Controlled Burn Ignites New Connections For Kansas Beef

Oct 14, 2025

The Kansas Beef Council (KBC) recently participated in Controlled Burn, a first-of-its-kind live-fire cooking fundraiser benefiting BoysGrow, a Kansas City nonprofit that mentors urban youth through agriculture, entrepreneurship and culinary training. The event brought together top Kansas City chefs, community members and BoysGrow participants for an immersive evening centered on food, fire and purpose.

Through its sponsorship, KBC worked to connect beef to Kansas City’s vibrant food scene while highlighting the people, passion and values behind the state’s beef industry. The event served as a platform to build relationships with chefs and community leaders, and also inspired the next generation of culinary professionals to learn more about where and how their food is produced.

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Video: Pork Industry Priorities - Dr. Brett Kaysen

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show, Dr. Brett Kaysen, senior vice president of producer and state engagement lead at the National Pork Board, outlines a bold strategy for the pork industry's future. He explores how national and state collaborations are strengthening the U.S. pork supply chain, why swine health must take center stage, and the importance of youth involvement for long-term sustainability. Hear how leadership, strategy, and grassroots action are shaping tomorrow’s industry. Listen now on all major platforms!

"It’s all about driving demand, partnering with our states, and making for a healthier swineherd."

Meet the guest: Dr. Brett Kaysen / brett-kaysen-b2a970108 serves as senior vice president of producer and state engagement lead at the National Pork Board. With a Ph.D. in Animal Sciences from Colorado State University, his leadership spans academia, industry, and youth development. From advancing swine sustainability to leading grassroots collaborations, Dr. Kaysen brings over 20 years of insight to the pork sector.