In this episode of Beyond the Rodeo, guest host Kaycie Timm is joined by World Champion Calf Roper Shane Hanchey, who recently won the 2025 American Rodeo Tie Down Roping. 

Join us as we dive into Shane's journey from his early aspirations of becoming a pro baseball player to his current status as a tie-down roping legend. Shane takes us through his impressive career by highlighting the milestones that have shaped his path, including a world title, 15 National Finals Rodeo (NFR) qualifications, and nearly $3,000,000 in PRCA earnings to date.

Gain valuable insights from Shane on the rising competitiveness in rodeo, driven by an influx of youth events, and learn how he's adapted to stay at the forefront of the sport.

Next, Shane gives listeners a peek behind the curtain into the life of a rodeo athlete, where the stakes are high and the challenges are many. Shane opens up about the physical and mental demands of rodeo, sharing personal stories of resilience and the emotional tug-of-war between career and family, especially during the hectic summer season. Discover his unique perspective on maintaining focus amidst these pressures, and his hopes of a different—and perhaps less chaotic—future for his son, Stran.

Finally, Shane shares about his Louisiana-inspired food trailer, where he offers a taste of Louisiana home cooking to folks all over Texas.

With anecdotes of memorable calves, cherished horses, and his favorite rodeos, Shane paints a vivid picture of the dedication and zeal needed to excel in the sport of rodeo throughout this riveting episode. 

Tina Battock holds many titles—General Manager of the Nashville Stampede, President of Morris Media Group, WSF Board Member, mom, and wife, just to name a few. In this episode of Beyond the Rodeo, Tina joins us to share how her career has led her forefront of media and into the heart of the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Team Series, where she serves as the first-ever female general manager. Her story shows how passion and drive can be shaped by strategic decisions and serendipitous moments. Tina reveals how her unexpected foray into the male-dominated world of professional bull riding led her to develop her skills and earn the honor of being named 2023 PBR Teams General Manager of the Year.

We dive into Tina's achievements, showcasing how her leadership and business acumen have shattered glass ceilings and inpsired young women everywhere. Tina's career is a testament to the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people and embracing new challenges with confidence and determination. 

The episode also delves into Western Sports Foundation's crucial role in supporting athletes beyond their competitive years. We explore how PBR teams like the Nashville Stampede foster environments that respect and nurture athletes as they transition to life after sports. The stories of figures such as Silvano Alves and Ryan Dirteater reflect the deep emotional ties within this community, demonstrating how mentorship can drive success. As we celebrate the inspiring stories of women and their allies in the Western sports industry, Tina underscores the importance of taking risks, embracing opportunities, and building a supportive network that inspires future generations.

Name a more iconic rodeo duo than Hailey Kinsel and Sister, we'll wait. That's right—Hailey Kinsel herself joins us on this epsiode of Beyond the Rodeo to share all about how her passion for horses has become a career beyond her wildest dreams.

Raised on a working cattle ranch, Hailey's journey to the professional rodeo circuit has included countless lifechanging moments. As she reflects on her career thus far, the four-time world champ doesn't just focus on victories; she emphasizes the importance of savoring the ride. From sharing about the horses who helped her grow as a horsewoman to discussing future plans and goals, Hailey gives listeners an inside view of her life in and out of the arena.

Hailey also opens up about sharing the intertwining of her faith and personal growth through her blog. She speaks candidly about the lessons learned from life's challenges and how sharing these stories fosters resilience and connection with her fans. 

This episode is packed with can't-miss stories, tales of rodeo victories, broadcasting adventures, and even a behind-the-scenes look at last year's Dancin' with the Rodeo Stars. Listen now!

Join us on episode 23 of Beyond the Rodeo as we unveil the highly anticipated second annual Dancin' with the Rodeo Stars event, which will take place April 10, 2025 in Fort Worth. WSF Director of Fund Development Mai-Brit Harvey joins us to share the excitement of this unique event where rodeo personalities and athletes step into the spotlight to perform dance routines. During the conversation, Mai-Brit and Aubrey reminisce about last year's vibrant inaugural event and share an exclusive sneak preview of what's in store for this year's event.

Our journey continues as we explore the success of first-time dancers in competition, featuring an engaging discussion with last year's co-champion, Callie Adams of Montana Silversmiths. Despite having no formal dance background, Callie and her partner, Kaleb Barrett, captivated audiences with their daring routine—with a little help from a professional dance coach. The camaraderie and supportive atmosphere among participants at the inaugural event created lasting friendships and a shared sense of accomplishment. 

Looking ahead, Aubrey and Mai-Brit reveal exciting updates on upcoming WSF events and gatherings, highlighting the support from partners like Montana Silversmiths, Pendleton Whiskey, and Boot Barn. Tune in to learn more about the innovative collaborations and the vibrant Western community that supports WSF's mission. 

Find all the details about Dancin' with the Rodeo Stars at https://givebutter.com/DWTRS25 and be sure to follow WSF on social media to be among the first to hear exciting announcements about future events and so much more. 

Two-time BFO World Champion Tyler Mansell brings an electrifying energy to the latest episode of Beyond the Rodeo as he shares his remarkable journey from young rodeo athlete to world champion bullfighter. Tyler's story is one of grit and determination, from teaching himself the ropes to honing his skills with some of the best bullfighters in the business. He offers an inside look at the intricacies of freestyle bullfighting and cowboy protection as well as the mental and physical hurdles he's overcome, including two significant knee injuries.

Tyler opens up about the trials of returning to the ring post-injury, where fear meets passion head-on. He reveals the signature moves and split-second decisions that mark his bullfighting style, sharing heart-pounding tales of near-misses and close calls. We delve into the wisdom gained from seasoned professionals and Western Sports Foundation clinics, which have been pivotal in shaping his mental toughness and financial acumen. Tyler’s tale is not just about physical prowess but also about smart choices that ensure longevity beyond the adrenaline rush of the arena.

Tyler's anecdotes of competing through injuries demonstrate the formidable resilience required in bullfighting and professional rodeo. Through tales of determination and the calculated risks of facing renowned bulls, Tyler embodies the spirit of adaptability and strength, proving that the true fight is as much within as it is in the ring.

Wondering how to achieve financial success as a rodeo athlete? Join us on Beyond the Rodeo for an enlightening conversation with Justin Bates, WSF provider and rodeo athlete turned financial planner. Justin's unique journey from bull riding in the heart of northwest Arkansas to advising athletes on financial acumen provides rare insights into the world of Western sports financial management. Through his work with Western Sports Foundation, Justin is dedicated to elevating financial literacy among rodeo athletes, especially in communities where financial resources are scarce.

In this episode, Justin shares practical strategies that rodeo athletes can use to keep their finances in check. Learn about the crucial distinction between personal and business expenses and how simple actions like setting up separate checking accounts can streamline financial management. Justin provides expert advice on leveraging credit cards for travel expenses without falling into common traps, and we discuss the importance of organized record-keeping to maximize tax deductions. 

Finally, Justin explores how rodeo athletes can secure their financial futures beyond their careers in the arena. From saving a portion of their winnings for retirement to investing in low-risk growth options, the episode is packed with actionable advice. We cover essential topics like tax management, budgeting, and the significant impact of financial literacy on future success. With guidance from mentors and the use of simple tools, athletes can prepare for life after rodeo, ensuring they not only compete with confidence but also thrive financially in the long run.

Kick off your New Year right by revitalizing your dietary goals!

WSF Provider April Dirteater, a registered dietitian and professional bodybuilder, joins us on Beyond the Rodeo to reveal her secrets for building a healthier lifestyle. April shares her refreshing philosophy on moving away from restrictive diets and honing in on sustainable, personalized nutrition habits. Whether you're a busy mom or a pro rodeo athlete, April's insights on flexibility and enjoyment in eating can help pave the way to long-lasting health improvements and prevent burnout.

We tackle common mindset challenges that come with adopting healthy eating habits, offering practical strategies to celebrate small victories and shift focus from self-criticism to self-improvement. April introduces techniques like food habituation to make nutritious choices more enjoyable and manageable. Challenging traditional views, we question breakfast's status as the "most important meal" and provide solutions for those who struggle to fit it into their mornings, with special attention to the nutritional needs of athletes.

The conversation also touches on practical tips for maintaining a nutritious diet on the road, emphasizing the importance of planning and whole foods. From exploring the role of GMOs in modern nutrition to offering balanced snacking advice, April provides valuable insights for athletes and non-athletes alike. Join us as we step into 2025 with informed dietary choices and a positive mindset.

In this episosde, Peyton Reinhardt, Western and Equestrian Community Marketing Manager for YETI, joins Aubrey to recap another successful National Finals Rodeo (NFR). YETI's ongoing collaboration with the Western Sports Foundation is a testament to the company's commitment to supporting athletes and creating unforgettable experiences for rodeo enthusiasts. This episode gives you an insider look into the art of building meaningful partnerships that not only elevate the sport but also support the athletes in profound ways.

Peyton and Aubrey also share more about the powerful of partnerships between sponsors and athletes, where respect and mutual admiration go beyond contractual commitments. Peyton shares the emotional highs of witnessing athletes triumph at prestigious events like the NFR. Highlights include Ryder Wright's world title win in saddle bronc riding and Shad Mayfield's all-around victory. The episode also honors the exceptional talents of breakaway ropers like YETI athlete Jordan Hollabaugh, and delves into the challenges of balancing a home life with the rigorous rodeo lifestyle. Join us as we explore the passion and resilience that define the rodeo community and the unforgettable moments that inspire us all.

On this episode of the Beyond the Rodeo, Aubrey sits down with WSF Director of Fund Development Mai-Brit Harvey to discuss WSF's plans for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo! 

If you're in Las Vegas December 5-14, make plans to stop and see your WSF family at the YETI booth in Cowboy Christmas. 

Mark your calendars for the following special events:

• Thursday, December 5, 12 to 1 p.m. – WSF Happy Hour with Shad Mayfield and Richmond Champion            
• Friday, December 6, 12 to 1 p.m. – WSF Happy Hour with Luke Branquinho and Jordan Jo Hollabaugh             
• Saturday, December 7, 12 to 1 p.m. – WSF Happy Hour with Hailey Kinsel and Tyler Pearson
• Friday, December 13, 12 to 1 p.m. –  WSF Happy Hour with Stetson and Rusty Wright
• Saturday, December 14, 12 to 1 p.m. – WSF Happy Hour with Derrick Begay

Join us for an engaging episode of Beyond the Rodeo, where we explore the rich tapestry of rodeo life and Western sports with WSF board member Jess McConnell.

Growing up in rural Wyoming and later pursuing a career in the oil and gas industry, Jess shares how his career took him around the globe and ultimate brought him back to his Western roots. He reflects on his family's passion for professional bull riding and how it evolved into a beloved hobby following his retirement.

Listen in as we discuss the profound sense of community within the rodeo and Western sports industry. Jess's personal experiences highlight the support and camaraderie that define this unique world, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community through his role on the board. The conversation also touches on the strategic advancements being made to support athletes and the critical role of board engagement in enhancing the foundation's impact, bringing new perspectives and positive changes to the forefront.

Jess also shares his take on the transformative power of education for Western athletes and his personal commitment to funding education in honor of his late wife, Fon. Through the Fon McConnell Be Cowboy scholarship, Jess and WSF provide educational opportunities that align with the values of the rodeo community.

To wrap it up, Jess shares insights into how fans and supporters can contribute meaningfully, emphasizing that small donations can collectively lead to significant support for athletes. Join us as we celebrate the legacy and growth of Western sports, ensuring a brighter future for both athletes and the community.