A third-generation meat cutter, Kari was introduced to the trade by her father at Underly’s Market, a butcher shop and ice cream parlor in Lydick, Indiana. As an adult, she entered a three-year meat cutting apprenticeship program and became a journeyman meat cutter with Martin's Super Market in South Bend, Indiana. Over time, Kari continued to develop her cutting skills and product knowledge as well as her business savvy and instincts for merchandising and marketing. Today, retailers, foodservice operators, associations, chefs, and farmers across the country regularly tap into Kari's expertise.

With an in-depth knowledge of beef products and a passion for exploring flavors and cooking styles, Kari was a natural choice for the feature article, "Love Me Tender," in the February 2011 issue of Better Homes and Gardens. She has also been a guest on Martha Stewart Living Radio, Food Network's Unwrapped, and WGN's Midday News.

In September 2011, Kari appeared on NBC's TODAY Show where she demonstrated how to select and prepare cuts of beef that offer the flavor and tenderness of premium cuts but at a lower price. Likewise, in participating in the development of both the Flat Iron Steak and the Denver Cut, Kari's commitment to the consumer is to bring convenient and correct portion sizes to the meat case and the dinner table.

For a list of current media coverage, please view the Media page.