What does it take to turn a high school dream into a national nonprofit? Hanna Beth Bryce, founder of Dare to Be a Cowboy, joins us on the Sierra Rec Now Podcast to share how she started her mission at just 16 years old—and why helping others find purpose is at the heart of everything she does.
From breaking barriers as a first-generation cowgirl to organizing rodeo camps and youth clinics across the West, Hanna Beth’s journey is equal parts inspiring, emotional, and deeply grounded in community values. Whether you're a rodeo fan, nonprofit leader, or just someone chasing a dream—you’ll take away something powerful from this episode.
🎯 Topics Covered:
What it means to be a first-generation cowgirl
How Dare to Be a Cowboy began at 16
The connection between kids and horses
Using rodeo to teach responsibility and resilience
Building confidence in young girls through mentorship
The emotional bond with her horse, Moonshine
Tips for getting involved or supporting this mission
📍 Learn more or support Hanna’s mission: https://www.dtbac.com
🎟️ Barrel Racing & Rodeo Camp Info: https://www.dtbac.com/events
#DareToBeACowboy #HannaBethBryce #WesternYouth #WomenInRodeo #SierraRecNow #NonprofitLeadership #BarrelRacing #RodeoCulture #RenoRodeo #FirstGenCowgirl #SmallTownDreams
00:00 – Welcome + How We First Met Hanna Beth
01:57 – What is Dare to Be a Cowboy and Why It Matters
03:38 – Starting Rodeo as a First-Gen Cowgirl
04:33 – Helping a Friend Sparked a Movement
06:21 – Barrel Racing Series + Upcoming Events
08:06 – Lucy’s Rookie Roundup Rodeo Camp
09:08 – Why Mentorship is the Heart of This Work
11:37 – Social Media, Authenticity, and Impact
14:39 – Journals, Goal Planners & Entrepreneurial Drive
16:44 – Sponsoring the Reno Rodeo Mutton Bustin’
18:01 – Where to Watch Rodeo in the Sierra
19:20 – What It Takes to Be a Barrel Racer
23:52 – The Emotional Bond Between Rider and Horse
26:02 – Summer Events and How to Get Involved
27:45 – What is Mutton Bustin’ and Why It’s a Crowd Favorite
29:31 – Sierra Fast Three: Favorite Spot, Gear, and Grub
