In this episode, we sit down with Derek Stevens — Owner and CEO of Circa Las Vegas, The D Las Vegas, and the Golden Gate — to dive into the mind of a true visionary in modern-day Vegas. Derek shares how his entrepreneurial journey began in Detroit long before he ever set foot in downtown Las Vegas. He talks about his first purchase, the historic Golden Gate, and why preserving its legacy while honoring the city's past has always been a driving force behind his decisions.

Derek also takes us behind the scenes of building Circa Las Vegas from the ground up — from acquiring the land to designing the world's largest sportsbook. He explains how Circa blends old-Vegas soul with cutting-edge innovation, creating a modern resort that still respects the city's roots.

And of course, he shares the story of his very first experience at the Wrangler NFR and how that moment sparked a deep connection that now plays a major role across all his properties. From watch parties to fan experiences, Derek breaks down how he brings the spirit of the NFR to life in true downtown style.

A must-listen for anyone who loves Las Vegas, business-building stories, or the passion behind the people who help shape the NFR experience.

In this episode, we sit down with rodeo entertainer and host of the Mic Drop show at Cowboy Christmas — Matt Merritt. Matt shares the story of how he first found his path into the world of rodeo entertainment back in high school and how that passion grew into a full-time career as one of the most recognizable barrelmen in the sport. He talks about the unique preparation and studying that goes into performing at different types of events, his biggest "pinch me moment," and how evolving attention spans have changed the way entertainers connect with today's fans.

Matt also dives into how he came inot hosting his own show, Mic Drop, on the Ariat Rodeo Live Stage during the Wrangler NFR. He teases the guest lineup, the energy fans can expect, and his hopes for this year's show to be one of the most fun, interactive experiences at Cowboy Christmas.

A behind-the-scenes look at quick wit, hard work, and the heart of a true rodeo entertainer — this episode is one you won't want to miss.

In this episode, we sit down with 2025 Vegas NFR Icon Dan Mortensen — one of the greatest bronc riders in rodeo history. A six-time Saddle Bronc Riding World Champion and 1997 All-Around World Champion, Dan shares how his journey began in Billings, Montana, and how his original goals evolved into a legendary career. He reflects on the early days of chasing rodeo dreams, the challenges that shaped him, and what it took to become one of the most decorated athletes in the sport. From his first NFR qualification as Rookie of the Year to surpassing $2 million in career earnings, Dan's story is one of grit, determination, and passion for the sport that made him an icon.

In this episode, 1985 Saddle Bronc World Champion Brad Gjermundson and 2024 Champion Ryder Wright sit down for a fascinating cross-generation conversation. Brad kicks things off by reflecting on the very first NFR in Las Vegas in 1985 and comparing it to its earlier days in Oklahoma City. From there, the two dive into how the NFR has evolved over the decades, the importance of mindset, and why staying positive is key to success in the arena. They break down the intricate details of the saddle bronc saddle and how every ride brings new challenges, before shifting gears to talk about producing events and the lessons that come from being on the other side of the sport. This episode blends history, insight, and behind-the-scenes perspective from two champions who know the game inside and out.

In this roundtable episode, we bring together three of rodeo's newest World Champions — Josh Frost, J.D. Struxness, and Dean Thompson. All first-time gold buckle winners in 2024, they sit down to share what it feels like to finally reach the top. From years of hard work and close calls to the moment it all came together, the champs open up about their journeys, the challenges they faced, and what it means to win that very first world title. A must-listen for fans who love grit, perseverance, and the thrill of chasing a dream.

In this special episode, the 2024 PRCA Team Roping World Champions turn the tables and step into the host's chair as they interview the 1985 PRCA Team Roping Champions. What unfolds is a fun, story-driven conversation filled with great questions, behind-the-scenes memories, and championship perspectives across generations. From swapping rodeo stories to comparing the sport then and now, this episode is a must-listen for team roping fans and anyone who loves authentic rodeo storytelling.

In this inspiring episode, 2025 Miss Rodeo America Callie Mueller shares her journey from her first pageant in South Dakota in 2019 to capturing rodeo's most prestigious crown. She takes listeners behind the scenes of competing for nine intense days during the NFR, the dedication and daily discipline it takes to be a rodeo queen, and the joy of wearing her favorite accessory—custom-designed chaps. Callie also opens up about her heartfelt platform, Faith Over Fear, and the personal story that inspired it, offering a powerful reminder of courage, commitment, and staying true to your values.

In this driven roundtable episode, three multi-time world champions—2x Tie-Down Roping Champ Shad Mayfield, 2x Tie-Down Roping Champ Riley Webb, and 3x Saddle Bronc Riding Champ Ryder Wright—sit down for an unfiltered conversation about what it really takes to reach the top. They share the feeling of winning their first gold buckle, the pressure and preparation behind becoming a repeat champion, and how they stay hungry year after year. From daily routines and physical training to the mental toughness required to compete at the highest level, this episode offers an inside look at the mindset of rodeo's fiercest competitors.

In this episode, 2024 Bull Riding World Champion Josh Frost sits down with 1985 World Champion Ted Nuce for a powerful and entertaining conversation about what it takes to be the best in the world. They dive deep into the mindset behind championship success—breaking down the role of positive self-talk, visualization, and having a clear game plan. Ted shares stories from his era, highlighting the tough group of competitors that pushed him to be better every day. The two also discuss how the level of bulls has evolved, with today's pens featuring some of the rankest bulls the sport has ever seen. It's an inspiring look at the grit, mental toughness, and evolution of bull riding through the eyes of two of the best.

2024 Steer Wrestling World Champion J.D. Struxness and 1985 World Champion Ote Berry team up for a powerhouse episode that dives deep into the world of bulldogging. They share what it takes to survive—and thrive—through 10 intense days at the NFR in Las Vegas, and how crucial horsemanship, hazing, and horsepower are to success in the arena. The conversation shifts to the evolution of youth rodeo, highlighting the impact of the Junior NFR and other programs that are shaping the future of the sport. J.D. and Ote also reflect on how the younger generation is raising the level of competition and pushing everyone to be better. They wrap up with stories of camaraderie and the tight-knit traveling teams that make steer wrestling more than just a competition—it's a way of life.