In this episode, the hosts, Kenny, Nancy, and Frank Bradley, discuss various aspects of breeding, including their personal experiences and humorous anecdotes about their chickens. They shed light on the importance of quality over quantity in breeding, the significance of culling defective or sick birds, and the necessity of a strong desire to improve and perfect strains. They debunk common misconceptions about inbreeding and explain how inbreeding can be a useful tool for improving a strain when done correctly. The episode also covers the misbeliefs around breeding blue chickens and explains the genetics involved. The hosts stress the importance of understanding and properly implementing selective breeding principles to create consistent, predictable, and high-quality strains.
PODCAST SHOW
Ep232 – Genetics and Breeding Insights: A New Year’s Q&A Special
In this episode of ‘Bred to Perfection,’ hosted by Kenny Troiano, the focus is on helping serious breeders improve their strains. Kenny discusses various breeding topics, including dominant and recessive genes, particularly focusing on white and splash feather patterns. He shares insights from his extensive recording sessions with expert Brian Reeder, covering a range of topics like epigenetics, disease resistance, and the importance of understanding genetic factors. The episode also addresses practical advice on preparing for cold weather, the need for proper inbreeding techniques, and effective biosecurity measures. Audience questions are answered, touching on topics, such as wing structure, lavenders versus blues in chicken breeding, and the challenges of maintaining true pea comb in gamefowl. The emphasis is on educating breeders to make informed decisions and improve the quality and performance of their flocks.
Ep231 – Breeder or Multiplier: Which One Are You?
This episode, hosted by Kenny Troiano, focuses on improving your breeding practices and the significance of systematic breeding methods. The discussion emphasizes the importance of phenotype, genotype, disease resistance, and environmental factors in breeding. It also critiques outdated breeding myths and methods like crossbreeding, the name game, and the 5/8-3/8 method. Kenny and co-host Frank Bradley share personal insights, experiences, and the necessity of keeping records for successful breeding.
Ep230 – Mastering Breeding Strategies: Insights from Bred to Perfection
In this episode of Bred to Perfection, hosts Kenny Troiano, Nancy, and Frank Bradley discuss various elements of breeding. The show emphasizes the importance of Charles Darwin’s evolutionary theories and their relevance to Kenny’s Founders Program. They delve into topics, such as color genetics, the intricacies of different breeding programs, and the pitfalls of common misconceptions. The hosts also highlight the significance of starting with quality brood fowl and maintaining proper genetic traits through selection and meticulous breeding practices. They underscore the importance of continuous learning and trusting scientific methods to improve and perfect poultry strains.
Ep229 – Understanding the Connection Between Selection and Culling
In this episode of ‘Bred to Perfection,’ host Kenny Troiano, joined by his wife Nancy and co-host Frank Bradley, delves into the intricacies of selective breeding. Targeted at serious breeders, the podcast discusses effective methods for improving chicken strains through selection and culling, the importance of understanding genetic factors, and the challenges of breeding. Kenny emphasizes the significance of breeding programs like the Founders Program in achieving a healthier, more productive flock. The episode also touches on the common issues breeders face, including dealing with defects, understanding genetic drift, and the role of natural selection in breeding practices.