NFR Extra

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#199 11X World Champion Barrel Racer Charmayne James Jul 17, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, 11x World Champion Barrel Racer Charmayne James takes us back to where it all began—arriving at the very first NFR in Las Vegas as a wide-eyed 15-year-old. She shares what it was like to experience the energy of Vegas and how the city's fascination with rodeo helped elevate the sport. Charmayne opens up about the moment that lit a fire in her to become a fierce competitor and legendary athlete. She also tells the unforgettable story of finding her iconic bay gelding, Scamper—and the instant connection that would lead to one of the most remarkable partnerships in rodeo history.

#198 2024 PRCA Bareback Riding Champion Dean Thompson Jul 10, 2025

Show notes

2024 PRCA Bareback Riding World Champion Dean Thompson joins the show for a fun and inspiring conversation filled with grit, laughs, and hometown pride. Dean dives into how his wrestling background shaped his mental toughness in rodeo and even shares his pick for the best wrestler in the rodeo world. He talks about the unmatched support from Utah fans and how special it is to return home to compete. Dean also reflects on the surreal experience of being surrounded by legendary champions from 1985. With his first gold buckle in hand, he's more motivated than ever to keep grinding and return to Las Vegas for another shot at the NFR.

#197 2024 WPRA World Champion Barrel Racer Kassie Mowry Jul 03, 2025

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2024 WPRA Barrel Racing World Champion Kassie Mowry joins the show to reflect on her championship season and the incredible horses that helped her get there. She shares how she develops strong connections with each horse, including her standout partner Jarvis—who she started in futurity competitions before transitioning him to rodeo. Kassie dives into the training process, the unique personalities of her horses, and how those relationships have shaped her path to success. From early development to world championship runs, she offers an inside look at the hard work, patience, and passion behind every ride. This episode is a true celebration of horsemanship and the journey to the top.

#196 2X PRCA World Champion Shad Mayfield Jun 26, 2025

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2x World Champion Shad Mayfield joins the show to break down what it means to earn both the Tie-Down and All-Around world titles—and the difference between the two. He shares his drive to be the greatest and the mindset it takes to stay at the top. Shad dives into the importance of the horses he rides, especially his standout partner Lolipop, and how the right horse plays a key role in his confidence and mental game. He also opens up about the value of having a rival, highlighting his friendly competition with Riley Webb and how it continues to push them both to new heights. This episode gives a deeper look into the heart, horsepower, and hunger behind one of rodeo's brightest stars.

#195 Singer/Songwriter Josh Ward May 20, 2025

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Country artist Josh Ward joins the show to share his incredible journey from rodeo arenas to concert stages. Before becoming a successful singer/songwriter, Josh worked in the oil fields and competed in all three rough stock events as a young cowboy. In this episode, he reflects on the striking similarities between chasing dreams in rodeo and breaking through in country music— both starting in small-town arenas and bars, and working tirelessly to reach the big leagues. Josh also talks about what it means to give back to the rodeo world that shaped him and the gratitude he feels seeing life come full circle.

#194 2024 NFR Qualifier Bradlee Miller May 07, 2025

Show notes

Bradlee Miller joins the show to share his journey from the rodeo season to his first Wrangler NFR as a bareback rider in 2024. He opens up about the nerves, excitement, and lessons learned as a rookie on the sport's biggest stage. Bradlee also talks about the unforgettable moment of winning the second round—a goal he set before ever stepping into the arena. Looking ahead, he shares his ambitious goals for 2025 and his vision for the next 40 years. This episode captures the grit, determination, and passion it takes to make a lasting mark at the NFR.

#193 Singer/Songwriter Presley Barker Apr 28, 2025

Show notes

Presley Barker joins the show to talk about his rising journey as a singer and songwriter in the country music world. A true student of traditional country, Presley shares how classic sounds shaped his style—and how he's become a bit of a "human jukebox," able to play up to 150 classic country songs on guitar. He also reflects on the honor of singing the national anthem at the 2024 Wrangler NFR and what it means to represent country music on one of its biggest stages. Tune in for a conversation filled with passion, tradition, and big dreams for the future.

#192 2024 NFR Qualifier Statler Wright Apr 18, 2025

Show notes

Statler Wright joins the show to share how his journey into rodeo didn't follow the expected path—even for someone with the last name Wright. Focused on football and wrestling growing up, Statler didn't shift his sights to rodeo until 2020. Now, he's proudly carrying on his legendary family's legacy alongside his father Cody and brothers Rusty, Ryder, and Stetson. From winning it all at his first rodeo to chasing big dreams in the Thomas & Mack Center, Statler talks about finding his own identity in the sport. This episode dives into passion, family, and what it means to step into the spotlight with a name that already shines.

#191 South Point Hotel & Casino Owner Michael Gaughan Apr 11, 2025

Show notes

Legendary Las Vegas icon Michael Gaughan joins the show to share his remarkable journey in shaping the city's entertainment landscape. From opening iconic properties like the Barbary Coast and South Point to playing a pivotal role in growing the NFR in Las Vegas, Gaughan's impact is undeniable. He reflects on decades in gaming, his passion for racing, and his ongoing dedication to the city he's called home since 1952. As the former Chairman of Las Vegas Events and a ProRodeo Hall of Fame inductee, Gaughan gives listeners a rare look into the legacy of one of Vegas' most influential figures.

#190 President of Las Vegas Events Tim Keener Apr 04, 2025

Show notes

Tim Keener, President of Las Vegas Events, shares his journey from sports management to leading some of the city's biggest events. With more than 25 years at LVE, he has played a key role in the Wrangler NFR, Junior NFR and Cowboy Christmas. Tim dives into his background, his experience working with ESPN and Raycom Sports, and the evolution of how he ended up going from attending the Wrangler NFR for the first time to becoming President of Las Vegas Events. He shares stories from his career and opens up about how the city continues to grow as the Sports and Entertainment Capital of the World.

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