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Why are rodeo athletes tougher than ever — yet breaking down sooner? In this roundtable episode, Doug sits down with the Champion Living coaching staff to unpack the real reasons behind the rodeo athlete development gap. The conversation explores why many athletes work hard but still struggle to stay healthy, consistent, and competitive over long seasons. We talk about the difference between toughness and preparation, why being busy doesn't equal being ready, and how common development paths like rodeo schools often fail to provide lasting structure or accountability. The coaches also share what athletes should actually be focusing on right now, and what long-term athlete development needs to look like if rodeo is going to evolve. This is an honest, practical discussion aimed at helping athletes think differently about training, recovery, and longevity.

In this solo episode of the Champion Living Podcast, Doug Champion breaks down a problem that's quietly costing rodeo athletes careers, consistency, and longevity — the rodeo athlete development gap. Rodeo has never lacked tough athletes. What it lacks is structured development that prepares athletes to last. Drawing from his experience as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and years of coaching rodeo athletes at every level — from high school competitors to NFR qualifiers and world champions — Doug explains why toughness alone is no longer enough in modern rodeo. This episode covers: What the "rodeo athlete development gap" actually is Why rodeo has professionalized financially but not developmentally How load vs capacity explains most common rodeo injuries Why being "gym strong" doesn't always transfer to rodeo performance The role of nervous system fatigue, recovery, and travel stress Why random workouts and grinding harder often backfire How poor preparation shortens careers and limits earning potential What real athlete development should look like in rodeo Doug challenges long-held assumptions in rodeo culture while respecting the grit and toughness the sport was built on — making the case that better preparation, not more suffering, is the future of rodeo performance. If you're a rodeo athlete, parent, or coach who wants to: Stay healthier through long seasons Improve consistency Extend competitive longevity Understand how to train smarter, not just harder this episode will change how you think about rodeo training and athlete development. Because talent gets you noticed — preparation keeps you in the game.   This episode of the Champion Living Podcast is supported by: Hooey Official partner supporting rodeo athletes and western culture 🔗 https://www.hooeybrands.com Discount Code: Championliving Rodeo Now App Watch live rodeos, replays, and exclusive rodeo content 🔗 https://www.rodeonow.com

In this episode of The Champion Living Podcast, we sit down with Kincade Henry, one of the most thoughtful young athletes in rodeo today. At just 23 years old, Kincade brings a level of perspective, maturity, and self-awareness that's rare at any age. We talk about competing at a high level early in your career, handling pressure, learning from experience, and why mindset and discipline matter just as much as talent. This conversation goes deeper than results. It's about growth, decision-making, and building a foundation that allows you to last — not just show up. Whether you're a young athlete finding your way, or a veteran looking to sharpen your approach, there's a lot to take away from this one. In this episode, we cover: Competing at a high level at a young age Developing maturity and perspective early Mindset, discipline, and consistency Lessons learned from the road and the arena What Kincade is focused on next 🎧 Listen to the full episode of The Champion Living Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube. 📲 Download the Rodeo Now App for everything happening in the rodeo world. 🤠 Powered by Hooey.

In this episode of The Champion Living Podcast, we sit down with Chancey Williams and Wade Sankey for a conversation that's equal parts fun, honest, and deeply rooted in western culture. These two grew up together, took different paths — one into music, one into stock contracting — and both went on to leave a real mark on the rodeo world. We talk about where they came from, how growing up together shaped their mindset, and what it takes to build something that lasts in an industry that doesn't hand anything out. This episode covers the realities behind the scenes — the grind, the business side, the responsibility that comes with success, and the importance of staying true to who you are as the sport and the world around it continue to change. Plenty of laughs, plenty of stories, and a lot of perspective from two guys who've lived it. In this episode, we cover: Growing up together and choosing different paths Music, rodeo, and the culture that connects them The business side of western industries Longevity, legacy, and staying relevant Advice for young people coming up in rodeo and western culture. Listen to the full episode of The Champion Living Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts. Download the Rodeo Now App for real-time rodeo news and updates. Powered by Hooey — built for the western way of life.

In this episode of The Champion Living Podcast, we sit down with Jake Lees to talk about the realities of building a career in professional rodeo — from choosing the right path early on to staying competitive as the level keeps rising. Jake breaks down how today's athletes don't all follow the same roadmap anymore. We talk high school rodeo, college rodeo, going straight to the pros, and how intentional decisions early in your career can set you up for long-term success. He also shares what it takes to keep improving year after year, why fundamentals matter more than chasing wins, and how mindset, preparation, and accountability separate those who last from those who fade out. This conversation is honest, practical, and full of lessons for young athletes trying to figure out their next move — and veterans looking to stay sharp in a constantly evolving sport. In this episode, we cover: Different paths to the professional level in rodeo The role of college rodeo and long-term planning Why fundamentals matter more than focusing on wins Staying competitive as the talent pool gets deeper Advice for young athletes entering the pro ranks 🎧 Listen to the full episode of The Champion Living Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts. 📲 Download the HooeyFit app and train with a plan built specifically for rodeo athletes.

Live from the National Finals Rodeo, this episode of The Champion Living Podcast features a powerful conversation with Caleb Bennett and Sam Peterson. Two athletes. Two different chapters. One shared pursuit of excellence. Caleb reflects on the lessons that come with years in the sport — leadership, resilience, and perspective. Sam opens up about his rise, the pressure of competing at a high level, and what he's learning as his career continues to grow. Together, they give listeners an inside look at what it really takes to survive — and thrive — in professional rodeo. This episode is about more than riding. It's about growth, discipline, and becoming the kind of competitor who lasts.   Listen to the full episode of The Champion Living Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts. Download the Rodeo Now App for real-time rodeo updates, scores, and news from inside the sport. Check out Hooey — official partner powering the Champion Living Fitness app and a brand that lives the western lifestyle.

What happens after rodeo—and who do you become when the arena lights turn off? In this episode of the Champion Living Podcast, Doug Champion sits down live at the NFR with Jerrod Johnston, former pro rodeo athlete and current lead contact for PRCA Youth Camps, to talk about the evolution of rodeo, developing the next generation of athletes, and the identity shift that every competitor eventually faces. Jerrod shares powerful stories from the road, lessons learned the hard way, and why today's athletes need a different approach than generations before them. From youth camps and athlete development to mindset, mentorship, and life beyond competition, this conversation goes far beyond wins and losses. In this episode, we cover: Why rodeo is more than a sport—it's a lifelong identity The responsibility of mentoring the next generation How PRCA Youth Camps are shaping the future of rodeo Mental toughness, short-term memory, and confidence in competition Preparing athletes physically and mentally Finding purpose and fulfillment after rodeo ends This episode is a must-watch for rodeo athletes, coaches, parents, and anyone invested in the future of the western way of life. Train with the same system trusted by elite rodeo athletes: 📲 Download the HooeyFit App and pick your track to start training with a plan built for performance, longevity, and life beyond the arena. Subscribe for weekly episodes featuring champions inside and outside the arena. Listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

In this episode of The Champion Living Podcast, we sit down with Jordan Jo Hollobaugh — professional breakaway roper, entrepreneur, and one of the most driven athletes in the sport. Jordan Jo opens up about her journey through rodeo, the sacrifices it's taken to compete at a high level, and what it really means to build a career inside and outside the arena. We talk mindset, discipline, confidence, and how she's learned to navigate pressure, expectations, and growth as both an athlete and a businesswoman. This conversation goes beyond wins and losses. It's about identity, longevity, and becoming a complete athlete — physically, mentally, and professionally. Whether you're a rodeo athlete, competitor in any sport, or someone chasing excellence in your own lane, there are powerful takeaways in this episode. In this episode, we cover: Jordan Jo's path through rodeo and breakaway roping The mental side of competition and confidence Balancing performance, business, and personal growth Lessons learned along the way and advice for young athletes What's next for her career moving forward 🎧 Subscribe to The Champion Living Podcast for weekly conversations with athletes, coaches, and leaders who are champions at what they do.

Technology threw a curveball this week — but the show goes on. In today's episode, Doug breaks down what's coming at this year's NFR, shares updates on the Champion Living × Hooey Fit App, and walks you through every new feature, track, and program inside the platform. From roughstock and timed-event training to beyond-the-arena fitness, Doug lays out exactly how rodeo athletes can finally train with purpose instead of guessing in the gym. We're also gearing up for nine straight days of live podcast episodes at the NFR, hosted from the Fenoglio Boot Booth inside Cowboy Christmas. Athletes, stock contractors, PRCA leaders, and industry voices — Doug previews the full lineup and what fans can expect. If you've been curious about the new Hooey Fit App or want a deeper look at what's inside each track, this walkthrough is for you. This episode is brought to you by Rodeo Now, the performance-tracking app built for rodeo athletes. Record your rides and runs, break them down in slow motion, and search any animal by name to get the information you need before you nod your head. Download Rodeo Now for free in the Apple App Store and Google Play. 0:00 – Rodeo Now App Partnership Doug kicks off with exciting news about partnering with the Rodeo Now app, a tool built for recording, logging, and breaking down your runs and rides in slow motion — including intel on your stock draw. The perfect pairing for athletes who want to study and improve their performance.  1:00 – What Happened to Today's Planned Episode Originally, this episode was meant to feature Kate Jackson, a sports mechanic who uses elite movement-testing technology to break down athletic patterns. Technical issues = episode lost. Don't worry — it's being re-recorded.  1:45 – NFR Week: The Chaos + The Magic Doug shares how the timing couldn't be worse — the NFR starts in just four days. He talks through: Why the NFR is the "Super Bowl" of the western lifestyle Energy and anticipation around Vegas The curveball of EHV restrictions canceling major side-events How athletes can reframe setbacks into preparation opportunities  2:45 – Live Podcast Schedule at the NFR Champion Living will host nine straight days of live shows at 10 AM (two at 11 AM) from the Olio Boot Booth inside the Las Vegas Convention Center. Expect episodes with: NFR athletes Retired champions PRCA leadership Stock contractors Country music artists Western industry voices The goal: real stories, not highlight reels. Fans are invited to attend, meet guests, and hang out.  4:45 – Deep Dive: The New Hooey Fit App (Formerly Champion Living Fitness) Doug breaks down why the app was rebranded and how the collaboration with Hooey Brands happened. Joey (Hooey CEO) believes in: Investing in rodeo athletes Developing the next generation Making high-performance training accessible Elevating the entire sport This partnership makes it possible to offer ALL programs + mobility + Bulletproof Shoulders + communities for just $19/month.  6:00 – What's Inside the App? (Guided Walkthrough) Roughstock Blueprint For: Bareback Riders Saddle Bronc Riders Bull Riders Bullfighters Includes: Every roughstock-specific plan 2 mobility programs Bulletproof Shoulders Varied training + progression Ability to mix across events for balanced development  Timed-Event Athlete Track For: Ropers Barrel Racers Dismount Athletes (tie-down, calf ropers, goat tiers) Includes: Intro & progression paths Shoulder prehab (critical for ropers) Mobility Access to ALL timed-event programs Doug emphasizes treating your body like a business — don't keep paying entry fees without improving your chances of winning.  Beyond the Arena (General Fitness Track) For: Hunters Ranchers Everyday athletes Anyone who wants to get stronger Includes: Backcountry plan Women's Built Strong program Mobility + Bulletproof Shoulders Only $9.99/month  Free Resources Inside the App Doug highlights the free section every user gets: 5 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Started in Pro Rodeo Rodeo Parent Guide Pre-Ride Warm-Up Guide (the #1 requested resource) These are free PDF downloads for every user.  Built-In Podcast Links + YouTube Channel One centralized place to watch, listen, and learn.  Community Features (Paid Users) Doug breaks down the Q&A and coaching support inside the paid community: Post your rides for critique Get direct feedback from Doug Tips & tricks weekly Conversations with other athletes Progress tracking for weights, reps, time, lessons completed 14:45 – When You Need More Than Just the App Doug explains the difference between: App-Based Training Great for: Self-motivated athletes New riders Responsibility-driven athletes Anyone who needs structure Individualized Coaching Built for: Specific goals Injury management Accountability Personalized programming Schedule-based training Direct coach communication Every individualized coaching relationship starts with a full evaluation and custom program build-out.  16:45 – Why the App Exists Doug closes the walkthrough by sharing the mission: When he started rodeoing, there were zero training resources for rodeo athletes. The Hooey Fit App removes that barrier forever by giving athletes real training systems at an accessible price.  17:15 – Quick NFR Preview + New Programs Dropping Doug teases: Fresh timed-event programs Power-focused plans for roughstock athletes Daily NFR content Live episodes dropping throughout the week If you're at the NFR, stop by and say hello at the Fenoglio Boot booth. Doug, Logan, Paul, and the team will be there every day at 10 AM.   Download the Hooey Fit App powered by Champion Living — free to download, loaded with free resources, and only $19/month for full access to every program we've ever built.

In this episode of the Champion Living Podcast, Doug sits down with Dr. Willie Villarreal to unpack what's real and what's hype around peptides, NAD, hormone therapy, and a breakthrough recovery gel called LactiGo. They dive deep into real-world recovery for rodeo athletes, ranchers, and outdoorsmen — breaking down what actually works to heal faster, move better, and perform longer. You'll learn: Peptides 101 — BPC-157 & TB-500 explained (when to use, oral vs injection). NAD for energy & longevity — how delivery method impacts results. LactiGo — the patented transdermal L-carnosine gel used by pro athletes to buffer lactic acid and crush soreness. Hormones without hype — testosterone for men and women, dosing myths, and finding legit providers. Performance takeaways — how to recover smarter, train stronger, and stay in the game longer. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Presented by the Champion Living Fitness App — built for rodeo athletes and western performers. Thanks to Our Sponsor A huge thank-you to Rodeo Now App, the premier app for tracking rodeo stats, entries, and athlete rankings. 👉 Check them out and download the app at www.rodeonowapp.com Resources Mentioned LactiGo Recovery Gel: Get LactiGo Here Champion Living Fitness App:Go To App Now

In this episode of the Champion Living Podcast, Doug sits down with coaches Logan Corbett and Megan Walker to break down what the off-season should really look like for rodeo athletes. From rebuilding strength foundations to developing power, mobility, and injury resilience — the team covers the full roadmap for setting up a successful season ahead. They dive deep into progressive overload, proper movement mechanics, and how to structure training phases that actually translate to better performance in the arena. The coaches also tackle one of the biggest myths in western sports — that strength training makes female athletes bulky — and explain why it's one of the most misunderstood areas in performance training.  Topics Covered: The purpose of the off-season and how to rebuild your base Why progressive overload matters more than volume How to transition from strength → power safely The role of mobility and recovery in staying injury-free Common training mistakes rodeo athletes make Building a support system through the Champion Living Fitness App Whether you're a bull rider, barrel racer, or just someone looking to get stronger for life, this episode is your blueprint for training smarter — not harder. 🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. 🤝 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor This episode is brought to you by RodeoNow — the app built to connect rodeo athletes, committees, and fans like never before. Download the RodeoNow App today and keep up with the latest events, standings, and rodeo action all in one place!

  In this episode of the Champion Living Podcast, Doug sits down with Tim Tippmann, the owner and operator of Beastmaster Rodeo Gear, to talk about what it really means to raise the standard in rodeo equipment From humble beginnings to building one of the most trusted brands in the industry, Tim shares how Beastmaster has revolutionized rodeo gear through innovation, athlete feedback, and relentless pursuit of quality. You'll hear how Beastmaster's partnership with Champion Living has evolved — from creating safer, smarter equipment to investing back into the sport through the Beastmaster Rodeo Scholarship at the Optimal Performance Academy. This isn't just about products — it's about passion, legacy, and the people behind the gear that keep rodeo athletes performing at their best. In this episode you'll learn: The story of how Beastmaster Rodeo Gear began and grew into a powerhouse brand Why "raising the standard" is more than a slogan — it's a mission How innovations like the Pro Gel Line, Impact Gel Neck Rolls, and Frost Legacy Collection are changing safety and performance standards The importance of investing in your gear for long-term success and career longevity How Beastmaster is supporting youth rodeo, contractors, and Western families nationwide Whether you ride, rope, haze, or help — this episode will inspire you to take pride in the tools of your trade and invest in yourself like a true professional. Thank you to our Sponsor, The Rodeo Now App for the relentless support of our mission! Make sure you download the app and become a part of the RodeoNow Family! Find out more at: https://rodeonow.com/ Connect Train with us: Champion Living Fitness App IG: @champion.living

Doug sits down with Dr. Victor Carsrud, Head of Functional Medicine & Health Innovation at Breather Mae, to map a no-fluff health playbook for high-demand performers—rodeo athletes, ranchers, farmers, and anyone who works hard. We dig into why "test, don't guess" matters, how a simple Gut Check unlocks better hormone balance and recovery, and the panels most annual physicals miss (full thyroid with antibodies, prolactin for pituitary stress, micronutrients, organic acids). We also get real on environmental toxins (mold, microplastics, PFAS), what to eat on the road, and why 30g protein within 30 minutes of waking changes your day. What you'll learn Why TSH alone isn't enough: add Free T3/T4 + TPO/TG antibodies How gut → brain → hormones all connect (and why it's step one) When prolactin flags pituitary stress (think head hits/endocrine disruptors) "Test don't guess" supplements (yes, vitamin D can be too high) Tiered testing: Baseline → Tier 1/2 → Tier 3 → Olympiad Real-world fueling for the road: protein-first wins for energy & focus. Chapters 00:00 Intro & access-anywhere functional medicine 02:15 What basic labs miss (TSH ≠ full thyroid picture) 08:40 Coaching model: from "doctor knows best" to partnership 10:45 Gut ↔ brain ↔ hormones—no more silos 15:00 You can't out-supplement bad data 21:00 Why proactive labs matter in dangerous sports & work 27:10 Low T in roughstock? Stress, sleep, hits & gut links 28:20 Breather Mae tiers (Baseline → Olympiad) 49:30 Protein timing: the 30/30 rule 54:00 Recovery & oxidative stress markers 59:00 Making 80-page labs actionable (not pill-pushing) 1:03:00 Pricing, installments, and ROI for athletes   Brought to you by our partners: 🤠 Rodeo Now App — the all-in-one platform for rodeo athletes to track entries, standings, and schedules in one place. If you rodeo, you need Rodeo Now. Download it today on the App Store or Google Play. 🧬 Breather Mae — Use code CLF100 for a discount on testing tiers at https://breathermae.com/registration Connect Train with us: Champion Living Fitness App IG: @champion.living Guest: Dr. Victor Carsrud — Breather Mae

In this solo episode, Doug Champion breaks down one of the most important — and overlooked — keys to performance: recovery. Whether you're a rodeo athlete, gym-goer, or anyone chasing high performance, Doug shares the three pillars of recovery — Sleep, Nutrition, and Stress Management — and explains how mastering these can completely change your results. Inside this episode: Why you don't grow in the gym — you grow when you recover The science of sleep and how it drives muscle repair and hormone balance How to fuel for recovery (not just performance) Managing stress to protect testosterone and improve sleep Simple, effective tactics to recover without expensive tools Doug also gives updates on the Champion Living App, new programs for both sides of the arena, and what's coming next on the show — including the upcoming episode with Dr. Victor from BreatherMae, diving deeper into hormones, gut health, and performance testing. Please help us out and hit that SUBSCRiBE button! 💪 Ready to train smarter and recover better? Download the Champion Living Fitness App → https://www.championlivingfitness.com/app Follow Doug on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/champion.living

The Champion Living Podcast is back! Doug Champion shares lessons from bow hunting, athlete success stories, and what it means to be a champion in and out of the arena. Plus, big news on a new functional medicine partnership! Topics in this episode: – The Power of Stepping Away to Recharge – Lessons from Bow Hunting & Canada Adventure – Mason Clements, Chase Dougherty & Trusting the Process – Why 12-Year-Olds and 60-Year-Olds Train More Consistently Than You 28:15 – What's Changing with the Podcast – New Partnership: Breather Mae & Functional Health   Thank you to our Sponsor, The Rodeo Now App for the relentless support of our mission! Make sure you download the app and become a part of the RodeoNow Family! Find out more at: https://rodeonow.com/   #ChampionLivingPodcast #RodeoAthlete #WesternLifestyle #FunctionalMedicine #HuntingLife #CowboyMindset