Reed Sykes on Learning Horsemanship, Patience, and the Pressure of Training in Public

Neil welcomes Reed Sykes with co-host Kyle Johnson to The Cowboy Perspective for a conversation about horsemanship and animal training, focusing on building confidence rather than stripping it away. Reed shares his background growing up in Midland with a ranch near San Angelo, graduating from Sam Houston State after attending several universities, working in the oil field, then leaving in 2015 to train horses and dogs for the public despite initially feeling unprepared. He avoids labels like "cowboy" or "buckaroo," emphasizing daily improvement and teaching horses to "try," rewarding small efforts even when imperfect. The discussion covers patience as a learned skill, how experience changes expectations, pressure on trainers working under deadlines and public scrutiny, and how social media acts as a curated "commercial" that can both connect people and create problems. They describe how social media is a "commercial," how honest bluntness can attract better clients, and how public scrutiny and deadlines affect trainers. Kyle and Reed compare cowboy and dressage/eventing perspectives, discuss being humbled by new environments, and argue that excessive groundwork can be a disservice if it replaces riding. Reed explains "school halt," its classical dressage roots, its use for strengthening and demonstrating true engagement, and why he avoids making it a default response.   Topics 01:49 Reed's Background Story 02:57 Leaving Oilfield for Horses 05:27 What Kind of Horseman 07:35 Reward the Small Try 10:31 Teaching Movement and Feel 13:24 Learning Patience Over Time 16:25 Clients Pressure and Public Eye 23:25 How Reed and Kyle Met 24:49 Social Media as a Highlight Reel 29:40 Dressage Exposes Weaknesses 33:50 Mirrors and Learning Feel 36:20 Knowing Terms vs Getting It Done 37:30 Green vs Polished Horses 38:55 Kids and Real World Prep 40:56 Anxiety Vessel Concept 43:02 Wickenburg Culture Shock 47:56 Expectations and Rolling Punches 50:27 Why Colts Buck First Ride 52:52 What Kind of Trainer 53:28 Eventing Explained 56:00 Breeds and No Ribbons 01:00:19 Competing to Stay Humble 01:03:16 Groundwork vs Getting On 01:07:08 When Groundwork Matters 01:08:23 Origins of School Halt 01:09:29 From Halt to Airs 01:11:06 Why Train It 01:12:08 Proving True Collection 01:16:44 Deep Dive Into Dressage 01:19:32 Warhorse Mindset 01:22:59 Feel and Athleticism 01:26:00 Finding the Right Mentors 01:27:05 Books and Translation 01:31:01 Share the Knowledge 01:35:33 Wrapping Up and Next Steps

Neil debuts a new series of episodes co-hosted with Kyle Johnson, recorded in person around a table to highlight friends and horsemen and to help listeners connect with guests. They discuss filming Tucker Hatch putting the first ride on a colt named Wild Thang and share how to contact Tucker (Facebook/Instagram/TikTok under Tucker Hatch) and Travis Dickinson/TC Performance Horses in Red Bluff (Facebook; TikTok under Travis Dickinson), who specializes in cow horses, lessons, clinics, and plans to post more videos. They mention other guests—Isaac Diaz, Josh Beavers, and Reed Sykes/Devout Horsemanship—and lessons about not assuming others' intent, continuing to learn, and marketing skills. The group emphasizes the value of in-person conversation, friendship, support systems, and the experience being worthwhile regardless of audience size.   Tucker Hatch on social media: @tuckerhatch Travis Dickinson on social media: @travisdickinson   Topics 00:54 First Ride Wild Thang 01:45 How to Reach Tucker 02:51 Meet Travis Dickinson 04:33 Lessons and Video Plans 05:38 Never Stop Learning 07:40 Other Guests Highlights 10:59 Reed Sykes Storytime 13:37 Why This Matters 17:49 Friendship and Showing Up 19:38 Weekend Wins and Training Video 24:06 Thanks and Wrap Up  

Neil interviews Darin Deaton, a physical therapist, entrepreneur, and rancher. Darin shares his shift from pre-med toward PT after observing an independent practice owner's lifestyle, his education at Texas Woman's University, and juggling full-time work with graduate school. He describes learning business through an early partnership, then launching his own clinic using SBA financing and a $60,000 investor check that enabled a 1998 seven-figure exit. Darin later built and sold a seven-location Fort Worth PT group (sold in 2024) and runs DPT Therapy. They discuss Deaton Ranch Beef, regenerative ranching, raising Achi/Red Wagyu over Angus, local food systems, health pillars, aging and muscle loss, faith, integrity, and "Make America Grit Again." Links Visit us at www.thecowboyperspective.com More on Darin: deatonranchbeef.com dpttherapy.com   Topics 00:00 Meet Darin Deaton: PT, rancher, and entrepreneur 02:20 From pre-med to PT: choosing a life with family balance 06:34 PT school hustle & how the profession evolved (BS → MS → DPT) 11:34 First clinics & learning business the hard way 14:23 Getting funded: the $60K check that launched the practice 19:05 Debt, integrity, and having your spouse's backing 22:12 First big exit: selling the clinic & discovering equity 25:58 Building a multi-location PT group + becoming the landlord 27:14 Food, fitness, and the origin story of Deaton Ranch beef 35:29 Local food systems, small producers vs big supply chains 38:52 Cattle economics: herd size, restaurant demand, and market cycles 41:39 Wagyu curiosity & the "better-for-you" meat business angle 42:19 Wagyu Experiment Gone Wrong: Chasing Pounds vs. Premium 43:23 Learning the Cattle Game: Associations, Webinars & Old Cowmen 43:50 One-Man Ranch Ops: Working Cattle Solo with Border Collies 44:34 PT vs. Gym: The Full Health Stack (Sleep, Diet, Stress & Genetics) 45:23 Maximum Genetic Potential: The Animal Analogy for Human Performance 46:47 Muscle Mass After 40: Protein, Strength Training & Aging Reality 49:26 Backflips at 59: Athletic Roots, Training Smart & Avoiding Injury 51:53 Mortality, Meaning & Faith: Making the Time Count 56:20 Grit, Failure & Raising Tough Kids in a Softer Culture 01:00:48 Immigration & Opportunity: Lawful Grit, Hard Work, and 'Luck' Excuses 01:03:47 Earning Credibility: Humility, Ranch Hierarchy & Learning to Lose 01:10:38 Integrity When Nobody's Watching: Pride in Craft & Old-School Values 01:14:37 Building Better Horses: Breeding, Cow Horse Prospects & Ranch Standards 01:17:18 Be the Dumbest in the Room: Getting Coached, Taking Ribbons & Growing 01:20:01 Closing Thoughts & Where to Find Darin (Deaton Ranch Beef + DPT Therapy)  

Neil reunites with entrepreneur Kevin Mock to discuss his career changes, return to podcasting in 2026, and life experiences influenced by the 'Cowboy Perspective'. Kevin dives into his multifaceted roles as a businessman and father, sharing insights from his various endeavors in the livestock industry, including Mock Livestock and Livestock Marketing Group. The conversation touches on the intersections of faith, success, and the challenges of balancing personal ambitions with Christian values. Kevin recounts his passion for high-end show animals, balancing family life, and the importance of maintaining authenticity and dedication in both business and personal ventures. The episode also explores the dynamic within his family, his upbringing, and his philosophy towards parenting, making for a comprehensive and engaging discussion.   Links Visit us online: https://thecowboyperspective.com/ More on Kevin at https://www.mocklivestock.com/ and https://sales.thelivestockmarketinggroup.com/home   Topics 01:13 Kevin Mock's Background and Career 05:49 Faith and Business Philosophy 10:24 Family and Personal Life 17:10 Journey into Livestock and Agriculture 25:16 The High Stakes of Competitive Sports 25:51 Navigating Success and Perception 28:32 Faith and Competitiveness 33:35 Parenting and Priorities 38:52 Hunting and Family Time 44:14 Business Stories and Lessons  

Neil welcomes Jason Davis to discuss the 'Cowboy Perspective' and various life insights. They explore the importance of experience and learning from mistakes, foundational lessons from grandparents, and the value of real-world application over theoretical knowledge. Jason shares his personal journey from corporate life to ranching, emphasizing the significance of true wealth and life experiences. They also touch on the impact of significant personal events like the loss of a spouse, raising children, and teaching valuable life lessons. The conversation dives into concepts such as the difference between wealth accumulation and preservation, how societal perceptions vary, and the importance of maintaining a purpose throughout life. This engaging dialogue provides a range of thought-provoking insights into business, personal development, and living a fulfilling life.   Visit us online: https://thecowboyperspective.com/ More on Jason at https://crosswindranch.com/   Topics 03:03 Meet Jason Davis 04:35 Lessons from Grandfather 09:17 Real-World Business Ethics 19:35 Balancing Work and Life 33:23 The Perot Experience 42:48 Reflecting on a Billion Dollars 43:37 Discovering a Talent for Numbers 44:25 Understanding Geometric Progression 45:40 The Value of Time and Money 47:48 Generational Perspectives and Work Ethic 50:27 Balancing Work and Retirement 54:14 The Importance of Responsibility 55:53 Classy vs. Trashy: A Game of Perception 01:00:45 Middle Class and Government Handouts 01:07:12 Memorable Moments with Ross Perot 01:13:19 The Never-Ending Chores 01:15:18 Books and Lifelong Learning 01:21:06 Biblical Lessons and Final Thoughts  

Neil welcomes Kyle Johnson from Wickenburg, Arizona, a fascinating cowboy known for his unique style and diverse experiences. They discuss Kyle's interesting journey from bareback riding to ranch work, his distinctive facial hair, and his rise in social media through 6/S Horsemanship. Kyle opens up about his background, including formative influences, challenges in his rodeo career, and how he overcame them. He also touches on deeper topics like personal identity, success, and the importance of self-respect. The episode includes anecdotes about his time in Canada, his unexpected entry into modeling, and a life-changing car accident that reaffirmed his faith. Throughout, Kyle offers candid insights and motivational thoughts for aspiring cowboys and anyone pursuing their own path. The conversation encapsulates the essence of the cowboy perspective, emphasizing authenticity, resilience, and personal growth.   Visit us online: https://thecowboyperspective.com/ Kyle Johnson: [email protected]  FB: 6/S Equine TikTok: @6shorsemanship   Topics 00:17 Meeting Kyle and Initial Impressions 01:29 The Story Behind the Mustache 04:23 Kyle's Unique Style and Personal Growth 06:44 Defining Success and Personal Philosophy 10:40 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Building Confidence 19:16 Kyle's Rodeo Journey and Family Support 33:12 Modeling Career and Business Ventures 42:12 Reflecting on Relationships and Life Lessons 45:03 The Rodeo Journey: From Bareback Rider to Buckaroo 45:34 Rodeoing in Canada: A Different Experience 51:09 Transitioning to Cowboying and Buckarooing 01:07:01 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Purpose 01:13:56 Faith, Resilience, and Future Plans  

In this engaging conversation, Neil Dudley interviews Ned LeDoux, a music artist and cowboy, who shares his unique perspective on life, music, and the values instilled in him from a young age. They discuss the importance of the cowboy attitude, lessons learned from family, the journey of songwriting, and the balance between original and cover songs. Ned also opens up about spirituality, coping with loss, and the challenges of performing, all while maintaining a deep connection to his roots and heritage. Here is the link to the song Stacy and Neil danced to for their first dance at their wedding reception. https://youtu.be/lReC1KupX5E?si=_F69MnQ0qbIFrqLp  

In this episode Neil talks to Will Hale, who grew up in Guthrie, Texas, in a cowboy community. Will shares how early work experiences on a ranch, including being treated like adults and learning through real-life tasks, shaped their work ethic and perspective. These lessons translated into a successful career in the financial sector, emphasizing the importance of hard work, dedication, and relatability. Will highlights how the principles of the cowboy way are universally applicable across various professions. Visit us at www.thecowboyperspective.com Topics 00:41 Growing Up in a Cowboy Community 01:13 Learning Through Experience 01:45 Lessons in Responsibility and Respect 02:12 The Value of Hard Work 03:31 Mentorship and Development 04:12 Applying Cowboy Principles in Business 04:33 Work Ethic and Career Success 05:20 Relating to Others Through Shared Backgrounds 05:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts  

Neil interviews Jimmy Wilson from Paradise, Texas. Jimmy shares his unique journey of building Concord stagecoaches, a trade he learned from his father-in-law, JW Brown, who constructed 60 stagecoaches during his career. Jimmy discusses the craftsmanship involved, including his enjoyment of ironwork, and narrates the fascinating story of building a custom stagecoach for the Dallas Cowboys. He also reflects on the heritage of Western traditions and the influence of mentors.  Links Visit us at www.thecowboyperspective.com Jimmy Wilson: https://jwilsonstagecoaches.com/ Topics 00:00 Introduction to the Cowboy Perspective 00:25 Meet Jimmy Wilson: The Stagecoach Builder 01:10 The Art of Building Stagecoaches 01:33 The Cowboy Way: Horses and Stagecoaches 01:53 Crafting the Concord Stagecoach 03:47 Challenges and Joys of Stagecoach Building 05:58 The Dallas Cowboys Stagecoach 07:43 Conclusion and Contact Information  

Mike Turner shares valuable insights on the importance of managing emotions in the field of agriculture. He emphasizes teaching his son, Ethan, that letting feelings control decisions can lead to trouble, and underscores the necessity of thinking before acting. Mike's experiences, shaped by his Marine Corps upbringing, highlight the significance of maintaining a cool head and the challenges of controlling emotions. The conversation discusses the belief that life's difficulties contribute to its greatest achievements and the impact of controlled emotions on creating a productive environment in both professional and personal settings. Find us online at www.thecowboyperspective.com Topics 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:32 Teaching Emotional Control 01:04 Practical Advice for Managing Emotions 01:43 Challenges and Real-Life Examples 02:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts