Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten: Recent Episodes
Brandy Von Holten
Becoming motivated and staying motivated are two completely different tasks. The idea behind Big Boss Mare is to form a sisterhood, but not just any sisterhood. A high achieving, highly motivated, highly successful, supportive sisterhood! Your tribe equals your vibe. Welcome to your Big Boss Mare tribe! Big Boss Mare is TWO separate entities: a leadership and empowerment book and an educational program. The book is scheduled for release in 2021. Confidence, positive self-image, dealing with bullies, business planning, goal setting, organization, how to do good in the world, and finding and fueling your passions are the topics addressed. The educational program titled Big Boss Mare involves goal-to-action planning, business cross "pollination", and confidence building. Each class will directly link to the message and topics covered in the leadership and empowerment book. My ambitions for this program are BIG and BOLD but achievable. I want to deliver tools, tactics, inspiration, motivation, strategies, and a sense of belonging. Big Boss Mare is about helping you become the person you want to be no matter the goal. I will share the things that have made me successful and then I will bring friends, colleagues, and people I have met along the way to share their tactics, routines, thoughts, insights, and solutions. Thank you for tuning in! Let's get started. You can learn more about Big Boss Mare opportunities at www.bigbossmare.com
Welcome to Missouri's Best Podcast, Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten! This episode's guest is Missouri State Senator Rick Brattin. Rick has thrown his hat in the ring and is running for the new 5th District Congressional seat at the Federal level. There are 435 members of Congress, with 8 of those seats representing Missouri.
Along with being a father of five children with his wife, Athena, Rick is also a US Marine who achieved the rank of Sergeant. Rick is also an avid hunter and archer. While he visited our century farm (Von Holten Ranch), I introduced him to the thumb release that we use for mounted archery.
People need to know who they are voting for! I hope you enjoy this podcast as you get to know Rick Brattin.
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten! Meet today's guest, Jenna Soto! Former rodeo queen, former military intelligence, and Mrs. Oklahoma City 2026 and a candidate for Mrs. Oklahoma! Jenna talks about her struggles with her identity as the next chapters in her life unfold. Jenna has now found herself as a real estate investor. She now speaks about the power of identity in overcoming setbacks.
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten podcast. Today's guest is just what the doctor ordered....Dr. Bishop Foreman is a high energy pastor, an author, a speaker, philanthropist, entrepreneur, and success coach. This is one cool cat AND he even lost over 100 pounds naturally. In this interview, we talk about weight loss, our families, money, and passion. This is a man I could listen to every day! As if his resume isn't stacked full enough of accomplishments, he is also in the Colorado Gospel Music Hall of Fame! He is on every form of social media and is dedicated to helping others improve their lives.
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Chris Harris, The Warrior Maker is a recognized authority on mindset and elite performance, helping leaders and sales teams in over 60 countries strengthen execution, discipline and results. A bestselling author of 14 books, including The Book Of Mindset, he teaches identity-driven frameworks that connect performance to purpose, elevate clarity for leaders, and drive measurable improvement in competitive environments.
For 25 years, Chris trained special forces as a private contractor, developing systems for operating under extreme pressure. Founder of an elite combatlives methodology and inductee into the U.S. Marital Arts Hall of Fame, he understands emotional control and decisive execution when the stakes are the highest. He now translates those principles into practical strategies for transformation and lasting fulfillment.
You can find Chris at www.thewarriormaker.com
You can find Brandy (myself) at www.brandyvonholten.com
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. It is my pleasure to introduce Kurt Belding, the founder of Western Obsessions TV, a channel built around raw, unfiltered hunting adventures, the mishaps, misses, and hard-earned victories. Kurt thrives on bringing the real grit of the outdoors to the screen, not just the highlight reels. Be sure and check out Western Obsessions on YouTube, Instagram, and on his website.
westernobsession #kurtbelding #brandyvonholten
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Let's talk about my signature all-inclusive event called SMART CHIX. Three days, two instructors, hands-on homestead learning experience. All camping, food, t-shirt, a massive swag bag, and learning is included. There are twelve homesteading topics covered at each event, by myself and my Mennonite friend, Mrs. Mary Ella Zimmerman.
If you have wanted to learning homesteading skills such as canning, bread making, tallow rendering, holistic medicine, detoxing, sewing, and so much more, this is the event for you! Plus...to be in the kitchen with Mrs. Mary Ella (grandmother of 45) just feels good to your soul. To tell me you are interested and to look at dates available and topics covered at each event go to my website and click on All-Inclusive Retreats!
Welcome to Episode 91 of Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Our guest is Anna Littrell from the Office of Lieutenant Governor David Wasinger. Anna is the Director of Buy Missouri and Tourism Liaison. The Buy Missouri program was started in 2017 and showcases Missouri-made products and businesses. Not only is Buy Missouri a database for the Missouri-made products, but also a database of retail partners. The retail partners make a commitment to sell a variety of Missouri-made items in their stores. This program is at zero cost to the businesses.
There are currently 680 businesses in the program and 21,000 employees.
In a world where you my feel like one voice is hard to hear, let your dollars and financial support speak for you. Buy local which means your community can thrive.
Missouri is the first state to launch the Buy Missouri program and are hoping the lead the way for other states....but of course it would be Buy "Your State".
Check them on Facebook, Instagram, or on their website www.buymissouri.net
buymissouri #buylocal #missourimade
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. You will never believe where I met this guest....on a bus at the airport! John Cantrell is Heavyweight Boxing Champion. You would never know he is lethal when meeting him in person. Nothing like "The Iron Man Cantrell" having a conversation with "Glamour with the Hammer". I also love interviewing fighters, especially when they have a story full of grit and determination. John was in prison, overcome addiction, and is a man of God.
Here is part of his bio from his website:
John Cantrell is a man of faith, a professional athlete, and an entrepreneur who escaped a life of drug addiction and prison by the Grace of God to serve the Lord in all that he does. After his son almost died at birth and was diagnosed with a life-long disability, he made the decision to enroll in seminary school. He also began extensive training to continue his pro boxing career as a way to show his son that he can achieve anything he puts his mind to. With the help of his coach Damon Reed, he has maintained an undefeated record. He enjoys philanthropic work with children’s charities, children’s boxing and sports, and advocates for mental health awareness, substance abuse recovery, and prison reformation. He is proud of Topeka, Kansas and hopes to help the city in any way that he can. He serves as a board member on several nonprofit organizations that benefit children and underserved people. John uses his platform in fighting to help motivate people and to spread the Gospel. Jesus Christ, Tayler Cantrell (Wife) and Cooper Cantrell (Son) are his inspiration.
As a recovered addict, undefeated professional boxer, and ardent follower of Jesus Christ, my journey is a testament to resilience, redemption, and unwavering faith. I’ve battled my inner demons, stepped into the ring with courage, and found solace in my spiritual path. My motivational talks blend raw authenticity with triumphant victories, inspiring audiences to conquer their own challenges. Let me share my story of transformation, hope, and unyielding belief – a narrative that transcends addiction, adversity, and fear. Together, we’ll rise, fight, and find purpose beyond the ring.
John Cantrell's website: www.ironmancantrell.com
Brandy Von Holten's website: www.brandyvonholten.com
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten! This is my first COWGIRL CONFESSION! WooWhee...fear creeped back into my life and I had to address it ASAP. It took two other cowgirls to help me battle my own inner demons. Well....and we also battled a spunky pony named Zoom Zoom, the wind, a opossum, and my feral filly named Domino. Hold on, buttercup, I'm about to share one heck of a COWGIRL CONFESSION.
dealingwithfear #notimeforfake #realcowgirl #rememberwhoare #brandyvonholten
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. If you are into homesteading, you will love this interview with Melissa Sisk, co-founder of the Mid MO Homestead Expo.
The Mid MO Homestead Expo is scheduled for April 3-4, 2026 on the Missouri State Fairgrounds located in the Lowell Mohler Building, 2503 W 16th St, Sedalia, MO, 65301 10AM-5PM both Friday and Saturday.
Here's a little bio about Melissa from the expo's website:
Melissa Sisk is a member of the homesteading and homeschooling community, with a special focus on foraging and gardening. Inspired by the back-to-the-land movement her parents embraced in the 1980s, Melissa's early love for homesteading has grown into a life dedicated to self-sufficiency and environmental stewardship. Her passion for teaching others about the bounty of nature and how to cultivate it responsibly enriches the expo's offerings, inspiring attendees to explore and connect with the natural world around them.
Here's a brief explanation of the expo:
Come join us at the State Fairgrounds for a day filled with all things homesteading. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this event is perfect for anyone interested in sustainable living, gardening, raising livestock, and more!
Explore a variety of vendors offering everything from organic seeds to handmade crafts. Attend workshops and demonstrations to learn new skills and techniques to enhance your homestead. Connect with like-minded individuals and experts in the field.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to expand your knowledge and network with others passionate about homesteading. Mark your calendars for the 2026 Mid-MO Homestead Expo!
Website: Mid MO Homestead Expo: https://midmohomesteadexpo.framer.website/
I will also be a speaker at the 2026 Expo. My presentation is Friday at 4PM. My topic is "Social Media Marketing 101".
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten! This episode I answer questions and read comments from CT2V competitors, Facebook followers, and new faces to CT2V.
What is CT2V? Country Tough Trail Versatility. It is an equine competition that combines trail, obstacles without speed, and a pattern. There are no points awarded for speed, the obstacles are natural, and the ranch horsemanship pattern has some patterns without cantering. It is my personal goal to have CT2V events hosted in every state and to be the largest versatility organization in the nation!
I would like to personal like to invite you to check out out the Country Tough Trail Versatility website and download the free rulebook at www.ct2v.com and to hit that subscribe button so you don't miss an episode of Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten.
horsecompetition #openshow #CT2V #trailriders
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten! I met my guest by standing up to email spammers. I was contacted by who I thought was "Mike Long". I did a little research and found the real Mike Long. I shot my shot and reached out to him and forwarded the spammy email of someone impersonating him and invited Mike to be on my podcast. And here we are!
Mike outclasses me no matter how you cut it! I call him a word ninja. His first book he co-authored titled "The Molecule of More" has sold over 1M copies and been translated into 25 languages. His second book is in my MUST READS as well, "Taming the Molecule of More". I literally felt like Ellie Mae Clampett was interviewing the coolest most well-spoken man in the world. I bet Mike corrects Grammarly.
Here's part of his intro on his website:
Actor and author Ben Stein calls him “a poet.” Michael Long is an accomplished writer, speechwriter, educator, and award-winning screenwriter and playwright. He is the co- or ghost-writer behind two non-fiction bestsellers, and has been published three times in Vital Speeches of the Day, twice for speeches he delivered. As director of writing for the graduate program in public relations at Georgetown University, he created the writing curriculum and teaches graduate courses in PR writing, speechwriting, and business and persuasive writing. He has led reading programs for children of migrant farm workers, taught remedial mathematics to adults, and delivered guest lectures on humor at American University and the Graduate School of Political Management at The George Washington University.
As a speaker and corporate educator, he has taught writing and speechwriting to audiences around the U.S. and in London, Lisbon, Panama, Saskatchewan, and The Hague. Most recently he was appointed resident writing coach for the Professional Speechwriters Association, which publishes “Prose for Pros,” his long-running weekly column on writing.
Mr. Long’s career as a writer began while he was a graduate student in physics at Vanderbilt University when he started performing comedy, eventually becoming a house emcee for one of the oldest comedy clubs in America. His first job as a writer off-stage was sole speechwriter to one of America’s highest-profile senators.
Here's the link to The Molecule of More: https://amzn.to/4rtgmkJ
Here's the link to his website: https://mikelongonline.com/
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten! This was such a cool interview because DVM Travis Beasley with Beasley Equine Clinic in Eldorado, Illinois, interviewed me the day before at his facility, and then I remotely interviewed him the next day. I am TEAM TRAVIS for life now!
Beasley Equine Clinic is an equine veterinary clinic that is the REAL DEAL. Clean, specialized, and UP-TO-DATE with technology!
Travis is a second-generation vet. Heck, even his brother is a vet. What a gift to the equine that he sees. I hope you enjoy this podcast as much as I enjoyed getting to know this world-class veterinarian, a truly down-to-earth gentleman who cares about horses. His focus is on owner education. Find out about his tips, advice, his own health, organization, and his super useful emergency kits that are about to be available online. You can find his podcast on YouTube of his interview with me and lots of even cooler guests. Look up Beasley Equine Podcast.
beasleyequinepodcast #equinevet
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten! Let me introduce Heather Mincer with Yes Honey! Yes, Honey, is a healthy soda pop sweetened with honey rather than sugar or high fructose corn syrup!! She's originally from upstate New York, but now lives in Missouri. Heather's pop is in 200 stores nationwide and has partnered with Azure. There are caffeinated and non-caffeinated versions with B-vitamins, ashwagandha, and l-cysteine.
Heather is cool as a fan and gave us a discount code for my followers! If you go to yeshoneybrand.com and use the code [Smartchix15] to get 15% off of any order over $50! That code is good until November 30th , 2025. And to check out my all-inclusive homesteading event and my t-shirt visit brandyvonholten.com
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Let me introduce Mark Henry from Midwest Windmill Company. I met Mark at the 2025 Missouri State Fair. His company caught my attention, because I want to install a working windmill on our century-old ranch.
Have you ever met someone and just clicked? This podcast is upbeat and high-energy! He can restore old or damaged windmills or install a new one. And I bet if you have one on your property that you needed to relocate for some ching-ching, I bet Mark would be able to hook you up.
Please subscribe, like, and follow Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten and our social media pages! I have no doubt Mark Henry would appreciate the same. They service multiple states.
www.brandyvonholten.com
www.midwestwindmillcompany.com
Welcome back to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Today's guest is Cheryl Dangerfield. We met on Facebook. Cheryl had liked and commented on one of my Facebook posts. I clicked on her profile for her Facebook page called "Pushing Past the Quit" and here we are today. It turns out that Cheryl and I do not live too far apart and share a goal of wanting to make an impact. In this podcast, we discuss keeping promises to yourself, not talking down to yourself, and minimizing. Cheryl also talked about a term that made me stop and think. I am sure a lot of you will be able to connect with our stories.
Thank you for your time. We would both love for you to hit the subscribe or follow button.
Welcome to the podcast "Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten"! Today's guest is James King with King's Excavation & Land Management, LLC out of Foristell, MO, near St. Louis. I have never met James in person. I stopped scrolling one day when I allowed myself to blow off time with Facebook Reels. King's Excavation went to the aid of strangers after Hurricane Helene. That one video touched me, which started the mad hunt to do a podcast interview with them. Good people need to be celebrated and supported.
My heart goes out to the people whose lives were devastated by Hurricane Helene. Thank you to King's Excavation for stepping up and trying to help.
As customers, you have the power to dictate who you hire and support. If you need what they do, give them a call.
info@kingsexcavationstl.com 636-357-9457
www.kingsevcavationstl.com
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Boy, do I have a story for you! I met Lynne Knowles because I thought I was calling a hypnotist from Australia. In the world of influencers, I am a mini-influencer. With 110K followers, I was bombarded with people wanting me to sell their products. Lynne was different, and luckily, I opened the door for her in my life, and there's no turning back now!
Lynne introduced me to drinking bioidentical ketones. I felt it literally in my head on day one. I am not a product person at all; I'm a science girl and a relationship girl. The bioidentical ketones and Lynne were the perfect combination.
I have learned so much more about health with the company, pros of MLM companies, benefits and safety of not ordering specific products from Amazon...heck I've even learned some baseball history since I met Lynne.
She calls me the "most interesting woman in the world". I think of Lynne as a driving force behind all sorts of people. She's my "Ace up sleeve that helps me slay the day with tons of mental focus, live longer by aging better, and helps me live longer by aiding in my weight loss through ketones.
To check out ketones, speaking engagements, and business services at www.brandyvonholten.com ,look under "Health Journey".
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Buster McLaury requires no introduction. This is the real deal. Colt starter, cattle driver, and American cowboy. He's worked with the 6666 through changes of ownership. Buster loves his daughters and their families, his wife, God, and the horse. Slow work is the key to solid horses. Buster says what needs to be said and sticks by it. There's so much more to learn from him besides horses. This man is a mentor's mentor.
Buster and I met when we were both clinicians at the 2024 Midwest Horse Fair. We booked him for 2025 and want him to come back every year from now on!
Buster's website is www.bustersherylmclaury.com
Von Holten Ranch's website is www.vonholtenranch.com
RTTH #roadtothehorse #RTTHwildcard #coltstarter #realcowboy #6666 #bustermclaury
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Meet Emily Liebi with Skeeters Farm Goods! Emily sells and ships homemade salsa and creates one of kind western jewelry. I'm talking sterling silver, "redneck pearls", copper wire, and of course, turquois. Emily is as country as a chicken fried steak.
We will carry Emily's jewelry at our ranch (Von Holten Ranch) in 2025. I already know this will be a huge hit with our Chix in the Sticks events.
www.vonholtenranch.com
#horsecamping #trailriding #RVcamping #obstaclecourse #trail #mountedarchery #cabinweekend #horsecamp #tentcamping #horsebackrider #scavengerhunt #campingwithfriends #trailridingadventures #missouritrails #campingadventures #chixinthesticks #allinclusivevacation #countrytough #countrytoughhomesteading #homesteading #buildingwithdavid #horsemanshipwithbrandy #brandyvonholten #countrytoughtimes
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Meet Jen Fizer! She is a Fractional CFO (Chief Financial Officer), generally for companies in the 1-10M range. Jen is also an article contributor for Country Tough Times print and digital magazine. You can find even more advice in her section titled "Profit with Jen".
Contact Jen at jen@millsknowsbills.com or pick up your subscription to Country Tough Times at www.countrytoughtimes.com
#countrytoughtimes #printmagazine #trailriders #patriotism #homesteading #bluecollar #recipes #digitalmagazine #equine #farrier #holistichealth #brandyvonholten #countrytough #countrytoughhomesteading #CFO #financialofficer #jenfizer
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten! It is an honor to host Tiffany Butters, a certified herbalists! The day I met her was when I decided to have her in my life forever! Just one of those bright shining stars that is a bundle of health and knowledge! You will make yourself smarter just by listening and being around Tiffany.
Tiffany is a presenter at the Country Tough Homesteading Expo June 20-21, 2025 at Von Holten Ranch. www.countrytoughhomesteading.com
Tiffany is also an article contributor for the print and digital magazine called Country Tough Times that is dedicated to trail riders, patriotism, and THRIVING during these country tough times.
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Magen Warlick is most definitely country tough!
She has been there and done that in the cowgirl world. She's one of the best cowgirls I have ever met. And just as humble as the day is long. Magen lives in Stephenville, Texas and travels overseas to teach horsemanship clinics. She is now throwing her hat into the horse breeding world with some babies that will make you love them twice. Once for how they act and once for their papers. She is breeding for a better quality athlete.
Magen is more than a bad mamma jamma cowgirl, she is also a holistic healthy woman. She is living the carnivore lifestyle in addition to doing ice baths as much as she can while living in Texas.
You will love her energy! Magen is also an article contributor for the nationwide magazine called Country Tough Times!
You can find Magen on Facebook and you can find Country Tough Times at www.countrytoughtimes.com
You will leave this interview motivated and upbeat because this is exactly what Magen Warlick brings to the table everyday!
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Meet Kira Karpinski with Anarchy Acres Farmstead in Pennsylvania. She was a leather maker but switched over to farmsteading. Pork, chicken, goats, sheep, turkey, and gardening is what she is throwing down. Kira is a wealth of knowledge. She is also an article contributor for the nationwide magazine, Country Tough Times, that is dedicated to trail riders, patriotism, and thriving during these country tough times.
Kira has all sorts of useful YouTube videos at https://www.youtube.com/@Anarchyacresfarmstead
You can check out Country Tough Times magazine at www.countrytoughtimes.com
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. It is with great pleasure to introduce Country Tough Times, a print and digital magazine dedicated to trail riders, patriotism, and thriving during these country tough times. This magazine features trail facilities and destinations from all 7 regions of the US, articles from various fields in the equine industry, tips from blue collar workers, advice from law enforcement, homesteading and holistic insights, business tips and financial advice, recipes, gardening, Pro USA, kids corral with a custom coloring sheet, and of course stories.
You can find the magazine at www.countrytoughtimes.com or on Facebook and Instagram under Country Tough Times!
#countrytoughtimes #printmagazine #trailriders #patriotism #homesteading #bluecollar #recipes #digitalmagazine #equine #farrier #holistichealth #brandyvonholten #countrytough #countrytoughhomesteading
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Meet our guest, Sarah Oliva. She owns a children's resale clothing company with two locations in Missouri: Lee's Summit and Liberty. A penny saved is a penny earned. Children grow so fast. Sarah's resale shop is HELPING keep costs down while helping your children stay trendy.
Wild Child Resale is a buy, sell, trade business that also has new Taylor Swift inspired and KC Chiefs merch! They also SHIP! You can find Sarah's store at wildchildresale.com
Being trending and cost efficient is important to help families stretch their income. This is part of the mission of Country Tough Homesteading and is a focus of the print and digital magazine Country Tough Times.
Country Tough Homesteading has a year expo and in-person classes. you can find more information at www.countrytoughhomesteading.com
Country Tough Times is a magazine dedicated to trail riders, patriotism, and thriving during country tough times. Wild Child Resale is helping families thrive by saving money. To check out the magazine visit www.countrytoughtimes.com
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. This podcast interview will move you! Pam Gardner lost an eye in a horse accident. She believes she crossed over and her horse and dog were waiting for her on the other side. She wanted to stay with God but he said she wasn't ready and sent her back to do three things:
Learn Something, Teach Something, & Finish Your Horse. Pam said, "I had to lose an eye, so I could see". I hope this podcast interview moves you as much as it has moved me.
If you are interested in attending a Chix in the Sticks event discussed in this podcast or with training with Lee Hart, visit www.vonholtenranch.com
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Lee Hart is the longest returning clinician at our facility (Von Holten Ranch in Mora, MO). Lee has had one to two clinics a year since we opened our facility to the public. Yes, Lee is a fierce competitor and horse trainer, but that is not why we keep singing his praises. Lee has a way of connecting with clinic participants that helps take them to their next level in their personal horsemanship journey. We would love for you to take a Lee Hart clinic at Von Holten Ranch and see why we keep asking him back.
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten! Colton Kiso is a self taught bladesmith that lives in Missouri. Colton competed on the TV show Forged Under Fire and placed 2nd when he was 19 years old. He is now a full time bladesmith. Colton married his high school sweetheart that is a mortician. I bet you won't find another couple quite like them. You will love listening to Colton Kiso!
Colton was able to take the wood from our 100+ year old barn and created a custom knife for us that are numbered. There will only be 100 made.
https://country-tough.myshopify.com/products/collectors-edition-country-tough-colton-kiso-knife?utm_source=copyToPasteBoard&utm_medium=product-links&utm_content=web
Welcome back to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Jason Worthley is a returning guest. Just a good guy that cares about his county and country. Jason has served under three different law enforcement agencies all while living in Morgan County. Jason in running for the Morgan County Western District Commissioner. The election is August 6, 2024. I was honored to get to just chat with Jason about life and why people should vote for him. Thank you for tuning in to Country Tough with Jason Worthley.
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. I found today's guest as a featured business in a magazine called Rural Missouri. Their business is called "The Little Farm Store". They are located East of Springfield in Mansfield, Missouri. The Little Farm Store is an online farmers market connecting fresh foods grown from local farmers to the public through home delivery. No more guessing where your food comes from! You can find them at www.littlefarmstore.com
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Meet female cattle rancher, Gina Kuda. Her passion is with the Limousin breed. Gina offers bull and replacement heifers. She also goes above and beyond to increase safety by halter breaking most of the bulls she sells. You are going to love this down-to-Earth, knowledgeable, hardworking cowgirl. Her website is www.kudalimousinranch.com
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. It is my pleasure to introduce Amber Watkins, the owner of Reclaiming Dawn. She is done with putting poisons into her body and designed a healthy line of products for skin, hair, laundry, and wellness. Amber is doing the research and finding lie after lie. One common thought that she has had to help people overcome is thinking "clean" has a smell. "Clean" is when there is no smell. If you are DONE with being lied to, then check out Reclaiming Dawn at www.reclaimingdawn.com
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. I respect the man in this interview today! Meet Bruce Whittle, DVM! Not only did I have him as a guest on the podcast but I also wrote an article in Mules and More Magazine about the difficult tooth extraction he successfully completed on my mule, JoJo. Bruce Whittle is located in Trenton, Missouri with his wife who is also a veterinarian, Honey Creek Veterinary Hospital.
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. My guest today knows how to raise a good steak! Derek Riggs and his wife, Karla, own MidMissouriBeef.com Here is what their website says, "We are a family owned and operated ranch that produces a quality cut of beef. Karla is a 5th generation rancher that grew up raising and showing purebred Charolais. Derek is a 4th generation rancher that grew up on a cow/calf operation. Both Karla and Derek have taken the family ranching traditions down a little different road allowing them to reach the consumer directly and allowing them to see where and how their beef was raised.
I had the opportunity to try their beef! It was "chef's kiss" AKA DELICIOUS! They are raising their beef from birth to butcher and taking the time to do it right!
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. From a century farm in ruins to Missouri's Best Ranch to Country Tough Homesteading. My mission in life is to help others by helping them gain the forgotten skills to help them become more self sufficient with hands on homesteading classes.
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Today's guest is an Oklahoma cowboy named Chris May. He and his wife and kids own a equine facility in Oklahoma. Chris has been to every continent except Antarctica with the oil and gas industry. I met Chris through Facebook and it turned out that we had a lot of the same interest in helping people become safer with their equine. He wants to breed and train a safe horse and I want to help people learn the skill sets they need to be safe through Country Tough Trail Versatility. Chris will be a judge and clinician at a Country Tough Trail Versatility competition at our ranch, Von Holten Ranch.
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. I have to take a back seat to today's very distinguished guest, Brenda Valentine, the First Lady of Hunting. Brenda has been the host of multiple TV shows: Turkey Country and Bass Pro Shop/Outdoor World. She has modeled hunting attire and even authored a book titled "Hunting MisAdventures with the First Lady of Hunting". Brenda was even riding a saddle made with the hid of a Cape Buffalo she hunted in Africa. This woman is in her own league of coolness! Brenda also shares her struggles with the tick disease called Alpha Gal. This lady is more country than biscuits and gravy! Heck, you might have to listen to this podcast twice to make sure you didn't miss anything.
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten! It is my pleasure to introduce Erica Graham with Graham Equine. She is a self taught leather maker! Mother of three, K-State graduate, and excellent horsewoman! Erica's daughter followed in her footsteps. I love to support others that are blazing their own path. It is my pleasure to introduce leather maker and cowgirl, Erica Graham!
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Today's guest is Kody Hanner! If one day we find out that we are related, it would explain a lot. We look a like, have a lot of the same values, and found each other at a homeschool expo. I love her business and she loves mine! She has written an elaborate homeschool curriculum for homesteaders! It is K-12 and is nothing shy of being called a one stop shop and a masterpiece! If you go to my homesteading website, I placed her link there to help you connect with Kody. www.countrytoughhomesteading.com
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten! You are about to meet one of my MOST people on this planet! Taressa Rankin!!! She is such a wonderful trainer, mom, wife, and friend! She is a horse trainer, homeschooler, and homesteader. This podcast is the first but not the last. If you would like to find Taressa, check her out on Facebook at Taressa Rankin Horsemanship, LLC. To find more information about Von Holten Rand or services Brandy offers, visit www.vonholtenranch.com and www.brandyvonholten.com
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten! Today's guest is Diana Thebo- Markworth! She has been a familiar face at Von Holten Ranch throughout the years. From clinics, to judging, to competing, to getting married....when there's a horse involved, Diana's favorite mount is a MUSTANG. Diana is a gift to every mustang she comes across. Just a friend in general to the breed. Diana works to ensure that all of her mustangs are versatile. You are going to love Diana!
Welcome back to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten. Today's guest is Logan Schrag, a Kansas cowboy that owns Diamond Springs Ranch. His facility offers guided trail rides, a massive treehouse that is more like a beautiful apartment for the weekend, an event venue, and something he calls the "Cowboy Experience". No horse, no problem. Logan Schrag and Michael W. Green also do business consulting. Check him out www.cowboyexperienceks.com
Welcome to Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten! Meet Michael Green! He's the owner of Watkins C Ranch in Leavenworth Kansas. It is a third generation trail facility for people that do not own their own horses. Michael also does business consulting. Check them out at www.watkinscranch.net
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! OMG, you are going to love today's guest, Liz Dingus! You will join me in rooting for her. 2021 was extremely rough on a lot of people, but it was over the top hard on Liz and her family. In 2021, she lost her mother-in-law, father-in-law, her mother, and her 21 year old son (her 5th child out of 8). Liz talks about this experience and how she found herself at 51 going to college for the FIRST time in her life to become a respiratory therapist. At the time of this interview, she just finished her first semester with all A's! Guys, we cried, we laughed, and I became inspired by Liz. See is the definition of a Big Boss Mare.
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! Let's meet Tony & Merry Kroeger with Heartland Eq Stables located in Sedalia, Missouri. Before the stables, they dove into a business called The Weed Zapper. This dynamic duo also pastor a church together where they have done everything from "preach, teach, and play bass" for over 30 years.
The world really is such a small place. Locally I was elected to our local health board in 2021. One of Tony & Merry's sons was elected in 2023 and also serves on the health board. I did not realize they were his parents until the day of this interview. Just goes to show that Tony and Merry are exceptional parents because I am a huge fan of them, their businesses, and the son, Mike.
I hope you enjoy getting to know Tony and Merry as much as I did by doing this podcast interview.
Welcome back to Big Boss mare with Brandy Von Holten! Today's guests are a horsemanship instruction duo named Tony & Jenny Vaught! They are a dynamic duo that has been helping horses, mules, and riders reach their next level. This is a homeschooling, ministry, karate, and amazing horsemanship married couple. They now live in Florida but frequent the Midwest to share their teachings. Tony & Jenny are clinicians that are hosted at Von Holten Ranch. Check out our schedule if you are ever near Missouri. You won't be disappointed. www.vonholtenranch.com
Welcome to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! Tina Dulaban is our guest today! She is the Vice Chair for the Central Region for the Missouri Women in Agriculture. MO Women in Ag put on a yearly conference called the Women in Ag Conference. The conference started in 2001 and has been going strong ever since. The event is in September and on a Monday-Tuesday-and Wednesday. Weekends are extremely difficult to work around so the Missouri Women in Ag doesn't even bother with trying to work around everyone's hectic schedules. During the event, Tuesday is the "tour day". In 2023, Von Holten Ranch/Brandy Von Holten was selected for the tour destination. Mounted archery, line dancing, self defense, and dinner are all included in our air conditioned/heated wedding and event venue! If you get the opportunity, check them out on Facebook and check out my professional website at www.brandyvonholten.com
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! Meet DVM Greg Houtsma with the Warrensburg Animal Hospital located in Warrensburg, Missouri. Born in Canada, but settled in Missouri, DVM Greg Houtsma is a highly respected vet in the Midwest. He emphasizes in equine reproduction, lameness, and dentistry. He has helped us at Von Holten Ranch with equine dentistry, lameness, eye injuries, and everything in between. You will love getting to know DVM Greg Houtsma even more. Did you know that he was accepted in the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, also known as the "Mounties". Learn about his two geldings, his two daughters, and his wife's equine breeding program. There won't be another story quite like his. It is my honor to introduce a man that needs no introduction, DVM Greg Houtsma!
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! We have two guests today, Russ and Dina Brown, the owners of R Bar B in Topeka, Kansas! Their store is family owned with their three sons also working for the business. They sell saddles, tack, clothing, cowboy hats, trailers, bits, and everything in between! R Bar B is also hosts all sorts of clinicians and events in their outdoor arena. Russ and Dina also specialize in saddle fit. Someone can take their horse/equine to their business and find a saddle that works. You can even order a custom saddle if you want a new one. R Bar B is launching their online in February 2023! Check out their website at www.rbarb.com
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! Today's guest is Mark Kestner. Our businesses parallel from close to the same start date and roughly the same industry. Mark has a company that is divided into three categories: rental RV, RV park, and now a crappie fishing guide service. You will love his down to Earth business plan and his willingness to venture out to live the life he actually wants to live. Check out www.bluebirdoutdooradventure.com
Welcome to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! Today's guest is Alaina Cross! She is one amazing cowgirl! I have known her since she was a youth Extreme Cowboy Association competitor. Alaina starts colts and has even trained mustangs! Her uplifting zest for life will have you waiting for her next word. Just a kind soul and an even more amazing mom, wife, and cowgirl. Alaina took a spill on a horse and went to the hospital. When doing tests just to make sure she was ok, they found stage 2 Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Alaina will be someone that beats cancer and adds that to her resume. Cancer doesn't know the strength of a cowgirl.
Welcome to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten. Today we have Karen Cummings as our valued guest. She has been in my life before Von Holten Ranch. Karen is now a massage therapist and a Country Tough Trail Versatility competitor. I do not have a lot of friends that stick around for the different chapters of my life; Karen has been around for almost 20 years. If you ever need a massage therapist that can get the job done and you want to help a fellow horse woman, then this is your girl. The amount of people I trust to ride my best horses would fit on a gum wrapper. Karen Cummings name would be on that gum wrapper for sure.
Welcome to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten. It is my pleasure to introduce Abigail Hoffman. Abigail is the owner of Tailwind Horsemanship, LLC and is a graduate of Clinton Anderson's Clinician Academy. Abigail is a Clinton Anderson Ambassador. Iowa is where she currently presides, but the world has no limits for this professional cowgirl. In this podcast you will get to meet Abigail and see what lead her to where she is today.
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! Today is a first-generation cowgirl that is blazing the way for her mother and niece to join in the passion of being top performing cowgirls! You will love the freedom and dedication of horsewoman, Shayla Shipley! I first met Shayla at a clinic where she was a way more advanced competitor that I am and I WAS TEACHING THE CLINIC! Shayla is helping develop her niece, Carissa, and helps her mother, Nina.
In addition to being a versatile competitor, Shayla and her family breed horses, dogs, and cats. The dog breeds are St. Berdoodles and Newfi Poo. The cat breeds are either pure Maine Coon or a half Maine Coon. They apparently like everything big because Shayla’s family is also now breeding half draft horses!
You will be amazed by Shayla’s knowledge and cowgirl spirit!
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! Today’s guest is international clinician and world champion horseman, Lee Hart! He is my trainer and is the longest returning clinician at Von Holten Ranch. Lee has a staggering list of accomplishments including WRCA World Champion Bronc Rider to WRCA Top Hand to the American Royal Colt Starting Champion to the EXCA World Pro Champion and EXCA World Futurity Champion. Lee Hart has also completed in the invitation only Calgary Stampede Cowboy Up Challenge where he won the Reserve Champion title!
Lee Hart has helped numerous people with their equine and helped even more equine with their people. His clinics are highly sought after and always have people giving him raving reviews and asking to sign up for his next returning clinic.
Lee recently was selected to compete in the Road to the Horse Wildcard Challenge. This competition is composed of six trainers. The person that wins the Wildcard Challenge will then go head-to-head in the Road to the Horse in March of 2023.
Lee is always a crowd pleaser and always does right by any animal. It is with great pleasure to introduce one of my greatest mentors and friends, Lee Hart.
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! Today we have the pleasure of interviewing two cowgirls from West Virginia! Mary White, 84, and Alicia Stickel, 61, drove separately from West Virginia to attend a Big Boss Mare Production called Chix in the Sticks! Mary drove herself and set her trailer up herself! With owning a trail riding facility, it was refreshing to see an older cowgirl out there COWGIRLING!!! Mary had amazing stories about how she married her divorce attorney from her first marriage who later became a Senator! There’s not one cowgirl out there that doesn’t want to be Mary! She already has her next adventured planned for later this year. Alicia invited me to come ride with them in Utah, in Kentucky, and on the beach! Have you ever met someone and knew you would be friends until the end? I met two when I met Mary and Alicia!
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! Today we have two of the five owners of Phantom V Distillery, Chris Groves and Mike Hammerly! Five friends came together to create an innovative alcohol that is closely related to Brandy (the alcohol, not me). Brandy is made from fruit, but cannot be distilled greater than 160 proof. Phantom V’s alcohol is coming in at 192 proof. When you reach numbers that are above the normal classifications, the alcohol becomes a “Distilled Specialty Spirit”. Now, they are also able to create other alcohols such as vodka by lowering the alcohol’s proof down to 80.
Phantom V Distillery built enough room for a restaurant to rent a space. Colton’s Steakhouse was the perfect restaurant. Both Colton’s and Phantom V benefit from this mutualistically beneficial relationship. Plus, the location of the distillery is filled with history and a connection with the 1904 World’s Fair.
You will have no problem understanding why people are tailgating to get into Phantom V! They truly are doing things differently. You would think that an alcohol that comes in as 192 proof would taste awful or make you grow chest hair. Nope! It is the exact opposite. Their Old Fashioned Oatmeal Cookie Brandy will have you doing a double take to see how many bottles you can bring home with you!
Why is it called Phantom V? Guess you’ll have to listen to find out.
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! Today’s guest does not need an introduction from me at all! Sarah Leonhard was worked for Purina for an extensive length of time. She is now an Associate Sales Manager and the Farm Consultant Team Leader. Sarah discusses Land o Lakes, the largest farmer owner cooperative in North America and its proud representation of the Purina brand and it’s feed division along with other products and services important to agriculture. The Purina brand has stood the test of time and multiple ownerships. Nestle also is represented by the 4-Square checkerboard on pet food and proudly represents its deep roots. Sarah is also a humble cowgirl. She and her daughter, Shelby Wells, barrel race together! Sarah also runs a cattle operation that focuses on an embryo transfer program. This podcast is proof that smart cowgirls are getting things accomplished now and were paving the way for others in the past. It is a great honor to have Sarah Leonhard as a guest of Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten.
Welcome back to Big Boss mare with Brandy Von Holten! This week’s guest is Kim Abney Shrader. She is the owner and manager of Shabby 2 Chic Boutiques which is a retail clothing and accessories store that has a store front, a mobile boutique, and is available online! Kim manifested her boutique, after being in real-estate for years. Steve, her farmer husband, told her to go for it and that is exactly what she did! When Kim created the name of her business, she knew she would open more than one location, so she went ahead and put the S on the word boutique! Her love of adding joy and confidence to women’s lives by seeing them in the clothes is the best part! This is truly the driving force behind Shabby 2 Chic Boutiques....where you can be a little shabby or you can be a chic diva.
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten. Today’s guest is Nikki Freeman! Nikki is a diversely talented “smartie pants and health nut”! She is a college professor at the University of Central Missouri and is a cross fit, barre, and piyo instructor! Nikki is currently working on her nutrition certification. After turning 40 she realized she needed to change, and the current diet culture was not the answer. Restricting calories to 1,300-1,500 per day left her without energy and without muscle. This led Nikki to focusing on macros, which are fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. It is Nikki’s goal is to educate and empower others to take control back over their health and host retreats that focus on this combination for improved health: physical, mental, and emotional needs. It is with great pleasure to introduce Nikki Freeman.
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! If you love law enforcement and BBQ, then you are going to love this interview! Meet Jason Worthley! Jason is a homegrown Missouri boy! Jason started as a 911 dispatcher but then has had the titles of jailer, deputy, K-9 deputy, and undercover narcotics while working with the Mid Missouri Drug Task Force. After Jason left the Morgan County Sheriff’s Department, he joined the Water Patrol which became an extension of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. With being so close to the Lake of the Ozarks which is a popular vacation area in Missouri, law enforcement is going to racking up some hard to believe stories. Jason said that he has seen the worst in good people, and the good in people that others would consider bad.
Jason and his best friend, Chuck Black, are serving up some of the best foods in Missouri at a restaurant called Patio 52 Bar and Grill, which is located in Stover, Missouri. Chuck, who is also Morgan County Sheriff’s Deputy, is the owner of Patio 52. Jason co-manages the restaurant and is the voice the public hears. In addition to the restaurant, Jason, Chuck, and one of Chuck’s brothers who is a combat veteran named Billy Black, are co-owners to accustom BBQ sauce called Patio 52 BBQ Sauce.
My husband and I love this restaurant and what they stand for! We eat at Patio 52 at least once a week, but sometimes three or four! Our ranch became one of the first five locations to carry their sauce!
After listening to this interview, you will know why we are such large supporters of Patio 52 bar and Grill and Jason Worthley!
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! This week’s interview is with Sydney Kotow. She is a hot shoer, AKA a hot farrier that works with a forge. There are not a lot of lady farriers, and even less that work with a forge. Sydney is not a shy person and will tell you how it is! She and I will have many adventures together over the next four decades. Our latest adventure included riding my mules, JoJo and CoCo, in the University of Central Missouri 150th parade that was part of the Guinness Record Book for the most mules ridden in a parade! Sydney lives in Missouri but use to call Canada home! You will have to listen quick to hear all of this story!
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! Today’s interview is with Arkansas mule trainer, Leslie Waymack! She and I were both presenters at the 2021 MidWest MuleFest. Leslie is super close to retirement from teaching high school social studies. Her plan is to become an outfitter that can go where the wind takes her. Leslie and I have several parallels but the main one is that you do not have to guess what she is thinking. The firecracker is putting in some real work with mules and having great successes. Leslie is an up and coming clinician that is easy to love.
Welcome to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten. This episode is with Gary Vaughn, Jr. from Greenbrier, Arkansas. He is living proof that a man can go through heartache and move forward. Gary has turned his life around from multiple felony charges to an active member in his church. He has come back from bankruptcy to having a well-paying job that he has been at for years. The largest heartache in this life was when his 15-year-old daughter committed suicide. From a rough childhood to a troubled early adulthood, to a thriving second chance, Gary’s story is sure to give others hope. It is with great love and respect for me to introduce my brother, Gary Vaughn, Jr.
Jason Cook is an American Cowboy that had a huge influence by his great grandfather. When someone tries to explain the term “humble”, they just need to have a 5 minute conversation with Jason. He believes in a solid foundation is the root to all great horses! To excel with your equine you need to have consistency and quality. In smartness, he ranks equine in this order (in general): Mules, mares, studs, and geldings. He is more of a horse man and prefers mares! That right there is enough reason to admire this man. The next paragraph was taken from a flier of a clinic that was at Von Holten Ranch.
www.jc-horsemanship.com
This clinic will work on creating a versatile horse with a focus on body positioning, creating a giving equine, and rating to different speeds. If you have a horse that is SOUR to competing, this is an area of specialty for Jason. Jason is a professional competitor and judge in numerous ranch and stock horse associations.
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten. Today’s interview is with one very creative first-time momma, Hanna Perry! I met Hanna when she competed in extreme cowboy racing and then crossed paths again when she was the competition photographer for the Country Tough Trail Versatility National Championship! Once a year, I have a Goal Setting Sisterhood private group. It was there that I was able to see that Hanna had started sewing custom baby clothes! The prints, fabrics, and the quality of the clothes was jaw dropping! I do not even have children and they got my attention! You will believe in Hanna and be motivated by her drive!!
Tinker Turner is a professional. His full time job is horses. He is a trainer, instructor, clinician, and judge. He has trained, showed, and judged Professionally for 30+ years. He has won countless events in Europe and the U.S. in reining, roping, trail classes, working cow, pleasure, halter, versatility ranch horse, & colt starting challenges. Some to mention- World Shows in reining, working cow, & ranch classes. He has worked with all breeds and all disciplines and is open to work with your horse!
Tinker and his family live on their 4th generation farm in Arkansas that has been family owned since 1845. All he knows is horses! You will love this American Cowboy! I cannot wait for you to hear the joy in his voice when he speaks about his daughter, Nevada. What an honor to present Tinker Turner with Tinker Turner Performance Horses to you!
Welcome to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! Today’s interview is with Ashley Raetz! Ashley is what I strive to be! If you have ever just busted your butt putting in the work, but then see someone that is working just as hard as you do, but they are exponentially growing faster. This is what I see from Ashley! She has found her niche, is incredibly smart, is not afraid to take calculated risks, and is SUCCESSFUL! She is a small-town girl with global reach! Ashley’s footprint on this world is a positive one for sure! Rather than keeping all her knowledge to herself, she is willing to help others experience the business success and financial prosperity she has found. This girl has more layers than a Vidalia onion, so pay attention! Ashley Raetz is truly gifted and believes in community over competition!
Meet Stacie Smith and Mary Bell! They are two of the three ladies hosting the MidWest MuleFest! 2022 will mark their 5th year! These two ladies are a hoot! In this interview you will get to meet these two and hear their love and compassion for inclusion in the equine industry for mules. Normal people can make extraordinary impacts in the world. Stacie and Mary are making the mule owners top priority at this annual event hosted at a trail facility called Panther Creek located in Tuscumbia, MO. Stacie and Mary will make you feel like family and welcome you with open arms.
Meet Andrea Caponetto! This lady owns a custom saddle company called Capo Custom Saddles! Capo translates to “Boss” in Italian! Andrea is a 4th generation Italian that prides herself in coming from a long line of entrepreneurs from Sicily! She can ride, she can cook, she can rock her custom saddle business, and look good doing it! Capo Custom Saddles are 100% USA made other than the conchos coming from Italy! You will love Andrea’s stories and downhome love for her family, friends, horses, and the passion she has for her custom saddle business. It is with great pleasure for me to introduce Andrea Caponetto!
Scott Simms has many judging certifications in numerous associations. As his personal equine goals change, his focus is now on giving back and helping develop the next generation of knowledgeable cowboy and cowgirl! There's always lots to learn from people that have been there and done that. Scott is an excellent role model and has a plethora or agriculture knowledge and is willing to share. Thank goodness for cowboys like Scott to light the way for tomorrow's generations!
Bailey Marriott is blazing her OWN way through this world! She loves her family, her country, her modern day western heritage, and business! Her story will motivate and captivate you! Coffee shop, cattle rancher, and clothing and western apparel store owner/manager!! Bailey is a small town girl with big dreams!
When you are around Sean Beaver, you feel like you are in the presence of greatness! He's a mover, a shaker, a Veteran, and is not afraid to take chances on a business venture that SCREAMS USA!!!!! Being around strong, independent thinkers will help you become a strong, independent thinker! I would highly recommend listening to this episode multiple times! Go check out Great American Kites and Events on social media!
Alina Shcherbina is helping people have those difficult conversations about life insurance. This is who my husband and I have our life insurance policy through. You never know how much better you will sleep until you have your loved ones set up for financial security if tragedy strikes. There are scammers out there and different types of policies that are not set up to benefit the client. Alina helps you sort through the language to find what is right for you. I would highly recommend having a relationship and getting to know your life insurance policy holder. If you trust that person enough with life insurance, then they should also be trustworthy enough for investments. It is never too early to start preparing for a better life. My husband and I appreciate Alina's honesty. Education is power! This podcast is filled with information and a prime example of the type of person you should work with with such a delicate topic!
Thank you for joining Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten today! Today’s guest is one of easiest cowgirl’s in the world to love and cheer on as she blazes her own path in the equine industry, Lauren McCain! She is on the Country Tough Trail Versatility National Board, a certified judge, a horsemanship and mulemanship clinician, an equine breeder, and just an all-around friend to the equine species! Even though Lauren is young, she is respected and valued by all ages. You just cannot help but love her because of her authenticity and positive outlook. I enjoy helping Lauren McCain get introduced to the world in any way that I can. With Lauren being the go-getter she is, I have no doubt the roles will be flipped one day and she will be the one introducing me. Get ready world, here’s Lauren McCain!
It is my pleasure to introduce soon to be DVM Maria Juarez Byrd! Maria is one of the most determined work horses I know! Everything she has worked for academically has come from huge sacrifices and pure grit. Maria had enough college credit hours from high school to expedite her time needed to obtain her undergraduate degree. After being accepted into the prestigious College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University in New York, Maria let doubt created by a mental seed planted deter her from her dream of becoming a veterinarian. Maria had to step back and regroup before attacking veterinary school again. This time she was equipped with the ability to silence the doubt created which allowed her to soar. Maria is going to do great things while on this Earth, and I am honored to be part of her life.
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! Today’s guest is one heck of a cowgirl, Hannah Kaufman! Not only is she a barrel racer, but she is extremely multifaceted in the equine industry. Hannah has made custom leather pieces that are just as beautiful as they are useable! She also trains horses to have a career in barrel racing, teaches clinics, and can help equestrians all over the world with her digital training critique. Hannah has an elaborate background in cutting and reining. “Building Excellence From the Ground Up” is Hannah’s motto for her performance horses. Hannah has fought back from two major injuries but shows no sign of slowing down! Her energy is contagious and the footprint she will leave on the horse industry has only begun. It is my honor to introduce the cowgirl that needs no introduction, Hannah Kaufman.
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten. Today’s guest is John Sultanov. John is an entrepreneur, a business owner, a father, a husband, and an aspiring politician. John is also 2nd generation Russian American. His family fled religious oppression and Communism. He has made it his mission to get involved on a local level to ensure American freedoms are upheld. He feels indebted to the United States for helping his family in a time of need. John and I are both running for our county’s health board of trustees. Even though we have different backgrounds, our goals are parallel. I hope you are enlightened by his perspective. It is my mission to serve with John on the Pettis County Health Board of Trustees. Even though he and I are technically opponents, the county would equally benefit from electing either of us. It is with great honor to introduce John Sultanov.
Welcome to this week’s interview with Shawnie Peck. I met Shawnie as a client at my trail riding facility called Von Holten Ranch around 2015. It didn’t take long for Shawnie and her family and friends to become more than friends. They became an extended family to my husband and me. Shawnie has worked as a Wrangler at a Dude Ranch, trained with Chris Cox and his wife Barbara Cox, won two buckles at our ranch with one of those buckles being from the first National Championship hosted by an association called Country Tough Trail Versatility, and she is a keynote speaker. Shawnie is not only a high functioning woman, but she is also autistic. Her mother was told by doctors that Shawnie would have limited communication and social skills. Guess Shawnie had other plans because not only is she functioning, but she is excelling. Shawnie is now in the process of attaining her bachelors in elementary education and has already completed an associate degree in graphic design. The world is a better place with Shawnie and it is my pleasure to introduce a cowgirl that can ride better than most….Shawnie Peck.
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten! Today’s guest is Jessica Buesing! She is not an entrepreneur but a mommapreneur! She is a mother, a wife, a former teacher, a college instructor, a skin care specialist, and a professional photographer! Hard work is no stranger to Jessica. Everything she does, she becomes an asset and a leader. If you, too, are a multifaceted professional that has ambitions to do and be more, then you will love this podcast with Jessica! I hope you walk away super charged and ready to divide and conquer the world!
Welcome back to Big Boss with Brandy Von Holten! Today’s we will be discussing the value I have found in having deeper conversations with others through the making of this podcast. It is amazing how much personal growth, empathy, and compassion can happen in an hour with just having a more in-depth conversation. This podcast is about the lessons I have learned from the first twn women I interviewed for Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten:
Toby Dorr, Angela Ammons, Jennifer Fizer, Magen Warlick, Dawn Eich, Erica Petersen, Fawna Henke, Terry Gautreaux, and Karen Peck!
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten. Today’s guest is one heck of a cowgirl named Karen Peck. Not only is she an established artist making large pieces from welding metal, but she has now jumped into a new medium using wool. Karen is a true cowgirl with having been a header and a heeler in team roping! I first met Karen and her family when they decided to try obstacle competitions. At the age of 55 and at 56, Karen won back-to-back titles as the All Around Cowgirl. One of the most joyous times in her life was the birth of her first granddaughter, Charley. However, Karen then went through the roughest of rough times within a short span of time with the death of her mother, a divorce, and her daughter in law being diagnosed and going through aggressive treatment for Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Karen and her family are moving forward and credit their resiliency made possible only through their strong foundation in Christ.
Today’s interview is with Terry Gautreaux and Kirsten Jones. Not only is Terry the 1992 bronze medal Olympian in the sport of TaeKwonDo, but she was also my primary martial arts instructor. Terry and her husband, Oren, are not only decorated martial artist but also business partners. Terry is now an avid runner, having completed numerous marathons. However, her current goal includes being able to walk again after recovering from surgery to repair her hip. Kirsten is now an EMT and was a member of the same competition team I was on coached by Terry in the past. Terry’s story and insight are sure to motivate you to reach for your highest potential.
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten. This week I will be discussing how I deal with adult bullies with a focus on social media bullies. If you have been bullied on facebook, instagram, Tik Tok, you name it; I just want you to know you are not alone.
Today’s interview is with Fawna Henke, a new age cattle ranch manager and aspiring daily devotional writer. This is her story about her journey to become a beef advocate and manage 1,600 head of cattle in a large scale cow-calf operation. Fawna is not a stranger to an engrained solid work ethic. Listen closely to her Recipe for Success. Fawna’s love of the cattle industry will make you feel pride for ranchers out there working to feed America. I hope you enjoy her interview as much as I did.
Meet Erica Petersen! She is one of the Vice Presidents at Central Bank in Sedalia Missouri. She is also the Business Development Coordinator and the Marketing Director. I had the pleasure of meeting Erica when I was a presenter at a One Million Cups monthly meeting. Erica is under 40, but already has 20 years of experience in banking! Join us as she shares banking advice and services for businesses, young adults, and the average Joe! Banking is changing. Erica explains innovative ways in which a bank can help your business and steer clear of pitfalls. I hope you learn just as much as I did in her interview!
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten. This podcast is on a three-week rotation between a topic that is for everyone, followed by a cowgirl topic, followed by myself discussing a subject I find near and dear to my heart. This three series rotation consisted of a courageous human trafficking survivor, Dawn Eich, and an elite horsewoman that is a true friend of the horse that too has comeback from injury, Elizabeth Hartin. This pairing sparked today’s topic titled “I am not what I use to be”. Thank you to everyone for making Big Boss Mare part of your weekly routine!
Today’s interview is with Elizabeth Hartin, an established trainer and horse woman. This is her story about choosing her horse’s health over a prestigious competition. Doing the right thing is not always an easy decision, but it was for Elizabeth. Too many times spectators get wrapped up in the competition to realize that horses like Elizabeth’s horse, Sparkle, had already won something much greater than any title. You see, Sparkle has a true friend of the horse as her owner that chose to put the horse first and herself second. Elizabeth’s story is sure to brighten your day and have your heart go pitter patter over one of the most majestic creatures to ever walk on Earth, the horse.
Today’s interview is with Dawn Eich. Not only is she an instrumental person in helping human and sex trafficking victims, but she is also a survivor. Dawn has taken the energy from an unthinkable tragedy and funneled it to become a ray of hope for others. Dawn works with an organization called the Survival House that has tirelessly worked with men, women, and children, all of whom have been victims of some sort of human trafficking. Knowledge is power. I know this interview will shed light on a topic that is closer to home than what most realize.
Welcome back to Big Boss Mare with Brandy Von Holten. This podcast is on a three-week rotation between a topic that is for everyone, followed by a cowgirl topic, followed by myself discussing a subject I find near and dear to my heart. This rotation consisted of a first-time business owner, Jennifer Fizer, and a world champion that likes to continue to challenge herself, Magen Warlick. This pairing sparked today’s topic titled “To succeed more, you have to fail more”. Thank you to everyone for making Big Boss Mare part of your weekly routine!
This week’s interview is with Magen Warlick. She has evolved as a horse woman from three-day eventing to a world champion extreme cowboy racer. She has now set her sights on cow horse events. Magen discusses her road to victory and the mental mindset that helped her along the way.
This week I will be interviewing Jennifer Fizer. Jennifer owns Brick House Coffee Bar and Eatery in Harrisonville, Missouri. She has a podcast titled “That Cowgirl Life” and we have ridden horses together for numerous years including time on a ranch dressage club. She has also been my mentor for creating this podcast. I value Jennifer’s insight and courage to open her own business. I hope you enjoy this interview.
Today’s episode of Big Boss Mare covers the topic of daily gratitude. Each morning, I, Brandy Von Holten, start my day with writing three things I am grateful for in my life. This sets the bar for the thoughts I allow in my mind. What you think, you create. I hope this podcast helps motivate you to focus on the small details of your life. It is not about having what you want, it is about wanting what you have.
Today’s interview is with Angela Ammons, a friend and frequent trail guest at Von Holten Ranch. This is her story about her two-year journey to win the Country Tough Trail Versatility National Championship. Angela has a congenital birth defect called Amniotic Bands Syndrome. She is missing several fingers and toes. Angela’s fiery spirit is sure to motivate and captivate you. I hope you enjoy her interview as much as I did.
Today’s interview is with Toby Dorr, a woman with a felony conviction. She found herself in the lowest point possible, in prison on suicide watch. While in prison, she as able to firsthand see the need to help the brokenness of female inmates. She has now been approached by Date Line and Lifetime to share her story. Toby has now written a memoir and has a series of workbooks to help women mend the pieces of their life. She has taken a bad decision and turned it into a positive healing platform for others. I hope you are moved as I was by Toby’s interview.
Welcome to Big Boss Mare! This episode is a quick introduction to the vision of Big Boss Mare. On this podcast, you will hear insightful, motivational, and authentic interviews with people JUST LIKE YOU! Your tribe determines your vibe. Welcome to YOUR Big Boss Mare tribe!