We’re starting 2026 strong.

In the first episode of the year on the Unbreakable Podcast Network, Kait Dinunzio sits down with up-and-coming rodeo athlete Tristyn Erickson, a barrel racer competing in amateur and semi-pro circuits who is fully committed to building her future in the sport.

From leaving home and training horses full-time, to preparing for the 2026 rodeo season, to managing fear, setbacks, and pressure in the arena, this conversation is about discipline, trust, resilience, and choosing the hard path on purpose.

Tristyn breaks down what it really takes to compete in rodeo:

• the unseen care behind elite equine performance

• how riders “leg up” horses for peak season

• the mental routines that quiet nerves before a run

• rebuilding confidence after falls, injuries, and tough seasons

• why connection and trust matter more than speed

This episode is for athletes, competitors, parents, leaders, and anyone chasing a goal that demands consistency, courage, and belief.

What You’ll Learn:

- What barrel racing really looks like behind the scenes

- How elite riders train both themselves and their horses

- Mental strategies for managing fear, noise, and pressure

- Why setbacks don’t end seasons, mindset does

- How trust, routine, and discipline build unbreakable resolve

- Lessons from rodeo that apply directly to life and leadership

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Follow Tristyn:

Instagram: / TristynDErickson

Facebook: / Erickson Performance Horses

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In this Episode:

00:00 Introduction to Tristyn Erickson and Her Journey

02:51 Preparing for the Rodeo Season

06:44 The Controversy of Rodeo and Animal Care

08:40 Resilience in the Face of Adversity

10:10 Early Experiences and First Competitions

13:30 Safety in Rodeo: Understanding Risks

15:13 Mental Preparation and Overcoming Nerves

19:27 The Flow State in Competition

21:49 Influence of Family and Personal Growth

24:35 Balancing Life, School, and Rodeo

26:02 The Unpredictability of Rodeo Performance

27:37 Memorable Runs and Achievements

29:39 Goals and Aspirations for 2026

33:11 Inspiring Others to Pursue Their Passions

35:12 Connecting with Tristyn and Supporting Her Journey