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SMA

A podcast

for Meat People

SMA’s Meat People Podcast highlights unique stories and accomplishments

By Lacy Bates SMA

Earlier this year, Southwest Meat Association (SMA) launched a podcast, Meat People. The goal of the podcast is to sit down and hear stories from well … meat people. Everyone has a unique story of how they joined the meat industry. For some it’s a family legacy; others stumbled into the industry just by chance. Tune in and subscribe to SMA’s Meat People Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

‘Godfather of Meat Science’, Dr. Jeff Savell

‘Meat' the Godfather of Meat Science-Dr. Jeff Savell, a prominent figure in meat science, shares his rich career journey. 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 at Texas A&M University.

Karrie Menz on Leadership and the Evolution of the Meat Industry

Karrie Menz, VP of Quality at Surlean Foods, discusses her 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 into 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.

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

Ray Riley, a long-standing figure in the meat industry and Texas A&M University, reflects on his impressive 43-year career at the Rosenthal Meat Science and Technology Center at Texas A&M University, 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.

Amber Ondrusek & the 100-Year Legacy of Columbia Packing

Amber Ondrusek from Columbia Packing, a 100-year-old family-owned meat business shares the rich history of the company, starting with her great-grandfather Joseph’s journey from Czechoslovakia in 1913. 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 dives into the importance of family, the adaptation to changing times with new facilities, and the significance of being part of the SMA community.

The Legacy and Future of Yoakum Packing

Tyler, Glen and Sherri Kusak of Yoakum Packing in Yoakum, Texas discuss the rich history of their family business, the evolution of their operations from slaughtering to further processing, and the importance of their involvement with SMA. You’ll hear personal testimonies about growing up within the business, the pivotal decisions that shaped its current form, and the family dynamics in play. This episode offers a blend of personal stories, business insights, and the significance of familial bonds in a family-operated enterprise.

Jarrod Miller’s Journey with Praters Foods

Jarrod Miller, an influential member of SMA and a key figure at Praters Foods, discusses his career path, from studying meat science at Texas Tech University 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 SMA, and the importance of community and culture in business.

Building Legacies: Rick Kimbrell and StartKleen Legacy

Rick Kimbrell, Founder of StartKleen Legacy, discusses 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 in SMA and how it shaped his career.