Beasley Equine Podcast

A 4 a.m. wake-up, a four-hour haul, and a seventh grader who ropes with the poise of a seasoned header—meet Ty Eldridge from Harrisburg, Arkansas. We sit down with Ty to explore how a 12-year-old turns school days, barn chores, and practice nights into solid runs, quiet confidence, and a bond with a five-year-old gelding named Skid Rock. It’s a story about discipline that doesn’t need drama, mentorship that works in the practice pen, and the kind of horse care that shows up when the gate opens.

Ty walks us through his events—team roping on the head side, breakaway, ribbon roping, and goat tying—and the training rhythm he leans on: live cattle for timing, the dummy for fixing habits, and daily saddle time that keeps his horse responsive without burning him out. We talk through jackpot nerves, competing against adults, and the mental routine that steadies your hand in the box. He opens up about losses and small wins, the lightbulb moment in Searcy when breakaway finally clicked, and why humility and patience beat shortcuts and hype.

We also get practical about equine health and performance. Ty shares how quality hay and a simple GI routine keep Skid Rock feeling good on the road, and we break down a stress-aware approach—prioritizing forage, friends, and freedom—that helps hauled horses stay settled. From starting young horses to representing sponsors like Cactus Ropes with integrity, Ty’s perspective is refreshingly grounded. He’s chasing a saddle, dreaming of a gold buckle, and keeping the work honest—proof that grit, good mentors, and better horsemanship can carry a young athlete a long way.

If this conversation leaves you inspired, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves rodeo or youth sports, and leave a quick review telling us your best pre-competition ritual.

Meet Cailey Divine, a remarkable 17-year-old who embodies the perfect balance of academic excellence and rodeo prowess. Already taking college-level courses while serving as her FFA chapter president, she's set to graduate with an associate's degree before even finishing high school—all while competing at championship levels in breakaway roping, barrel racing, and pole bending.

From her earliest days on horseback to winning rounds at prestigious events like Oklahoma's Richest Breakaway Roping, Cailey's journey reveals the extraordinary dedication required to excel in both academics and rodeo. Her strategic approach to time management—completing homework during long drives to competitions—demonstrates wisdom beyond her years. With multiple sponsorships from industry leaders like Prefert, Heel-o-matic, and Smarty Rodeo (where she now serves as a trainer), Cailey has established herself as a rising star in the rodeo world. 

What truly sets Cailey apart is her crystal-clear vision for the future. After exploring various career paths, she's set her sights on agricultural communications with the goal of becoming a rodeo broadcaster—a dream sparked by meeting professionals in the field. Her perspective on the unique supportive culture within rodeo provides heartwarming insight into why this community remains special: "Someone's horse is sore? Jump on mine. Blow a tire? We're coming to get you." Behind her success stands incredibly supportive parents who've built practice arenas, driven countless miles, and maintained her rigorous schedule. Cailey's advice rings true for anyone chasing dreams: find your passion, surround yourself with supportive people, and never let others' opinions derail your journey. Ready to be inspired? Listen now and discover how determination, family support, and clear goals can create extraordinary results at any age.

Youth, passion, and rodeo excellence take center stage as we welcome Carson, an eighth-grade competitor who's quickly making a name for himself in junior rodeo. Fresh off an impressive showing at the Wildfire competition where he secured buckles in both Steer Dobbin and Breakaway, Carson shares the journey that's brought him to this point.

The chemistry between Carson and his trusted horse Pistol forms the cornerstone of his competitive success. Their partnership—built through countless hours of practice and mutual understanding—has yielded multiple victories and no less than three second-place finishes at recent events. With disarming honesty, Carson walks us through his pre-competition routine, from trailer packing to horse preparation, while offering a glimpse into how he manages the inevitable nerves that come before entering the box.

Family emerges as the foundation of Carson's rodeo pursuits. His father serves as both life coach and technical instructor, while sister Logan partners with him in team events. As he prepares to balance eighth-grade academics with his ambitious rodeo schedule, Carson offers wisdom beyond his years about time management challenges and his goals for the upcoming season. Whether discussing his professional inspirations or sharing fishing tales from ponds and ocean piers, Carson's genuine enthusiasm for both competition and camaraderie shines through. For parents and young riders alike, this conversation provides valuable insights into nurturing passion while navigating the practical demands of youth athletics.

Subscribe to the Beasley Equine Podcast for more conversations with rising stars and industry veterans who share their journeys and wisdom from the arena to the barn and beyond.

Ever wonder what it takes to be a rodeo champion before you're even in double digits? Eight-year-old Logan gives us a refreshing glimpse into the world of youth rodeo with a maturity and focus that belies her tender age.

Logan, who rides an eight-year-old horse aptly named Stanley, opens up about her impressive rodeo repertoire. She competes in barrels, poles, goats, flags, healing, breakaway, daubing, and goat tying—practically everything a peewee competitor can enter. With disarming honesty, she shares her preference for barrel racing simply because "I just like it. You get to go fast." Her passion for speed delivered results when she recently clocked an impressive 15-second run.

The conversation reveals the special bond between young riders and their equine partners. Logan speaks warmly about Gonzo, her recently retired horse with whom she shares a special connection. When asked what superpower she would give her horses, her answer speaks volumes: "I would give Gonzo to stay alive forever and never turn too old to ride, and I want Stanley to go really fast. Like Superman." These heartfelt words highlight the deep relationships formed between children and their competition horses.

Despite her young age, Logan has already collected impressive accolades, including two saddles won in consecutive years. Now she's set her sights on winning her first buckle and possibly even a trailer at upcoming competitions. All this while balancing third grade, daily horse care, and training sessions where she makes sure to "make them sweaty." Her secret to staying organized? "My mom tells me what to do," she admits candidly—a universal truth for successful kids everywhere.

Want to hear more about youth rodeo from those who live it every day? Subscribe to the Beasley Equine Podcast for more conversations with inspiring equestrians of all ages. Have you ever competed in youth sports at a high level? Share your experiences in the comments!

The journey from coal miner's son to respected farrier and ranch operator unfolds in this captivating conversation with Ricky, whose story proves that passion and perseverance can overcome any obstacle.

Growing up in Painesville, Eastern Kentucky, Ricky's early exposure to horses was limited until a life-changing encounter with his future wife Jade through youth rodeos. Their connection, strengthened by their shared experience with type 1 diabetes, would eventually lead to the creation of Wildfire Ranch - now a thriving equestrian destination in Southern Illinois.

Diagnosed at just four years old with a blood sugar level of 989, Ricky narrowly survived what could have been a fatal episode. This health challenge has shaped his approach to life, work, and now parenthood. "It's inconvenient, but ain't impossible," he reflects, embodying the resilient spirit that drives his success as both a skilled farrier and business operator.

Wildfire Ranch stands as testament to vision and hard work. What began as a simple request to till a small practice area for barrel racing has evolved into an impressive facility featuring a covered arena, nearly 100 stalls, on-site lodging, a café known for excellent fried fish, and family-friendly amenities including putt-putt golf and playgrounds. The ranch draws participants from across the country for youth rodeos, barrel races, and other events, creating a community where "kids can make memories."

Alongside running the ranch, Ricky continues to develop his farrier skills, traveling regularly with established professionals to shoe 25-40 horses during multi-day clinics. His advice to aspiring farriers? "Don't quit. When you start, it's going to be miserable, but it gets easier the more horses you do and the more you educate yourself."

As he balances the demands of his craft, the ranch, and an eight-month-old daughter, Ricky's story reminds us that with determination, continuous learning, and strong community support, extraordinary things are possible - even when facing significant challenges.

Check out Wildfire Ranch on Facebook to discover upcoming events and everything they offer at this unique Southern Illinois equestrian destination.

The mysterious world of equine chiropractic care comes into sharp focus as Dr. Kiley Kelly, veterinarian and certified equine chiropractor, shares her professional journey and practical wisdom. What begins with the story of a family pony named Salty—transformed from bucking menace to dream ride after a single adjustment—evolves into a fascinating exploration of how subtle spinal issues profoundly affect horse performance and comfort.

Dr. Kelly demystifies the science behind vertebral subluxations—those slight misalignments that restrict motion and create cascading problems throughout a horse's body. She expertly distinguishes between genuine chiropractic needs and underlying lameness issues that require different veterinary attention, emphasizing how proper diagnosis prevents wasted time and resources. Her candid assessment of saddle fit as the primary culprit behind recurring chiropractic issues offers a wake-up call for many horse owners holding onto expensive but problematic equipment.

The conversation takes an unexpected turn when Dr. Kelly reveals the profound connection between rider and horse biomechanics. Her account of treating two different horses with identical subluxation patterns—resolved only after their teenage rider received human chiropractic care—illuminates how our own physical imbalances directly impact our equine partners. This holistic perspective extends to practical advice on preventative care, from regular dental work and balanced exercise to stretching techniques that maintain flexibility and comfort.

Ready to discover if your horse's mysterious behavioral changes might have a spinal solution? Listen now and gain insights that could transform your understanding of equine wellness and performance. For personalized consultation, reach Dr. Kelly at 217-294-3947 or through her Facebook page "Kiley Kelly DVM LLC."

Full Chiropractic adjustment here! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yy1qXZceJKs&t=12s

The future of rodeo shines bright through riders like Claire Woods, the fourteen-year-old breakaway roper we're proud to sponsor for the 2025-26 season. Fresh out of school for summer and heading into her freshman year, Claire opens up about balancing practice sessions with the everyday responsibilities of country life.

At the heart of Claire's rodeo journey stands Steve Earle – her loyal horse who, as she repeatedly assures us with a smile, "is still not for sale." This partnership has already produced impressive results, including a personal best breakaway time of 3.99 seconds. Though qualified for finals, Claire's chosen to focus on open rodeos this summer, with her sights set on the Whippoorwill finals where consistency will be key to success.

What makes Claire's story especially compelling is the wisdom she's developed at such a young age. She reflects candidly on overcoming the paralyzing nerves of her first rodeo experience, the mentorship she receives from rodeo veterans Larry Darnell and Abby Stevens, and how she's learning to channel competitive anxiety into focused performance. Beyond the arena, Claire embodies the full country lifestyle – caring for her seven dogs (six corgis and one mini Aussie), fishing with her brother, and nurturing her connection to the land and animals that define her world. Follow Claire's journey this season as she and Steve Earle chase dreams one calf at a time, representing the timeless values that make rodeo not just a sport, but a way of life.

Shaylen Rowland might only be sixteen, but she's already mastering multiple arenas – from barrel racing to silversmithing to Future Farmers of America leadership. 

Behind the reins of her trusted partner Potato Chip, Shaylen navigates the competitive rodeo circuit while carefully managing his recovery from gastric ulcers. Their journey reveals the deep bond between horse and rider, along with the critical importance of recognizing subtle changes in equine behavior that might signal health concerns. "When you know a horse like I know Chip, you can tell when things are off," Shaylen shares, demonstrating wisdom beyond her years.

What truly sets this young competitor apart is her entrepreneurial spirit. As founder of Ranchy But Fancy Silver Co, Shaylen creates stunning custom silver and turquoise jewelry for the western community. After learning silversmithing through an online course, she's building a business crafting everything from statement jewelry to functional tack accessories. Her work exemplifies the creativity and drive flourishing among today's young western athletes who refuse to be defined by a single pursuit.

Perhaps most remarkable is Shaylen's clear vision for her future in equine sports medicine – a passion sparked by experiences with her first barrel horse, Reno. "She taught me not just about barrel racing, but about veterinary medicine," Shailen explains, crediting those early veterinary visits for revealing her professional calling. As she balances FFA leadership positions, rodeo competition, and business development, Shaylen embodies the multifaceted potential of rodeo's next generation.

Follow Ranchy But Fancy Silver Co on Facebook to discover Shaylen's custom creations and support this inspiring young athlete as she continues breaking barriers in western sports and entrepreneurship!

Welcome back to the show!! We apologize for the two week hiatus, our producer/editor Jon has been out for the birth of his daughter, but we are back every week!!

Meet Avery Stevens, a remarkable 13-year-old rodeo competitor who's making her mark in breakaway roping, ribbon roping, and team roping events. Raised around horses her entire life but only recently diving into serious competition, Avery brings a refreshing perspective on what makes rodeo special.

Guided by her grandfather Larry Darnell, a respected figure in Southern Illinois roping circles, Avery has developed impressive skills that are taking her to the National Little Britches Rodeo at the prestigious Lazy E Arena. Her journey illustrates the unique blend of family tradition, mentorship, and personal determination that defines rodeo culture.

What stands out in this conversation is Avery's insight into the mental challenges of competition. "Sometimes it gets the best of me," she admits about backing into the box before a run. Her grandfather helps her navigate these challenges, recognizing that "your biggest opponent is yourself" – wisdom that applies far beyond the rodeo arena.

The special relationship between Avery and her horses – 8-year-old Vinny and 23-year-old Otis – reveals the deep bond that develops between riders and their equine partners. When asked what superpower she'd give her horses, Avery thoughtfully responds she'd want them to talk so she could understand what they're thinking.

Perhaps most striking is Avery's description of the rodeo community's supportive nature. Unlike many competitive sports, rodeo competitors actively help each other succeed, even when competing in the same events. This culture of mutual support, combined with the sport's accessibility across age groups, makes rodeo unique among youth sports.

Looking ahead, Avery plans to balance her rodeo pursuits with nursing school, following in her sister Abby's footsteps while continuing to rodeo "forever." Her story reminds us why rodeo remains such a powerful tradition – it's not just about winning, but about building character, community, and lifelong skills.

Listen to discover why this young competitor's journey matters and what we can all learn from her approach to both rodeo and life.

Ever wonder what's really happening inside your horse's digestive system? Dr. Masa Williams, PhD equine nutritionist at Purina, takes us on a fascinating journey through the cutting-edge science behind modern horse nutrition in this information-packed episode.

With a background in rodeo and growing up on a multi-species farm, Dr. Williams brings both practical experience and scientific expertise to the table. She breaks down the critical difference between prebiotics and probiotics, explaining how Purina's new Systemic supplement containing Bacillus coagulans GBI 30 underwent ten years of research to ensure it actually survives the journey through the horse's digestive tract—unlike many probiotics on the market. This specialized probiotic has shown remarkable results in reducing inflammation markers and improving digestive health.

The conversation explores Purina's innovative approach to common equine health challenges. We learn about Outlast, a unique calcium-magnesium honeycomb complex derived from seaweed that buffers stomach acid within minutes and protects against ulcers for up to four hours—perfect for performance horses or during stressful situations like trailering. Dr. Williams also guides us through feeding options for developing foals, explaining how different growth feeds (Impact Mare in Foal, Omolene 300, and Ultium Growth) match various genetic predispositions and growth rates.

For senior horse owners, you'll discover why Equine Senior has become such a trusted complete feed, containing both nutrients and forage in a form that dissolves quickly to prevent choking in older horses with dental issues. The ActiveAge technology included in senior feeds enhances immune function and reduces inflammatory markers, with research showing improved vaccine response in aging horses.

Perhaps most exciting is the glimpse into the future of equine nutrition through microbiome science. Purina's Microbiome Quotient platform allows owners to submit fecal samples for analysis, receiving personalized feeding recommendations based on their horse's unique gut bacterial profile. Dr. Williams explains how diet dramatically influences the microbial ecosystem in the hindgut, which in turn affects everything from nutrient absorption to immune function.

Connect with Dr. Williams and the Purina team through your local dealer or veterinarian to tap into their wealth of nutrition knowledge and discover research-backed solutions for your horse's specific needs.