The Old West wasn’t just built by lone white cowboys—Black cowboys, Native American horsemen, and Mexican vaqueros played a huge role in shaping ranching and rodeo traditions. 

In this episode of Way Out West, we uncover the forgotten legends of the frontier, from the fearless vaqueros who brought cattle ranching to the Americas to the Native riders who mastered the plains. We’ll also explore the story of Bill Pickett, the Black cowboy who revolutionized rodeo with his invention of steer wrestling.

Join us as we ride through history and shine a light on the cowboys who helped define the West—but were too often left out of the story.

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Before Hollywood and dime novels shaped our vision of the American West, Charlie M. Russell was painting it exactly as he lived it—raw, untamed, and full of heart. Known as the "Cowboy Artist," Russell wasn’t just an observer of frontier life—he was a cowboy first, an artist second, and a storyteller always.

In this episode of Way Out West, we ride through the life and legacy of Charlie Russell, from his days wrangling cattle in Montana to becoming one of the greatest Western artists of all time. We’ll explore the real stories behind his paintings, his deep respect for Native American cultures, and how his work influenced generations of artists, writers, and filmmakers.

So pull up a chair by the fire and settle in—because this is the story of the man who captured the soul of the Old West…one brushstroke at a time.

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In this episode of Way Out West, saddle up to explore the legendary ranching dynasties that shaped the American frontier. From the sprawling King Ranch to the iconic Four Sixes and the massive XIT, these families built more than empires of cattle and land—they created lasting legacies.

Discover the stories of resilience, innovation, and stewardship that defined these ranching pioneers and learn how their values of hard work, sustainability, and vision can inspire us in today’s modern world. Whether you’re a history buff, a cowboy at heart, or someone seeking timeless wisdom, this episode has something for you.

Continue the discussion:

Disappointment and Triumph at the King Ranch

The History and Impact of the 6666 Ranch: A Legacy of Western Heritage

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Saddle up for a journey through the origins and history of rodeo, a tradition built on grit, courage, and timeless skill.

Explore how the vaqueros of Mexico laid the groundwork for modern rodeo, the evolution of cowboy competitions into organized sport, and the lasting legacy of this thrilling spectacle. From the dusty ranches of the frontier to the bright lights of today’s arenas, discover the heart, soul, and romance behind one of the West’s most enduring symbols.

As discussed in the episode:
EP 15 - BUFFALO BILL CODY: THE SHOWMAN WHO SHAPED THE WILD WEST

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In this episode of Way Out West with The Cowboy Accountant, dive into the lasting legacy of the cowboy as an icon of freedom, resilience, and adventure. From the vivid brushstrokes of Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell to the timeless ballads of the trail, and the larger-than-life cowboy heroes of Hollywood, explore how art, music, and storytelling turned the cowboy into a symbol of the American spirit.

Join us to uncover the romantic and rugged inspiration behind these creations and discuss why the cowboy’s influence endures in culture today. Saddle up and listen in!

Resources Mentioned In This Episode:

• Cowboy Artists of America
• Why Charlie Russell is the Most Influential Western Artist of All Time

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On a quiet winter night beneath the endless Western sky, a cowboy speaks to the heavens—not with polished words, but with the humble honesty of a man who knows the land and its Creator.

In this special holiday episode of Way Out West with the Cowboy Accountant, explore S. Omar Barker’s timeless "A Cowboy’s Christmas Prayer."

Celebrate the rugged beauty of Barker’s poetry, the simple faith of the cowboy, and the magic of Christmas on the open range. Whether you’re a cowboy at heart or just longing for the warmth of a campfire tale, this episode will remind you of the quiet joys and profound grace that the season brings.

So pull up a seat by the fire, tip your hat back, and let’s ride into a Christmas prayer like no other.

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Step back in time to the crackle of a campfire under a starlit sky as we explore the small but meaningful comforts that kept cowboys going on the trail. In this episode, dive into the rituals and traditions that made coffee more than just a drink, beans more than just a meal, and the campfire more than just a source of heat.

From the practical ingenuity of the chuck wagon cook to the moments of camaraderie shared around the fire, discover how these simple comforts created a sense of home and connection in a rugged and unpredictable world. Plus, reflect on how these timeless traditions inspire us today, whether it’s over a cup of coffee or a backyard barbecue.

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In this episode of Way Out West with the Cowboy Accountant, saddle up for a journey into the past to uncover the lost arts of the cowboy—the practical skills and crafts that shaped life on the frontier. 

From the intricate braiding of leather to the delicate art of horsehair hitching, from flint knapping ancient tools to cooking hearty meals in Dutch ovens, these forgotten skills tell a story of resilience, ingenuity, and connection to the land. 

Explore the rich history behind these arts, their modern revival, and the deeper lessons they offer for today.

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From the gunslinging hero to the lone cowboy riding off into the sunset, the Old West is filled with larger-than-life legends that have captivated us for generations. But how much of it is real?

In this episode of Way Out West, dive deep into the heart of these myths to uncover the truth behind the Hollywood tales. Were shootouts really an everyday affair? Did cowboys always work alone? And were outlaws like Jesse James truly heroes?

Listen in to peel back the curtain on the Wild West, revealing the grit, teamwork, and hard truths that shaped life on the frontier. Get ready to rediscover cowboy culture as it was—and maybe even find out where the legends end and real history begins. Saddle up, because this is a ride you won’t want to miss.

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It’s Election Day in the U.S., and there’s no better time to take a look back at the wild, untamed world of frontier politics. In this episode, dive into the rough-and-ready political landscape of the Old West, where lawmen, outlaws, ranchers, and railroads all fought for influence. This wasn’t about debates and ballots—this was a world where a sheriff could be as powerful as a mayor, where railroads shaped towns, and where outlaws held the loyalty of entire communities.

Explore the rivalries, alliances, and power plays that defined frontier life—and maybe even see a few echoes of today’s political world. Settle in for a journey through the rugged history of Western politics, where the line between right and wrong wasn’t always clear, and influence could be won with words—or a quick draw.

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