Have you ever heard cheering in a quiet arena?
One steady voice rising above the silence—not because success is rare, but because there’s always something worth celebrating.
Effort. Try. Heart. Progress. Commitment.

Today, you’ll meet Ramona Wold.

I can honestly say I have never met a woman so unwavering, so devoted, and so confidently proud in her support of the people and passions she loves.

Ramona is the wife of Ken Wold—an NRCHA Professional, Hall of Fame member, and Million Dollar Rider. But together, their legacy reaches far beyond titles and earnings.

This couple embodies the heart of the Western performance horse community—placing deep value on integrity, stewardship of the industry, and investing in the future of the sport.

When faced with adversity, this trainer’s wife turns first to God. And when met with grace, she responds with gratitude—offering wisdom, teaching, and love to those around her.

From Wilton, California, Ramona Wold exemplifies what it means to support with strength and humility—defending honor when needed, respecting boundaries always, and promoting a sport and way of life she wholeheartedly believes in.

The Trainer’s Wife is a podcast dedicated to celebrating the wives, and on occasion the husbands, of horse trainer’s in the western equine industry. For 35 years I’ve watched talented, successful, brave, beautiful women pour themselves into their husbands careers.These women not only manage and build his business, they manage and build their own as well, sometimes while trying to train and show horses themselves. Whether they are cheering for him from the stands, the back gate, their computer screen at work, or the kids basketball game, they rarely miss one of his go’s at a show. And when he’s done they have the ultimate task of supporting him with empathy, love and acceptance. They have to find the right words to fit each run, learn how to respond and not react, know when and how to offer constructive criticism or just sit in the quiet and let it be. This podcast is about exploring not only what these women bring to complex relationships, but how they continue to be strong, resilient and independent while not losing themselves or being swallowed by their husbands careers.

SHOW NOTES:

Ken Wold

Ken Wold Training Stables on Facebook

The Jennifer Journals

In today’s episode, I sit down with Cameron Baldus — the heart behind Baldus Horsemanship and the wife of accomplished horseman Ben Baldus. While the Baldus name is well known across multiple arenas, this conversation centers on Cameron and the many roles she holds that make both their business and life possible.

Cameron is a successful Western wear model, a budding chef, and the full-time administrator for Baldus Horsemanship — often serving as the problem-solver, fixer, and steady presence behind the scenes. Her contributions are woven into every part of the operation, even when they’re not always visible from the outside.

Ben’s career provides the backdrop to Cameron’s story. A NRCHA World Champion with nearly $650,000 in earnings, Ben has also earned great success in the AQHA, NRHA, and RHAA. His success reflects years of discipline and dedication — work Cameron stands beside, supports, and shares in every step of the way.

At the core of Cameron and Ben’s life is a deep faith. They trust God with their relationship, their business, and their future, while committing daily to the hard work required to pursue their goals — both personally and professionally.

As Ben often says, and Cameron wholeheartedly agrees, “You have to enjoy the process.” This episode is a reminder of what that looks like in real life — the unseen work, the shared belief, and the woman behind the operation who makes it all move forward.

Show Notes:

Baldus Horsemanship

The Jennifer Journals

The Trainer’s Wife is a podcast dedicated to celebrating the wives, and on occasion the husbands, of horse trainer’s in the western equine industry. For 35 years I’ve watched talented, successful, brave, beautiful women pour themselves into their husbands careers.These women not only manage and build his business, they manage and build their own as well, sometimes while trying to train and show horses themselves. Whether they are cheering for him from the stands, the back gate, their computer screen at work, or the kids basketball game, they rarely miss one of his go’s at a show. And when he’s done they have the ultimate task of supporting him with empathy, love and acceptance. They have to find the right words to fit each run, learn how to respond and not react, know when and how to offer constructive criticism or just sit in the quiet and let it be. This podcast is about exploring not only what these women bring to complex relationships, but how they continue to be strong, resilient and independent while not losing themselves or being swallowed by their husbands careers.

Welcome to Episode 20 of The Trainer’s Wife!
It’s a milestone episode for the podcast—and it arrives at the perfect moment for our guest, Nina Hammerness, wife of NRCHA professional Luke Hammerness. Luke wrapped up 2025 as not only a two-time Intermediate Open Finalist at the Snaffle Bit Futurity, but this year he also earned a spot in the Open Finals.

With just over $120,000 in NRCHA earnings, Luke is steadily becoming a consistent finalist at NRCHA premier events. In this episode, Nina shares the stories that shaped their journey—stories of their life, their business, and the goals that keep them moving forward. Hard work is at the core of Hammerness Performance Horses, which comes as no surprise to anyone who knows them. But it’s Nina’s openness and vulnerability—especially as she talks about her deep and uncommon bond with animals—that may leave you feeling even more connected to this couple.

The Trainer’s Wife is a podcast dedicated to celebrating the wives, and on occasion the husbands, of horse trainer’s in the western equine industry. For 35 years I’ve watched talented, successful, brave, beautiful women pour themselves into their husbands careers.These women not only manage and build his business, they manage and build their own as well, sometimes while trying to train and show horses themselves. Whether they are cheering for him from the stands, the back gate, their computer screen at work, or the kids basketball game, they rarely miss one of his go’s at a show. And when he’s done they have the ultimate task of supporting him with empathy, love and acceptance. They have to find the right words to fit each run, learn how to respond and not react, know when and how to offer constructive criticism or just sit in the quiet and let it be. This podcast is about exploring not only what these women bring to complex relationships, but how they continue to be strong, resilient and independent while not losing themselves or being swallowed by their husbands careers.

Show Notes:

Visit Hammerness Performance Horses on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/HammerTimeHorses/mentions

Check out The Jennifer Journals:

https://www.thejenniferjournals.com

In this episode, I sit down with Beth Steffen, wife of Shane Steffen—2021 NRCHA World’s Greatest Horseman and one of the association’s newest Million Dollar Riders. Beth and Shane make their home in Prineville, Oregon, where they’re building their new facility and raising their family, while cultivating a thriving equine business rooted in faith and purpose.

As the Steffens continue to grow their program, they remain deeply committed to shaping the future of the reined cow horse industry. In 2025, Beth played a pivotal role in bringing together Reined Cow Horse and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for a unique event designed to bless young riders and the coaches who pour into them—creating meaningful connections in ways only God can orchestrate.

Hear the heart behind their work, the story of this remarkable partnership, and so much more—all in this inspiring episode.

The Trainer’s Wife is a podcast dedicated to celebrating the wives, and on occasion the husbands, of horse trainer’s in the western equine industry. For 35 years I’ve watched talented, successful, brave, beautiful women pour themselves into their husbands careers.These women not only manage and build his business, they manage and build their own as well, sometimes while trying to train and show horses themselves. Whether they are cheering for him from the stands, the back gate, their computer screen at work, or the kids basketball game, they rarely miss one of his go’s at a show. And when he’s done they have the ultimate task of supporting him with empathy, love and acceptance. They have to find the right words to fit each run, learn how to respond and not react, know when and how to offer constructive criticism or just sit in the quiet and let it be. This podcast is about exploring not only what these women bring to complex relationships, but how they continue to be strong, resilient and independent while not losing themselves or being swallowed by their husbands careers.

Show Notes:

Shane Steffen Performance Horses - https://www.facebook.com/steffenperformancehorses

Fellowship of Christian Athletes - https://www.fcapnwoutdoors.org/copy-of-2025-reined-cow-horse-camp

The Jennifer Journals - https://www.thejenniferjournals.com/

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Mrs. Cheryl Winters, the wife of renowned Natural Horsemanship Clinician and NRCHA Professional Richard Winters. Together, the two have built a thriving partnership both in marriage and in business over the past forty years, with Cheryl playing an essential role in shaping their shared success.

Cheryl is a remarkable example of the many hats a trainer’s wife must wear — serving as business administrator, videographer, production assistant, head cook at the bunkhouse, bed-and-breakfast operator, and, of course, devoted mother to two high-achieving children.

During our conversation, Cheryl shared heartfelt stories about the evolution of Richard’s career as well as that of their talented horse-trainer daughter. Her influence continues to be a cornerstone in the Winters family legacy, offering steady support and guidance wherever it’s needed most.

The Trainer’s Wife is a podcast dedicated to celebrating the wives, and on occasion the husbands, of horse trainer’s in the western equine industry. For 35 years I’ve watched talented, successful, brave, beautiful women pour themselves into their husbands careers.These women not only manage and build his business, they manage and build their own as well, sometimes while trying to train and show horses themselves. Whether they are cheering for him from the stands, the back gate, their computer screen at work, or the kids basketball game, they rarely miss one of his go’s at a show. And when he’s done they have the ultimate task of supporting him with empathy, love and acceptance. They have to find the right words to fit each run, learn how to respond and not react, know when and how to offer constructive criticism or just sit in the quiet and let it be. This podcast is about exploring not only what these women bring to complex relationships, but how they continue to be strong, resilient and independent while not losing themselves or being swallowed by their husbands careers.

In this episode, I sit down with Laura Dare, who is the wife of NRHA Professional and earner of $1.9 Million in the sport of Reining, Trevor Dare!

Laura brings a unique perspective to The Trainer's Wife, as a Non Pro Cutter (NCHA), equine nutrition enthusiast, mother of 2, and self-proclaimed Chaos Coordinator.

We had a wonderful conversation about her early years as an equine pharmaceutical representative, the importance of networking in business and how to not sell products, but to promote and prove them.

Additionally she brought to light the importance of valuing everything in your business, and how to impart that wisdom to their staff.

Laura and Trevor are currently building a new facility in Prucell, Oklahoma. She offers great advice about the financial aspect of this move and all the details they have considered to make it a success.

Laura's perspective has been shaped from the time she was a child. From her late mother's cow horse roots, her upbringing in the NCHA, and her current presence in the NRHA she has a deep understanding of the western performance horse industry.

The Trainer’s Wife is a podcast dedicated to celebrating the wives, and on occasion the husbands, of horse trainer’s in the western equine industry. For 35 years I’ve watched talented, successful, brave, beautiful women pour themselves into their husbands careers.These women not only manage and build his business, they manage and build their own as well, sometimes while trying to train and show horses themselves. Whether they are cheering for him from the stands, the back gate, their computer screen at work, or the kids basketball game, they rarely miss one of his go’s at a show. And when he’s done they have the ultimate task of supporting him with empathy, love and acceptance. They have to find the right words to fit each run, learn how to respond and not react, know when and how to offer constructive criticism or just sit in the quiet and let it be. This podcast is about exploring not only what these women bring to complex relationships, but how they continue to be strong, resilient and independent while not losing themselves or being swallowed by their husbands careers.

In this episode, I sit down with Rhonda Holmes — wife of NRCHA Professional and winner of multiple AQHA World Championships!

This conversation took place during the 2025 Riata Buckle Championship at the Lazy E in Guthrie, Oklahoma. Rhonda and Jay loaded the trailer with the team roping horses and made the journey from Florida.

This couple has been successful in Cutting, Roping, and Reined Cow horse in their 40 year career and Rhonda shares some valuable insight that shaped their journey and added to their success.

The Trainer’s Wife is a podcast dedicated to celebrating the wives, and on occasion the husbands, of horse trainer’s in the western equine industry. For 35 years I’ve watched talented, successful, brave, beautiful women pour themselves into their husbands careers.These women not only manage and build his business, they manage and build their own as well, sometimes while trying to train and show horses themselves. Whether they are cheering for him from the stands, the back gate, their computer screen at work, or the kids basketball game, they rarely miss one of his go’s at a show. And when he’s done they have the ultimate task of supporting him with empathy, love and acceptance. They have to find the right words to fit each run, learn how to respond and not react, know when and how to offer constructive criticism or just sit in the quiet and let it be. This podcast is about exploring not only what these women bring to complex relationships, but how they continue to be strong, resilient and independent while not losing themselves or being swallowed by their husbands careers.

In this episode, I sit down with Tammy Hays — wife of NRCHA Professional and World's Greatest Horseman, Shawn Hays.

Our conversation covered a wide range of topics: raising kids, investing in real estate, pushing through hard times, offering emotional support — and even how being covered in frozen afterbirth can totally shift your perspective.

I’ve known Tammy since the mid-1990s and have always appreciated her humor and admired her horsemanship. But during this conversation, she shared sides of herself I hadn’t seen before — through stories that were honest, heartfelt, and deeply resonant.

The Trainer’s Wife is a podcast dedicated to celebrating the wives, and on occasion the husbands, of horse trainer’s in the western equine industry. For 35 years I’ve watched talented, successful, brave, beautiful women pour themselves into their husbands careers.These women not only manage and build his business, they manage and build their own as well, sometimes while trying to train and show horses themselves. Whether they are cheering for him from the stands, the back gate, their computer screen at work, or the kids basketball game, they rarely miss one of his go’s at a show. And when he’s done they have the ultimate task of supporting him with empathy, love and acceptance. They have to find the right words to fit each run, learn how to respond and not react, know when and how to offer constructive criticism or just sit in the quiet and let it be. This podcast is about exploring not only what these women bring to complex relationships, but how they continue to be strong, resilient and independent while not losing themselves or being swallowed by their husbands careers.

In Episode 14, I welcome Mrs. Carol Williamson from Rio Verde, Arizona. Carol is the wife of life long horseman, cowboy and trainer, Doug Williamson. In August of 2024, Carol lost her best friend but his legacy and their love live on in our western performance horse industry. At 82, Doug had earned many titles, such as NRCHA Million Dollar Rider, NRCHA Hall of Fame Member, and two time Snaffle Bit Futurity Champion!

I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to sit down with Carol to share her story, some laughs and allow her to impart her wisdom to the couples out there who need to better understand the sacrifices and the rewards of this western way of life.

The Trainer’s Wife is a podcast dedicated to celebrating the wives, and on occasion the husbands, of horse trainer’s in the western equine industry. For 35 years I’ve watched talented, successful, brave, beautiful women pour themselves into their husbands careers.These women not only manage and build his business, they manage and build their own as well, sometimes while trying to train and show horses themselves. Whether they are cheering for him from the stands, the back gate, their computer screen at work, or the kids basketball game, they rarely miss one of his go’s at a show. And when he’s done they have the ultimate task of supporting him with empathy, love and acceptance. They have to find the right words to fit each run, learn how to respond and not react, know when and how to offer constructive criticism or just sit in the quiet and let it be. This podcast is about exploring not only what these women bring to complex relationships, but how they continue to be strong, resilient and independent while not losing themselves or being swallowed by their husbands careers.

In Episode 13, Pam Crawford shares her story with us shedding light on not only the early years, but her career as a breeding manager, realtor and trainer's wife. She and husband Todd, have just celebrated 45 years of marriage!

As we spoke she revealed layer upon layer of what has made their marriage work in the western performance horse world as Todd grew to be an icon in not only the reined cow horse, and reining, but the industry as a whole. He is an NRCHA $3 Million rider, and has almost reached $1 Million in NRHA as well! Todd is also a member of the NRCHA Hall of Fame, and a past NRCHA President.

Together, Pam and Todd contribute countless hours to the grass roots of the association to ensure longevity by promoting youth and other programs to build a strong future.

The Trainer’s Wife is a podcast dedicated to celebrating the wives, and on occasion the husbands, of horse trainer’s in the western equine industry. For 35 years I’ve watched talented, successful, brave, beautiful women pour themselves into their husbands careers.These women not only manage and build his business, they manage and build their own as well, sometimes while trying to train and show horses themselves. Whether they are cheering for him from the stands, the back gate, their computer screen at work, or the kids basketball game, they rarely miss one of his go’s at a show. And when he’s done they have the ultimate task of supporting him with empathy, love and acceptance. They have to find the right words to fit each run, learn how to respond and not react, know when and how to offer constructive criticism or just sit in the quiet and let it be. This podcast is about exploring not only what these women bring to complex relationships, but how they continue to be strong, resilient and independent while not losing themselves or being swallowed by their husbands careers.