Saddle up for a wild ride through history as we chase the legend of the Pony Express! In this episode of Way Out West, hear the story of the daring young riders who braved storms, outlaws, and the untamed West to deliver the nation’s most important mail. Learn about legendary routes, close calls, and the real-life heroes who connected America before the telegraph. And, discover why the Pony Express still captures our imagination—and what it teaches us about grit, courage, and adventure.

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Step into the dusty boots of frontier doctors, cowboys, and homesteaders as we explore the wild, inventive, and sometimes downright bizarre world of old west medicine. From whiskey-soaked bandages to prairie potions brewed in campfire coffee pots, this episode of Way Out West uncovers the true stories behind the remedies and resourcefulness that kept folks alive on the untamed frontier. 

Discover how grit, hope, and a dash of cowboy ingenuity helped heal wounds, cure fevers, and tackle life’s toughest ailments—long before modern medicine rode into town. Whether you’re a fan of Western history or just love a good tale of survival, you won’t want to miss these legendary cures and the colorful characters who trusted them.

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Step into the heart of Wyoming’s wild frontier with “Blood on the Open Range: The True Story of the Johnson County War.” In this episode of Way Out West, learn about the legendary conflict between powerful cattle barons and determined small ranchers. 

Hear dramatic tales of ambushes, standoffs, and the hard choices that shaped ranching and law in the American West. Saddle up for a timeless story of ambition, betrayal, and resilience. Where the thin line between right and wrong was also as wild as the land itself.

If you're interested in further reading, I suggest the book "The Johnson County War" by Bill O'Neal (available on Amazon).

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In the Old West, the toughest cowboys didn’t need to raise their voices—they let grit, silence, and action do the talking. In this episode of Way Out West, explore the quiet strength that built the frontier. 

From trail bosses who led without fanfare to the women who endured with grace, this is the story of toughness that doesn’t shout… it endures. Ride with us into the heart of the cowboy code—where speaking soft and riding hard still mean everything.

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This week, enjoy an Encore presentation of one of my favorite episodes from the Way Out West archives. Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or revisiting a classic, I hope you enjoy this timeless story from the heart of the American West. I’ll be back next week with a brand new episode.

Joaquin Jackson was the iconic representation of a Texas Ranger. Known for his fearless dedication and larger-than-life persona, Jackson's career with the Texas Rangers spanned over three decades and saw him face some of the most notorious outlaws of his time.

Explore the fascinating journey of this iconic figure, from his early days growing up in the rugged landscapes of West Texas to his rise through the ranks of the Texas Rangers. This episode paints a vivid and personal picture of a man whom I was proud to call a friend. 

Whether you’re a history buff or simply intrigued by the legends of the American West, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the storied past of Texas and its legendary lawmen.

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Saddle up for a journey into the real Wild West to uncover the incredible life of Bass Reeves—a man whose courage, quick thinking, and sense of justice made him a legend on the frontier. 

In this episode, travel through the twists and turns of Reeves’ story: from his early days escaping slavery and learning survival from Native Americans, to his decades-long career as one of the most respected lawmen in the West.

You’ll hear about Bass’s ingenious disguises, his fearless pursuit of outlaws, and the unwavering integrity that led him to arrest more than 3,000 criminals—even his own son. Along the way, we’ll separate the facts from the tall tales and explore why some folks say Bass Reeves inspired the Lone Ranger.

With a blend of true stories, fun facts, and a touch of cowboy wisdom, this episode brings you closer to a side of the West that’s as fascinating as it is overlooked. So get ready to meet one of history’s most remarkable—and unsung—frontier heroes.

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What was it really like to live the cowboy life? In this episode of Way Out West, saddle up and ride through a typical day on the range, from the crack of dawn to the glow of the campfire. 

Discover the grit, hard work, and camaraderie that defined the cowboys who shaped the American West. Along the way, you'll hear vivid stories, timeless traditions, and even a few surprises about life under the big sky. 

Whether you’re a fan of Western history or just curious about the cowboy way, this episode will take you straight into the heart of the trail.

If you like this episode, I dive in deeper into the daily life of the cowboy in this companion blog article → The Daily Life of a Working Cowboy: From Dawn to Dusk

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Under the vast skies of the American West, cowboys have always found a way to capture the beauty, grit, and humor of their lives through poetry. In this episode of Way Out West, explore the timeless tradition of cowboy poetry—stories told in rhyme that speak straight to the heart.

From the campfires of the 1800s to modern-day gatherings, cowboy poetry has stood the test of time, celebrating the land, the lifestyle, and the spirit of the West. Listen in to learn the history, hear some unforgettable verses, and discover why this art form is still alive and kicking.

Whether you’re a cowboy at heart or just a fan of a good story, this episode is sure to leave you inspired.

If you like this episode, you'll love the companion blog article, Cowboy Poetry: The Timeless Art of Storytelling on the Range, in which I delve more into cowboy poetry.

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In the Old West, cowboys didn’t waste words—and they sure didn’t dress them up. In this punchy episode, dig into the colorful world of cowboy slang: where it came from, what it meant on the trail, and why plain speaking still matters today. 

Learn the stories behind classic sayings like "All hat and no cattle" and "Ride for the brand," and find out how a few honest words can still cut through the noise of modern life. 

Saddle up for a fast-talking, plain-shooting ride through the language of the West—and take on this week’s Talk Like a Cowboy Challenge!

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Before barcodes and credit cards, the West ran on barter, grit, and a good reputation. In this episode of Way Out West, ride into the heart of frontier commerce—where cowboys traded cattle for coffee, trappers swapped beaver pelts for bullets, and saloon tabs were settled with a nod and a promise.

From humble trading posts and military forts to the rise of general stores and boomtown banks, explore how the economy of the Old West actually worked—and what it can still teach us today. Because out here, commerce wasn’t just about profit—it was about honor.

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