In this episode of Taking the Reins, we sit down with Lexington-based bloodstock agent Josh Stevens to explore what it really takes to build a career in one of the most competitive corners of the horse industry.

Josh shares his journey from getting started with horses to carving out a path as a trusted advisor in the high-stakes world of buying and selling equine athletes. We dive into what a bloodstock agent actually does day-to-day, how he evaluates horses, and the pressure that comes with helping clients make major investment decisions.

Along the way, Josh opens up about the wins that validated his approach—and the tough lessons that shaped how he does business today.

Whether you're interested in the sales side of the industry, looking to build your own career with horses, or just want a behind-the-scenes look at the decisions happening in the sales ring, this episode delivers insight you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of Taking the Reins, I sit down with Meredith Krupp, owner and operator of Pine Branch Thoroughbred Farm in Lexington, Kentucky — right in the heart of horse country.

Meredith shares her journey into the Thoroughbred industry, what inspired her to take the leap into starting her own operation, and what it really takes to build a farm from the ground up in one of the most competitive equine regions in the world.

We dive into the day-to-day realities of running a Thoroughbred farm — from managing horses and clients to navigating the business side that often goes unseen. Meredith also opens up about the challenges she faced early on, the risks she’s taken along the way, and the moments that made it all worth it.

Whether you’re involved in the horse industry or just curious about what goes on behind the gates of a Lexington Thoroughbred farm, this episode offers an honest look at the grit, vision, and dedication it takes to make it in this world.

What happens when you combine the horsepower of Kentucky’s equine industry with the strategy of a top-tier business school?

In this episode of Taking the Reins, I sit down with Dr. Amy Lawyer, Director of the Equine Studies Program at the University of Louisville, to explore one of the most unique academic programs in the country—an equine program housed within a college of business.

Dr. Lawyer shares how Louisville is preparing students for real-world success in the horse industry by blending hands-on equine experience with business acumen. We dive into the wide range of career opportunities available in the horse capital of the world, from farm management and bloodstock to marketing, sales, and beyond.

Whether you’re a student, industry professional, or just passionate about horses, this episode highlights how education, location, and opportunity intersect in powerful ways in Kentucky’s thriving horse country.

Tune in to learn how the next generation of equine professionals is being shaped—and why the business side of horses matters more than ever.