X Factor Roping Podcast

Latest Episodes:

#114 Clay Logan Nov 25, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Clay Logan breaks down the huge growth of his ropings—2,450 entries and nearly $1.5 million paid out—and the changes that made this year’s event the best yet. He talks about the importance of great cattle, the addition of the big scoreboard, and what makes the 377 arena so roper-friendly.

Clay shares how his ropings began, how rising cattle prices affect producers, and why the new Solo Select Futurity is a game-changer for the horse industry. He reflects on his years as a trainer, the shift in judging, and his philosophy: “If you can make a good horse great, you’ve done a good job.”

From advice for young trainers to the power of attitude, Clay opens up about what makes a great horseman, the horses he’s loved, and the incredible talent rising in today’s roping world.

#113 Trey Yates Nov 21, 2025

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In this podcast episode, Trey Yates dives into the craft of elite heeling—from rodeo vs. horse-show style to mental strategy, 4th-quarter pressure, and the role of faith in competing at the highest level.

#112 Trey Johnson Oct 29, 2025

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In this inspiring episode, Trey Johnson shares his journey of faith, growth, and discovering true purpose. He challenges us to look beyond success and ask, “If you take the money out of the equation, would you still do it?” — a powerful reminder to align our time and gifts with what truly matters.

#111 Wyatt Cox Oct 21, 2025

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Wyatt Cox joins the show to talk about chasing dreams, discipline, and the road from California to Texas. From pivotal misses to major wins, Wyatt shares lessons on staying calm under pressure, evolving as a student of the game, and why there’s no backup plan — this is it.

#110 Kyle Stull May 20, 2025

Show notes

X Factor Team Roping presents a powerful conversation with Kyle Stull—team roper, coach, and expert in human performance with a graduate degree in Rehabilitative Science and a Doctorate in Behavior. In this episode, we explore the intersection of science and sport: how muscle memory, natural talent, and deliberate practice come together to create elite-level roping.
Kyle shares how his unique background bridges the physical and mental aspects of performance—from injury prevention and recovery, to building sustainable routines that keep athletes sharp without burning out. We dive into the role of goal setting, the importance of finding the right coach, and how behavioral science can help ropers maintain focus, motivation, and longevity in the sport.
Whether you’re chasing your next header, refining your loop, or just trying to stay consistent under pressure, Kyle’s insights offer real-world tools to elevate your mindset and your mechanics. This is more than rodeo talk—it’s performance science applied to the arena.

The Best way to reach Kyle is through email: kylestull7@gmail.com

References
Coyle, D. (2009). The talent code: Greatness isn’t born. It’s grown. Here’s how. Bantam.
Ericsson, A. (2016). Summing up hours of any type of practice versus identifying optimal practice activities. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 11(3), 351–354. https://doi.org/10.1177/1745691616635600
Ericsson, K. A., Krampe, R. T., & Tesch-Römer, C. (1993). The role of deliberate practice in the acquisition of expert performance. Psychological Review, 100(3), 363–406. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-295X.100.3.363
Herrigel, E. (1953). Zen in the art of archery (R. F. C. Hull, Trans.). Pantheon Books.
Huberman, A. (Host). (2022, September 5). Focus toolkit: Tools to improve your focus & concentration [Video]. YouTube. Huberman Lab. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yb5zpo5WDG4
Huberman, A. (Host). (2023, March 20). Science-based mental training & visualization for improved learning [Video]. YouTube. Huberman Lab. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RYyQRQFgFk
Sun Tzu. (2005). The art of war (L. Giles, Trans.). Filiquarian Publishing. (Original work published ca. 5th century BCE)

#109 Cole Davison Apr 03, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the X Factor Roping Podcast, we sit down with NFR qualifier Cole Davison as he shares his journey from growing up in Oklahoma to making a name for himself in the world of team roping. Cole opens up about how he got started in the sport, the importance of surrounding yourself with business-minded people, and his goals with the Gold Buckle Futurities. He also dives into life after rodeo and what it takes to transition to new opportunities in the arena. Whether you’re a competitive roper or just love a good rodeo story, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and plenty of wisdom from a seasoned pro. Tune in now!

#108 John Dowdy – President of Equinety Mar 26, 2025

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In this episode, we sit down with John Dowdy, the driving force behind Equinety, to explore the story behind the company and its game-changing equine supplement. John takes us through Equinety’s origins, its mission to enhance horse health and performance, and the science behind its unique amino acid formula.
We also dive into the business side—discussing the challenges and successes of growing a brand in the equine industry, customer success stories, and what sets Equinety apart from traditional supplements. Whether you’re a horse owner, equestrian competitor, or just curious about equine wellness, this episode is packed with insights on maximizing your horse’s potential.
Tune in for an engaging conversation that blends passion, science, and business strategy!

#107 Tyler Wade and Wesley Thorp Jan 29, 2025

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In this episode, we sit down with two of the biggest names in team roping: Tyler Wade, a 2x World Champion from Terrell, TX, and Wesley Thorp, a 3x World Champion from Stephenville, TX. These two champions open up about their unforgettable season and the key factors that helped them secure their second world title together.
Tyler and Wesley also dive into their passion project, the World Youth Team Roping Championships. They share why this event is so important to them, what it offers for young ropers, and why it’s an opportunity you don’t want to miss. From producing the event to fostering the next generation of champions, these two explain the benefits of attending, and how it’s shaping the future of team roping.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the sport or just curious about the world of team roping, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and practical advice from two of the best in the game. Tune in and learn what it takes to rope for a world title—and why giving back to the next generation matters just as much.
Don’t miss it!

Bonus Episode with Tyler Wade and Wesley Thorp: World Youth Team Roping Championship Mar 11, 2024

Show notes

Dive into the World Youth Team Roping Championship with Tyler Wade and Wesley Thorp. Find out why this event is so special to them, how they came up with the idea, and what you can expect on this bonus episode! The World Youth Team Roping Championship is March 22-24th at 377 arena in Stephenville, TX. You can find more info on the roping on their facebook page!

#107 Tyler Wade and Wesley Thorp Feb 28, 2024

Show notes

The ride to the 2023 NFR was a roller coaster for team roping World Champions, Tyler Wade and Wesley Thorp. A win in the first round of Reno, Nevada in the beginning of June was shortly followed by a slump. Tyler and Wesley discuss how they stayed mentally strong even though an NFR qualification was slipping from their hands. During the third week in July, Tyler and Wesley were able to turn their season around—winning about forty thousand a man in three weeks.
During this podcast, Tyler and Wesley take us through their partnership, 2023 rodeo season, NFR preparation, and the NFR. They also dive into the production of the World Youth Team Roping Championships. They share their reasoning for wanting to produce this event as well as some of the things they hope young contestants can gain from participating. The event is scheduled for March 22-24 at 377 Arena in Stephenville, Texas. For more information visit World Youth Team Roping Championships on Facebook.

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