In this episode of Where Rodeo Meets the Road, we welcome Haiden Thompson — the Wyoming rookie who shattered the WPRA Resistol Rookie earnings record in breakaway roping. From chasing her first goal to navigating heartbreak with her standout mare, Thompson opens up about travel, setbacks, mentorship with Martha Angelone, and what it takes to rise to the top. Tune in for a deep dive into her rookie season, horse story, and what’s next in her championship pursuit.
"Doug Champion of Champion Living Fitness joins us to discuss the evolution of rodeo athlete training, how fitness is reshaping performance in and out of the arena, and why modern conditioning is essential for today’s cowboys and cowgirls."
Julia joins Ken in this week’s episode of Where Rodeo Meets the Road to break down the rodeo standings as we head into the final month of the season. With races tightening up and time running out, every ride and every run counts. Tune in for expert insight, rider highlights, and what to watch as the season comes to a thrilling close.
Ken and Jackie talk to 2024 XIT Queen Sofia and the newly crowned Queen Ellie. What a great rodeo to be apart of!
In this episode of Where Rodeo Meets the Road, we sit down with Bode Spring—one of rodeo’s fastest-rising young athletes making waves in the 2024 season. From the early mornings in the practice pen to the adrenaline-fueled moments inside the arena, Bode talks training, mental toughness, and the future of rodeo. Tune in as we unpack his journey, goals for the summer run, and what it takes to stand out in today’s ultra-competitive landscape.
🎯 Perfect for fans of youth rodeo, WPRA/PRCA followers, and anyone watching the next generation of champions unfold.
In this episode of Where Rodeo Meets the Road, we dive into the dust and glory of the 2025 Reno Rodeo, where the lights were bright and the payouts were bigger. Stetson Wright claimed the All-Around title, Garrett Shadbolt rode his way to bareback brilliance, and Hailey Kinsel did what she does best—win. We break down the biggest runs, rank-shifting rides, and Rodeo Reno’s impact on the summer run. With Fort Worth, Cody, and Cowboy Christmas up next, this recap sets the pace for a thrilling July in ProRodeo.
In this episode of Where Rodeo Meets the Road, hosts Ken and Julia Dondero go head-to-head breaking down the latest PRCA and WPRA standings, big stories from the spring run, and what’s on the horizon as the summer rodeo season kicks off. From rookies shaking up the rankings to top contenders making their move before the Fourth of July run, this episode is packed with insights, banter, and bold predictions. Whether you're chasing points or chasing daylight, don't miss this roundup of rodeo’s hottest current events.
Barrel racing rookie sensation Makenzie Mayes joins the show to talk about her breakout season, her horses, and what it takes to compete against the best in the WPRA. Fresh off her performance at the Rookie Roundup in Fort Worth, Makenzie opens up about her goals, training routine, and the challenges of life on the rodeo trail.
On this episode of Where Rodeo Meets the Road, we’re joined by one of the brightest rising voices in rodeo journalism—Julia Dondero. A 2025 COWGIRL Magazine 30 Under 30 honoree and Director of Communications for the International Professional Rodeo Association (IPRA), Julia has quickly become a force in Western media. From the dusty arenas of grassroots rodeos to the national spotlight of The American and Women's Rodeo World Championship, Julia shares how she’s helping tell the stories of the athletes, horses, and traditions that define the sport.
We’ll dive into her journey from rural Nevada to becoming a leading rodeo storyteller, her work with IPRA’s “In Our Roots” campaign, and what it takes to preserve authenticity in a rapidly evolving Western media world.
Whether you’re a fan of rodeo, a young journalist, or someone who simply loves a good story—this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes perspective from one of the best in the business.
Rising star Jake Shelton is quickly making a name for himself in the world of professional rodeo. The Texas native and former Weatherford College standout has emerged as a top contender in the 2025 PRCA rookie steer wrestling standings. With a lightning-fast 3.8-second round win at Guymon and consistent performances across major rodeos, Shelton is proving he has what it takes to compete with the best. As the summer run heats up, all eyes are on this determined rookie who’s bringing grit, speed, and Texas toughness to every steer he faces.
Ali Norcutt is quickly becoming a name to watch in professional barrel racing. In this exclusive interview, the 2025 Rookie Roundup Champion talks about her standout performance at the iconic Fort Worth Stockyards, where she captured the title with grit and speed. We dive into Ali’s background, her horses, her goals for the WPRA Rookie of the Year race, and how she’s preparing for the high-stakes summer rodeo run. If you're a fan of women’s rodeo, rising stars, or just love the adrenaline of barrel racing, this episode delivers behind-the-scenes insight and inspiration straight from one of rodeo’s top rookies.
Saddle up for a special Kentucky Derby 2025 edition of the show as we dive into the fastest two minutes in sports! Southern California-based thoroughbred trainer Mike Puype joins us to preview this year’s Derby field, sharing insights on the contenders, early speed threats, and the horse he thinks can close strong down the Churchill Downs stretch. We’re also joined by legendary Northern California farrier Denny “DBOP” Francis, who gives a ground-level perspective on what it takes to keep elite horses sound and fast. From the gate break to the finish line, this episode has everything you need before the roses are won. 🏇🌹
In this episode of Where Rodeo Meets the Road, Ken and Hannah sit down with WPRA barrel racer Acey Pinkston, a rising star with rodeo in her blood. Daughter of legendary NFR qualifier Liz Pinkston, Acey shares her journey from college rodeo, to pro circuit competitor, her recent highlights at Rodeo Houston , San Antonio , and what it takes to compete with grit and grace in today’s barrel racing world. Tune in as we talk horses, heart, and the hustle of making dreams happen one run at a time.
At just 11 years old, Dusky Lynn Hall has already made history as the youngest barrel racer to surpass $1 million in lifetime earnings. With a deep passion for the sport and a fearless drive to win, she has dominated some of the biggest barrel racing events in the country. From winning over $123,000 at The Breeders Challenge Finale to outgrowing multiple horses with her natural talent, Dusky Lynn’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. In this episode of Where Rodeo Meets the Road, we talk about her rise to success, the hard work behind the scenes, and what’s next for this young rodeo superstar. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with one of the most exciting young athletes in rodeo today!
On this episode of Where Rodeo Meets the Road, Ken and Hannah break down all the action from Rodeo Houston as the semi-finals get underway. They’ll discuss standout performances, unexpected upsets, and who’s looking strong heading into the finals. Plus, they’ll take a look at rodeos happening around the country, highlighting key events and top competitors. Tune in for expert insights and all the latest rodeo news!
Today on Where Rodeo Meets the Road, we sit down with PRCA Saddle Bronc rookie Gus Gaillard to talk about his first year on the pro circuit. From the highs of big wins to the challenges of competing against the best in the world, Gus shares what it takes to make a name for yourself in one of rodeo’s toughest events. We’ll dive into his training, his mindset, and his goals for the season ahead. Don’t miss this inside look at a rising star in rodeo!
On this episode of Where Rodeo Meets the Road, we catch up with WPRA Rookie of the Year leader Emma Kate Parr. She’s been on the show before, but this time, she’s making waves in the rodeo world with her incredible performances. We dive into her season so far, the highs and lows of the rookie race, and what it takes to compete at the highest level. Tune in as Emma shares her journey, her mindset, and what’s next on her road to success!
"On today’s episode of Where Rodeo Meets the Road, we’re joined by WPRA barrel racer Stephanie Fryar! From claiming victory at the Fort Bend County Fair & Rodeo to competing for the WCRA Triple Crown of Rodeo $1 million bonus in Corpus Christi, Stephanie has had a standout season in Texas. We’ll dive into her journey, her incredible equine partners, and what’s next as she chases more wins in 2025. Don’t miss this exciting conversation with one of rodeo’s rising stars!"
"Welcome to another exciting episode of Where Rodeo Meets the Road! Rodeo season is in full swing, and the Texas circuit is heating up. The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo kicks off this Friday, while the action continues in Denver at the legendary National Western Stock Show. Plus, we’ll talk about the big comebacks from two rodeo powerhouses—Stetson Wright and Tim O’Connell—who are already making waves early in the season. Buckle up, because this is going to be a show you don’t want to miss!"
"Today on Where Rodeo Meets the Road, we’re thrilled to welcome a rising star in the rodeo world, Jordan Driver. Hailing from Garden City, Texas, Jordan has been turning heads and breaking records with her incredible barrel racing skills. A dedicated competitor, she has honed her craft through hard work and determination, riding not just one, but two outstanding horses, Cyrus and Judge.
Fresh off her stunning victory at the San Diego Rodeo, where she clocked the fastest time of the event, Jordan’s adaptability and connection with her equine partners have solidified her place as one to watch on the rodeo circuit. From her time at Howard College to Tarleton State University, Jordan has consistently demonstrated her passion for the sport and her commitment to excellence.
Get ready for an exciting conversation as we dive into her journey, the challenges she’s faced, and what drives her to succeed in the fast-paced world of barrel racing. Please join me in welcoming the talented and tenacious Jordan Driver!"