Episode 29: #LiveLikeTy with the Ty Pozzobon Foundation
Beyond the Rodeo
In this compelling episode, Beyond the Rodeo host Kaycie Timm and Western Sports Foundation Executive Director Aubrey O'Quin delve into the inspiring yet tragic story of Ty Pozzobon, a celebrated bull rider whose life and legacy continue to influence the rodeo community’s stance on mental health. Ty's mother, Leanne Pozzobon, and Tanner Byrne, president of the Ty Pozzobon Foundation, join us to share their story and how the tragedy of Ty’s passing has influenced mental health and safety in rodeo. Leanne and Tanner explain how Ty's story has become a catalyst for change, fostering awareness...
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Episode 28: Positive Times with Keith Mundee
Beyond the Rodeo
On episode 28 of Beyond the Rodeo, Keith Mundee of American Hat Co. shares all about the mission and history behind Positive Times, a symbol that has become synonymous with the company he leads. As he shares about his own career progression, Keith pays tribute to the late Keith Maddox, whose leadership philosophy of doing the next right thing profoundly influenced both Keith himself and the company. Through engaging anecdotes, discover how Mr. Maddox's example of leading with integrity and allowing room for growth shaped the enduring success and community-focused culture of American Hat. In...
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Episode 27: Nick Luciano — Breaking the Mental Health Stigma in Western Sports
Beyond the Rodeo
Producer's note: This episode of Beyond the Rodeo includes open and honest conversations about mental health, including topics like depression and suicide. As always, your WSF family is here to offer support through the highs and the lows. If you're interested in learning more about WSF's mental health resources, please visit wsf.org/mental-health. If you or someone you love is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please dial 988 or text 'HOME' to 741741 to reach the National Suicide Hotline. -- Join us on Episode 27 of Beyond the Rodeo as shares his journey from the East...
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Episode 26: Shane Hanchey
Beyond the Rodeo
In this episode of Beyond the Rodeo, guest host Kaycie Timm is joined by World Champion Calf Roper Shane Hanchey, who recently won the 2025 American Rodeo Tie Down Roping. Join us as we dive into Shane's journey from his early aspirations of becoming a pro baseball player to his current status as a tie-down roping legend. Shane takes us through his impressive career by highlighting the milestones that have shaped his path, including a world title, 15 National Finals Rodeo (NFR) qualifications, and nearly $3,000,000 in PRCA earnings to date. Gain valuable insights from Shane on the...
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Episode 25: Tina Battock
Beyond the Rodeo
Tina Battock - Shattering Glass Ceilings in Western Sports Tina Battock holds many titles—General Manager of the Nashville Stampede, President of Morris Media Group, WSF Board Member, mom, and wife, just to name a few. In this episode of Beyond the Rodeo, Tina joins us to share how her career has led her forefront of media and into the heart of the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Team Series, where she serves as the first-ever female general manager. Her story shows how passion and drive can be shaped by strategic decisions and serendipitous moments. Tina reveals how her unexpected foray...
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Episode 24: Hailey Kinsel
Beyond the Rodeo
Name a more iconic rodeo duo than Hailey Kinsel and Sister, we'll wait. That's right—Hailey Kinsel herself joins us on this epsiode of Beyond the Rodeo to share all about how her passion for horses has become a career beyond her wildest dreams. Raised on a working cattle ranch, Hailey's journey to the professional rodeo circuit has included countless lifechanging moments. As she reflects on her career thus far, the four-time world champ doesn't just focus on victories; she emphasizes the importance of savoring the ride. From sharing about the horses who helped her grow as a horsewoman to...
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Episode 23: Upcoming Events with Mai-Brit Harvey & Callie Adams
Beyond the Rodeo
Podcast Summary Join us on episode 23 of Beyond the Rodeo as we unveil the highly anticipated second annual Dancin' with the Rodeo Stars event, which will take place April 10, 2025 in Fort Worth. WSF Director of Fund Development Mai-Brit Harvey joins us to share the excitement of this unique event where rodeo personalities and athletes step into the spotlight to perform dance routines. During the conversation, Mai-Brit and Aubrey reminisce about last year's vibrant inaugural event and share an exclusive sneak preview of what's in store for this year's event. Our journey continues as we...
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Episode 22: Tyler Mansell, 2x BFO World Champion
Beyond the Rodeo
Two-time BFO World Champion Tyler Mansell brings an electrifying energy to the latest episode of Beyond the Rodeo as he shares his remarkable journey from young rodeo athlete to world champion bullfighter. Tyler's story is one of grit and determination, from teaching himself the ropes to honing his skills with some of the best bullfighters in the business. He offers an inside look at the intricacies of freestyle bullfighting and cowboy protection as well as the mental and physical hurdles he's overcome, including two significant knee injuries. Tyler opens up about the trials of returning to...
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Episode 21: Money Matters with Justin Bates
Beyond the Rodeo
Wondering how to achieve financial success as a rodeo athlete? Join us on Beyond the Rodeo for an enlightening conversation with Justin Bates, WSF provider and rodeo athlete turned financial planner. Justin's unique journey from bull riding in the heart of northwest Arkansas to advising athletes on financial acumen provides rare insights into the world of Western sports financial management. Through his work with Western Sports Foundation, Justin is dedicated to elevating financial literacy among rodeo athletes, especially in communities where financial resources are scarce. In this episode,...
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Episode 20: New Year, New Diet with April Dirteater
Beyond the Rodeo
Kick off your New Year right by revitalizing your dietary goals! WSF Provider April Dirteater, a registered dietitian and professional bodybuilder, joins us on Beyond the Rodeo to reveal her secrets for building a healthier lifestyle. April shares her refreshing philosophy on moving away from restrictive diets and honing in on sustainable, personalized nutrition habits. Whether you're a busy mom or a pro rodeo athlete, April's insights on flexibility and enjoyment in eating can help pave the way to long-lasting health improvements and prevent burnout. We tackle common mindset challenges that...
info_outlineJoin us on the seventh installment of Beyond the Rodeo as host Aubrey O'Quin hears the riveting story of Mia Thomas, a 23-year-old former bull rider from Ohio. Mia opens up about her journey from discovering her love for rodeo to facing the life-altering experience of a severe spinal injury. Mia's resilience and determination have led her to a remarkable recovery, supported by the Western Sports Foundation.
Aubrey and her guest discuss Mia's launch of The Life Brand as well as her latest initiative, Bulls and Bibles, which aims to bring Christian resources to rodeo athletes and attendees. Mia shares heartwarming stories of meaningful interactions, including distributing Bibles to those who've never owned one and praying with individuals seeking spiritual connection. This program not only spreads faith but also blends the rugged spirit of rodeo with messages of hope and redemption.
Looking ahead, Mia outlines her ambitious plans to expand the Bulls and Bibles outreach, reaching collegiate levels and various rodeo events. Mia also emphasizes the importance of mental toughness and the invaluable support provided by Western Sports Foundation athlete clinics, encouraging everyone to utilize these resources for personal growth.
This episode is a testament to the incredible strength and unity within the rodeo community, showcasing how faith, support, and unwavering determination can lead to transformative experiences and a renewed sense of purpose. Tune in for an episode that promises to inspire and uplift.
To learn more about The Life Brand, visit tlthelifebrand.com.
To get involved or support Bulls and Bibles, visit tlthelifebrand.com/pages/bulls-and-bibles.
Follow Mia's journey on social media at instagram.com/mia.thomas19/.