Companion Pass with Lindsay Branquinho

Latest Episodes:

Ashley Rumford: When One Door Closes Sep 13, 2023

Show notes

I'm so excited to introduce this week's guest, the amazing Ashley Rumford. Get ready to be swept into Ashley's world, where rodeo and pageantry collide in unexpectedly cool ways. From her early days to defining moments, we're diving deep into how these experiences shaped her journey.

And love? Yep, that's in the mix too. Ashley spills the details on the magical "I'm in love" moment with her husband. But here's the kicker: rodeo life isn't just a job, it's a soul-deep passion. We're diving into how her husband's bold decision to shift gears led them down a fascinating road, including an unexpected dive into clowning and a remarkable Clown of the Year title.

But that's not all—we're getting personal. From their resilient journey to parenthood, the story's got all the feels. Trying to conceive, the big pregnancy reveal, and a side of humor with a hilarious elevator mishap. Ready for a mix of passion, laughter, and life's twists? Hit play as we uncover Ashley Rumford's remarkable journey—one that's all about embracing the ride.

What you'll hear in this episode:

[1:40] How she got into rodeo and pageant life.

[7:15] When did she know she was in love with her husband?

[12:00] Rodeo is more than just a job.

[17:25] Deciding to walk away from the rodeo dream.

[25:50] Taking the leap of faith.

[29:25] Clown of the Year.

[31:50] How they started trying to get pregnant.

[38:05] How we found out we were pregnant.

[50:40] We just broke the elevator.

Connect with Lindsay on Instagram @lindsaybranquinho and @companion.pass

Find more Companion Pass content on the blog: https://www.lindsaybranquinho.com/companion-pass

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Shelby Vezain: A Higher Calling Sep 06, 2023

Show notes

Join me as I sit down with the incredible Shelby Vezain, who takes us on an inspiring journey through the highs and lows of rodeo life alongside her husband JR.

In this episode, we bust the myth of easy returns, dive into the unique magic of rodeos, and explore life's unexpected twists – from heart-wrenching calls to the surprising news that reshaped their path. Shelby recounts tearful reunions and the transformative power of shifting perspectives, showing how rodeo reflects life's true priorities.

Prepare to be moved as Shelby shares JR's unwavering faith and his incredible journey to defy the odds. We discover the role of faith as a guiding force and the challenges they faced on the road to recovery. Shelby rediscovered her identity by embracing core values and redefining what truly matters. Join us for a celebration of courage, resilience, and the strength that emerges from life's challenges.

What you'll hear in this episode:

[4:55] The turning point of their relationship.

[11:40] The misconception that the NFR is easier.

[16:05] The day she got the call that JR was hurt.

[20:45] The moment she realized she was pregnant.

[27:30] The importance of looking at life in a different way.

[38:55] Coming back home from rehab.

[42:50] The mental side of the situation.

[47:10] The turning point in her life.

[52:00] What is life like for the family now?

Connect with Lindsay on Instagram @lindsaybranquinho and @companion.pass

Find more Companion Pass content on the blog: https://www.lindsaybranquinho.com/companion-pass

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Morgan Wright: Young Love & Overcoming Loss Aug 30, 2023

Show notes

Today, we're diving deep into the captivating world of rodeo alongside the amazing Morgan Wright. Morgan's journey is nothing short of fascinating! She met her partner, Rusty Wright, back in high school, and their bond is unbreakable! The rodeo community is one big, supportive family and we're talking all about what it's like to be part of this incredible world where passion and camaraderie thrive.

We'll dig into the early days of Morgan's relationship with Rusty, the joy and challenges that come with motherhood, and life as a rodeo wife. Morgan's openness about her experiences will pull at your heartstrings! She takes us on a journey to the courthouse where the two lovebirds said, "I do!" And now, their adventures together are an incredible inspiration to us all.

But rodeo life isn't all glitz and glam, the tough moments of being apart from your spouse and handling injuries and tough seasons together can be immensely challenging. Thankfully, the rodeo community shines brightly with genuine support. You'll be moved by the stories Morgan unveils.

Morgn's story of love, courage, and resilience is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and a glimpse into the vibrant life of a rodeo family.

What you'll hear in this episode:

[1:40] Morgan's background.

[6:30] The early days of Morgan's relationship with Rusty.

[11:35] Surprise visits from family.

[14:45] Planning a wedding.

[20:40] The importance of being kind to others.

[25:55] Personal style philosophy and style mantra.

[33:00] The hardest part of being a wife.

[36:45] The importance of having a home.

[43:30] The power of sharing her story.

[46:25] Finding the way in which to heal.

Connect with Morgan on Instagram @morganpaigewright

Connect with Lindsay on Instagram @lindsaybranquinho and @companion.pass

Find more Companion Pass content on the blog: https://www.lindsaybranquinho.com/companion-pass

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Carolyn Swisher: What's The Best That Could Happen Aug 23, 2023

Show notes

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey as we meet the incredible Carolyn Swisher, the one-of-a-kind wife of the daring bullfighter, Chuck Swisher.

In this captivating episode, Carolyn opens up about the unique challenges she faces and shares her secrets to navigating life alongside a fearless bullfighter. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, where we discover that amidst the ups and downs, both bad and good things can happen.

I can't wait for you to hear the heartwarming story of how Carolyn and Chuck first crossed paths. Love, destiny, and a touch of magic come together to create a tale you won't want to miss. But how do you maintain balance in a relationship when one partner spends considerable time away from home? Carolyn shares how they keep their love strong, despite the challenges of being apart.

As a power couple on the move, Carolyn reveals the exciting adventures and sacrifices of traveling with her bullfighting husband. The road may be tough, but the rewards are truly priceless. Don't forget the thrill of rodeo and the adrenaline rush of being in the arena! Carolyn takes us behind the scenes, giving us an insider's view of this captivating world.

Our candid conversation takes an authentic turn as Carolyn shares how life isn't always as picture-perfect as it seems. With genuine vulnerability, she reminds us that no one's life is free of challenges. It's a breath of fresh air, knowing we're not alone in our journey. And to wrap it all up with laughter, Carolyn and I share the funniest moments we've experienced.

What you'll hear in this episode:

[0:00] Introducing Carolyn Swisher, wife of bullfighter Chuck Swisher.

[1:25] How do you compete with a job title like bullfighter?

[8:15] Bad things can happen, but good things can also happen.

[12:20] How she met Chuck

[20:00] The challenge of maintaining balance in a relationship.

[24:00] How much time does Chuck spend away from home?

[29:05] The sacrifice of traveling with your spouse.

[34:00] Riding in rodeo and being in the arena.

[38:00] The difference between a rodeo and a bullfighting event.

[44:25] No one's life is all that it's cracked up to be all the time.

[49:35] What’s the funniest of the funnies?

Connect with Lindsay on Instagram @lindsaybranquinho and @companion.pass

Find more Companion Pass content on the blog: https://www.lindsaybranquinho.com/companion-pass

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ShaRee Wright: The Power of Unconditional Support Aug 16, 2023

Show notes

I am beyond excited to introduce our incredible guest, ShaRee Wright. Today, we dive headfirst into the exhilarating world of rodeo, where she and her extraordinary family have forged unforgettable memories. In this episode, we explore the captivating journey of ShaRee alongside her husband, the legendary Cody Wright, and the joys and challenges of being a rodeo wife and mother.

ShaRee paints a vibrant picture of the rodeo scene, taking us on a wild ride filled with heart-stopping competitions, adrenaline-pumping moments, and the magnetic energy that only rodeo can deliver. We dive into the incredible story of Cody's journey to becoming a professional rodeo rider. ShaRee pulls back the curtain on the pivotal moments that shaped his path, revealing the determination, grit, and unwavering spirit necessary to make it in this daring and thrilling industry.

But the story doesn't end there. ShaRee offers a personal and intimate perspective on what it's like to be married to a rodeo legend like Cody. She fearlessly delves into the raw emotions, sacrifices, and joys of supporting her husband's dreams while nurturing their relationship. Her inspiring insights remind us of the power of unwavering support and the resilience needed to maintain a secure and loving partnership amidst the whirlwind of the rodeo lifestyle.

And what about the unique dynamics that unfold when siblings compete against each other in rodeo events? ShaRee fearlessly uncovers the truth about the relationships between her boys, providing a rare glimpse into the blend of competition, camaraderie, and unbreakable family bonds within the rodeo world.

ShaRee's wisdom extends beyond the rodeo arena as she shares valuable lessons about choosing battles wisely and placing family above all else. Her heartfelt advice reminds us that family is the anchor that keeps us grounded, even in the face of adrenaline-fueled action.

What you'll hear in this episode:

[0:00] Introducing ShaRee Wright

[3:10] What it’s like to be a rodeo wife or rodeo mom.

[11:00] What was the hardest time in Cody’s life when he decided to become a professional rodeo rider?

[15:10] What it’s like to be the wife of a rodeo rider who wants him to stay.

[19:35] Make it or break it thing defines character.

[25:05] The importance of choosing your battles and family first.

[31:25] What it’s like to with your sons having such a large social media presence.

[34:50] How social media plays a huge role in the rodeo world.

[40:45] Does competing against each other create a weird dynamic between the boys?

Check out ShaRee's Companion Pass blog post: https://www.lindsaybranquinho.com/companion-pass/2020/1/29/companion-pass-sharee-wright

Connect with Lindsay on Instagram @lindsaybranquinho and @companion.pass

Find more Companion Pass content on the blog: https://www.lindsaybranquinho.com/companion-pass

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Loni Kay Yates: Dedication and Dual Dreams Aug 09, 2023

Show notes

The beautiful Loni Kay Yates is our special guest today. From her early years, Loni's passion for horses was evident. She's had a stellar career, conquering junior high, high school, college, and professional rodeo events. We'll be talking about her fascinating background, the ups and downs of rodeo life, and her undying love for these majestic creatures.

Loni shares heartfelt stories about her childhood in rodeo, being the first in her family to embrace the sport competitively. Her dad's influence and love for agriculture and cattle introduced her to the amazing world of horses, setting the stage for her incredible rodeo career. But to her, it's not just a sport; we'll explore the dedication, hard work, and constant pursuit of excellence required in the rodeo arena.

Dating and finding love in the rodeo world? Loni spills the beans on meeting her husband Marty, it's an inspiring story of growth, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. But of course, this episode wouldn't be complete without a little wedding talk! Loni's wedding day was a magical dream come true for any horse-loving girl. With a baby on the way, she also shares her excitement, hopes, and aspirations for motherhood.

Back in the arena, we touch on the mental game of rodeo and the invaluable lessons Loni has learned throughout her career. Her positive mindset and her husband's unwavering support have been crucial to her success. She shares the heartwarming stories of her favorite rodeo memories which showcase the power of patience and the importance of taking care of the horses that make this sport possible.

Saddle up and join us on this unforgettable journey with Loni Kay Yates – a true rodeo champion with a heart of gold!

What you'll hear in this episode:

[1:05] Loni's background.

[5:15] Rodeo as a kid.

[9:00] Rodeo is a business and not a sport.

[12:45] Dating and dating before getting engaged.

[16:50] Wedding planning and planning.

[21:35] How do calf ropers approach entering rodeo?

[25:40] The importance of supporting your husband.

[33:40] The excitement of having a daughter.

[36:25] Traveling with a baby.

[40:10] Advice for people who are struggling.

[44:55] How to deal with losing more than winning.

[50:35] The importance of taking care of the horses.

Connect with Loni on Instagram @lonikayyates

Connect with Lindsay on Instagram @lindsaybranquinho and @companion.pass

Find more Companion Pass content on the blog: https://www.lindsaybranquinho.com/companion-pass

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Stephanie Feild Pt. 2: The Rush, The Raw Moments & Raising Kids Aug 02, 2023

Show notes

Today we continue my awesome chat with the incredible Stephanie Feild. In this second part of our conversation, we delve even deeper into some fascinating topics that give you a unique glimpse into our lives and experiences.

Now, we all know goodbyes are tough, right? Stephanie and I share our thoughts on this universal struggle and how it affects rodeo families. It doesn't matter how many times you do it, goodbyes just never seem to get any easier. We also discuss life after rodeo and find ourselves wondering what will replace that thrilling rush of adrenaline our husbands are so used to.

From there, we're talking about watching your partner face challenges and the mix of emotions it causes when you're apart. It's a raw and intimate glimpse into the complexities of being a supportive companion. Then we switch gears to discuss Stephanie's personal fashion choices and preferences. Get ready to learn all about her unique fashion sense and how she expresses herself through clothing. It's fascinating to see how fashion plays a role in shaping her identity within the rodeo community.

What you'll hear in this episode:

[1:50] What it was like to get married and get pregnant right away.

[6:45] Goodbyes never get easier no matter how many times you do them.

[9:25] It’s not just hard for us being left at home, but it is also hard for them.

[13:45] What’s going to replace the adrenaline rush?

[21:30] Stephanie describes the feeling of watching Kaycee struggle.

[27:15] Lindsey’s personal style in a nutshell.

[33:35] Fashion is one of the things that I love about rodeo.

[36:05] Stephanie’s fashion sense.

Connect with Lindsay on Instagram @lindsaybranquinho and @companion.pass

Find more Companion Pass content on the blog: https://www.lindsaybranquinho.com/companion-pass

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Stephanie Feild: Rodeo Stereotypes, Fact & Fiction Jul 26, 2023

Show notes

I'm super excited to have Stephanie Feild joining me today. She's the awesome wife of bareback rider, Kaycee Feild, and together they have three amazing kids. In the next two episodes, we're going to chat about some of the tough things that rodeo wives face, like being apart from your partner for extended periods of time, sometimes not knowing when they'll be back, and taking care of the home front all by yourself.

Stephanie opens up about the unique challenges and preparation required to be a rodeo wife. Whether you're a rodeo wife-to-be or a fan of the action, she shares valuable wisdom to help others navigate and understand this extraordinary lifestyle. We'll also dive into Stephanie's reflections on her first year in the rodeo world. It's a rollercoaster ride of emotions, and she holds nothing back as she recounts the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

Stephanie is an open book as we discuss rodeo life, sharing her honest thoughts and revealing whether she had any doubts along the way. It's a candid conversation that sheds light on the complexities of love and commitment in the face of challenging circumstances. Plus, we're going to clear up any misconceptions about the term "buckle bunny," which is certainly NOT interchangeable with "rodeo wife." So, stick around until the end!

What you'll hear in this episode:

[0:00] Introducing Stephanie Feild, wife of world champion bareback rider Kaycee Feild.

[2:03] Luke's fascination with bareback riders.

[6:27] The preparation of being a rodeo wife

[10:08] Reflecting on the first year of experiencing the real rodeo.

[14:18] Any doubts about getting involved with someone in rodeo?

[18:25] Kaycee's mom as a blessing, serving as a sounding board and a shoulder to lean on.

[22:32] Avoid asking bareback riders or stock riders wives if they are buckle bunnies.

[25:31] Kaycee and Luke crossed paths at Cheyenne.

[30:17] Remember not to judge a book by its cover.

Connect with Lindsay on Instagram @lindsaybranquinho and @companion.pass

Find more Companion Pass content on the blog: https://www.lindsaybranquinho.com/companion-pass

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Lily Hay: Expectations vs. Rodeo Reality Jul 19, 2023

Show notes

Let me introduce our special guest, Lily Hay, wife of Saddle Bronc rider, Dawson Hay! We're about to unveil the raw and riveting experiences that come with the rodeo lifestyle.

First, Lily paints a vivid portrait of the excitement that washes over you when you witness a rodeo ride, it's a thrill like no other. From there, we bust the myth of the glossy rodeo Instagram. Behind those picture-perfect shots lies a gritty reality that we're diving into today. From the sweat-soaked arenas to the fierce determination that drives these athletes, rodeo isn't just about showmanship—it's a lifestyle forged in true grit.

But rodeo is more than just a sport—it's a time-honored tradition that runs deep in our veins. We chat about the rich history and vibrant culture that make rodeo a truly one-of-a-kind experience. It's a world where passion and perseverance meet, forging unbreakable bonds among the rodeo community.

Amidst the challenges and "what ifs" of rodeo life, camaraderie becomes a lifeline. We dive into the genuine friendships among rodeo cowboys and cowgirls keep spirits high and hearts strong. It's this sense of kinship that sustains us through the trials and makes rodeo more than just a competition—it's a way of life.

What you'll hear in this episode:

[1:00] Today’s guest is Lily Hay.

[6:25] What it’s like to watch Dawson ride?

[11:15] Instagram vs. reality of rodeo.

[15:15] Steer wrestlers vs. bronc riders

[19:05] The most perfect description of a steer wrestler I have ever heard.

[22:20] Rodeo’s unique and special thing

[28:10] What being in rodeo can really get you.

[32:50] The camaraderie of the rodeo cowboys and how they are able to have such a genuine friendship.

[37:15] The Kentucky Derby was better than my wildest dreams.

[40:10] Rodeo is so much more than just a sport.

[45:55] It’s the little things in life that are the best.

[49:20] Rodeo is blowing up in the Cowboy Channel.

[53:15] Dawson’s first year at the rodeo.

[57:40] How rodeo helps you keep your perspective where it needs to be.

[1:01:25] How do you deal with people who don’t understand rodeo?

[1:06:10] When the outside voices get into your brain when you’re apart.

[1:09:10] How social media can make people feel like they can make a spectacle of your relationship.

Connect with Lindsay on Instagram @lindsaybranquinho and @companion.pass

Find more Companion Pass content on the blog: https://www.lindsaybranquinho.com/companion-pass

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Josee Martin: Doing Whatever it Takes Jul 12, 2023

Show notes

Special guest Josee Martin is with us today to share her extraordinary journey with us. Josie's the wife of steer wrestler, Tristan Martin. We're going to talk all about how they met and what life is like for them as Tristan travels and together, they raise their son Boudreaux.

Josie shares the challenges she faced during their first year of long-distance dating and the importance of maintaining a strong connection. With Tristan frequently on the road, Josie often found herself living like a single parent, balancing work and home life. She opens up about the sacrifices they made and the bittersweet moments of life out on the road, missing out on precious family moments and life at home, missing out on the excitement of the road.

We dive into the intricacies of rodeo life, discussing the challenges and unexpected twists encountered along the way. From Murphy's Law, rodeo edition, to the importance of having a support system of family and friends nearby, Josie's story highlights the selflessness of Tristan and the unique experiences they face as a married couple. Join Lindsay and Josie as they take you on an inspiring journey filled with passion, resilience, and the joys and struggles of balancing rodeo life and family.

What you'll hear in this episode:

[1:00] Josie’s background.

[8:25] There are a lot of lonely nights at home.

[13:10] What it’s like to send your kids out on the road and not get to enjoy the moment.

[17:30] What it’s like to be away from your family.

[22:00] Tristan’s first NFR.

[25:25] Get checked out while you’re at the rodeo.

[30:35] The challenges of making a decision.

[36:00] Are you more of a planner or a planter?

[43:00] The biggest rodeos are the ones that are put out there the most and that are seen by the most people.

[48:05] You can’t back in the box feeling like you have to win if you’re thinking about winning.

Follow along with Josee on Instagram @josee_rae_martin