What does it really take to build a name in the performance horse industry?

On this episode of The Almosta Cowboy, Al Dunning sits down with longtime friend Cam Essick, the creative force behind Pacific Range Design, to talk about the business of horses, the power of authentic branding, and the people and experiences that have shaped the Western performance horse industry.

From growing up a horse-crazy city girl in Seattle to building a career in equine marketing and graphic design, Cam shares how her passion for horses opened doors to working alongside some of the industry's most influential trainers, breeders, and stallion owners.

Al and Cam reflect on her experiences with legendary horsemen including Bob Avila, Todd Bergen, Andrea Fappani, Carol Rose, and Jeff Oswood, along with the promotion of influential stallions such as Shining Spark, High Brow Cat, Peptoboonsmal, and Gunnatrashya.

The conversation also turns to the business side of the horse industry. What makes a successful horse trainer? How do you build a recognizable brand? And what separates genuine credibility from good marketing?

Drawing on decades of experience in reining, cutting, and reined cow horse, Al and Cam discuss the importance of hard work, integrity, mentorship, and understanding what makes a horse, a person, or a program truly exceptional.

They also share stories from The Run For A Million, discuss the evolution of the performance horse industry, and offer valuable perspective for anyone looking to build a lasting career with horses.

Whether you're a professional trainer, horse owner, breeder, or simply someone who loves the Western performance horse industry, this episode is full of stories, history, and wisdom from two people who have spent their lives immersed in it.

Listen to The Almosta Cowboy with Al Dunning for an inside look at the horses, people, and experiences that have shaped our industry.

The Power of Perspective with Mike Roberts is a thoughtful conversation about success, gratitude, resilience, and the experiences that shape the way we view life.

In this episode, Al sits down with Mike Roberts, better known as the Converse Cowboy, to discuss a journey that began in pharmaceutical sales and evolved into a successful career in real estate investing, entrepreneurship, and personal development. Along the way, Mike shares lessons learned from starting at the bottom, building opportunities through hard work, and pursuing the kind of financial freedom that allows a person to live with purpose.

Al and Mike also discuss the origins of their respective podcasts, the inspiration behind the Converse Cowboy quote series, and the books, mentors, and ideas that have influenced their thinking over the years. Their conversation explores the role mindset plays in navigating adversity, the importance of gratitude during difficult seasons, and how perspective often determines whether challenges become obstacles or opportunities.

The discussion also touches on the Kimes Million Dollar Breakaway and the impact it has had on the Western industry, as well as the value of surrounding yourself with people who challenge you to grow.

More than a conversation about business or success, this episode is about finding meaning in the journey, appreciating the lessons that come with experience, and recognizing the opportunities that can emerge from even the most difficult circumstances.

Bits of Wisdom with Bill Brewer is a rare conversation with one of the most influential figures in the history of the American Quarter Horse Association. In this episode, Al sits down with longtime AQHA horseman and Hall of Fame inductee Bill Brewer, whose career shaped the Association for nearly four decades.

Bill shares how a kid from southwestern Oklahoma dreaming of being a cowboy found his way into Amarillo, starting as an advertising representative for The Quarter Horse Journal before climbing the ranks to eventually serve as AQHA's Executive Vice President. Along the way, he helped change the Association's entire business model, expanded membership programs, elevated major events, championed youth involvement, supported international growth, and strengthened AQHA's role in the broader equine industry.

Al and Bill reminisce about the evolution of AQHA, the people who built it, and the moments that defined entire eras. They share stories about legendary horsemen and visionaries— including Rick Johns, founder of what we now know as the Sun Circuit.

From early registry challenges to worldwide expansion, from the Quarter Horse's role on ranches to its rise in global sport, Bill offers a perspective few people have: one shaped by decades of leadership, innovation, service, and passion.

It's a conversation rich with history, insight, and gratitude for the horse that brought us all here.

In this episode of The Almosta Cowboy, Al sits down with Pete Kyle—AQHA Professional Horseman, judge, former AQHA Chief of Shows, and the horseman behind Kyle Performance Horses. Pete talks about the men who raised him and the values they imprinted—work ethic, humility, and service—and how those principles shaped his path as a trainer, coach, and businessman.

Al and Pete dive into service leadership and what it really means to give back to the industry—on a committee, from the judge's card, or in the barn with amateurs and youth. Pete shares takeaways from his time at AQHA, why he's all-in on Versatility Ranch Horse (VRH), and where he thinks the show world is headed: the rise of multi-day, multi-show circuits, how that compares to the old single-show model, and what it means for horses, riders, and families. They also touch on marquee events like The American and the ripple effect big stages have on the grassroots.

It's a conversation about standards, stewardship, and the future—full of practical insight for anyone who loves good horses and a well-run show.

Highlights

• Ranch-raised values and early mentors that shaped Pete

• Building a program as a trainer, coach, and business owner

• What "service leadership" looks like in AQHA

• Why VRH matters and how it builds better horsemen

• The shift to circuit shows (pros/cons) and industry direction

In this episode of The Almosta Cowboy Podcast, Al Dunning is joined by Non-Pro world champion, 2L Trucks founder, and storyteller Waylon Long for a wide-open conversation about a life shaped by horses, hard work, and a few wild turns. Waylon traces his Texas beginnings—4-H clinics, first cuttings, and the "yellow mare" that launched a five-year tear—through wins at Fort Worth, Washington International, and Congress on the way to a Non-Pro world title.

Al and Waylon dig into horsemanship that lasts: why great runs start with feel and timing, how "it's more about your hands than the bit," and the lessons the good ones teach you when you listen. They also get practical—reading cattle, building consistency, and balancing family, customers, and the road.

From arenas to the highway, Waylon shares the origin of 2L Trucks—designing safe, dialed-in tow rigs for real horse people—and what matters when you're choosing the right setup. Then it's pens to pages: the Four Counties books, a nod from Larry McMurtry, and a new classic Western in the works.

If you love cutting, craftsmanship, and true cowboy stories, this one's for you.

In this episode of The Almosta Cowboy Podcast, Al Dunning is joined by 2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Champion and NRCHA Two Million Dollar Rider, Chris Dawson for a powerful and insightful conversation about the preparation, pressure, and process behind one of the biggest wins of his career. Chris reflects on the months leading up to the Futurity, the mental and physical aspects of getting a horse like Life By The Drop ready for the spotlight, and what it takes to stay focused in the face of high stakes.

Al and Chris dig deep into training philosophies, the emotional highs and lows of the show pen, and how top-tier competitors approach major events like the NRCHA Futurity and the upcoming Western Derby. Chris also shares how his experience co-hosting Cow Horse Full Contact has been unexpectedly eye-opening and personally impactful, shaping his perspective on the industry and the people in it.

From lessons learned in the practice pen to unforgettable moments in the arena, this episode is full of raw honesty, humor, and hard-earned wisdom. A must-listen for anyone passionate about cow horse competition and the mindset of a champion.

In this episode of The Almosta Cowboy Podcast, host Al Dunning sits down with Mandy Brumley, the dynamic force behind Brumley Management Group and one of the most influential figures in the world of reining event production. Known for producing premier events like the Reining by the Bay, Cactus Reining Classic, High Roller Reining Classic, and The Run for a Million, Mandy has redefined what it means to create world-class experiences for exhibitors, sponsors, and fans alike.

Mandy shares her journey from a horse-obsessed teen to a visionary producer whose events consistently top the NRHA's list of leading shows. She discusses the early challenges of building her business, the lessons she's learned, and how a partnership with Hollywood's Taylor Sheridan helped bring The Run for a Million to life.

Al and Mandy explore the behind-the-scenes dedication it takes to manage high-caliber events, the importance of customer service in the show world, and how Mandy's passion continues to shape the future of the industry. With her commitment to excellence and eye for detail, Mandy Brumley has created a legacy that continues to elevate the sport of reining.

Join Al and Mandy for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, event innovation, and what it takes to turn big dreams into a million-dollar reality.

Episode recorded 3/27/2025

In this episode of The Almosta Cowboy Podcast, host Al Dunning sits down with reining legend Bob Loomis, a true icon in the world of precision riding. With a career spanning more than five decades, Bob has made an indelible mark on the sport of reining, earning widespread recognition for his unmatched skill, training expertise, and dedication to the horses he works with.

Bob shares his journey from his early days in Nebraska to becoming a leading trainer and influential figure in the reining community. He discusses the evolution of the sport over the years, how it has grown and changed, and his role in shaping its current form. From his groundbreaking contributions to reining techniques to his successful breeding program, Bob's influence on the industry is immense.

Al and Bob also reflect on the great horses that have shaped Bob's career, his philosophy on training, and the lasting impact of his work on both horses and riders. As an author and Hall of Fame inductee, Bob's perspective offers a unique window into the heart of reining and what it takes to succeed in this highly precise discipline.

Join Al and Bob for an inspiring conversation about a legendary career and the timeless values that have made Bob Loomis a true reining icon.