NFR Extra
NFR Extra is a limited-run podcast that focuses on the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo and features personal conversations with champions and icons that embody the rodeo and Western lifestyle. Hosted by Andy Seiler and Brilynn Bentley, NFR Extra delivers in-depth conversations with Wrangler NFR contestants, as well as additional special guests.
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#234 2026 Vegas NFR Icon Fred Whitfield
11/13/2026
#234 2026 Vegas NFR Icon Fred Whitfield
Eight-time World Champion and ProRodeo Hall of Famer Fred Whitfield joins NFR Extra as a 2026 Vegas NFR Icon! From his childhood dreams of becoming a cowboy in Cypress, Texas, to breaking barriers as the first African-American cowboy to win a PRCA All-Around World Championship, Whitfield reflects on the journey behind one of the sport's most remarkable careers. Known for his ability to deliver under pressure and his signature “raise the roof” celebration, Whitfield became a fan favorite through unforgettable performances, including his record-setting 1997 Wrangler NFR. With seven tie-down roping world titles, an all-around crown, and a legacy that extends far beyond the arena, this episode celebrates the determination, confidence, and competitive spirit of one of rodeo's most iconic figures.
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#233 2026 Vegas NFR Icon Bob Tallman
11/07/2026
#233 2026 Vegas NFR Icon Bob Tallman
The legendary voice of professional rodeo, Bob Tallman, joins NFR Extra as the 2026 Vegas NFR Icon! With more than five decades behind the microphone, Tallman reflects on a remarkable career that began with a $100 announcing gig in Fallon, Nevada, and grew into one of the most recognizable voices in the sport. From his Northern Nevada ranching roots to the bright lights of the Wrangler NFR, Tallman's storytelling, passion, and unmistakable voice have helped shape the rodeo experience for generations of fans. A 12-time PRCA Announcer of the Year and ProRodeo Hall of Famer, Tallman shares a legacy that extends far beyond the arena in this special celebration of one of rodeo's most iconic figures.
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#232 Vice President of Baker's Boots & Clothing Brandon Baker
11/02/2026
#232 Vice President of Baker's Boots & Clothing Brandon Baker
Brandon Baker, Vice President of Baker’s Boots & Clothing, joins NFR Extra to celebrate a special milestone—40 years of Cowboy Christmas! As one of the show’s longtime exhibitors, Baker’s Boots & Clothing has been part of the tradition since the beginning. Brandon shares the history behind the family business, the values that have shaped its identity, and what sets Baker’s apart in the Western boot industry. From craftsmanship to building a lasting legacy, this episode offers a look at the people and passion behind a brand that has grown alongside Cowboy Christmas for four decades.
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#231 2026 NFR Qualifier John Crimber
10/23/2026
#231 2026 NFR Qualifier John Crimber
2026 PBR World Champion and NFR Qualifier John Crimber joins NFR Extra to talk about his rise to the top of professional bull riding and his sights on the Wrangler NFR. Growing up around the sport with his father by his side, John reflects on the lessons that shaped his career, the importance of faith in his daily routine, and the confidence that drives him every time he climbs into the chute. From sharing laughs about gas station snacks and life on the road to learning from fellow champions and preparing for the competition ahead, John gives listeners a glimpse into his personality both in and out of the arena. With his sights set on another gold buckle, he shares why he's ready to give everything he's got when the opportunity comes.
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#230 Singer/Songwriter Pat Green
10/16/2026
#230 Singer/Songwriter Pat Green
Texas country music star Pat Green joins NFR Extra for a lively conversation about the music, memories, and moments that have shaped his career. From sharing the stage with Willie Nelson to unforgettable encounters with George Strait, Pat reflects on the artists who inspired him and the stories he's collected along the way. He also opens up about his songwriting process, the powerful connection between music and its listeners, and why performing still gives him the same adrenaline rush after all these years. With plenty of laughs, personal stories, and a look ahead to his performance at the Wrangler NFR, this episode captures the personality and passion behind one of Texas country's most recognizable voices.
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#229 Proprietor & CEO, Genuine Billy Cook Saddles Adam Trenk
10/09/2026
#229 Proprietor & CEO, Genuine Billy Cook Saddles Adam Trenk
Attorney turned saddle company owner Adam Trenk joins NFR Extra to share the unexpected journey that led him to preserving the legacy of Billy Cook Saddles. From growing up in New Jersey with dreams of becoming a cowboy to acquiring a legendary saddle company during the 2019 Wrangler NFR, Adam reflects on the passion and determination behind bringing new life to a brand he grew up riding. He takes listeners behind the scenes of saddle making, the importance of American craftsmanship, and his vision for creating quality saddles that can be passed down for generations. Adam also shares what it means to produce the official PRCA World Champion saddles and how Billy Cook Saddles is preparing for its debut at Cowboy Christmas. It's a conversation about entrepreneurship, tradition, and keeping a piece of Western heritage alive.
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#228 A Conversation with Dean Thompson
10/02/2026
#228 A Conversation with Dean Thompson
2024 World Champion Bareback Rider Dean Thompson returns to NFR Extra to share the remarkable story of the six months that changed his life. What began as a rodeo injury led to an unexpected cancer diagnosis, four months of treatment, and ultimately the news that he was cancer-free. Dean opens up about the physical and mental road back, the role faith played throughout his journey, and the perspective he gained along the way. Now back in the arena, he says he feels like he’s rodeoing on his permit again, free from the pressure of the standings and simply grateful to compete. It’s a powerful conversation about resilience, gratitude, and learning to relish the life you’ve been given.
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#227 Roundtable with Tucker Allen, Rocker Steiner and Statler Wright
08/20/2026
#227 Roundtable with Tucker Allen, Rocker Steiner and Statler Wright
2025 World Champions Rocker Steiner, Statler Wright, and Tucker Allen take over the NFR Extra Round Table for a conversation that goes just about everywhere. From gold buckles, dream rodeo teams, and their Mount Rushmore picks to guitar collections, favorite comedy movies, and what life might look like after rodeo, the three champions trade stories and plenty of laughs. They also reflect on some of the unforgettable experiences that came with becoming World Champions—from visiting the White House to the surreal moment of walking on stage after accomplishing a dream they had chased their entire lives. Candid, unpredictable, and definitely unfiltered, this Round Table gives fans a chance to get to know the personalities behind the gold buckles. Listener Advisory: This episode contains colorful language, adult humor, and mature conversation.
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#226 2026 Miss Rodeo America Olivia Favero
08/14/2026
#226 2026 Miss Rodeo America Olivia Favero
2026 Miss Rodeo America Olivia Favero joins NFR Extra for a candid look at life behind the crown. Olivia shares how a childhood introduction to rodeo queen pageantry turned into a 15-year journey to Miss Rodeo America and takes listeners behind the scenes of the intense eight-day competition that got her there. From life on the road and representing rodeo across the country to her platform, “Enjoy the Ride,” Olivia opens up about staying grounded, chasing what fills your cup, and discovering a new passion for the production side of rodeo. She also reflects on the full-circle moment of answering her final question about welcoming new fans to the sport, a perspective that hits close to home for someone who once entered the rodeo world as a new fan herself.
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#225 2025 PRCA Champion Steer Wrestler Tucker Allen
08/04/2026
#225 2025 PRCA Champion Steer Wrestler Tucker Allen
2025 World Champion Steer Wrestler Tucker Allen joins NFR Extra for a conversation that goes far beyond the rodeo arena. Before diving into his championship season, Tucker shares the unlikely story of his "side job" as a Hollywood stuntman, working on productions like 1883, American Primeval, and Station 19. The conversation then shifts to the journey that led him to his first gold buckle—from learning under World Champion Luke Branquinho to developing the mindset that helped him conquer the Wrangler NFR. Tucker reflects on trusting the process, tuning out the standings, and the emotional moment he realized he had become a World Champion. Filled with great stories, humor, and perspective, this episode offers an inside look at one of rodeo's most unique champions. Editor's Note: This interview was recorded in May 2026. Since this conversation was recorded, Tucker Allen suffered a season-ending injury. We wish Tucker a full and speedy recovery and look forward to seeing him back in the arena.
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#224 2025 PRCA Champion Team Roper Header Andrew Ward
07/30/2026
#224 2025 PRCA Champion Team Roper Header Andrew Ward
2025 Team Roping World Champion Andrew Ward joins NFR Extra to share the journey that led to his first gold buckle. From learning the sport alongside his brother to finding championship chemistry with partner Jake Long, Andrew reflects on the importance of trust, confidence, and the mental game that separates good teams from great ones. He takes listeners behind the scenes of the Wrangler NFR, recounting the emotional highs and lows of championship week—including the unforgettable moment he discovered he had won the World Championship. Andrew also shares why family, faith, and a genuine passion for the sport continue to guide his career. Honest, humble, and full of perspective, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of rodeo's newest World Champions.
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#223 2025 PRCA Champion Team Roper Heeler Jake Long
07/23/2026
#223 2025 PRCA Champion Team Roper Heeler Jake Long
2025 Team Roping World Champion Jake Long joins NFR Extra for an honest conversation about the journey to his first gold buckle. Jake shares how experience, family, and a new perspective have changed the way he approaches competition, from choosing the right partner and trusting his horses to finding the balance between practice and staying fresh throughout the season. He also takes listeners behind the scenes of the Wrangler NFR, explaining the strategy behind competing for a world title and sharing the emotional story of the moment he officially became a World Champion. Filled with insight, humility, and a few unforgettable stories, including the legend of his lucky tie-dye shirt, this episode is a candid look at what it takes to finally reach the top after years of chasing the dream.
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#222 2025 PRCA Champion Saddle Bronc Rider Statler Wright
07/09/2026
#222 2025 PRCA Champion Saddle Bronc Rider Statler Wright
2025 World Champion Saddle Bronc Rider Statler Wright joins NFR Extra for a candid conversation about the little moments that added up to his first gold buckle. From last-minute rodeo entries and competing just days after becoming a dad to winning the world title by the narrowest of margins, Statler shares the stories that shaped his championship season. He also opens up about life inside the legendary Wright family, balancing rodeo with his growing family, and why the year after winning a gold buckle may be more challenging than he ever expected. Filled with family stories, laughs, and an honest look at the highs and humbling moments of rodeo, this episode shows a different side of one of the sport’s newest World Champions.
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#221 2025 PRCA Champion Bareback Rider Rocker Steiner
07/01/2026
#221 2025 PRCA Champion Bareback Rider Rocker Steiner
2025 World Champion Bareback Rider Rocker Steiner joins NFR Extra for an honest, entertaining, and insightful conversation about his journey to the top of rodeo. Rocker reflects on turning pro at 18, the lessons he learned from early setbacks, and how a different mindset helped him capture his first gold buckle in 2025. He shares stories from the pressure-packed final rounds in Las Vegas, his unforgettable trip to the White House, and the influence of a legendary rodeo family that pushed him to work harder, not shy away from expectations. From discussing confidence, competition, and the pursuit of greatness to laughing about family stories and life on the road, Rocker gives listeners a candid look at the person behind the world title. This episode is packed with humor, motivation, and the mindset of a champion who believes that winners find a way to win, no matter the challenge.
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#220 Roundtable with Defending Champions
06/23/2026
#220 Roundtable with Defending Champions
Three of rodeo’s biggest stars—Stetson Wright, Kassie Mowry, and Riley Webb—pull up a chair for a fun, candid Round Table conversation on NFR Extra. From their journeys to becoming repeat World Champions to the legends who inspired them along the way, this episode is packed with stories, laughs, and behind-the-scenes insight that fans rarely get to hear. The trio talks about life on the road, traveling habits, future goals, horses, breeding programs, and the athletes they believe are the next generation of rodeo stars. They also dive into what legacy means to them, whether they see themselves as role models, and the championships that still remain on their bucket lists. Relaxed, authentic, and full of champion-to-champion conversations, this episode gives listeners a unique glimpse into the personalities, friendships, and passion that drive some of rodeo’s best competitors.
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#219 Singer and Songwriter Jarrod Morris
05/22/2026
#219 Singer and Songwriter Jarrod Morris
Singer/songwriter Jarrod Morris joins the show for a deep dive into music, creativity, and the western lifestyle that shaped him. Jarrod shares how his sound evolved from Texas country folk songwriting into a gritty blend of rock, blues, and country influences—drawing inspiration from punk, grunge, Texas blues, and rock ‘n’ roll. Describing his style as “American Pie meets Tombstone,” he opens up about creating music that feels both cinematic and deeply personal. Jarrod talks about growing up surrounded by music, family jam sessions, and eccentric independent thinkers who encouraged creativity and individuality. Though he was raised around western culture in Texas, his early passions leaned more toward sports, skateboarding, and motocross before eventually finding his place in the western world through family connections and hard work alongside his brother-in-law. The conversation also explores the journey of becoming comfortable on stage, overcoming stage fright, and learning to trust himself as an artist. Jarrod reflects on playing beach bars in Florida during college, writing the song “Red Bandana” that helped launch his career, and why both lyrics and music matter equally in his songwriting process. He also shares insight into his own show, Jarrod Morris Vibe, where he hopes to spotlight overlooked voices in music while bridging the gap between the music and western industries. This episode is packed with authenticity, storytelling, and the passion of an artist carving out his own lane.
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#218 2025 PRCA Announcer of the Year and NFR Announcer Anthony Lucia
05/15/2026
#218 2025 PRCA Announcer of the Year and NFR Announcer Anthony Lucia
2025 PRCA Announcer of the Year and Wrangler NFR announcer Anthony Lucia joins the show to share the unforgettable experience of stepping behind the microphone at rodeo’s biggest stage. Anthony reflects on the emotions of his first NFR, from spending Round 1 simply observing and taking notes to finally stepping into the arena on Night 2. He shares the powerful moment he announced “Montana” alongside legendary announcer Bob Tallman and how the crowd’s reaction made the moment feel bigger than himself. Anthony opens up about the pressure, preparation, and responsibility that comes with being the voice behind some of rodeo’s most historic moments. Having previously performed at the NFR as a trick roper, he explains the difference between being a rodeo performer and being the announcer guiding fans through the action. From nervous opening lines to finding peace in leading the prayer before performances, Anthony gives listeners an honest look into the mindset behind the microphone. The conversation also dives into family, faith, and humility. Anthony shares the story of meeting his wife Lisa—former Miss Rodeo America—and how their relationship helped shape him both personally and professionally. He reflects on winning PRCA Announcer of the Year for the third time, explaining why the title doesn’t define him and why honoring legends like Bob Tallman and Randy Corley remains so important to him. This episode is filled with heartfelt stories, behind-the-scenes insight, and a deep appreciation for the people and moments that make rodeo special.
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#217 2025 Wrangler NFR Music Director Brad Narducci
05/08/2026
#217 2025 Wrangler NFR Music Director Brad Narducci
In this episode of NFR Extra, we sit down with 2024 PRCA Sound Director of the Year & 2025 Wrangler NFR Music Director Brad Narducci for one of the funniest and most entertaining conversations yet. Raised around rodeo with a bull-riding father and bronc-riding grandfather, Brad shares how he unexpectedly found his path in the sport—not as a cowboy, but behind the music. What started as a dare to announce a tourist bull riding event in West Glacier, Montana—with nothing but a Jimmy Buffett CD and pure chaos—turned into the beginning of an unforgettable career. Brad tells the story of learning how to DJ, mastering the art of reading a crowd, and eventually making the jump from announcing to becoming one of rodeo’s top music directors. From weddings and small-town events to major PBR productions and ultimately the Wrangler NFR, he reflects on the journey, the pressure, and the moments that made it all feel real. He also shares behind-the-scenes insight into his first year as NFR Music Director, including the unforgettable moment he hit play on opening night and the electric atmosphere surrounding Stetson Wright’s iconic 90-point ride. Filled with jokes, laughter, and nonstop storytelling, this episode perfectly captures Brad’s personality and passion for entertaining fans on rodeo’s biggest stage.
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#216 8X NFR Qualifier Will Lummus
05/01/2026
#216 8X NFR Qualifier Will Lummus
In this episode of NFR Extra, we sit down with 8-time Wrangler NFR Steer Wrestling qualifier Will Lummus for a candid conversation about longevity, consistency, and evolving with the sport. With nearly $2 million in career earnings, Will shares how he originally got into rodeo simply to make some money and enjoy the ride—not necessarily chase gold buckles or milestones. Now, heading into another season, he talks about creating a smarter hybrid schedule of around 50 rodeos to stay healthy while still competing at a high level. Will also opens up about his role as Head Coach at Northwest Mississippi and how coaching has sharpened his own game. By teaching younger athletes, he’s found himself re-learning fundamentals, placing a greater emphasis on the mental side of competition, and seeing firsthand which college athletes have what it takes to reach the next level. He explains why the College National Finals Rodeo is the biggest stage many will ever see—and how a select few are preparing for something even bigger. The conversation also dives into life at the NFR, where Will says he’s more confident now than ever before. From sponsor obligations during the day to trading late-night Vegas after parties for dinner with his wife Jenna and an early bedtime, he shares how priorities have changed over the years. Add in funny stories, favorite Vegas restaurants, routines that keep him performing, and his honest thoughts on the next generation of competitors, and this episode is full of insight, humor, and veteran perspective from one of steer wrestling’s best.
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#215 2X NFR Qualifier and 2025 Top Gun Winner TJ Gray
04/24/2026
#215 2X NFR Qualifier and 2025 Top Gun Winner TJ Gray
In this episode of NFR Extra, we sit down with Wrangler NFR qualifier and 2025 Top Gun winner T.J. Gray fresh off a career-defining season. T.J. reflects on his second trip to the Wrangler NFR, crossing the million-dollar mark in earnings, and winning over $300,000 in Las Vegas after entering the Finals with $180,000 already won. He talks about how dramatically the money in rodeo has changed over the years—and jokes that there’s still somehow a hole in his wallet. T.J. shares how he’s kept life grounded since Vegas, putting most of his winnings into a new home with his fiancée while taking some time to heal up and recharge for the 2026 season. He opens up about his simple approach to competition: no scoreboard watching, no standings obsession—just one bull at a time. From daily recovery routines to joking that his spirit animal is a sloth because he likes to move slow and stay relaxed, T.J. gives listeners an honest look at what keeps him ready to perform. He also tells stories about advice from Sage Kimzey, learning the ropes from his older brother, growing up watching bull riding legends like J.W. Harris on VHS tapes, and why mastering the little bulls helps make the big ones easier. With insight, humor, and the mindset of a champion, this episode is a must-listen for rodeo fans everywhere.
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#214 Entrepreneur and Influencer Hailey Holman
04/07/2026
#214 Entrepreneur and Influencer Hailey Holman
In this episode of NFR Extra, we sit down with rodeo wife, entrepreneur, and creative spirit Hailey Holman. From growing up in Hawaii to heading to Cal Poly on a rodeo scholarship, Hailey shares the journey that led her to meeting her husband, Lefty Holman—and how a challenging rookie-year injury ultimately brought them closer together. She opens up about navigating life during COVID, long-distance between Hawaii and the rodeo road, and how their relationship grew into a true partnership—balancing rodeo, business ventures, and now parenthood. From building rental properties in Hawaii and California to launching Buckem Co., Hailey gives a behind-the-scenes look at creating a life rooted in passion and purpose. Hailey also shares the joy (and reality) of raising their daughter Viva, whose big personality is already stealing the show, along with how their priorities are shifting toward more time at home. Plus, she dives into her love for chain stitching—bringing new life to old pieces through a hands-on craft that reflects her appreciation for authenticity and storytelling. This episode is a heartfelt conversation about love, growth, creativity, and choosing to live with gratitude and passion every step of the way.
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#213 CEO and Co-Founder of Texas Precious Metals Tarek Saab
04/06/2026
#213 CEO and Co-Founder of Texas Precious Metals Tarek Saab
In this episode of NFR Extra, we sit down with Tarek Saab, CEO and Co-Founder of Texas Precious Metals, for a wide-ranging conversation that blends business, finance, and purpose. From his early days as an electrical engineer—and even a stint on The Apprentice—to launching Texas Precious Metals in 2011, Tarek shares the journey behind building a leading online gold and silver company and large-scale depository. He breaks down the company’s mission to make precious metals more accessible and digital, while also offering valuable insight into investing—why he views gold and silver less as an investment and more as an “insurance policy,” and how they can play a role in a well-balanced portfolio. Tarek also highlights unique initiatives like commemorative coins, including rodeo-inspired pieces that connect deeply with the western community. Beyond business, this episode dives into life lessons—navigating highs and lows, redefining success, and why purpose, faith, and meaningful relationships matter more than fame or fortune. Tarek also shares how partnering with the NFR and embracing the western lifestyle has helped Texas Precious Metals find “their people.” This is a powerful, thought-provoking episode about wealth, identity, and building something that truly lasts.
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#212 Radio Host and Personality Storme Warren
03/27/2026
#212 Radio Host and Personality Storme Warren
In this episode, we sit down with radio host and personality Storme Warren, a true veteran of the spotlight. From launching his first radio show at just 14 years old to building a career across radio, television, and live stages, Storme shares the journey that took him from Los Angeles to the heart of Nashville’s music scene. He reflects on his early days working alongside legends like Charlie Daniels and how those experiences helped shape his voice in the industry. Storme also shares his perspective on the next generation of artists who he believes are bringing the heart and soul back to country music. From his work with Garth Brooks on the TuneIn platform to hosting his first Storme Sessions on the Ariat Rodeo Live Stage at Cowboy Christmas in 2025, Storme gives a behind-the-scenes look at connecting artists and fans in meaningful ways. This episode is packed with stories, insight, and a deep love for country music and the people who keep it alive.
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#211 Founder/Chief Rodeo Officer of Music City Rodeo Patrick Humes
03/24/2026
#211 Founder/Chief Rodeo Officer of Music City Rodeo Patrick Humes
In this episode, we sit down with Patrick Humes, Founder and Chief Rodeo Officer of Music City Rodeo, to talk about bringing big-time rodeo to the heart of Nashville. Patrick shares how the vision came to life—uniting the city, country music artists, world-class athletes, and rodeo experts to create a truly collaborative event. What started as an idea quickly grew into one of the premier rodeos east of the Mississippi. He dives into the mission behind Music City Rodeo: expanding the event, extending its run, and establishing it as a cornerstone event in Nashville’s already electric entertainment scene. Beyond just one event, Patrick is deeply passionate about growing the entire eastern rodeo circuit and creating more opportunities for athletes and fans alike. This episode is all about vision, collaboration, and building something bigger than yourself—while staying true to the roots of the sport.
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#210 2025 Vegas NFR Icon and Rodeo Legend Shawn Davis
12/05/2025
#210 2025 Vegas NFR Icon and Rodeo Legend Shawn Davis
In this episode, we sit down with 2025 Vegas NFR Icon and rodeo legend Shawn Davis — a man whose impact on the sport is truly unmatched. Davis shares story after story from a life lived at the highest level of rodeo. He also reflects on the career-ending injury that nearly stopped everything… and the remarkable comeback that brought him back to the Finals five more times. Davis walks us through his time as President of the PRCA, including the historic moment he cast the deciding vote to move the NFR from Oklahoma City to Las Vegas — a decision that forever changed the sport. He also talks about his decades as General Manager of the NFR, shaping the event into the world-class production we know today. From elevating fan experiences to modernizing the show for television, his fingerprints are everywhere. This episode is filled with history, humor, behind-the-scenes insight, and the kind of firsthand storytelling only Shawn Davis can deliver. A must-listen for anyone who loves rodeo, Las Vegas, or the people who helped build the NFR into the phenomenon it is today.
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#209 Owner/CEO of Circa Las Vegas, The D Las Vegas & Golden Gate - Derek Stevens
11/28/2025
#209 Owner/CEO of Circa Las Vegas, The D Las Vegas & Golden Gate - Derek Stevens
In this episode, we sit down with Derek Stevens — Owner and CEO of Circa Las Vegas, The D Las Vegas, and the Golden Gate — to dive into the mind of a true visionary in modern-day Vegas. Derek shares how his entrepreneurial journey began in Detroit long before he ever set foot in downtown Las Vegas. He talks about his first purchase, the historic Golden Gate, and why preserving its legacy while honoring the city’s past has always been a driving force behind his decisions. Derek also takes us behind the scenes of building Circa Las Vegas from the ground up — from acquiring the land to designing the world’s largest sportsbook. He explains how Circa blends old-Vegas soul with cutting-edge innovation, creating a modern resort that still respects the city’s roots. And of course, he shares the story of his very first experience at the Wrangler NFR and how that moment sparked a deep connection that now plays a major role across all his properties. From watch parties to fan experiences, Derek breaks down how he brings the spirit of the NFR to life in true downtown style. A must-listen for anyone who loves Las Vegas, business-building stories, or the passion behind the people who help shape the NFR experience.
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#208 Barrelman/Clown Matt Merritt
11/21/2025
#208 Barrelman/Clown Matt Merritt
In this episode, we sit down with rodeo entertainer and host of the Mic Drop show at Cowboy Christmas — Matt Merritt. Matt shares the story of how he first found his path into the world of rodeo entertainment back in high school and how that passion grew into a full-time career as one of the most recognizable barrelmen in the sport. He talks about the unique preparation and studying that goes into performing at different types of events, his biggest “pinch me moment,” and how evolving attention spans have changed the way entertainers connect with today’s fans. Matt also dives into how he came inot hosting his own show, Mic Drop, on the Ariat Rodeo Live Stage during the Wrangler NFR. He teases the guest lineup, the energy fans can expect, and his hopes for this year’s show to be one of the most fun, interactive experiences at Cowboy Christmas. A behind-the-scenes look at quick wit, hard work, and the heart of a true rodeo entertainer — this episode is one you won’t want to miss.
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#207 Vegas NFR Icon Dan Mortensen
11/07/2025
#207 Vegas NFR Icon Dan Mortensen
In this episode, we sit down with 2025 Vegas NFR Icon Dan Mortensen — one of the greatest bronc riders in rodeo history. A six-time Saddle Bronc Riding World Champion and 1997 All-Around World Champion, Dan shares how his journey began in Billings, Montana, and how his original goals evolved into a legendary career. He reflects on the early days of chasing rodeo dreams, the challenges that shaped him, and what it took to become one of the most decorated athletes in the sport. From his first NFR qualification as Rookie of the Year to surpassing $2 million in career earnings, Dan’s story is one of grit, determination, and passion for the sport that made him an icon.
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#206 PRCA World Champion Saddle Bronc Riders Ryder Wright & Brad Gjermundson
09/05/2025
#206 PRCA World Champion Saddle Bronc Riders Ryder Wright & Brad Gjermundson
In this episode, 1985 Saddle Bronc World Champion Brad Gjermundson and 2024 Champion Ryder Wright sit down for a fascinating cross-generation conversation. Brad kicks things off by reflecting on the very first NFR in Las Vegas in 1985 and comparing it to its earlier days in Oklahoma City. From there, the two dive into how the NFR has evolved over the decades, the importance of mindset, and why staying positive is key to success in the arena. They break down the intricate details of the saddle bronc saddle and how every ride brings new challenges, before shifting gears to talk about producing events and the lessons that come from being on the other side of the sport. This episode blends history, insight, and behind-the-scenes perspective from two champions who know the game inside and out.
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#205 Roundtable with Josh Frost, J.D. Struxness, and Dean Thompson
08/28/2025
#205 Roundtable with Josh Frost, J.D. Struxness, and Dean Thompson
In this roundtable episode, we bring together three of rodeo’s newest World Champions — Josh Frost, J.D. Struxness, and Dean Thompson. All first-time gold buckle winners in 2024, they sit down to share what it feels like to finally reach the top. From years of hard work and close calls to the moment it all came together, the champs open up about their journeys, the challenges they faced, and what it means to win that very first world title. A must-listen for fans who love grit, perseverance, and the thrill of chasing a dream.
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