MEAT People

The guest is Deidrea Mabry, COO of the American Meat Science Association (AMSA), about her path from 4-H and FFA to Texas Tech, meat judging, and ultimately joining AMSA remotely after moving to Wyoming. Mabry describes her COO responsibilities, including managing sustaining partner and association relationships (including SMA), budgeting and financial stewardship, and organizing AMSA’s annual Reciprocal Meat Conference. She highlights how AMSA supports students through networking, leadership and professional development, and multiple career pathways beyond meat judging, from food safety and R&D to equipment, ingredients, pet food, aquaculture, marketing, law, and medicine. Mabry outlines AMSA’s outreach tools—Meat’s Pad podcast, newsletters, social media, monthly webinars, and websites like meatscience.org and a meat locker resource site—and encourages schools and extension agents to contact AMSA for help starting youth meat judging.  Reach out to AMSA at https://meatscience.org/ Find SMA at https://southwestmeat.org/ Topics 00:52 Meet Deidrea Mabry 01:33 Path to AMSA COO 03:04 AMSA and SMA Partnership 04:16 Meat’s Pad Podcast 05:09 COO Duties and Budgeting 08:36 Beyond Meat Judging Careers 11:56 100 Years of Meat Judging 13:51 Sharing Resources and Webinars 17:37 Student Membership and RMC 20:48 Youth Judging and Closing  

Recorded at the Southwest Meat Association (SMA) meat judging contest with support from Forum Meat and Columbia Packing, Neil interviews Bo Garcia, a University of Nebraska–Lincoln extension assistant professor who coordinates the meat judging program and is finishing his PhD. Garcia, originally from La Vernia near San Antonio and a Texas A&M graduate, credits SMA scholarships and describes the SMA as a supportive family network. He shares how he began meat judging in 2018, fell in love with its academic and interpersonal benefits for students, and has coached teams since; his current team is small, with two new students competing for the first time. Garcia encourages students to apply for SMA scholarships and advises young judges to trust themselves and the process. His research focuses on youth education and Gen Z learning preferences and how higher education and employers can adapt training and expectations.   Topics 00:56 What SMA Means 01:46 Nebraska Role 02:26 Aggie Ring Story 03:12 Meat Judging Journey 03:51 Family Influence 04:53 Team Update 05:19 Scholarships Explained 08:27 PhD Plans Ahead 09:54 Advice Trust Yourself 11:18 Gen Z Education Research 13:11 Wrap Up Thanks  

Neil interviews Grace Bryson, a Southwest Meat Association (SMA) scholarship recipient and first-year master’s student in meat science at Oklahoma State under Dr. Gretchen Macy. Grace shares that her first SMA experience was attending the Texas convention, where she felt welcomed and supported by industry members from across the U.S. She explains the scholarship relieved financial stress so she could focus on classes, research, teaching, and helping coach the OSU meat judging team. Originally from near St. Louis, she entered animal science after showing pigs, discovered meat science through an intro class, and joined the OSU judging team in 2023, later earning high individual honors at Houston. She describes judging beef, pork, and lamb carcasses and wholesale cuts, emphasizing anatomy and industry specifications, and discusses interest in people-focused industry roles and possible future PhD considerations.   Topics 01:01 Grace Meets SMA 01:46 Roots and OSU Path 03:04 Scholarship Impact 03:49 Finding Meat Science 04:55 Career Goals and Networking 05:40 Judging Team Wins 06:01 Competition Mindset 08:23 How Meat Judging Works 09:53 Teaching and Coaching Students 11:11 What Judges Evaluate 12:35 Wrap Up and Thanks

Recorded in Fort Worth during the Cowtown/Southwest meat judging contest, Neil interviews Dr. Mark Miller of Texas Tech about meat judging’s role in recruiting and developing talent for the meat industry and the friendly-but-intense rivalries among top programs. Miller explains how contests expose students to major processors, retailers, and the broader supply chain, creating lifelong bonds and a “family” culture that extends into careers. He shares his own path into meat judging, his background growing up on a dairy farm, and his belief that the growth and longevity of meat judging are guided by faith. Miller describes SMA as transformational for small processors through safety and quality resources, and for universities through scholarships, internships, and community connection. He outlines Texas Tech’s meat science program, Red Raider Meats as a for-profit experiential business, extensive outreach at major shows, and the recent surge to record participation. The episode closes with Miller’s views on NIL and Texas Tech athletics, emphasizing culture and relationships over money.   Topics 01:05 Fort Worth Contest Roots 02:11 Sponsors And Industry Family 02:57 Rivalries Build Excellence 06:18 Bonding Through Judging 07:41 How Miller Got Started 10:37 Dairy Farm Work Ethic 12:39 Family Ministry Balance 14:02 Record Growth And Alumni 15:56 SMA Support And Scholarships 18:31 SMA As Industry Grandma 20:30 Family Culture Matters 21:21 Texas Programs Advantage 22:38 ConAgra Food Safety R&D 23:52 Early HACCP Transition 24:51 Texas Tech Meats Program 25:23 Red Raider Meats Business 26:59 Student Outreach Events 29:02 Recruiting And Competition 30:51 Careers Beyond Ag 32:34 NIL And Team Culture 35:06 Why Lubbock Wins 36:24 Texas Hospitality Story 38:11 Closing Thanks And Wrap

Neil interviews Megan Sorenson, coach of the University of Arizona meat judging team, discussing how the program was started and what it takes to build it. Sorenson, a Texas native who judged for Angelo State in 2023, moved to Arizona for the opportunity to coach and educate students; the University of Arizona, the state’s land-grant school, is celebrating 100 years of meat judging and only formed its first team two years ago. She explains recruiting students, growing from four members last year to six competing at the Southwestern contest (with a seventh overall), and balancing school support with fundraising for travel. Sorenson highlights Southwest Meat Association scholarships and industry support, describes coaching oversight at contests through the American Meat Science Association, and defines success as student integrity, effort, and improvement despite limited local beef-plant access.   Topics 01:16 Why Arizona Started a Team 02:11 SMA Scholarships Shoutout 03:52 Recruiting and Funding Challenges 05:39 How Megan Got Into Meat Judging 07:49 Coaching at Contests and MSA 11:04 Defining Success and Growth 12:20 Wrap Up and Next Episode

Neil interviews Dr. Loni Lucherk about how the Southwest Meat Association (SMA) supported her and her students through significant scholarship funding, convention experiences, and an industry “family” atmosphere. She describes her path into meat science from Grandview, Texas through 4-H/FFA and meat judging, leading to graduate degrees and a career coaching collegiate teams, and notes West Texas A&M’s recent contest successes. Dr. Lucherk emphasizes encouraging a wide range of hardworking students to apply for SMA scholarships, attend conventions to see diverse industry careers, and develop confidence, performance under pressure, competitiveness, and problem-solving through judging. She discusses giving back through time, talent, and treasure, her family life, and invites SMA members and businesses to visit WT’s meat lab and recruit students.   Topics 01:37 How SMA Changed Everything 03:29 Helping Students Find SMA 04:56 From Ranch Life to Industry 06:30 Her Meat Science Origin Story 09:31 WTAMU Wins and Programs 11:27 Scholarships Like Sports 13:10 Meat Judging Under Pressure 14:43 Officials and Giving Back 17:12 Family Life on the Road 19:25 Why Texas Tech 19:59 Why Texas Tech 20:45 Lubbock Ag Program Growth 21:53 Life in Canyon Ranch 22:17 Background Helps or Not 24:03 Judging Builds Careers 24:55 Mentors and Confidence 29:20 Keeping Students Involved 32:08 Competition and Coaching Styles 34:04 Gender and Industry Shifts 36:05 Mentors Shoutout and Wrap

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Neil welcomes Al Almanza, a veteran of the meat industry with extensive experience in various facets, including regulatory roles. The conversation explores Al's humble beginnings in San Antonio, where he started working at a local meat packing company during high school, and traces his career progression. Al talks about his educational experiences, transitioning from high school to different roles within the industry while working towards a degree in biology. He discusses his significant roles, from being a food inspector to ultimately becoming the administrator of FSIS (Food Safety and Inspection Service) under different U.S. administrations. Al also touches on his career at JBS, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges and rewards of his various positions. The episode highlights the vital role of agriculture and safe food practices, as well as the importance of supporting the industry's future through scholarships and mentorship.   Topics 00:57 Early Life and First Job in Meat Industry 03:31 Career Progression and Mentorship 06:29 Transition to Regulatory Roles 09:29 Leadership and Industry Insights 17:04 Reflections and Final Thoughts

Neil sits down with Ed Ruff at the 69th Annual SMA Convention to discuss the history and evolution of Ruff's family-owned meat business, established in 1928. The discussion covers topics such as the importance of the SMA organization, family traditions in meat production, the impact of regulation changes like HACCP, and the role of next-generation involvement. Ed also shares personal stories from the Great Depression era and insights into his family's resilience. The episode emphasizes the sense of community within SMA and the critical support from suppliers and industry experts.   Topics 01:24 History of the Company 01:44 SMA: A Family-Like Organization 02:01 Personal Stories and Experiences 04:07 Company Products and Operations 06:03 Challenges and Changes in the Industry 10:02 Regulatory Environment and Advocacy 16:26 Family Business Dynamics 23:10 Reflections and Closing Remarks

Dr. Jeff Savell, a prominent figure in meat science, shares his rich career journey. Growing up in Ferris, Texas, Dr. Savell reflects on his childhood, the influence of agriculture, and the pivotal role his mentors played. He discusses his educational path, including his time at Tarleton State University, and the foundational moments that led him to his distinguished career in meat science. Dr. Savell emphasizes the importance of people skills, mentorship, and building a community in education and the meat industry. Additionally, he shares personal anecdotes about his family, his long-standing marriage, and teaching experiences that have shaped his legacy. The episode also highlights the impact of extracurricular activities and the rewarding experience of seeing former students succeed in the industry.   Topics 00:26 Dr. Jeff Saveable's Early Life and Career Beginnings 01:07 Growing Up in Ferris, Texas 02:00 High School Years and Agricultural Involvement 04:10 Family and Personal Life 04:58 The Importance of Mentorship 10:04 College Journey and Meat Judging 13:57 Pursuing Higher Education and Career in Meat Science 16:58 Advice for Students and Career Reflections 19:27 Becoming Vice Chancellor and Dean 20:53 Immediate Impact of New Students 22:09 Decorating the Cake: Extracurricular Activities 24:33 Generational Teaching and Influence 26:12 The Importance of People Skills 29:12 A Love Story: Meeting Jackie 33:35 Family Legacy and Generations of Aggies 37:52 Favorite Classes and Teaching Barbecue  

Neil sits down with seasoned lawyer David Barron to explore his journey from working in a grocery store to becoming a prominent legal advisor in the meat industry. David shares insights on his educational background, the practicalities of law school, and how he navigated his career into employment law. The conversation covers the challenges and nuances of legal practice, particularly in relation to immigration laws and workplace compliance. David also opens up about his personal life, including his family, his passion for mountain climbing, and his role in the Boy Scouts. This episode provides a unique blend of professional advice and personal anecdotes, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in law, business, or the meat industry.   Topics 01:19 David Barron's Journey to Law 01:53 Early Career and Legal Practice 02:48 Challenges and Rewards of Being a Lawyer 07:00 Immigration Law and Business Compliance 10:34 Practical Advice for Business Owners 14:03 Diverse Experiences in the Legal Field 15:08 The Art of Communication in Law 16:14 Navigating the Courtroom Experience 19:49 Family Life and Personal Stories 25:35 Travel Tips and Professional Insights 27:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the podcast recorded at the 69th Annual SMA Convention and Supplier Showcase, Neil sits down with Ray Riley, a long-standing figure in the meat industry and Texas A&M University. Ray reflects on his impressive 43-year career at the Rosenthal Meat Science and Technology Center, his journey from a student to a lecturer and manager, and his deep connections within the meat science community. He shares interesting anecdotes, the importance of hands-on experience in education, and the significance of industry relationships. Ray also talks about his plans for retirement and the future of the Rosenthal Center under new leadership.   https://southwestmeat.org/meat-people-podcast/   https://southwestmeat.org/    Topics 00:23 Meet Ray Riley: Career Overview 02:47 Reflections on Retirement 05:12 Memorable Moments and Contributions 24:11 The Importance of Judging Teams 29:14 Hands-On Learning at Rosenthal Center 33:06 Closing Thoughts and Industry Insights

Tune in on Episode 7 of Meat People! Get the opportunity to 'meat' Jarrod Miller, an influential member of the Southwest Meat Association (SMA) and a key figure at Praters Foods. Host and guest discuss Jarrod's career path, from studying meat science at Texas Tech to working in various meat industry roles including his current position at Praters Foods. Jarrod shares insights into the history and operations of Praters Foods, emphasizing the company's evolution and involvement in manufacturing a variety of food products. Additionally, the episode touches on the broader meat industry, the value of associations like the SMA, and the importance of community and culture in business.   Visit https://praters.com/   Topics   00:30 Guest Introduction: Jarrod Miller 01:29 Jarrod's Journey in the Meat Industry 02:39 Career at Food Safety Net Services 04:48 The Importance of SMA and Meat Judging 09:37 Praters History and Evolution 11:19 United Supermarkets Acquisition 13:35 Maintaining Culture and Service Excellence 14:26 Challenges and Team Dynamics 14:38 Orientation and Employee Engagement 15:12 Scaling and Human Connection 17:01 Holiday Operations and Team Spirit 18:43 Leadership and Industry Involvement 24:22 Personal Life and Community Involvement 25:57 Product Highlights and Unique Offerings 27:45 Closing Remarks and Future Outlook

On this episode of #TheMeatPeople, Neil Dudley hosts Tyler, Sherri and Glen Kusak of Yoakum Packing in Yoakum, Texas. The discussion covers the rich history of their family business, the evolution of their operations from slaughtering to meat processing, and the importance of their involvement with the Southwest Meat Association (SMA). We hear personal testimonies about growing up within the business, the pivotal decisions that shaped its current form, and the family dynamics in play. The conversation also highlights the SMA Foundation's endowment and scholarship fund, and its vital role in supporting the meat industry. This episode offers a blend of personal stories, business insights, and the significance of familial bonds in a family-operated enterprise. Visit Legacy Campaign- https://southwestmeat.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Legacy-Campaign-Packet-6.25.25-1.pdf Farmpac- https://www.farmpac.com/ SMA- https://southwestmeat.org/ Convention Registration- https://web.cvent.com/event/9a217d35-cb6f-4899-85cc-6bd385d6af76/summary SMA Foundation page- https://southwestmeat.org/sma-foundation/   Topics 00:53 Family Ties and SMA Involvement 02:03 History of Yoakum Packing 03:37 Generational Shifts and Business Evolution 07:15 Challenges and Changes in the Meat Industry 09:36 Family Dynamics and Business Roles 15:16 Leadership and Future Prospects 22:40 Reflecting on Moving Back to a Small Town 23:19 Learning the Meat Industry 24:19 Challenges of Business Ownership 25:44 Marketing and Online Business 26:15 Key People in the Company 30:12 Family Dynamics in Business 32:13 Thoughts on Retirement 33:35 SMA Endowment Fund 41:23 Community Engagement and Events 43:01 Closing Remarks and Future Plans

On this episode we welcome Karrie Menz of Surlean Foods. She discusses her upbringing in a small farming community in Fredericksburg, Texas, and her initial unplanned entry into the meat industry, spurred by her education at Texas A&M University and early experiences on the meat judging team. She details her significant role and career growth in quality assurance at Owens Country Sausage. Karrie also shares insights about Surlean Foods, emphasizing its family-oriented culture and the importance of quality and food safety in their operations. Additionally, Karrie reflects on her service on the SMA board, highlighting her commitment to training, regulatory guidance, and supporting the next generation of industry leaders.   00:00 Introduction and Technical Glitch 00:31 Meet Karrie Menz: Background and Early Life 02:21 Karrie's Journey into the Meat Industry 05:10 Quality and Food Safety in the Meat Industry 14:35 The Importance of Trust and Food Safety 17:24 German Heritage and Family Recipes 18:04 The Sausage Bible: Documenting Culinary Traditions 19:21 Food Safety and Family Involvement 20:45 Career Paths and Surprising Journeys 21:22 Shirley: A Family-Owned Business 22:50 Customer Collaboration and Product Development 25:39 Involvement with SMA and Professional Growth 30:50 Reflections and Future Engagements

In this episode we welcome Amber Ondrusek from Columbia Packing, a 100-year-old family-owned meat business. Amber shares the rich history of the company, starting with her great-grandfather Joseph's journey from Czechoslovakia in 1913 to its official incorporation in 1923. Amber discusses the evolution of the business through various generations, the challenges and successes faced along the way, and the dynamics of being a woman in the traditionally male-dominated meat industry. The conversation also dives into the importance of family, the adaptation to changing times with new facilities, and the significance of being part of the SMA community. Notably, Amber highlights the role of long-term employees and family members in maintaining the company's legacy and values. This episode is a testament to the enduring spirit of entrepreneurship, family bonds, and community within the meat industry. More on Amber at http://columbiapacking.com/   Topics 01:40 History of Columbia Packing 03:59 Challenges and Changes in the Meat Industry 07:00 Family Legacy and Leadership Transition 17:19 Modern Operations and Facilities 18:04 Building the Smokehouse from Scratch 18:36 Challenges of an 80-Year-Old Plant 19:02 Rusty's Strategic Layout 20:33 Generational Transition and Finance 22:07 Learning and Mentorship 25:36 The Value of SMA Community 30:11 Balancing Tradition and Business 32:17 Employee Contributions and Legacy 34:17 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

In this episode of the Meat People podcast, Neil sits down with Rick Kimbrell, founder of StartKleen Legacy, to discuss his career and contributions to the food safety and sanitation industry. The conversation covers Rick's family legacy in the business, the early struggles and successes in establishing StartKleen, and the importance of leadership and training programs. Rick also shares personal anecdotes about growing up in a family involved with the Southwest Meat Association (SMA) and how this shaped his career. The episode highlights the evolving nature of the meat processing industry and the significant challenges and rewards of building and maintaining a business in this field.   Topics 00:46 Meet Rick Kimbrell: A Journey in the Industry 01:48 The Founder's Story: Rick Kimbrel and Start Clean 03:12 Leadership and Training at Start Clean 06:53 Family Legacy and Business Beginnings 11:21 Building and Growing Start Clean 17:41 Sales, Marketing, and Team Dynamics 20:05 The Essence of Selling and Community 20:31 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 20:49 Understanding the Meat Industry 21:48 Educating the Next Generation 23:04 Building a Legacy 26:25 Riding for the Brand 29:04 The Importance of Food Safety 30:19 Promoting the SMA and Career Opportunities 35:38 Farm Experiences and Visitor Reactions 37:04 Innovative Farm Accommodations 40:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Lacy Bates, SMA Membership Development Manager, joins Neil Dudley to discuss SMA’s upcoming 69th Annual Convention & Suppliers' Showcase at the Hyatt Hill Country in July. Lacy and Neil give a brief review of what to expect at this year's convention, including the speaker lineup, SMA Foundation scholarship fundraising efforts, and the family friendly atmosphere. Links: https://southwestmeat.org/ 2025 SMA Convention Page : https://bit.ly/3GAI5y4   Topics 00:51 Guest Introduction: Lacy Bates 02:23 Importance of Networking at the Convention 03:04 Details of the 69th Annual Convention 06:20 Golf Tournament and Scholarship Fundraising 10:18 Scholarship Program and Fundraising Efforts 13:29 Supplier Showcase and Networking Opportunities 17:43 Challenges and Goals for Future Conventions 20:53 Discussing the Convention Experience 21:38 Convention Costs and Value 23:13 Accommodation and Networking 24:20 Importance of Participation 24:47 Speaker Lineup and Topics 25:44 Immigration and Employment Labor 27:09 Regulatory Landscape and Legislation 29:53 Food Safety and Pathogens 31:16 Foreign Material Detection 32:28 Dealing with Animal Activism 36:40 Scholarship Fundraising and Recognition 39:05 Chairman's Dinner and Dance 39:53 Best of the Wurst Sausage Contest 40:28 Thanking the Sponsors 41:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Neil Dudley and Joe Harris welcome everyone to the show as they discuss the open, friendly environment of the Association, highlight a few impactful SMA members and share the mission of the Association.   Links: https://southwestmeat.org/ https://southwestmeat.org/hall-of-honor/ https://southwestmeat.org/benefits-of-membership/ 2025 SMA Convention Page : https://bit.ly/3GAI5y4   Topics 01:20 Meet Joe Harris: SMA President and CEO 04:12 The Importance of People in Associations 06:26 Memorable Figures in SMA History 18:54 The Evolution of SMA 21:52 Joe Harris' Journey to Meat Science 23:39 Deferring Vet School for Graduate Studies 24:20 First Job at Texas Beef Council 24:54 Career Advice and Industry Insights 26:09 Current Events and Industry Challenges 27:03 Regulatory Compliance and Food Safety 36:55 SMA Convention and Networking 40:19 SMA Foundation and Scholarships 44:37 Starting an Industry Association 47:12 Reflections and Future Plans