The Cutting Edge Podcast

On Episode 63 of the Cutting Edge Podcast we wrap up another incredible year in the cutting community, highlighting the champions of the NCHA Metallic Cat Futurity and the NCHA Teton Ridge World Finals. Then we catch up with Elaine Jackson from Galatia Illionois, who alongside her husband, Rick Jackson, run a successful full time training operation that includes training, lessons, sales and events within cutting and sorting. As you'll hear in Elaine's interview, it was on her bucket list to haul and this year she did it in a big way with her horse, Midnight Blu, finishing third in the world in the 5,000 Novice Horse Non Pro, leaving the year with $27,072.75. Elaine is also a show secretary within the NCHA, and this interview has a few great tips if you are planning on hauling next year. Of course, Elaine also fills us in on her journey and shares how dreams really can come true. My favourite type of interview! & with Episode 63 the Cutting Edge Podcast comes to the end for 2021. I can't wait to chat with you all "next year". Thanks for another wonderful year of listening, sharing and supporting the journey on Western Twist Media and the Cutting Edge Podcast.

On Episode 62 we celebrate the start of the 2021 Teton Ridge NCHA World Finals! Kicking us off is an interview with Kaylee Thompson who is entering the 15,000 Amateur in third place. Kaylee approached me because she wanted to share her story, and her bond with her special mare Nu Id Be Special, aka Nibs. It's a wonderful interview with an engaging young competitor and I know you'll enjoy it. Then, I ramble through all 150 NCHA World Finalists and attempt to bring some levity to me butchering 90% of their names. Big thank you to our sponsors of today's podcast, Prairie Gringa Co., use code WesternTwist15 at www.theprairiegringa.com and Thermotex, use codes WesternTwist10 and WesternTwist30 at www.thermotex.com.

On Episode 61 of the Cutting Edge Podcast we are joined by one of Edmonton's top relators, Sara Kalke. Alongside her business, Sara has a young family, has shown cow horses, cutters and even dabbles in dressage! I was originally drawn to Sara when I met her at cuttings and began to follow her on social media. I admire her honesty, her passion for horses and her family, her willingness to learn new things and her success as a real estate agent. To learn more about Sara you can visit: www.sarakalke.com Also shout-out to our major sponsor of today's podcast - Thermotex. These medical grade far infrared products are the ultimate in pain relief, rest and recovery for your cutting horses AND you. Check out their line of human, horse and pet products at www.thermotex.com, and don't forget to use my discount codes. WesternTwist30 for $30 off the Platinum human model + free shipping & WesternTwist10 for 10% off all equine products. Lastly, WORLD FINALISTS, we want to hear from you! Please click the link to submit your answers to be featured on Western Twist Media: https://form.jotform.com/westerntwistmedia/haulin2021

On Episode 60, I am joined with Paige Callaway, creator and designer of Pursue Victory and Paige 1912. What I loved about this conversation is that the listeners get to join Paige Callaway and I for a chat at my kitchen table. As great kitchen chats tend go, we talk about a little bit of everything. Pursue Victory and Paige 1912 are staples in my closet and obviously we discuss her amazing brands which are manufactured right in Canada, what Paige considers timeless vs. trendy and what's in the future for both brands. Plus she sheds some light on some upcoming product drops. We also discuss horsemanship, business, coaching, social media, the rise of breakaway roping, collaborations with brands, women that inspire us, and somehow... more?! It's a really great conversation with an inspiring woman in our industry that is seeing tremendous growth within her business and blazing her own trail while she does it - I know you'll enjoy it. Shop both Pursue Victory and Paige 1912 on www.paigecallaway.com and make sure to follow both brands on Instagram and Facebook.

Episode 59 is a little mix of everything! Featuring a brand new segment, Questions for Cutters brought to you by Paige 1912 and Pursue Victory. Join me at a show asking fast questions provided by YOU the listeners and followers, to some of my favourite cutters, lopers, trainers, new cutters and seasoned competitors - you never know who will come on Questions for Cutters! & an interview with the founders of 100K Cattle Tag - Robyn and Morriah - to talk about their new incentive which elevates women in rodeo, one cattle tag at a time! I wanted to share the 100K Cattle Tag story because I love hearing and spreading the word about fresh ideas and innovative individuals in our industry as a whole. This great interview is brought to you by Thermotex Therapy Systems. Huge thank you to our sponsors. Make sure to shop Pursue Victory and Paige 1912 at www.paigecallaway.com. Plus get the ultimate in far infrared therapy for you and your horse at www.thermotex.com - don't forget my promo codes, westerntwist10 for the equine line, and westerntwist30 for $30 off and free shipping of the Platinum human model.

On today's episode we are joined by Wendy Docherty, Executive Vice President of Thermotex. Wendy has a wealth of knowledge on the benefits of far infrared therapy, not only for your horses, but for yourself and your pets as well. What I love about Thermotex is the anti-inflammatory benefits it provides show horses before, during and after a show. It's also not a gimmick, Thermotex has been involved in the horse industry for decades and the line of products are all medical grade. Plus, a share how I am personally using the Thermotex 12-pad blanket in Chivas' road to recovery. Lastly, for the first time this year I also run-down the top ten in each class of the race to the NCHA World Finals - a race that is proving to heat up more and more everyday! You can learn more about Thermotex at www.Thermotex.com. Plus don't forget to use the promo codes: westerntwist10 for 10% off all equine products and westerntwist30 for $30 off the personal Platinum +free shipping at checkout!

Episode 57 features a little bit of everything - where I've been, how Chivas is doing post-injury and what the plan is for him moving forward, as well as tackle some great listener questions about advice for new cutters, my own personal goals and how to get back your mojo after an extended break from the show pen. Make sure to subscribe to the podcast, as well as give Western Twist Media a like on Facebook and Instagram. A special thank you to today's sponsor of the show, Wildfire Classifieds. Canada's number one classifieds website for all your ranching, and more!, needs. Whether it's horses, panels, acreages, bulls, trailers or more, you can find it all on www.wfclassifieds.ca.

On Episode 56, we continue with the World Champion Series and are joined by the trainer who piloted the great Peeptos Cat to the NCHA 25,000 Novice Horse Open World Championship, Mike Wood, and her wonderful owner, Christine King. Christine and Mike share their love for hauling great horses, more about the spectacular mare, Peeptos Cat (lovingly known as Annie) and shed some light on the dynamic of trainers and owners who support each other, and often double up on the same horse! This is a great conversation with lots of tidbits from both Mike and Christine on the strategies behind hauling. However, some of my favourite's came from Christine, which included, get a great practice horse, and how to strategize your cookie feeding post show. Make sure to to keep up with new podcast episodes by liking Western Twist Media on both Instagram and Facebook. Shout-out to two brands that are supporting Western Twist Media and The Cutting Edge Podcast, Up In Stitches and EquiFuse. For more information check out their pages and website, and don't forget to use promo code Louisa2021 for the cutest slinkies, coolers and blankets, and promo code CuttingEdge10 for some of my can't-live-without grooming products.

On Episode 55 we kick off the NCHA World Champion series with my dear friend, Amanda Smith from Wembley, Alberta. Amanda captured the 25,000 Novice Horse Non Pro World Title on her great mare, Emma Rey, sired by Dual Rey out of Frecklesareinstyle by Docs Stylish Oak. On today's podcast we chat about all the things you want to hear from haulers - balancing soundness with hauling, how to stay consistent on the road, pre and post run rituals, that big thing we like to call mental game, insight on her great horse, and so much more! Make sure to to keep up with new podcast episodes by liking Western Twist Media on both Instagram and Facebook.

We're back & we're poppin' bottles on Episode 54 on the Cutting Edge Podcast.

I took a little bit of a breather, but I'm back! Before I jump back in to the regular routine of the Cutting Edge Podcast, I wanted to touch on how covid-19 personally and professionally affected me, as well as some of the horse-show specific lessons I've learned from the experiences of social distancing, quarantine, and the general panic around the virus. Truth be told, I'm excited to be slowly but surely back to showing, and loping, and everything in-between, but I have a bit of a new perspective on the whole thing. I also need to give a big shout-out to sponsor of the podcast, Bonina Nutrition. On today's episode I talk in-depth about one of their great products, S~Elect, an electrolyte blend developed for top performance horses. However, you need to check out their full line of supplements at www.bonina.com or Bonina Nutrition on Facebook, there's a great product in there for every horse - from broodmare, to champion!

For Episode 52 we have a conversation with one of cutting's top photographers, Suzanne Sylvester of S. Sylvester Photography.

On Episode 51, the Cutting Edge Podcast sits down with Milt and Mary Bradford. Mary and Milt are synonymous with cutting in so many different aspects. In 2008, Mary was inducted into the NCHA Non Pro Hall of Fame and in 2019 she was the 25,000 Novice Horse Non Pro World Champion on DMAC Wise Guy. Milt has been heavily involved in the sales business for decades, and along with Ben Emison and Jim Ward founded Western Bloodstock, the premier cutting horse sale company, which is now owned by Jeremy and Candace Barwick. On today's episode we cover how Mary and Milt got involved in the cutting industry and their highlights in the show pen, but also in the sale ring. We chat with Mary about her move towards predominately showing at the weekend level in recent years, and her year of hauling in 2019 that resulted in a World Championship. Plus, Milt shares with us stories from the Western Bloodstock era, his tips and tricks for purchasing horses out of sales, as well as the back-story of how he came to breed bucking stock.

A new Shout-Out Saturday episode is live with the amazing Megan Skinner Pine of Revelation Ranch Performance Horse Supply and today we are talking about products that make your horse feel their best. ✨ ➡️ Not only is Megan a fierce competitor herself, with plans to haul this year but her company provides awesome products for competitors and their horses to feel better and stronger! Today on the podcast we chat about her background, favourite cuttings and products that she can't live without when she's on the road or at home to make sure her horse's can feel at their very best.

On Episode 50 of the Cutting Edge Podcast, I sit down with 2019 NCHA Non Pro Futurity co-Champion, Kristen Galyean. Kristen Galyean is a force. She is a mother of two, the wife to NCHA Hall of Fame rider, Wesley Galyean and Dealer Principal at the highly successful dealership, Jim Glover Chevrolet. In the cutting pen, she has won over $800,000 in NCHA earnings - including being crowned the 2019 Non Pro Futurity co-champion on Coureygous and then following it up by clinching the 4 Year Old Non Pro Championship at the Bonanza. However, Kristen has also dominated another discipline outside of cutting for a very long time - she is a multiple AQHA World and Congress Champion and owns two highly successful western pleasure stallions, VS Code Red and VS Flatline. Today on the podcast we chat with Kristen about her background, some of the great horses she has competed on, the two disciplines she is so passionate about and how she makes it all work!

Something a little different today! On Episode 49 I am joined with three great podcasters to talk all things podcasting! My conversation today is with Ben Self, creator and producer of Cowhorse Full Contact, Cassie Hausauer of Lipstick and Cowboy Boots and Kaitlyn Hurst of Finding the Feel. On today's episode we talk about why we started podcasting, our favourite interviews, biggest tech fails, what we've excelled at and struggled with and so much more. A big thank you to today's sponsor of the podcast, Bonina Nutrition. Make sure to check out Bonina's excellent line of supplements for the performance horse at www.bonina.com.

Shout-Out Saturday is a new series where we interview entrepreneurs and industry-professionals and delve into brands, products, services and events, that cater to competitors, breeders and owners in the western performance horse industry! Today we welcome Nina Lundgren, NCHA Trainer and Member Hall of Fame inductee. Nina, alongside her husband, veterinarian, Bob Lundgren, own Bonina in Eltopia, Washington. Bonina is a hub and features a world-class event centre, an exceptional cutting horse training and breeding operation, as well as Bonina Nutrition - a line of superior nutrition products for horses and cattle. On today's episode we talk more in-depth about the Lundgren's supplement company, which was developed by Bob Lundgren, DVM, along with Mike Mehren, Phd Nutritionalist. Bonina Nutrition products were formulated especially for performing horses - targeting muscle building, conditioning, hydration, aches, pains and early development. 

 Tune in to today's episode to learn more and make sure to check out www.Bonina.com or Bonina Nutrition on Facebook for the full line of products, which include favourites like Oxy+Equine Enhanced, Bonina Boost, Freedom Free Choice Mineral Premix, S~Elect Salt & Electrolytes Blend and O'Sweet Gold - a combination of MSM and Glucosamine for joint health.

The National Cutting Horse Association Vice President Election is just around the corner! Today on the podcast, we interview one of the VP candidates, Ted Sokol of Seville, Florida. Ted Sokol has been a member of the NCHA since 1982 and has had a successful horse training business and non pro/amateur program for the past 34 years. He has been in the NCHA top ten world standings multiple times and is also a multiple national and aged event finalist. Ted is well known for his non pro, amateur and youth program and has customers who show on the local weekend levels to clients who have goals of hauling for national, world and limited aged event titles. Ted was the 2019 Zane Schulte Award winner, and has served as an NCHA Director for 20 years, having sat on the Trainers and Open show committees for multiple years. At an affiliate level, Ted has been a long-time member of the Florida Cutting Horse Association, has been an officer for over 30 years, and was President for 12 of those years.

 Today on the episode we delve into various topics - including what Ted is most proud of in his time cutting, as well as at an affiliate level with the Florida Cutting Horse Association. We discuss his campaign platform, which has a strong focus at the regional-level, and what initiatives he would like to spear-head if he were elected NCHA Vice President. Plus, we touch on our two hot button topics for the VP's - levelling and governance. If you have any questions for Ted you can email him at tedsokolvp@gmail.com or find him on his facebook platforms - Ted Sokol Cutting Horses or Ted Sokol for NCHA Vice President.

The National Cutting Horse Association Vice President Election is just around the corner! Today on the podcast, we interview one of the VP candidates, Skip Jones of Amarillo, Texas. Skip has been a member of the NCHA for more than 25 years. Among his involvement within our organization he has been an Area 11 Director, has chaired and sat on various committees, and is currently on the Executive Committee of the NCHA representing Region 7. Skip is also well known for his involvement at the affiliate level with the Panhandle Cutting Horse Association, and the West Texas Cutting Horse Association. Today on the episode we cover a lot of ground - including what Skip is most proud of in his time cutting, as well as while leading various associations, he shares his biggest accomplishments, and most difficult issues faced while on the Executive Committee and we discuss his insight into aged events as the producer for the West Texas Cutting Horse Futurity. We finish up the podcast by discussing what initiatives he believes strongly in, what he would like to impact if he becomes Vice President, and his stance on the current proposed NCHA-levelling, as well as the new governance model that is being suggested. To get in touch with Skip directly, you can reach him at skip@fhss.us or call him on his cell at 806-679-9919.

Shout-Out Saturday is a new series where we interview entrepreneurs and industry-professionals and delve into brands, products, services and events, that cater to competitors, breeders and owners in the western performance horse industry! For our first Shout-Out Saturday we are super excited to welcome Ali Anderson of Bossmare Bodyworks and Alison Anderson's Western Art. Ali is a multi-faceted and extremely talented individual that is heavily involved in the cutting horse industry. She is a competitor herself, is known to lope horses from time to time, and has a professional background as a vet tech! Now you can also add entrepreneur with two businesses to her resume. With Alison Anderson's Western Art she unleashes her creative side, creating originals, as well as working on commissions for clients. Then, you can find her on the road and at shows, helping horses compete at their very best through Bossmare Bodyworks, where she offers a range of therapeutic modalities, with a large focus on massage. You can find out more about Alison's Western Art by visiting her Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/228474703946279/ or website at https://alison-anderson-western-art.webflow.io/ If you are interested in learning more about her therapeutic services be sure to give her a like on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/groups/896555184016720, check out her website at: https://bossmare-bodyworks.webflow.io or contact her directly at: 662-416-8280

On Episode 46 of the Cutting Edge Podcast we sit down with Francisco Sigala to talk about his family's great stallion Sigala Rey, and determine whether or not the rumours really are true.

On Episode 45 we welcome Dan Leffelaar of Novus Global back to the podcast to talk mental game. On today's episode Dan delves into the importance of training your mind. We talk about the difference between high performers and an elite athlete, and the gaps in vision that each athlete faces that slows them down. Plus, despite the fact that working with a mental performance coach is very individualized, Dan and I touch on generalizations that each competitor can bring into their own competitive program. I love these podcasts, I find them fascinating and think they are incredibly valuable for anyone that is currently, or wanting to, compete. To learn more about what Dan does as a mental performance coach, check out Novus Global at https://novus.global or reach him directly at dan@novus.global. Big thank you to Energy Equine for sponsoring today's podcast, to learn more about Energy Equine visit www.energyequine.ca. Want to add a podcast to your roster that focuses on the veterinary side of the performance horse world? Make sure to check out Riding To Excellence, the Energy Equine podcast, available on all major podcast apps or on Soundcloud at: https://soundcloud.com/user-606938765.

Episode 44 is a first for me! I tackle a listener's questions about how to develop a positive mindset, how to deal with people you don't necessarily like and how to work through feelings of shyness. Plus, we do a deep-dive into the killer of comparison. To share your answers and advice, make sure to like and follow us at Western Twist Media on Facebook & Instagram!

On Episode 43 we are Talkin' About Team Challenges with the USA vs. Australia Non Pro Challenge American Captain, Israel Valles​.

On Episode 42 of the Cutting Edge Podcast we interview NCHA Open Trainer, Cara Brewer. I recently had the chance to sit down with Cara during the 2019 World Championship NCHA Futurity before the Open Semi Finals, which she made back on two full siblings, Pound Sign owned by Jim Haworth and Taggline owned by Teague Diversified, both are stallions by the great Metallic Cat out of Dual Rey Tag. Cara went on to make the Open Finals on Taggline, earning over $21,000 in the process and then followed it up by making the Open Finals at the Abilene Spectacular, splitting 8/9. It's a great story, Cara and her family have been an integral part of what has become a maternal dynasty beginning with the great mare, Playin Tag that Cara won the 2004 Open Super Stakes on, Playin Tag's daughter, Dual Rey Tag was a multiple aged-event finalist, and crossed with Metallic Cat, produced the great Hashtags. Now, his two little brothers are stepping up to the plate under Cara's guidance and training program. Today on the podcast we talk about that dynasty, Cara's program, and so much more. Plus, if I sound a little nervous I probably was, Cara is an idol to many women in the industry, including myself, and it was an honour to interview her, and feature her adorable son, Brand. To follow along with Cara's program you can like Cara Brewer Cutting Horses on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/CBCuttingHorses/

Episode 41 features the final top FOUR moments of the Cutting Edge Podcast in 2019.

Episode 40 features the Top 10 Moments of the Cutting Edge Podcast as we ring in a new year!

Episode 39 was a fun first for the Cutting Edge Podcast! During the NCHA World Finals we sat down with the self-proclaimed "Two Crew." Four World Finalists in the 2,000 Limit Rider who bonded over their experiences on the road this year.

When the gavel dropped on Tin Man at last year's Western Bloodstock sale during the NCHA Futurity for $500,000, a record was shattered. It was the highest price ever paid at a public auction for a western performance 2-year-old. The buyer was Stella Swanson, of the 7Ranch, and he was to go into training with Zeb Corvin. Earlier in the day, Stella had also acquired a beautiful roan mare, Rosa Del Pepto, for another high ticket price… people were certainly intrigued.

 On Episode 38 of the Cutting Edge Podcast we sit down with Zeb and Melissa Corvin before the Limited Open Finals. In a full circle moment, Zeb was crowned reserve champion in the Limited Open on Tin Man, finishing third on Rosa Del Pepto and then made it through to the Semis on both, narrowly missing the finals on Tin Man, but piloting Rosa Del Pepto to a trip to the NCHA Open Finals where he won over $29,000 on the great mare.

 Today on the podcast we learn more about Zeb and Melissa's background, their involvement in the western performance industry, and of course we talk about how this last year has been with the mounting pressure of having not only one, but two, of the industries most talked about two-year-olds in their barn. 

 Make sure to keep up with Zeb and Melissa by following them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Corvin-Performance-Horses, and as always make sure to like Western Twist Media on FB and Instagram to stay up to date on all things cutting and the Cutting Edge Podcast!

Episode 37 is a story of patience, and perseverance. At one time, Kat Whitby was an assistant trainer, but five years ago she stepped away from the cutting horse world and became a fire fighter. Last year, Kat Whitby took a seven year old gelding she trained herself, Dual Rider, to his first three shows ever. They hit a lick, marking a pair of 75's and during that time, Kat applied for her Non Pro card. This January, the card finally appeared and Kat set out with Monster to haul in the NCHA $5,000 Novice Horse Non Pro. 



Kat entered the year with just over $4,000 in lifetime earnings, now she's finishing the year with over $50,000. With a tremendous lead coming into the NCHA World Finals, they couldn't catch her and Monster, but the dynamic duo still posted a 224 in the second round to prove to everyone why they deserved the title of $5,000 Novice Horse Non Pro World Champion.

 Make sure to keep up to date with Western Twist Media and the Cutting Edge Podcast by following us on our social channels on both Facebook and Instagram!

Episode 36 is a special mid-week episode in celebration of the NCHA World Finals! Today on the podcast I sit down with the main coordinator of the World Finals, Denise Seiz. From sponsorship, to hospitality, finalist posters to decor - Denise and her team do it all! Making sure the 150 competitors that arrive for the World Finals, as well as their family, friends and teams around them, plus the many amazing sponsors that contribute to the event, are happy, excited and comfortable is no small feat, and as many can attest - if you have a question about World Finals, Denise is who you ask. On the episode we talk about Denise's background in the sport, as well as delve into all things "BTS" with the World Finals. If you are getting to Fort Worth this week to compete, or cheer on a rider, in the Watt Arena make sure you listen to this podcast. Denise provides an excellent roadmap of all things World Finals in this episode! A special thanks to 7 Ranch, Stella Swanson, for coming on as the new title sponsor of the World Finals, and to the many sponsors that contribute to this amazing event for cutters across North America to enjoy. To keep up to date with all that is going on in the Watt Arena make sure to visit www.nchacutting.com/events/world-finals.

On Episode 35, we sit down with the Canadian "Kid" Jesse Lennox about how a kid from Ontario has ended up being an NCHA Hall of Fame Trainer at such a young age. Jesse shares with us stories of his early days in Texas, his love for the futurity and we talk about the great mare, Cinca Im Hot. Jesse and Cinca Im Hot are currently competing in the Open World Finals and we talk about the first goes, as well as talk strategy looking forward to the final two goes next weekend. To keep up with Jesse's program follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Jesse-Lennox-Cutting-Horses and as always, make sure to keep up with the Cutting Edge Podcast by liking Western Twist Media on Facebook and Instagram.

Friday kicks off the NCHA 7 Ranch World Finals, and because of it Episode 34 of the Cutting Edge Podcast is devoted to the top 15 riders across the 10 weekend classes! Today, I half-stumble my way through the 150 riders eligible for the World Finals to not only recognize, but celebrate, the incredible weekend cutters from across North America that have hauled all year and will now get to showcase their great horses in Fort Worth, Texas. For draws, standings, information and more, be sure to check out https://www.nchacutting.com/events/world-finals

On Episode 33 of the Cutting Edge Podcast we sit down with Utah Cutting Horse Association Non Pro Futurity Champion, Cheyanne Murdoch to talk about her stand-out small futurity horse, Miss Gypsy Jackson. Aside from the $35,000 in earnings won with both Cheyanne, and trainer, Monty Buntin, what makes Miss Gypsy Jackson stand out is, well... everything. The home-bred mare, affectionately known as "Baby Girl", may have had a tough start to life, but that hasn't dimmed her sparkle. Not only will she smile for photos, she'll take a bow after winning events - something her mother, HA Gypsy Crackin, used to do too! Today on the podcast, Cheyanne shares with us the story of Baby Girl, highlights from their incredible year together, and some insight into "trick training" - turns out if you're Cheyanne, it's not all that hard to do! Make sure to never miss an episode of the Cutting Edge Podcast by subscribing on your app of choice, listening online at www.westerntwistmedia.com/podcast, and liking us on Facebook and Instagram!

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Episode 31 of the Cutting Edge Podcast is here and we go through the results from the Calgary Stampede Futurity, presented by Wrangler and recap some of the reasons YOU gotta cut at Calgary, and some of the great stories that came out of the Stampede Futurity this year!

On Episode 30 we celebrate the wrap up of the 2019 Cascade Cow Cutters season. The CCC is a novice and amateur-friendly association that hosts shows at Bonina Events Centre, in Eltopia, Washington and in Ellensburg, Washington, throughout the year. In 2019 they announced two new awards - Most Improved and Most Inspirational - and reached out to see if I would interview these two incredible riders! The 2019 Most Improved cutter is Jim Green, who sat down with us alongside his trainer, NCHA Member Hall of Fame Trainer, Nina Lundgren, to talk about his year learning the ins and outs of the sport. The Most Inspirational cutter is Brent Stewart, who also joined us to share his favourite moments with the CCC this year, a bit about his program, and what the rest of the year has in store for his barn! ➡️ To learn more about the CCC visit their website at https://cascadecowcutters.org and to follow along with Western Twist Media be sure to like our page on Facebook and Instagram, or check out the website at www.westerntwistmedia.com.

Episode 29 is a quick overview of a multitude of events occurring in cutting-land this last week. We touch on the latest updates from the call for NCHA governance change. Then we switch gears to go over the results from the inaugural Canadian Spectacular and check back in on the NCHA World Standings leading up to World Finals! ➡️ To follow along with Western Twist Media be sure to like our page on Facebook and Instagram, or check out the website at www.westerntwistmedia.com.

Episode 28 of the Cutting Edge Podcast is here, with the Way Out West Series 2x Champion, Lauren Middleton. Today on the podcast we talk about the Way Out West Series, where Lauren was able to capture the win in the Non Pro at both the Idaho Cutting Horse Association Futurity & the El Rancho Futurity & Foothill Fiesta. Plus, she gives us the background story of her great gelding, Sweet Reyvenge. We delve a little into her background, her family has been heavily involved in the cutting horse world since she was young, and we finish up the interview talking about the many things she has on the go. Her current portfolio includes her artistic endeavours, under her company, At First Sight Studio, and being a huge part of the Cutting Horse Central team. ➡️ To follow along with Western Twist Media be sure to like our page on Facebook and Instagram, or check out the website at www.westerntwistmedia.com. To see the amazing pieces that Lauren creates check out her website at www.atfirstsightstudioanddesign.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/atfirstsightstudioanddesign/

On Episode 27 of the Cutting Edge Podcast we delve into the turbulence that is occurring in, and around, the National Cutting Horse Association. To be honest, to publish this podcast was not an easy decision for me. It is my goal to share all sides, of all stories, and to celebrate the sport - but we can't ignore what has been occurring within our association, and on social media, the past month. On September 11, Whit Davis released a notice to call for a special membership meeting with corresponding documentation about the Executive Committee, and amendments to governance and structural bylaws. After seeing the sign up form for this notice, being circulated out of context from the corresponding documents, and not truly understanding the call for a membership meeting - I agreed to have Whit on the podcast to explain the proposal more in depth, and essentially - what you are signing if you do sign it. I felt that this was the best way to communicate clearly the notice, instead of turning to Facebook and trying to wade through the hundreds of comments on different forums. I also read our Executive Director, Kirk Slaughter's recommendations to the Executive Committee that were published online September 12, as well as the NCHA notice that was sent out September 13 from President, Ron Pietrafaso, on the limiting vote and Non Pro Committee proposal, that were both rescinded by the Executive Committee. A move that I applaud. It is my hope that while listening to this podcast, other podcasts, and reading all of the comments and opinions being toted on social media, you can determine your own opinion on the unfolding events. All documents that I have discussed today on the podcast are also posted in full form on my blog at www.westerntwistmedia.com/blog so that you can read them as well.

On Episode 26 of the Cutting Edge Podcast we have a real mixed bag! We wouldn't be able to publish the podcast today without mentioning the shocking resignation of NCHA's Executive Director, Kirk Slaughter. Then, still coming off the first futurity-themed #HorseShowHangover of the season, we recap the Black Elk Cutting Horse Classic Fall Spectacular - the highs, the lows, the wins and even the stories - the inspiring ones, and the ghost ones. Finally, we finish off the podcast today by talking some World Finals logistics. It's time, the season is ending, the standings are mostly up to date, and if you are going to make it to Fort Worth, you better have your game plan figured out! For all things cutting, and then some, follow us at www.facebook.com/westerntwistmedia or at www.westerntwistmedia.com.

On Episode 25 of the Cutting Edge Podcast we sit down with respected NCHA judge and trainer, Kenny Pugh Jr. Having judged the NCHA Triple Crown events multiple times, Kenny gives us insight into the five-judge system and judging some of the best riders in the world. We talk everything from open competition, to the jackpot level, and Kenny also shares what he can forgive in a run, plus what he's looking for when he's marking a great run, and a great horse. To follow along on the Cutting Edge make sure to subscribe to the podcast on all major apps & "like" Western Twist Media @ www.facebook.com/westerntwistmedia and www.instagram.com/westerntwistmedia.

On Episode 24 of the Cutting Edge Podcast we recap the second annual Cascades Futurity and Aged Event in Redmond, Oregon and sit down with Open Futurity champion, Eric Wisehart. Based in California, Eric shares with us some insight into his futurity horses this year, big and small, his background and how his program has evolved today, as well as "rules" he lives by in the show pen - and tries to impart on his non pros as well. To follow along on the Cutting Edge make sure to subscribe to the podcast on all major apps & "like" Western Twist Media @ www.facebook.com/westerntwistmedia and www.instagram.com/westerntwistmedia.

On Episode 23 we tackle a big topic, and the one on the tip of everyone's tongues - the limiting proposal that came from the recent NCHA Executive Committee meeting. We are first joined by NCHA president, Ron Pietrafaso, and Region 1 Representative, Kristen York to explain their own roles and responsibilities, as well as the function of the Executive Committee. Then we get into the over-arching concepts behind limiting and why they feel some EC members voted yes, while other's voted no. Then we begin our "town hall" of perspectives, welcoming show producer, Connie Down-Cicoria, CCHA president, Les Jack, Non Pro competitor, Heidi Hadlock-Evans, Hall of Fame Trainer, Tim Smith, and finish up with some perspectives shared via Facebook. To read the show notes visit www.westerntwistmedia.com/podcast, and as always follow along on facebook at www.facebook.com/westerntwistmedia

Episode 22 of the Cutting Edge Podcast is really a mixed bag! LOTS of recaps - starting with the 2019 Metallic Cat Summer Spectacular - focusing on the derby classes, and the big Metallic Cat Incentive. We touch on both the Youth Scholarship Cutting, as well as the Youth World Finals and we shout-out the Hans Hansma Scholarship Cutting that recently went down in Claresholm, Alberta. The first futurity of the season, the Moose Jaw LAE, just went down, so obviously we recap that too! Then I reflect on the Canadian title I won last year, and share my first #StoryTime, recounting the blog I wrote last year after the Canadian season ended. I share some big takeaways from my year hauling, the many people that helped me achieve a Canadian title and get a little emotional when I share some of it too - hopefully I edited out most of the sniffles. To follow along make sure to "like" my page, Western Twist Media, on www.facebook.com/westerntwistmedia.

The official publication of the National Cutting Horse Association, the Cutting Horse Chatter has been the long-standing "voice" of the NCHA. Today on Episode 21 of the Cutting Edge Podcast, we sit down with the Editor of the Chatter, Bethann Coldiron. Think print is dead? Think again. Bethann shares with us the positive direction the Chatter is going, exciting pieces that she is working on, and what she loves about writing about cutting horses. Have a great story, or topic, that you think would be an excellent addition to the Chatter? You can contact Bethann directly at bethann.coldiron@cowboypublishing.com.

On Episode 20 of the Cutting Edge Podcast we sit down with the Calgary Stampede Open Champion, Brad Pedersen, and his wife, Heather Pedersen, to talk about their great horse, Downtown Calico. Both Brad and Heather are accomplished competitors, and we chat about their program - based out of Lacombe, Alberta - and some of the great horses they've both shown over the years. Plus. Brad walks us through his Calgary Stampede championship where the pair marked a blazing 225 and Heather fills us in on how they acquired their great mare, and how special she is to their family.

On Episode 19 of the Cutting Edge Podcast we sit down with Emma Reinhardt, the Calgary Stampede Non Pro Champion. Emma is no stranger to cutting, she's the daughter of Canadian Hall of Fame Trainer, Doug Reinhardt, and long-time Alberta Cutting Horse Association secretary, Shauna Reinhardt. She is also no stranger to success at the Calgary Stampede, the 23-year-old has already captured a Youth, Classic and Futurity championship at Calgary. Today on the podcast she fills you in on life as a loper and trainer's kid, her great mare, Miss Smoke Is Smooth, her good luck charms, and of course, walks us through the 223.5 run that won her the Calgary Stampede Non Pro title.

Tim Smith is, simply put, a legend. He's won over 100 Limited Aged Events and he's a 6 time NCHA Futurity Finalist. He's dominated on horses like WR This Cats Smart and My Lizzy Babe and despite threatening retirement he's back this year, hauling multiple horses for the NCHA World Finals. At the recent PCCHA Core Balance Derby in Las Vegas he crossed over the 6 million dollar mark in Equistat Earnings on Two Smart A Cat owned by Tammy Valley, a WR mare that he is campaigning in the Open. Today on the podcast Tim gives us a recap of how this year is going, and shares stories, insight and opinion from a chart-topping career with no signs of slowing down. --- To follow along on the Cutting Edge make sure to subscribe to the podcast on all major apps & "like" Western Twist Media @ www.facebook.com/westerntwistmedia and www.instagram.com/westerntwistmedia.

Hot on the heels of a Western Twist Media Facebook post that went "viral", it appears that many of our followers are in the midst of the dreaded show season slump. To combat that, Episode 17 brings you an interview with mental performance coach, Dan Leffelaar. On the podcast today we dive into the concept of mindset, and the coaching that goes with it. We talk about the different types of performers and the limiting beliefs that athletes place on themselves that hold them back. We highlight certain strategies to work through those limiting beliefs and Dan shares an incredible personal story from his own background as an athlete. One way or another, if you are in a slump, we are going to get you out of it! --- To learn more about Dan's work through Novus Global visit http://danleffelaar.com Plus, a huge thank you to Energy Equine Veterinary Services for allowing us to share this interview which was first published on their podcast, Riding To Excellence - the Energy Equine Podcast. To learn more about this innovative sports-medicine focused clinic in Airdrie, Alberta visit www.energyequine.ca or find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/energyequineveterinary.

Episode 16 of the Cutting Edge Podcast is "short" and sweet one today. I finish up my thoughts and observations from the National Cutting Horse Association Convention. I pose a few questions and challenges to my listeners, including what makes your weekend affiliate great? What can other areas learn from your area? Let's grow the weekend back up! Plus, I just can't help myself - I gotta plug my home court. I give you guys a run down on the results from the annual Alberta Cutting Horse Association Novice Challenge.