Should've Been A Cowgirl: Road to the NFR with SJ McDonald

Should've Been A Cowgirl w/ Kyle Park

This week on Should’ve Been a Cowgirl, we’re in Nashville for Stampede Days with PBR bull rider Briggs Madsen. Briggs takes us back to his rodeo roots in Honeyville, Utah, where his entire family has been part of the sport—from broncs to barrel horses. We talk about how watching 8 Seconds sparked his love for bull riding, what it was like breaking into the PBR, and even how he ended up on the same team as his younger brother.Briggs also opens up about balancing married life with life on the road, why Utah is one of the best-kept rodeo states, and his favorite way to experience new cities (hint: it’s not Broadway).If you love rodeo, family stories, and a behind-the-scenes look at PBR life, this episode is for you!

00:00 – Nashville Stampede Days KickoffHost welcomes listeners live from Nashville and introduces guest Austin Richardson.01:30 – Nashville VibesAustin shares what it’s like being back in Music City and his favorite parts of exploring Broadway.03:15 – From Dirt Bikes to Bull RidingAustin explains how motocross shaped his early life before bull riding caught his attention.06:00 – Going ProHow bull riders earn their pro card, work their way through Velocity and Touring Pro events, and reach the PBR Unleash the Beast tour.11:45 – Early Career ChallengesAustin reflects on his struggles in his first years, finding consistency, and the turning point in 2020.15:20 – The Draft & Team CompetitionExplaining the PBR team format, the draft process, and Austin’s experience being traded before landing in Nashville.20:10 – What Makes a “Rank” BullThe difference between “dirty” unpredictable bulls and the smoother, powerful champions like Wolf Paw and Bruiser.24:00 – Scoring BreakdownHow judges score bulls and riders, what fans should look for in a great ride, and what a “re-ride” means.30:15 – Game Day RoutineAustin walks through a Stampede weekend—from practice, preparation, and starching jeans, to the adrenaline of intros and competition.38:00 – Behind the ChutesWhat really happens in the back pens: strategy, coaching, challenges, and the little details fans might miss.44:40 – Training & Team FacilitiesHow Nashville’s training center in Texas keeps the team sharp, with practice bulls, workouts, and film study.50:15 – Life Off the RoadFriendships, rivalries, golf games, and how bull riders balance competition with camaraderie.56:30 – Dallas Travel TipsAustin’s picks for visitors to Texas, including Fort Worth Stockyards and the Drover Hotel.01:01:00 – Fan Experience at Stampede DaysWhy the Nashville crowd is one of the rowdiest, the autograph sessions, and what fans can do to show love for the team.01:05:00 – Wrapping UpClosing thoughts, laughs about childhood photos, and a nod to Austin’s growing career in PBR.

Should've Been A Cowgirl w/ Clay Aery

Wynn Williams, a Texas-based musician, discusses his musical journey, including his transition from rodeo to music. Williams highlights his background in rodeo, explaining the mechanics of steer wrestling and the financial aspects of competing. Giddy up!

Caden Gillard’s Journey from Bull Riding to MusicIn the first episode of the year, Jenna welcomes singer-songwriter Caden Gillard to the podcast. They dive into Caden’s unique path to music, starting with his upbringing in a rodeo family, his early love for bull riding, and how an unexpected twist led him to a music career.Caden shares how skateboarding, sports, and his dad’s influence shaped his childhood before a leukemia diagnosis in his freshman year of high school changed everything. During his time in the hospital, he taught himself to play guitar, discovering a passion for music while performing for nurses and fellow patients. After recovering, he returned to bull riding, eventually competing in PRCA events.Along the way, his love for music never faded. Playing his guitar at rodeos and sharing songs online led to unexpected opportunities. He also opens up about his brief stint in college, majoring in music before ultimately deciding to pursue his passion outside the classroom.This episode is packed with inspiring stories of resilience, chasing dreams, and the unexpected paths that lead us to where we’re meant to be.

Welcome to 2025 and the first solo episode of Should've Been A Cowgirl! In this episode, we dive into the exciting plans for the podcast this year, including a commitment to consistent monthly episodes featuring incredible guests. From Texas country artists like Wade Bowen and Randy Rogers to songwriters and rodeo athletes, we're ready to share their stories and celebrate their journeys. Jenna reflects on her seven-year podcasting journey, from its early days to transitioning off Rural Radio and into a video-focused format. She also recaps her NFR experience, sharing highlights like Cowboy Christmas, outfit wins and misses, shopping tips, and unforgettable live performances by Cody Johnson and Ryan Bingham. Join us as we embrace the new year with big dreams, meaningful conversations, and plenty of country music and rodeo inspiration!

Should've Been A Cowgirl: Road to the NFR w/ Mae Estes

Should've Been A Cowgirl: Road to the NFR w/ Kylie Frey

Should've Been A Cowgirl: Road to the NFR with SJ McDonald