Westward Podcast: Episode 17:

Bucking the Stigma with Devin Bang

This episode brought to you by Warrior Counseling Works: ⁠⁠https://warriorcounselingworks.org/⁠⁠

Visit⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ devinoutwest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to pick up your copy of Words of the West!

This podcast is co-produced with⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LiveEQ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Click the link to shop horses, tack, stables, and jobs.

In this episode of the Westward Podcast, I chat with Devin Bang, the founder of Buck The Stigma.

Founded in 2023, Buck The Stigma aims to create awareness around mental health within the western horse industry.

Devin Bang shares her journey from growing up in a non-horse background, to becoming involved in the rodeo scene, and the struggles she faced with performance anxiety.

We dive deep into the importance of addressing mental health, the impact of anxiety on performance, and the power of community.

Devin emphasizes the importance of recognizing and normalizing mental health struggles, sharing personal stories, and providing resources.

We also discuss the future of Buck The Stigma, including new merchandise and potential resources for individuals struggling with similar issues.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

02:46 Devin Bang's Background in the Horse Industry

04:20 Transition to Breakaway Roping

06:23 Founding Buck The Stigma

07:03 Addressing Performance Anxiety

10:40 Imposter Syndrome in the Horse Industry

13:07 The Importance of Mental Health in the Western Industry

19:10 Starting the Buck The Stigma Brand

28:04 Facing Anxiety and Social Situations

28:16 Books and Podcasts for Self-Help

28:48 Understanding Root Causes of Anxiety

29:23 Perfectionism and Its Impact

30:32 Feeling Like an Outsider

32:40 The Importance of Human Connection

34:07 Balancing Alone Time and Socializing

38:30 Overcoming Fear and Embarrassment

39:59 Growth and Learning from Mistakes

45:20 Buck the Stigma: Future Plans

50:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts