Ep303 – Writing the Champion Row Series: Jeff Duguay on Books, Breeding, and Legacy

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.

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