MEAT People

Meet the Meat Board: Nick Nickelson, Don Rea & Greg Kimmel

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

Al Almanza's Journey through the Meat Industry

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

Ed Ruff: Family Ties and Meat Markets

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

‘Godfather of Meat Science’ Dr. Jeff Savell

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
 

From Grocery Clerk to Lawyer: David Barron

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

A Legacy in Meat Science: Ray Riley’s Journey and Reflections

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

Jarrod Miller's Journey with Praters Foods

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

The Legacy and Future of Yoakum Packing

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

Karrie Menz on Leadership and the Evolution of the Meat Industry

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

Amber Ondrusek & the 100-Year Legacy of Columbia Packing

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