Mornings in D Minor

Hosts Drew and Shane sat down with "Big Brian" from Laredo Conversions to discuss the major truck giveaway featured at last year's #9.5 Finale. Brian reflected on his early career journey from the nuclear industry into custom vehicle conversions, sharing how he built Laredo Conversions through perseverance, strong customer service, and faith. The group discussed the craftsmanship behind custom hauler beds, the importance of treating vendors with cash-on-delivery respect, and the wisdom gained from navigating business ups and downs over the decades.

In this episode of Mornings in D-Minor, the hosts kicked off the morning with legendary auctioneer Steve Friskup, known as "The Colonel." The conversation highlighted the world of western performance horses, team roping, and the evolution of the auction industry.

Steve shared his journey from working at a local sale barn as a teenager to managing major equine auctions across the country. The group discussed the expanding market for team roping horses, how breeding standardizations transformed the equine industry, and the importance of putting customers first. Steve also reflected on his daily inspirational show, Coffee with the Colonel, and shared how his faith and passion for the western lifestyle guided his decades-long career.

In this episode of Mornings in D Minor, hosts Shane and Drew sat down with special guests Garth and Gage Gardner to dive deep into the worlds of elite horse breeding and country music.

Garth shared the fascinating backstory of the legendary stallion, Hickory Holly Time (affectionately known as Oliver). He recounted purchasing the stallion as a two-year-old, his incredible run to the Derby championship in Paso Robles, and the whirlwind deal that eventually transferred ownership to Dean Tuftin. The guys also broke down the monumental financial impact of the Riata Buckle on the rope horse industry and how its massive payouts completely reshaped the EquiStat earnings landscape.

Later in the morning, the conversation shifted from the arena to the stage as 22-year-old country artist Gage Gardner opened up about his musical journey. He detailed his early days of pounding the pavement and knocking on doors throughout the Fort Worth Stockyards just to secure his first 30-minute gig. Gage also shared a hilarious backstage blunder where he accidentally called country legend Tracy Lawrence "Tracy Chapman" right before a show.

To wrap up the morning, Gage treated the hosts and listeners to a live, captivating acoustic performance of his original song, "Miss Forever."

The hosts were joined by Western industry leaders Dustin Noblitt (President of Cactus Ropes/Pro Rodeo Originals) and Devon Markham (Resistol Hats) for a lively, candid conversation about the booming revival of cowboy culture. The group discussed the massive influx of newcomers to the Western lifestyle since 2020 and how iconic brands like Resistol are embracing this growth by teaching youth and newcomers how to carry themselves—both inside and outside the arena.

Devon and Dustin also shared an inside look at the prestigious Resistol Rookie of the Year luncheon, the competitive dynamics of team roping, and the highly anticipated announcement of the Resistol Man of the Year. Plus, the crew took a humorous trip down memory lane, recalling a famous altercation in Denver and Drew’s questionable past attempts at ironing a sport coat.

• The Post-COVID Western Boom: How the mainstream media and the public have turned back toward the "Cowboy Code" and authentic Western values.
• The Power of the Cowboy Hat: Why walking down the streets of New York City in a Resistol hat commands instant respect and a sense of wholesome security.
• Resistol Rookie of the Year: The legacy, rules, and prestige behind a buckle that a pro rodeo athlete only gets one shot in their lifetime to win.
• Shaping the Next Generation: The impact of Team Resistol at the High School Finals and mentoring young athletes on social media etiquette and professionalism.
• Dustin Noblitt’s "Even Keel" Leadership: Devon and Drew shared appreciation for Dustin’s humble, steady approach to growing the industry.

• Follow the action live at WSTRoping.com
• Catch up on more rodeo coverage powered by Holiday Auto Group on EQN Sports.

Keywords: Resistol Day, National Finals Rodeo, Cowboy Culture, Resistol Hats, Cactus Ropes, Pro Rodeo Rookie of the Year, Team Roping, Western Lifestyle, South Point Las Vegas.

The latest episode of Mornings in D Minor features a special live-taped conversation at the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa during the National Finals Rodeo (NFR). Join hosts Drew Stewart and Shane Miner as they are joined by the legendary rodeo clown and entertainer Flint Rasmussen.

The group reflects on their deep-rooted family connections and shared history in the Western sports world. Flint shares a poignant story about his decision to step away from the arena after 30 years and the emotional impact it had on his daughter. The conversation also covers:

• The NFR Atmosphere: The hosts and guests discuss the vibrant energy in Las Vegas during the NFR and the evolution of the nightly awards show at the South Point.
• Rodeo Legends: Personal anecdotes about rodeo icons like Joe Beaver, Cody Johnson, and Jake Barnes.
• The Art of the Craft: Insights into the skills required for rodeo announcing, clowning, and even the "lost art" of the auctioneer's chant.
• Music and Performance: Shane Miner performs a song he wrote, and the group discusses the intrinsic link between music, rhythm, and the competitive spirit.
• Life Transitions: An honest look at the physical and mental toll of a long career in rodeo and the challenges of finding new passions after retirement.

This episode offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the camaraderie and mutual respect among some of the most influential figures in professional rodeo.

In this episode of Mornings in D Minor, hosts Dru Stewart and Shane Minor looked back on their broadcast from the South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. They were joined by two legends of the rodeo world: Ryan Growney, General Manager of the South Point, and Hall of Fame announcer Jeff Medders.

The group dove into the high-energy atmosphere of last year's World Series of Team Roping. They shared an incredible story about an impromptu, late-night performance by country music icon Wynonna Judd, who joined Aaron Watson on stage after a sold-out show.

The conversation also shifted to the logistical marvels required behind the scenes. The guests detailed the rigorous health and safety protocols that were in place for the 3,500 horses on-site and the scientific precision used to manage the world-class arena dirt. Jeff and Ryan also shared their personal journeys in the industry, reflecting on Jeff’s transition from sports broadcasting to rodeo and Ryan’s path to becoming one of the youngest GMs on the Vegas Strip. The episode concluded with a look at the "cowboy culture" that defined that week in Vegas and a recap of the massive Riata Horse Sale.

In this high-energy episode, Drew and Shane shake off the morning "giggles" to sit down with Richard Jones, a veteran of the Western sports industry with over 11 years of experience at the South Point Hotel and Casino. The trio dives deep into the heart of cowboy culture, the evolution of the PBR, and the unique camaraderie that defines the Western lifestyle.

• Life at the South Point: Richard reflects on his long history with the South Point, praising the facility’s hospitality and its role as a premier hub for equestrian events like the NFR and the world's largest team roping competitions.
• The "Yellowstone Effect": The guys discuss the recent surge in the popularity of Western culture, noting how more people want to embrace the "Cowboy" identity than ever before, which has bolstered everything from real estate to retail.
• PBR & Media Evolution: Richard shares insights into his journey with the PBR since 2004, discussing the growth of the Team Series and the sport's expansion onto major networks like Paramount+, CBS, and Fox Nation.
• The Art of the Show: The conversation turns technical as they discuss the "Scotty Pippen" role of a Music Director in rodeo. Richard explains how music dictates the crowd's emotions, from the suspense of a bull ride to the high energy of a victory lap.
• Staying Grounded: In a candid moment, the group discusses the importance of remembering their roots. Richard shares why he still shoes horses in his downtime—not for the money, but to stay connected to the soul of the industry.

Welcome to the debut episode of Mornings in D Minor, your daily dose of rodeo insights, humor, and behind-the-scenes stories directly from the heart of the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) in Las Vegas!

Brought to you by EQN Sports.

In this premiere episode, hosts Dru Stew, Shane Minor, and Luke Branquinho are joined by Eddie Priefert. The crew kicks things off with plenty of wit, sharing a few laughs about technical difficulties and their morning coffee routines before diving deep into the high-stakes world of professional rodeo.

1. Round 1 Highlights: A detailed breakdown of the first night of the NFR, including standout performances in bareback riding and the intensity of the steer wrestling competition.
2. The "Yellowstone Effect": How the hit TV show has influenced the western industry and brought a new wave of fans to the sport of rodeo.
3. Athlete Spotlights: Insights into the grit and determination of top competitors like Stetson Wright and record-breaking team ropers.
4. Life on the Road: Personal stories from the hosts and guests about their experiences in the arena, from high-pressure moments to the camaraderie of the "long ride."
5. Behind the Scenes: A look at the incredible work done by the stock contractors and the crew at the South Point Hotel and Casino to ensure a world-class event.

Whether you're a lifelong rodeo fan or just getting to know the western lifestyle, join us for an authentic and entertaining conversation that captures the spirit of the NFR.

Subscribe now and start your day with Mornings in D Minor!