Greetings, industrial enthusiasts! Welcome to a new episode of The Industrialist Podcast.

Today, we have the distinct pleasure of welcoming Rob Connelly, Executive Chairman and former CEO of Henny Penny Corporation—a company known not only for its cutting-edge foodservice equipment, but also for its world-class culture and remarkable legacy.

Rob joined Henny Penny two decades ago and led the company through a powerful transformation—becoming 100% employee-owned, expanding globally, and building deep, trusted partnerships with iconic brands like McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A, and KFC. Under Rob’s leadership, Henny Penny thrived with a unique long-term perspective, focusing on people, innovation, and trust.

In today’s episode, we’ll uncover the story behind Henny Penny—its fascinating name, its roots in Eaton, Ohio, and what makes it a standout example of enduring excellence in industry. We’ll explore the company's cultural foundation, its evolution from family ownership to ESOP, and the unique role Rob plays today as Chairman.

This is The Industrialist Podcast—where real leaders, real stories, and actionable strategies unfold.