Erin Taormino, the first woman to win the 2025 World's Greatest Horseman title. Erin shares her journey from a Canadian grain farm to breaking barriers in the cow horse world, overcoming self-doubt and a late start in the sport. She reflects on training her horse, Hazardous Material, for four events despite not being a roper, and the humbling moment of her historic win. Erin’s resilience shines through stories of competing weeks after a broken leg and surviving a cow horn injury, all while balancing motherhood and a demanding career. Mentors like Jackie Crawford and Todd Bergen helped her hone her skills and business acumen. 

NCHA Hall of Famer and co-host of this episode, Jesse Lennox, brings professional horse trainer insights, discussing their collaborative dynamic and the evolving performance horse industry. Together, they explore trusting one’s process, the importance of horsepower, and increasing female participation in the NRCHA and NCHA. This episode is a compelling blend of grit, growth, and industry knowledge, offering listeners lessons in perseverance and passion. Tune in to hear how Erin turned challenges into triumphs and why Jesse believes she’s the coach to lead him to the World’s Greatest Horseman finals. Enjoy the show!

This episode is brought to you by Kimes Ranch, kimesranch.com and Kerry Kelley Bits and Spurs, kerrykelleyspurs.com

Drew Knowles, a modern-day steward of the historic XIT Ranch, a 3-million-acre legacy tied to the construction of Texas’ State Capitol. Drew shares the ranch’s storied past, from its 1885 founding to its revival under his and his wife Abby’s leadership. With a philosophy degree shaping his critical thinking, Drew discusses the art of ranching, the importance of mare bands in breeding programs, and the profound responsibility of land and animal stewardship. From acquiring top-tier stud Kit Kat Sugar to navigating the challenges of ranching, Drew's journey reflects a blend of tradition, innovation, and heart. 

Expect engaging conversations that blend history, personal growth, and Western heritage, all underscored by The Converse Cowboy's mission to uncover the flow of pursuing what you love. Enjoy the show!

This episode is brought to you by Kimes Ranch, (kimesranch.com) and Kerry Kelly Bits and Spurs, (kerrykelleyspurs.com). 

Former bull rider turned sports agent and Vexil brand founder. In this episode, Shawn recounts his 15-year bull riding career, from head-stomping injuries to securing Monster Energy’s sponsorship for professional bull riding through his agency, XD Sports. With humor and honesty, he shares the hustle of navigating corporate deals, the emotional weight of a transformative divorce, and the creation of Vexil, a brand inspired by a Roman soldier’s banner and Joshua 1:9’s call to courage. Shawn’s tales of outsmarting rodeo sponsorship rules and building a purpose-driven brand resonate beyond the arena.

Perfect for fans of rodeo, entrepreneurs, and tales of perseverance. This episode of The Converse Cowboy Podcast offers a front-row seat to the cowboy spirit and delivers unfiltered stories of resilience. Enjoy the show!

This episode is brought to you by Kimes Ranch, kimesranch.com and Kerry Kelley Bits and Spurs, kerrykelleyspurs.com

On this episode of The Converse Cowboy, dive into the world of Nashville singer - songwriter Joshua Quimby, whose third album, 'Something Like Country', drops June 6th. From folky roots to bold, genre-blending sounds, Joshua shares his creative awakening, battles with vices, and growth through grit. With raw tales of tour life and staying true to himself, this conversation inspires resilience and authenticity. Listen now, wear Stay Grateful, and subscribe for more! conversecowboy.com 

This episode is brought to you by Kimes Ranch, kimesranch.com

$3 Million NCHA money earner, Monty Buntin, shares his rise from a tough Arizona childhood to the NCHA Hall of Fame. Monty shares hard-earned lessons on staying composed under pressure, executing with purpose, and rooting ambition in gratitude. From mastering the show pen to mentoring others, his story proves: hold triumph in your mind, and you’ll hold it in your hands. Enjoy the show!

Be sure to check out The Converse Cowboy store at conversecowboy.com

The Converse Cowboy

Rodeo Roads: Capturing the Cowboy Spirit This episode uncovers the creative and conscious journey of professional filmmaker, Meng Lee. In this raw and heartfelt series, Meng—a Western storyteller shaped by rodeo, personal growth, and serendipitous connections—shares his path from pizza maker to capturing cowboy culture. Meng’s infectious positivity and gratitude shine through. Expect deep dives into personal growth, mentors, his love for teaching, and quirky passions like training Birmingham Roller pigeons. AI’s impact on videography, and living in the moment, this podcast blends Western grit with mindful awareness—offering listeners a front-row seat to a life lived authentically. Enjoy the show!

00:00 Introduction and Connection 02:54 Creative Collaboration and Energy 06:05 The Importance of Rituals in Creativity 09:06 Mentorship and Personal Development 12:00 The Journey into Rodeo Filmmaking 15:11 The Influence of Personal Development Literature 18:10 Awareness and Inner Work 20:57 The Challenge of Maintaining Positivity 24:04 Bringing Out the Best in Others 31:00 The Power of Competition vs. Creation 35:16 Desire and the Journey of Self-Discovery 39:12 The Evolution of MakeLine Productions 43:28 AI's Impact on Videography and Creativity 48:39 Advice for Aspiring Videographers 54:15 The Connection Between Rodeo and Community 01:00:27 The Fascinating World of Pigeon Training 01:03:20 Life as a Pigeon Trainer 01:09:39 Rapid Fire Round: Insights and Reflections 01:12:45 Messages and Life Lessons 01:15:27 Future Aspirations and Creative Projects

This episode is brought to you by Kimes Ranch, kimesranch.com

Tune in to this episode, featuring Matt and Amanda Kimes, the heart behind Kimes Ranch. Recorded at the 2024 Kimes Ranch Million-Dollar Breakaway in Scottsdale, this interview unveils the couple’s journey from 2009 dreamers to Western industry trailblazers. With raw honesty, they share how focus, grit, and a belief in "someday" turned a ten-month vision into a game-changing event. From Kash Gay's underdog triumph to an internet crisis averted, their story is a rollercoaster of resilience and heart. Touching on manifestation, the cowboy ethos, and legends like Jackie Crawford, this episode is a powerful tribute to hard work and community. It’s a must-listen for rodeo fans and dream-chasers alike. Enjoy the show!

The Converse Cowboy

00:00 Introduction to Kimes Ranch and Their Journey 02:42 Maintaining Focus and Patience in Business 05:32 The Power of Manifestation and Delayed Gratification 08:09 Building a Successful Event: The Million-Dollar Breakaway 10:52 The Importance of Community and Recognition in Competition 13:43 Behind the Scenes: Challenges and Solutions 16:12 Creating a Positive Company Culture 21:23 The Rise of Zach Top 23:53 Event Planning Challenges and Solutions 26:39 Empowering Women in Rodeo 29:39 Embracing the Cowboy Lifestyle 32:48 Growth and Change in the Business 36:25 The Importance of Team Dynamics and Training 38:19 Spotlight on Breakaway Roping Talent

In this episode, 8-time World Champ Speed Williams and his daughter Hali, a breakaway roping phenom, unpack their journey to the Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway in Scottsdale, Arizona. Speed’s revolutionary roping legacy meets Hali’s fearlessness, blending fundamentals, gratitude, and raw grit. From backyard practice to big money, this father-daughter duo shares mindset secrets that win. After 10 rounds at the first ever Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway Event, Hali Williams walked away with $115,000 in winnings. Enjoy the show!

00:00 Introduction to Breakaway Roping and Competitors 03:00 Transitioning from Team Roping to Breakaway Roping 05:59 Secrets to Speed and Consistency in Roping 09:07 Revolutionizing Team Roping Techniques 11:57 The Role of Visualization and Mental Preparation 15:07 Father-Daughter Dynamics in Roping 17:54 Preparing for Competition: Rituals and Strategies 21:12 Conclusion and Future of Breakaway Roping

This episode is brought to you by Kimes Ranch - kimesranch.com

In this episode of The Converse Cowboy, Chad Bushaw takes us on a journey from his humble beginnings in rural Oregon to becoming a top wealth manager and a dominant force in the cutting horse world. He shares how a childhood field trip to Oxbow Ranch sparked his passion for horses and set him on a path that intertwined business and the equine industry.

Chad opens up about the mindset of the ultra-wealthy, the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, and how he leveraged his love for cutting horses to build valuable relationships in the financial world. He also dives into the challenges of wealth management, lessons learned from market crashes, and the reality of running Crown Ranch as a business.

Whether you're an aspiring horseman, entrepreneur, or someone looking to gain insight into financial success, this conversation is packed with wisdom, real-life experiences, and entertaining stories.

🎧 Tune in to hear Chad’s incredible story and the lessons he’s learned along the way! Enjoy the show!

This episode is brought to you by: Kimes Ranch - https://kimesranch.com  Kerry Kelley Bits and Spurs - https://kerrykelleyspurs.com

In this episode of The Converse Cowboy, I sit down with country artist Ned LeDoux for an in-depth conversation about his career, the profound influence of his father, the legendary Chris LeDoux, and how that legacy continues to shape his life and music. Ned shares stories of growing up in a rodeo and music-filled world, the lessons he’s carried forward, and the creative process behind his newest album, "Safe Haven". Tune in to this epsiode for a candid and insightful discussion about music, family, and the journey of a true cowboy artist. Enjoy the show!

This episode is brought to you by Kimes Ranch, https://kimesranch.com and Kerry Kelley Bits and Spurs, https://kerrykelleyspurs.com