Shows
MEAT PeopleA Legacy in Meat Science: Ray Riley’s Journey and ReflectionsIn 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...2025-08-0735 min
MEAT PeopleJarrod Miller's Journey with Praters FoodsTune 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...2025-07-2328 min
MEAT PeopleThe Legacy and Future of Yoakum PackingOn 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...2025-07-0941 min
MEAT PeopleKarrie Menz on Leadership and the Evolution of the Meat IndustryOn 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...2025-06-2633 min
MEAT PeopleAmber Ondrusek & the 100-Year Legacy of Columbia PackingIn 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...2025-06-1135 min
MEAT PeopleBuilding Legacies: Rick Kimbrell and StartKleen LegacyIn 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...2025-05-2841 min
MEAT PeopleLacy Bates: SMA Membership Development Manager-69th Annual Convention & Suppliers' ShowcaseLacy 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
0...2025-05-1541 min
MEAT PeopleDr. Joe Harris: SMA President & CEO -Welcome to the SMA family!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...2025-04-3048 min