Posted: Tuesday, May 20, 2025

#195 Singer/Songwriter Josh Ward

Country artist Josh Ward joins the show to share his incredible journey from rodeo arenas to concert stages. Before becoming a successful singer/songwriter, Josh worked in the oil fields and competed in all three rough stock events as a young cowboy. In this episode, he reflects on the striking similarities between chasing dreams in rodeo and breaking through in country music— both starting in small-town arenas and bars, and working tirelessly to reach the big leagues. Josh also talks about what it means to give back to the rodeo world that shaped him and the gratitude he feels seeing life come full circle.

Posted: Wednesday, May 07, 2025

#194 2024 NFR Qualifier Bradlee Miller

Bradlee Miller joins the show to share his journey from the rodeo season to his first Wrangler NFR as a bareback rider in 2024. He opens up about the nerves, excitement, and lessons learned as a rookie on the sport’s biggest stage. Bradlee also talks about the unforgettable moment of winning the second round—a goal he set before ever stepping into the arena. Looking ahead, he shares his ambitious goals for 2025 and his vision for the next 40 years. This episode captures the grit, determination, and passion it takes to make a lasting mark at the NFR.

Posted: Monday, April 28, 2025

#193 Singer/Songwriter Presley Barker

Presley Barker joins the show to talk about his rising journey as a singer and songwriter in the country music world. A true student of traditional country, Presley shares how classic sounds shaped his style—and how he’s become a bit of a "human jukebox," able to play up to 150 classic country songs on guitar. He also reflects on the honor of singing the national anthem at the 2024 Wrangler NFR and what it means to represent country music on one of its biggest stages. Tune in for a conversation filled with passion, tradition, and big dreams for the future.

Posted: Friday, April 18, 2025

#192 2024 NFR Qualifier Statler Wright

Statler Wright joins the show to share how his journey into rodeo didn’t follow the expected path—even for someone with the last name Wright. Focused on football and wrestling growing up, Statler didn’t shift his sights to rodeo until 2020. Now, he’s proudly carrying on his legendary family’s legacy alongside his father Cody and brothers Rusty, Ryder, and Stetson. From winning it all at his first rodeo to chasing big dreams in the Thomas & Mack Center, Statler talks about finding his own identity in the sport. This episode dives into passion, family, and what it means to step into the spotlight with a name that already shines.

Posted: Friday, April 11, 2025

#191 South Point Hotel & Casino Owner Michael Gaughan

Legendary Las Vegas icon Michael Gaughan joins the show to share his remarkable journey in shaping the city’s entertainment landscape. From opening iconic properties like the Barbary Coast and South Point to playing a pivotal role in growing the NFR in Las Vegas, Gaughan’s impact is undeniable. He reflects on decades in gaming, his passion for racing, and his ongoing dedication to the city he’s called home since 1952. As the former Chairman of Las Vegas Events and a ProRodeo Hall of Fame inductee, Gaughan gives listeners a rare look into the legacy of one of Vegas' most influential figures.

Posted: Friday, April 04, 2025

#190 President of Las Vegas Events Tim Keener

Tim Keener, President of Las Vegas Events, shares his journey from sports management to leading some of the city’s biggest events. With more than 25 years at LVE, he has played a key role in the Wrangler NFR, Junior NFR and Cowboy Christmas. Tim dives into his background, his experience working with ESPN and Raycom Sports, and the evolution of how he ended up going from attending the Wrangler NFR for the first time to becoming President of Las Vegas Events. He shares stories from his career and opens up about how the city continues to grow as the Sports and Entertainment Capital of the World.

Posted: Friday, November 29, 2024

#189 NFR General Manager Allen Rheinheimer

NFR General Manager Allen Rheinheimer brings a lifetime of experience in the equine world. From growing up on the road with his father, to building a remarkable career, his knowledge runs deep. As December approaches, Allen shares exciting plans for the 2024 Wrangler NFR, including the Review System which will shape the future of the sport.

Posted: Friday, November 29, 2024

#188 2024 NFR Qualifier Cash Robb

This rising star in the rodeo world is no stranger to Las Vegas, but 2024 marks his highly anticipated debut at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. Cash shares his inspiring journey into Steer Wrestling, from his early beginnings to dominating the YETI Junior World Finals in Las Vegas. As he gears up for his first NFR appearance, Cash opens up about the excitement, challenges, and opportunities that lie ahead. With his sights set high, he’s ready to make his mark on the biggest stage in rodeo.

Posted: Friday, November 29, 2024

#187 Senior VP of Entertainment of Fountainebleau Las Vegas Fedor Banuchi

The Fontainebleau Las Vegas is rolling out the blue carpet for rodeo fans! Fedor takes us inside the newest luxury destination on the Strip, showcasing its stunning casino, world-class dining, vibrant nightlife, and more. With exciting events like viewing parties and concerts, he shares all the details on what guests can look forward to this December.

Posted: Thursday, November 21, 2024

#186 President and CEO of Rio Las Vegas Patrick Miller

With over 28 years of experience, Patrick Miller brings unparalleled insight into the ever-evolving heartbeat of Las Vegas. He dives into the transformative project of revitalizing the iconic Rio Las Vegas, sharing the vision behind its exciting rebirth. Patrick highlights the thrilling events lined up for December while also showcasing the property’s exceptional dining experiences, vibrant bars and lounges, exciting table games, and so much more. Tune in to discover how the Rio is redefining entertainment and raising the bar for Las Vegas!

Posted: Friday, November 15, 2024

#185 American Outlaw Country Singer/Songwriter Cody Jinks

Cody Jinks is a trailblazing independent artist, celebrated for his raw outlaw country sound and powerful, soul-stirring songwriting. Once a metal musician, Jinks defied the odds to become a country icon, carving his own path and thriving on his terms. He opens up about the bold decision to launch his label, Late August Records, and the challenges of transitioning between rock and country. With stories of resilience, unrelenting passion, and a steadfast commitment to artistic freedom, Jinks continues to redefine what it means to be an independent artist in the modern music scene.

Cody Jinks will perform at Dolby Live on December 6-7, 2024.

Posted: Wednesday, November 06, 2024

#184 Entrepreneur and PRCA World Champion Stran Smith

Stran Smith is an accomplished author-in-the-making, a powerhouse entrepreneur, a proud 4th-generation rancher, a PRCA World Champion, and a man of unwavering faith. With resilience forged through trials both in and out of the arena, Stran shares his journey as a passionate cowboy who overcame every obstacle. His story is one of grit, determination, and an unshakeable belief that has fueled his success and inspired countless others.

Posted: Monday, October 28, 2024

#183 Vegas NFR Icon Joe Beaver

Joe Beaver’s dream of becoming a cowboy began early, roping from the age of five. At just 20, he made his NFR debut as the youngest tie-down roper, claiming his first world title and turning the Thomas & Mack Center into “the house that Joe built.” He recounts his relentless journey to Las Vegas, where he went on to capture four additional world tie-down titles and three all-around championships. Though injuries took him out of the arena, Joe remained a presence at the NFR as a commentator, sharing his expertise. Now celebrated as a Vegas NFR Icon, he reflects on a career that continues to inspire young ropers and solidify his legacy as a true rodeo icon.

Posted: Tuesday, October 22, 2024

#182 Vegas NFR Icons Speed Williams & Rich Skelton

Williams and Skelton put on a team roping performance as partners from 1997 until 2004 that may never be matched again in Las Vegas. During that time, the duo racked up eight straight World Championships and also won the average in 2001. Their extraordinary journey to the top is filled with unforgettable moments and hard-earned victories, and now, they're being celebrated as the 2024 Vegas NFR Icons. This legendary duo shares the comical stories behind their remarkable achievements, offering a glimpse into the grit and determination that defined their career.

Posted: Friday, August 30, 2024

#181 4X PRCA World Champion Zeke Thurston

Zeke Thurston's goal goes beyond being recognized as a decorated cowboy—he wants to be known as a genuinely good guy. He reflects on the unique meaning behind each gold buckle and shares his thoughts on what his future holds in the sport of rodeo. Zeke also talks about his partnership with MeatEater, recounting some of the memorable but comical hunts he's had with them. Finally, he opens up about the incredible experience of being in Vegas during the Wrangler NFR, how it has changed for him over the years with having kids and just how truly special it is.

Posted: Thursday, August 22, 2024

#180 Rodeo Roundtable

The Rodeo Roundtable is a high-energy conversation featuring Tyler Waguespack, Zeke Thurston, Wesley Thorp and Tyler Wade. These four rodeo stars dive into everything rodeo, sharing their greatest triumphs and most hilarious mishaps. They break down each event, discuss the camaraderie amongst athletes, compare their favorite rodeos, and share their visions for the future of the sport they love.

Posted: Friday, August 16, 2024

#179 2X WPRA World Champion Barrel Racer Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi

Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi's passion for horses shines through when she speaks. She shares her extensive knowledge of breeding, training, hauling, rodeos, futurity and everything horse-related. Brittany also discusses the growth and changes in the industry over the years. She offers insights into how she and her husband, Garret, manage their many horses, with their daughter Tinlee now joining in.

Posted: Friday, August 09, 2024

#178 5X PRCA World Champion Steer Wrestler Tyler Waguespack

Tyler Waguespack is undoubtedly a professional. He shares what it was like coming down to the final round to win his 5th gold buckle. He talks about his horse power, what it is like being on the road and how connected the steer wrestling community is. Tyler shares about his connection with rookie Cash Robb similar to his time as a rookie with Ote Berry. There is no doubt that he is shooting for another championship but he is also rooting for the guys next to him.

Posted: Thursday, August 01, 2024

#177 2023 PRCA World Champion Tie-Down Roper Riley Webb

Riley Webb has been hungry since the start. He shares his story about growing up with parents who produced roping and how he was attending rodeos from the time he was born. He talks a lot about his experience in youth rodeo and how much it has changed just in the last few years. Webb also shared about the significance of this gold buckle and how he is itching for another.

Posted: Thursday, August 01, 2024

#176 2023 PRCA World Champion Team Ropers

Tyler Wade and Wesley Thorp make a great team! They sit down and share what makes their pairing work and how having like-minded goals got them to win this world title. They talk about the business of rodeo and that it is important to see it all the way through rather than just living month to month.

Posted: Friday, July 19, 2024

#175 2023 PRCA Word Champion Bareback Rider Keenan Hayes

Posted: Friday, July 12, 2024

#174 Miss Rodeo America 2024 Emma Cameron

Miss Rodeo America Emma Cameron is just a down-to-earth gal! She shares her story about how she was once a shy girl who didn't like talking to people and has become a humble gal who wants to be herself on and off the stage. We hear about her time in New York studying at Cornell, what life is like on the rodeo for queens and ultimately what she plans on doing when her reign is complete.

Posted: Friday, July 05, 2024

#173 Roughstock Roundtable

The Roughstock Roundtable features Ky Hamilton, Keenan Hayes and Stetson Wright. These three champions talk about what it is like being the young guns coming up and who they look up to in the sport. They talk about their individual events, routines, mindsets and what superstitions they may or may not have.

Posted: Friday, June 28, 2024

#172 2023 World Champion Bull Rider Ky Hamilton

The 2023 Wrangler NFR was a roller coaster ride for Ky Hamilton but he came out on top. Ky shares his story about winning his first world title and what it has meant to him. He also talks about what it is like traveling but also being best friends with Stetson Wright. We get to find out how that relationship began, how it has evolved, and how well Ky real knows the Wrights.

Posted: Tuesday, June 18, 2024

#171 8X PRCA World Champion Stetson Wright

Stetson Wright surprises us again and again! He shared the complete story of his injury and how his perspective changed after Round 2 of the 2023 NFR. He talks about the different dynamics of the Wright Family and how being the son of a champion has only pushed him to be better. He also shares a little bit about his daughter Kingsley, his thoughts on social media and what his hopes are for 2024.

Posted: Friday, May 31, 2024

#170 NFR Director of In-Arena Video Production Brian Williams

Brian Williams has served as the NFR Director of In-Arena Video Production for three general managers – Shawn Davis, Boyd Polhamus and Allen Rheinheimer. He shares his story of moving to Las Vegas, how he got into this career and what it was like attending a rodeo for the very first time. After being around the NFR for over 20 years, he shares thoughts on what makes the in-arena experience so important to the NFR and its loyal fans.

Posted: Friday, May 17, 2024

#169 Television Host Janie Johnson

Posted: Friday, May 10, 2024

#168 3X PRCA World Champion Bareback Rider Tim O'Connell

Life doesn't always go as planned, but you make the best of it, and that is exactly what Tim O'Connell is doing! Tim talks us through the full story of his injury that will take him out for the rest of 2024. However, Tim also shares the beauty in his story and how this year will be one of many first for himself and his family.

Posted: Tuesday, May 07, 2024

#167 3X NFR Qualifier Lefty Holman

You can certainly hear the laid back but energetic attitude of this cowboy. Lefty shares a whole lot about his life on the road, his life back home with family, and what it is like to be in Las Vegas. He explains the reason behind the gold lions, the white boots and the more recent cornrows.

Posted: Friday, April 19, 2024

#166 Frontier Rodeo Company Heath Stewart

It is all things business with the Frontier Rodeo Company. Heath Stewart talks about the company's background, how he started in the business, and how they have progressed to 9X Stock Contractor of the Year.  Even with many accolades, the goal is to provide great bucking stock for years to come. 

Posted: Friday, April 12, 2024

#165 4X NFR Qualifier Josh Frost

Not only is Josh Frost a 4X NFR Qualifier but he has also won four straight Linderman awards! He talks through his story of how competing in every event as a kid has brought him to those accomplishments while working hard to have a structured routine throughout the year to find his path to success.

Posted: Friday, April 05, 2024

#164 PRCA CEO Tom Glause

Tom Glause has served as the CEO of the PRCA since Oct. 8, 2021. During his career, his commitment to the sport of rodeo has been unwavering. He is a current PRCA Gold Card Member and was previously a PRCA contestant. Under his direction, PRCA-sanctioned rodeos have experienced record attendance and growth.

Posted: Wednesday, March 27, 2024

#163 NFR General Manager Allen Rheinheimer

It’s time to fire up the NFR Extra Podcast for 2024. Our first guest is NFR General Manager Allen Rheinheimer. Allen has been involved in the NFR for more than 20 years and has even more experience in equine events. Take a listen to the guy that makes sure everything on the dirt of the Thomas & Mack Center runs smoothly and efficiently.  

Posted: Monday, December 04, 2023

#162 Vegas NFR Icon - Cody Ohl

Ohl put his stamp on ProRodeo in 1994 by winning Rookie of the Year and earning his first trip to the NFR. It would take Ohl a few years to win his first gold buckle. He edged out Fred Whitfield to capture the 1997 tie-down world title and roared through the 1998 season, capturing his second title. He had another record-setting year in 2001 as he added steer roping and team roping in order to compete for the All-Around title. In the ninth round of the NFR, Ohl missed his calf on the first loop. A second loop caught the calf by the hind legs. As Ohl dismounted, he twisted his knee, tearing two major ligaments. He had to be carried out of the arena by the Justin Sportsmedicine Team. However, he had amassed enough money earlier in the week to secure both the tie-down title and the All-Around title. He accepted both buckles from crutches on the 10th night. He went on to capture his fifth and sixth tie-down roping titles in 2003 and 2006. He still owns the record for the most NFR rounds won with 52.

Posted: Monday, December 04, 2023

#161 Vegas NFR Icon - Billy Etbauer

One of the most popular cowboys of his generation, Etbauer won five saddle bronc world titles (1992, 1996, 1999, 2000 and 2004) and garners respect for both his go-for-broke style and his humility during his career that covered parts of four decades. A native of Huron, South Dakota, he was the middle brother of three world-class bronc riders. Etbauer qualified for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo® in his second year as a professional in 1989. He went on to make the field a record 21 consecutive years, win 51 NFR rounds and surpass $3 million in career earnings. He still shares the NFR record with his 93-point ride on Kesler Championship Rodeo’s Cool Alley in 2003. He tied the record a year later on a 10th-round ride that clinched the last of his five gold buckles.

Posted: Thursday, November 30, 2023

#160 Singer/Songwriter Ian Munsick

Ian Munsick is taking the music industry by storm as he paints his portrait of the American West. Ian shares how important it is to him to show the authentic side of Western culture through his music. He explains how he truly got started in the industry and what memorable moments he has had since then. He also shares about his visits to Las Vegas for the Wrangler NFR and what this year's NFR will look like with his special event, opening performance, and concerts.

Posted: Tuesday, November 07, 2023

#159 President of Hooey Brands Joey Austin

Hooey Brands started in 2009 as just two different hat designs, Joey Austin dives into how and why the brand started. He shares unique stories about how it has grown into its current company and what is most important to the brand overall. Joey also gives insight into BFO and the Hooey Party that happens in December during the Wrangler NFR. 

Posted: Tuesday, October 31, 2023

#158 Singer/Songwriter Kylie Frey

A country music singer, a songwriter, an anthem singer, a barrel racer, a flag girl but ultimately a cowgirl. Kylie Frey has worked hard to do it all and has made a name for herself in the most authentic way. She explains how she has stayed true to herself as she continues to work through the music industry.

Posted: Friday, October 20, 2023

#157 CEO - Plaza Hotel & Casino Jonathan Jossel

There is a lot of history in Las Vegas and particularly in Downtown Las Vegas. CEO Jonathan Jossel was able to give us an inside look plus more. He shares about how he personally got to Las Vegas from Europe, how important it is to keep the history alive and what they are trying to do to make Plaza and Downtown Las Vegas unique from the rest of the city.

Posted: Wednesday, October 18, 2023

#156 Steer Wrestler Dalton Massey

A cowboy and a carpenter, Dalton Massey keep himself busy all year long. Dalton shares a bit about his history, how he got into rodeo and doesn't shy away from talking about traveling amongst the rest of the steer wrestlers. Dalton qualified for his first Wrangler National Finals Rodeo this year so we got him to open up about coming to Las Vegas for the first time. 

Posted: Friday, October 06, 2023

#155 Steve Decker with Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

We dove into something customary in the Western Lifestyle but it is such a large operation that not everyone fully understands. Steve Decker with the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation explains who and what the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is but also why it exists and how it operates. Steve also talks about their deep-rooted investment in rodeo and the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.

Posted: Friday, September 29, 2023

#154 Saddle Bronc Rider Dawson Hay

Rodeo and hockey are pretty big in the Hay Family. Dawson talks about growing up in Canada, playing hockey, and watching his father become a well-known professional saddle bronc rider. He shares stories about how attending rodeos with his father and watching him in Las Vegas truly inspired him to become the bronc rider that he is today. Dawson also gives us a sneak peek into his life now with his wife Lily and baby girl Honey.

Posted: Friday, September 22, 2023

#153 Singer & Songwriter Jenna Paulette

Jenna Paulette is a cowgirl at heart. She tells us all about growing up in Lewisville, Texas and how she spent lots of time in Thackerville, Oklahoma helping with the family ranch. She talks about how she found her voice and her journey into country music. 

Posted: Friday, August 11, 2023

#152 The Roundtable

The Roundtable features Jess Pope, Caleb Smidt, Zeke Thurston and Tyler Waguespack. These four champions talk about how they got started in rodeo, what motivates them now, the toll rodeo takes on their bodies and what else keeps them busy throughout the year.

Posted: Monday, August 07, 2023

#151 Miss Rodeo America 2023 Kennadee Riggs

What a joy Miss Rodeo America Kennadee Riggs is! Kennadee shares many stories from what it was like growing up with 5 siblings, serving a mission in Brazil, her experience taking on the Miss Rodeo America Pagent, and what it is like now on the road. Her passion and faith-driven personality shines throughout the episode. 

Posted: Thursday, July 27, 2023

#150 7X PRCA World Champion Stetson Wright

The accolades for this world champion cowboy continue. Stetson Wright explains why he is more dedicated than ever, how his mindset on winning has changed and what keeps him going. He also opens up and shares fun stories about his daughter playing t-ball, buying his mom a Jeep and life on the road with Ky Hamilton.

Posted: Thursday, July 20, 2023

#149 4X PRCA World Champion Tie-Down Roper Caleb Smidt

Caleb Smidt opened up and had a candid conversation. He talked a lot about his star horse Pockets and walked through their career together. Then he shared stories about the family and what is to come in the future for this world champion tie-down roper.

Posted: Thursday, July 13, 2023

#148 3X World Champion Saddle Bronc Rider Zeke Thurston

You are going to hear a little bit of everything from Zeke Thurston. He talks about Canadian food, living in both Texas and Canada, rodeo travel, cattle business, the new baby on the way, Vegas, and of course the Wrangler NFR.

Posted: Thursday, July 06, 2023

#147 2X PRCA World Champion Team Ropers Kaleb Driggers & Junior Nogueira

This is a powerful duo and talking to them together you see how much knowledge is between the two ropers. Kaleb and Junior share a lot about the individual nuances that make this team sport work. But they share about their own individual journeys through rodeo and how they ultimately lean on each other to win a gold buckle.

Posted: Thursday, June 29, 2023

#146 3X PRCA World Champion Steer Wrestler Tyler Waguespack

Tyler Waguespack is a strong athlete with 3 world titles in steer wrestling but there is definitely a business side to this cowboy. Tyler shares all about the business, the dynamics, the camaraderie amongst the steer wrestlers, and ultimately what his goals are with his rodeo career.