Getting to know the VG brothers: Chad Van Groningen
If you’re a longtime VG Meats’ customer, you’re probably somewhat familiar with our story. VG Meats is a fourth generation family business that is currently run by four brothers: Cory, Chad, Kyle and Kevin Van Groningen. We learned everything we know from our parents and grandparents, and we love what we do.
Over the next few weeks, we’ll be introducing you to each of the brothers individually by getting them to answer ten questions about life, business and their role at VG Meats. We already introduced Kevin, and today we’re talking to brother #2, Chad.
How would you describe your role in the business?
I would describe my role much the same as other small business owners or farmers in that you have your hands in all parts of the business from morning til night. Even when you're not "working," you are thinking about the strategy to bring more life and prosperity to the business and everyone involved in it.
Tell us about your family.
I am the second born. I stand behind my wife, Nicole, and am a proud father of two boys: Jared (14) and Troy (13).
Regenerative farming practices are something that as a family, we spend a lot of time talking about and implementing into our operations and life. We see this as the way forward for future generations — it will fix many things in the world that are wrong today. It's a lot closer to the way past generations succeeded, and we feel that old needs to be new again.
Who do you look up to?
I look up to our grandparents and their generation. They came from absolutely nothing and built the country we know today. Those were truly tough times where family and building a future for them was top priority. Material goods were something that came after the hard work.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy the outdoors and spending time with family and friends in it.
What's your favourite thing to cook (or eat)?
As a family gatherings are all focused around food, and I would say we can all handle ourselves quite well in the kitchen. My favorite thing to cook would definitely be a tri tip on the Pellet grill.
If you weren't in the family business, what would you be doing?
If I wasn't in the business I would likely still be involved in the agriculture industry in some capacity. I like working with my hands and like to be able to think problems through.
What is your favourite thing about VG Meats?
We get to bring great products to the market for other families to enjoy, and we are also able to lead change in the industry. There will always be better ways to farm and run our business. Learning and changing will be continuous and ever-evolving.