Welcome back to The Showmom Code! You’re here with Jordan and Brandy, and today we’re tackling a topic every show family has to navigate at some point—buying show stock.

Whether you're brand new to the barn or just want to understand the why behind the how, this episode breaks down what it really takes to buy livestock—from sale platforms and breeder relationships to budget expectations and pro tips for families at every level.

We’re also diving into Barn Rule 105: Knowledge is Power, because the more you know going in, the better equipped you are to make smart, confident decisions for your kids and your program.

🎉 Huge thanks to Umbarger Show Feed’s Fullback for sponsoring this episode!

🧠 In This Episode:

The big picture of what buying show animals really involves

Why timing is everything

How to build relationships with breeders

The differences between private treaty, bid board sales, online sales, live auctions, and fitters/brokers

Our go-to platforms

Listener question in Ringside Unfiltered about family involvement and judgment in the barn

Plus: This week’s Showmom Challenge—share your first livestock buy story!

🎯 Whether it was a total win or a total mess, we want to hear how your first livestock purchase went. Share your story and tag us with #TheShowmomCode.

🧼 In Ringside Unfiltered, we answer a listener question about parents helping with projects—and how to handle those snide comments when you're right there feeding, washing, or fitting with your kid. Spoiler alert: helping isn’t cheating—it’s showing up.

If you’re heading into buying season, this one’s a must-listen.

💡 You don’t have to know everything—you just have to keep learning.