, immunity, and overall performance, it's optimal nutrition that truly allows these genetic traits to shine. Each stage of a bird's life requires specific nutrients to ensure they reach their maximum...

A Critical Tool for Creating a Successful Strain In this episode, we dive deep into the world of test matings, an essential practice for any breeder involved in chickens and gamefowl, poultry of all kinds, livestock, or other species with valuable genetic traits. Test matings are a vital tool for evaluating the genetic makeup of animals and making informed decisions about breeding practices. Witho...

Brood Fowl Selection, Breeding Strains, and Health Care. Just in Time for the Holidays Christmas is almost here, and with the holidays upon us, it's the perfect time to slow down and connect. In this special Christmas Q&A episode, we're taking an easy day and answering your questions. It's been a while since we've done a Q&A, and we thought the holiday season was the ideal moment to bring it back....

In this episode, we tackle one of the most critical steps in breeding: cleaning up your gene pool. Many breeders aspire to create strong, healthy strains, but often find themselves working with birds that have multiple faults. Whether you're thinking of infusing outside blood or relying on random breeding, there's a crucial cleanup process you must follow before you can start developing the strain...

In this episode, we talk about the six foundational principles of strain creation in animal breeding, crucial knowledge for anyone serious about starting or improving a breeding program. Whether you're breeding birds, livestock, or other animals, understanding these principles can help you develop strains that not only represent their breed, but are genetically strong, healthy, and productive.   W...

Settle in, loosen that belt, and get ready for a Thanksgiving-sized conversation! In this special holiday episode of Bred to Perfection , Kenny Troiano and Brian Reeder team up once again for an unscripted, open-ended, and always entertaining deep dive into the world of breeding and poultry genetics. If you're stuffed with turkey and looking for the perfect show to veg out to, this is it. Join us...

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Rodrigo Gallardo , poultry veterinarian from UC Davis , to unpack the critical connection between biosecurity and the prevention of Avian Influenza (AI) — a highly contagious and potentially devastating disease for all chickens and gamefowl breeders and their bloodlines. Whether you're a breeder or raiser, understanding how AI spreads and how to block it at th...

A Conversation with Jim Anderson and Amanda Hughes of the Southern California Poultry Club In this episode of the Bred to Perfection , we sit down with Jim Anderson and Amanda Hughes of the Southern California Poultry Club to spotlight one of the most breeder-focused events in the country—the 3rd Annual American & Oriental Gamefowl Show , happening Saturday, November 22, 2025 , at the Lake Perris...