What does it take to turn a lifetime of breeding experience into a library of respected reference books?
In this episode, we sit down with poultry breeder, author, and publisher Jeff Duguay, the creator of the acclaimed Making It to Champion Row series. While Jeff is widely known for his expertise in exhibition poultry, this conversation goes beyond the birds and into the story behind the books.
Jeff shares how a passion for raising chickens evolved into a mission to preserve knowledge, document breeding practices, and create resources for serious exhibition breeders. We explore the challenges of writing in a highly specialized niche, the research required to separate tradition from proven fact, and why authoritative books continue to matter in an age dominated by online information.
From his breed-specific works on Modern Game Bantams, Old English Game Bantams, Silkies, Cochins, Belgian d’Uccles, Sebrights, Belgian d’Anvers, and Crested Breeds, Jeff discusses what judges really look for, how successful breeding programs are built, and the recurring patterns he has observed among champion birds.
The conversation also examines the realities of publishing niche hobby books, the responsibility of preserving knowledge before it disappears, and the lessons Jeff has learned as both a breeder and an author. Along the way, he reflects on the books that challenged him most, the feedback that shaped his work, and what he hopes future generations of poultry breeders will gain from his writings.
Whether you’re an exhibition breeder, a poultry enthusiast, an aspiring author, or simply fascinated by how expertise is captured and passed on, this episode offers a rare look at the intersection of breeding, writing, and legacy.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- How Jeff Duguay became an author and publisher
- The inspiration behind the Champion Row book series
- Why serious breeders still rely on books in the internet age
- The process of researching and documenting specialized poultry knowledge
- Common misconceptions about breeding and exhibition success
- What separates champion birds from the rest
- The challenges of publishing in a niche field
- Why preserving breeding knowledge matters for future generations
- The legacy Jeff hopes his work will leave behind
Join us for a conversation about craftsmanship, documentation, and the enduring value of putting hard-earned knowledge into print.
Make sure to follow and watch our future shows. We plan to dive deep into the world of breeding and genetics, nutrition and health management, and provide essential tips, so you too can create high quality strains. Whether you’re breeding domestic chickens, gamefowl, or various types of livestock, this show is for you.
Watch Bred to Perfection Live – Friday’s at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST on YouTube – Join Kenny Troiano and guests as they explore advanced breeding techniques, poultry nutrition, health management, and genetic sustainability-all with one goal: helping you create high-quality, long-lasting strains.
See ya there!
Kenny Troiano
Founder of “The Breeders Academy”
We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl.
If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place.
We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl.
