Training vs. Competition Mode

In this episode, I share some thoughts sparked by watching the Pendleton Roundup this week—one of the most unique rodeos out there with its grass arena. What stood out to me was how some riders’ performances looked just as solid on grass as they would in dirt. That kind of consistency doesn’t come by accident. It’s the result of a heightened awareness of horsemanship. In this segment, I share tips for developing better awareness as a rider, improving your balance and timing, and why those fundamentals matter no matter what setting you’re in.

"I’m so far ahead with this horse" - said no one, ever. The truth is, none of us feel 100% “ready” all the time—whether it’s bringing a horse to a clinic, entering a competition, or even stepping into a new opportunity in life. In this episode, I share why confidence isn’t about waiting until everything feels perfect, but about being willing to step outside your comfort zone and learn in the process. I’ll talk about some of the common concerns I hear from trainers, how I’ve experienced the same doubts myself, and why the very thing that makes you nervous is often the exact thing you need to grow.

In performance events and horsemanship, there’s a big difference between being in “training mode” and being in “competition mode.” The challenge for many of us—myself included—is figuring out how to balance the two. In this episode, I talk about the mindset shift that happens when you step into a competitive setting and how to structure your practices so your training prepares you for the pressure of competition. At the end of the day, it’s about keeping your horse solid in training mode while building the confidence and focus you’ll need when it’s time to compete.

Success in competition doesn’t come from wishing or expecting. It comes from preparation—and part of that preparation is hauling, entering, and putting yourself in real-world situations often enough to build confidence. In this week's episode, I'm sharing some stories from a recent roping I entered that reminded me how important it is to set realistic goals for both myself and my horses, as well as some fundamentals I'm focusing on to fine-tune my preparation for next time.

Summer training brings its own unique set of challenges. From heat and humidity to flies and mosquitoes, the extra stress on our horses can chip away at their focus and trainability. In this episode, I’m sharing some tips for keeping your horse soft, focused, and in the right frame of mind, even when conditions aren’t ideal. From simple adjustments in your training routine to the fly control gear that helps keep your horses comfortable and relaxed, this episode is all about setting your horse up for success no matter the season.Episode Resources:Cashel Crusader Fly Mask with Long NoseCashel Crusader Leg Guards (Set of 4)Cashel Lightweight Fly Sheet

In speed events, being able to accelerate and maintain forward momentum through a turn can make all the difference. In this episode, I'm sharing some recent experiences with horses I'm currently training, and the foundational skills we’ve been focusing on to help them stay balanced, responsive, and confident while carrying speed through a turn. Whether you’re working a barrel pattern or tracking cattle, these principles can help you take your horse's performance to the next level.

After almost 300 weeks in a row of putting out new podcast episodes, I missed one. And you know what? That’s life. But here's the thing—missing a week doesn’t mean the streak is broken for good. It just means it's time to start again. In this episode, I’m sharing a few stories from the road, some of the unexpected hiccups that knocked me off my routine, and why learning to reset and restart is one of the most valuable tools we can develop in life and in horsemanship. Because in any pursuit, obstacles are guaranteed. But how we respond—that’s where the growth happens.

In this episode, I'm joined by a very special guest who has become a friend and inspiration in both life and business. Nate Horner with Horner Equine joins us for this episode as we dig into the mindset and habits that it takes to run a successful cattle and horse operation, as well as a thriving veterinary clinic. As a self-proclaimed 'recovering perfectionist,' Nate shares the strategies that have helped him find balance in his personal and professional life, all while continuing to become a better husband, father, friend and colleague each and every day. This episode is packed full of insightful takeaways and words to live by―you don't want to miss it!

Knowledge without application doesn’t get you very far. You can know everything there is to know, but if you don’t apply it at the right time, it won’t do much good—and the same goes for your equipment. In this episode, I’m sharing a few training moments from the week that reminded me how important it is to use your tools with purpose and adjust based on what your horse needs from you that day.

This week, I’m reflecting on the freedoms we celebrate—both in life and in horsemanship. One of the greatest gifts we have as horsemen and women is the ability to write our own script. We get to take the foundational knowledge passed down from others and apply it in a way that fits our own journey. In this episode, I’m sharing a few thoughts on learning from experience, staying present in the process, and appreciating the moments that matter most.