Tom McCutcheon's THE SHOW

Tom McCutcheon Reining Horses

NRHA 2 Million Dollar Rider, Tom McCutcheon sits with Million Dollar Rider, Gunny Mathison, Trainer / Judge, Joe Schmidt, and weekly guests to discuss The Reining Industry!
In each episode, Tom, Gunny, and Joe dive deep into conversations with top riders, trainers, and industry experts, sharing their stories, insights, and strategies for success.

Whether you're a seasoned competitor, a passionate horse enthusiast, or someone just curious about the world of Western performance horses, this podcast offers a front-row seat to the excitement, challenges, and triumphs of the sport.

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Avg 1 hr 18 min
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S1 · E135
August 20 · 1 hr 4 min
The 2026 Run For A Million Champion, Kole Price | EP 135
Golden Coins, indeed. In this episode of The Show, Tom McCutcheon sits down with Gunny Mathison, Joe Schmidt, and Cade McCutcheon to talk with 2026 Run For A Million Champion Kole Price — fresh off one of the wildest nights in reining history, a record-breaking 237.5 on Golden Coins.We go inside a stacked 16-horse field where six-plus horses had already marked over 230 before Kole even entered the pen, and break down how a night that could've gone either way turned into a record-setter. Kole walks through the mental prep that changed everything from the NRBC run to this one — earplugs, paid warm-ups, and treating a six-year-old like he still needs to be shown, not just patted on the neck. He gets into the specific fix he worked on for days before the show (starting his right turnaround off his outside leg instead of his neck rein) and the exact moment mid-run when he knew something special was happening.We also dig into the judging of one of the deepest classes ever, the scribe who told Kole he was sitting on a 77.5 before his stops even started, and what's next for Golden Coins — a run at the Derby, a shot at the Million, or knowing when a horse has already proven everything it needs to. Plus: Cooper Smith and Kelsey's surprise on-site barn wedding, Vegas blackjack winners and losers, and why a town of 2,000 people has Kole Price's face on the water tower.Congratulations again to Kole Price and Golden Coins — this is reining at its best.🎙️ Subscribe for new episodes of The Show every week.📲 Follow us: Instagram: @tommccutcheons_theshow🔔 Have a guest or topic you want to hear on the show? Drop it in the comments.#reining #NRHA #RunForAMillion #TheShow #TomMcCutcheon #KolePrice #GoldenCoins #reininghorses #westernperformance #quarterhorse #reiningpodcast #NRHAfuturity
S1 · E134
August 10 · 1 hr 1 min
Homebred Futurity Champion | Franco Bertolani EP 134
We're back for another episode of The Show! Tom McCutcheon, Cade McCutcheon, Gunny Mathison, and Joe Schmidt sit down with NRHA Million Dollar Rider, Franco Bertolani, fresh off winning the Level 4 Open Futurity at the 100X Brazos Slide. Franco traces his path from barrel racing as a kid in Brazil to learning his reining foundation in Italy, and his move to the US in 2012. Our guest shares his plan moving toward the NRHA Futurity with his special 3 year old by Inferno Sixty Six out of Blueyedgirl, skipping the Congress and showing sparingly along the way. The crew digs into why a 221 barely cashes a check anymore, why Brazil's strict import rules built a tougher domestic market than Europe's, and the never-ending debate over hauling three-year-olds straight through versus laying over. Whether you're looking for industry news or just pure entertainment, this episode has it all! #podcast #brazil #horsetraining #equine #equinepodcast #horsetrainers #reining #reininghorse
S1 · E133
August 10 · 1 hr 16 min
Does Price Determine a Horse’s Potential? – Cooper Smith Says No...(EP 133)
Tom McCutcheon, Cade McCutcheon, Gunny Mathison, and Joe Schmidt welcome longtime friend and legendary horse trader Cooper Smith for a wide-ranging conversation straight off the heels of the 100X Waco Futurity. The crew breaks down recent standout runs from Franco Bertolani, Luca Fappani, and Miriko Midili, debates why 220+ scores barely cash a check anymore, and tackles the real question every reining fan is asking: is the sport still affordable for the average competitor?Gunny opens up about his new gig as a CBS Sports commentator for the Run For A Million in Las Vegas alongside Steve Ross, Taylor Sheridan, and Francesca Sternberg — a big step for the horseman known for calling it like he sees it. Tom also reflects on his recent Hall of Fame induction and the letters that got him there, while Cooper brings decades of trading wisdom to the group’s debate on horse values, from six-figure studs to $5,000 diamonds in the rough.Along the way: previews of the Tulsa 100X show and the new First Annual Legacy Designer Sale, plus plenty of trademark chaos — cannoli cowboys, mariachi bands, and a busker debate that somehow takes over the second half of the show.#reining #podcast #nrha #futurity #tommccutcheon #therunforamillion #halloffame #reiningpodcast #equinepodcast
S1 · E132
August 2 · 1 hr 6 min
Reining's Debut at the Calgary Stampede | Dany & Fred Tremblay Episode 132
Reining took center stage at one of the biggest events in the world — and the Tremblay Boys were right in the middle of it.Dany & Fred Tremblay join Tom McCutcheon, Cade McCutcheon, Gunny Mathison, and Joe Schmidt to break down reining's debut at the Calgary Stampede — catch-riding horses they'd never sat on, in front of 1.4 million people, and what it meant for growing the sport. Plus:Reserve Champion at the NRHA Derby with a 232The new era of reining money — from $130K to $1M+ yearsWhy "work hard, have fun" still wins: taking care of customers, late nights, casinos & Half Moon BayShows running past midnight — and whether it's time for that to change🎧 New episodes drop regularly — subscribe & turn on notifications.📲 Follow along: @tommccutcheons_theshowThis episode is dedicated to the memory of our friend Shane Walters. 🤍#reining #NRHA #TMRH #reininghorses #calgarystampede #horsepodcast #performancehorse
#131
June 5 · 1 hr 25 min
Building the Solo Select Empire: Melanie Smith | Episode 131
This week, the guys sit down with Melanie Smith, co-owner and co-founder of Solo Select — a rapidly growing business that spans horse sales, breeding, mare management, stallions, products, outdoor services, and more. Melanie shares how she got into the horse world, the journey that led her to starting Solo Select, and what her partnership with Ty Smith has looked like along the way. The conversation dives into the building of the Solo Select brand, how they've expanded well beyond horses, and what it's taken — financially and personally — to get there. Melanie also opens up about debt, managing finances, and the motivation that's driven everything she's built. Of course, it wouldn't be a full episode without some laughs — and this week even includes a little singing. A big thank you to Melanie for joining us and sharing her story!
#130
May 29 · 1 hr 10 min
The Man with No Plan B: Gunny Mathison | Episode 130
This week, the guys turn the mic on one of their own — co-host Gunny Mathison takes the guest chair. They dig into how Gunny got his start with horses, his days playing high school baseball, and somehow, how golf entered the picture. From there, the conversation covers the types of horses Gunny gravitates toward, his accomplishments in the industry, and some great stories from the past — including what it was like coming to work for Tom at just 18 years old. The guys also get into Gunny's bit and spur making, which has become a craft and passion all its own — including how a pair of spurs can fetch a serious price tag. Beyond horses and hardware, they talk about the way Gunny approaches life in general, which anyone who knows him won't be surprised by. With plenty of laughs and a format that flips the usual dynamic, this one's a fun change of pace — and a great look at one of the guys who's always been part of the conversation.
#129
May 22 · 1 hr 33 min
From the NFL to the Horse Industry with Davon Godchaux | Episode 129
This week on The Show, we’re joined by Davon Godchaux for a conversation that covers far more than just football. Davon shares what life in the NFL is really like, talks about making the transition from LSU to the professional level, and gives some behind-the-scenes perspective on teams, locker rooms, and the realities of playing at the highest level. The conversation also dives into Davon’s growing involvement in the horse industry, including how he got started with horses, his place in Weatherford, his thoughts on breeding, and the questions he has as he continues learning more about the industry. Along the way, the guys discuss hard work, relationships, making lasting impressions, and what it takes to create opportunities and build success. And somewhere in between all of that, there are plenty of jokes and moments that send the conversation off track. Thank you to Davon for joining us on this week’s episode!
#128
May 15 · 1 hr 16 min
Family, Legacy & Reining Through the Years with Shawn & Sam Flarida | Episode 128
This week on The Show, we’re joined by legendary NRHA Hall of Famer Shawn Flarida and his son, Sam Flarida, for a conversation full of stories, perspective, and plenty of laughs. Fresh off making his first Level 4 Open Finals at the NRBC, Sam talks about the experience and what it meant to reach that milestone, while Shawn reflects on decades in the industry and the people and horses that helped shape his career. The guys also look back on Tom and Shawn’s WEG days, discuss how the reining industry and horses themselves have changed over the years, and talk about legendary horses like Wimpys Little Step and Wimpys Little Chic. From grit, heart, and what separates good horses from truly great ones, to the dynamic of working together as a father and son in the training business, this episode is packed with insight, memories, and the kind of conversations only lifelong horsemen can have. Thank you to Shawn and Sam for joining us on this week’s episode!
#127
May 8 · 1 hr 5 min
Multimillion Dollar Non Pro Trainer, Debbie Brown | Episode 127
This week on The Show, the guys sit down with Debbie Brown to talk about her long career in the horse industry, the people who helped shape it, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Before spending the last 12 years working for Tom McCutcheon, Debbie got her start with the McQuay family and built a career centered around helping non pros succeed in and out of the show pen. That dedication was recognized in 2021 when she was named NRHA Horsewoman of the Year, and again in 2025 as the NRHA Non Pro Coach of the Year. In this episode, Debbie shares stories from throughout her journey, talks about college and getting started in the industry, reflects on the many people she’s worked with over the years, and offers advice for younger generations hoping to make a career in the horse world. Along the way, there are plenty of laughs and memories shared between old friends. A huge thank you to Debbie Brown for joining us!
S1 · E119
May 1 · 58 min
From Go-Round Leader to Champion: Reed Kyle’s NRBC Story | Episode 126
On this episode, we sit down with the NRBC Level 4 Non-Pro Classic Champion, Reed Kyle. This one is a special one. Reed isn’t just an accomplished showman, he’s also our Bluebonnet Feeds sales rep and a longtime family friend, which makes this conversation feel a little more like sitting around after a horse show than a typical interview. We dive into the full story behind his winning horse, Geronemo, from where he found him to how the opportunity came together for Reed to show him at the NRBC. Reed walks us through the entire journey, including leading the preliminary go with a standout run and what it felt like to come back and seal the deal in the finals. Beyond the win, we get into the details that people don’t always hear. The preparation, the mindset, and what really goes into putting together a championship performance at that level. Of course, it wouldn’t be this group without some stories. The guys go back to the old Kyle Ranch days, Tom’s legendary Halloween parties, and a few moments that might be considered slightly controversial. We even get some great behind-the-scenes stories about Reed’s dad, Pete, including one from a basketball tournament that you won’t want to miss. It’s equal parts insight, storytelling, and good conversation.
#125
April 10 · 1 hr 13 min
Inside the Showjumping World with Olympian Laura Kraut | Episode 125
This week, the guys sit down with Olympian Laura Kraut for a conversation that steps outside the reining pen and into a completely different side of the horse industry. They talk through what makes showjumping unique—from the team aspect at the highest levels to how young horses are developed, how breeding decisions differ, and what separates top riders when it comes to picking a horse. Laura also shares how the industry operates in the U.S. compared to Europe, what it’s like spending summers in Holland, and how the sport has evolved over the years. The conversation covers everything from Thoroughbreds and the development of Warmbloods to safety equipment like air vests, splitting prize money, and the realities behind the price tag of top-level horses. There’s also a lot of discussion around how differently the showjumping and reining industries operate, from training timelines to competition structure. Along the way, the guys mix in plenty of laughs—covering everything from “list your injuries” to Nutella waffles—and even touch on Laura’s connection to Mandy from years ago. Thank you so much to Laura for joining us on this episode!
#124
April 3 · 1 hr 4 min
Gabriel Borges: From Brazilian Rodeos to Million Dollar Rider | Episode 124
This week, the guys sit down with NRHA Million Dollar Rider Gabriel Borges, fresh off a win at The Run For A Million Qualifier. They break down the qualifier, the level of competition it takes to get it done, and what it means heading into Vegas. Gabriel also shares his story—from getting started in reining in Brazil to making the move to the United States, learning English, and building a career at the highest level of the sport. The conversation dives into his time working for Tom, the trainers who have influenced him along the way, and a broader look at how the horse industry differs between Brazil, Europe, and the U.S. They also touch on non-pro vs. open horses and what it takes to succeed across different programs and environments. Of course, it wouldn’t be a full episode without some laughs—including a conversation about Gabriel’s mate habit—and plenty of real talk about horses, training, and the realities of making it in this industry. A big thank you to Gabriel for coming from Oklahoma and joining us on this week’s episode!
#123
March 27 · 1 hr 19 min
The Run For A Million Qualifier Recap with Ben Beckett | Episode 123
The Run For A Million Qualifier at Bosque Ranch brought together some of the best riders, horses, and runs — and this week, we’re breaking it all down with one of the standout competitors. Fresh off securing the final qualifying spot with a 9th place finish, Ben Beckett of Beckett Performance Horses joins the show to recap his experience at the TRFAM Qualifier. From preparing for the event to stepping into the pen alongside some of the industry’s top riders and trainers, Ben shares what it took to get the job done when it mattered most. The guys dive into the runs, the horses, and the overall atmosphere at Bosque Ranch, while also getting into the bigger picture — horsemanship, mindset, and what it really means to take a shot at an opportunity like this. From behind-the-scenes insight to real conversation about the journey, this episode gives an honest look at competing at one of the biggest stages in the sport — and why sometimes, you just have to go for it. A big thank you to Ben for taking the time to join us and share his experience!
#122
March 20 · 1 hr 37 min
From Hollywood to the Horse Industry: Growth, Authenticity & the Future
This week on The Show, we sit down with Taylor Sheridan — creator of Yellowstone and one of the most influential voices in modern western culture. The guys talk to Taylor about how he got his start in the horse industry, his path into acting and writing, and what it actually took to get projects like Yellowstone, 1883, and 1923 picked up. The conversation dives into the realities of the entertainment industry, what his day-to-day life looks like now, and what he’s currently working on. We also discuss his involvement in the western and performance horse industries through his own ranch, Bosque Ranch, along with his involvement in the ownership of the historic 6666 Ranch. From there, the conversation turns to the origins of The Run For A Million, the upcoming TRFAM qualifier, and the continued growth of the reining industry. Throughout the episode, the guys talk about increasing visibility for the performance horse world, making it more of a spectator sport, and what that kind of growth could mean for the industry moving forward. Taylor also shares insight into his business ventures, including his ownership of Cattlemen’s Steakhouse in Fort Worth, as well as the bigger vision behind everything he’s building. A big part of that vision is authenticity — preserving the western way of life and making sure what’s shown on screen reflects the real world. As Taylor puts it, nothing is accidental, and that attention to detail shows up in everything he does. Plus, we get into Tom & Cade’s experience on Yellowstone and how moments like that are helping bring more recognition to the western lifestyle and horse industry. A big thank you to Taylor for joining us — we appreciate him taking the time to sit down and share his perspective.
#121
March 13 · 1 hr 23 min
Should Reining Judging Change? AQHA Two-Year Rule & Industry Debate | Episode 121
This week on The Show, the guys dive into several topics currently being discussed across the reining and performance horse industry, including the proposed AQHA rule on frozen semen, conversations about ¼-point scoring in reining, and what these changes could mean for breeders, competitors, and the future of the sport. Although there wasn’t originally a guest scheduled, Dave Williams ended up jumping in to fill the chair, which quickly became a running joke throughout the episode. Dave talks about his business, Nautilus, an equine therapy spa focused on helping horses recover, perform, and feel their best. He also shares the story of riding Wimpys Little Step as a two-year-old, offering a fun look back at the early days of one of reining’s most influential stallions. From there, the conversation shifts to the proposed AQHA semen rule, which would limit the use of a stallion’s frozen semen to two years after his death, with stallions born before 2015 grandfathered in. The guys discuss what a rule like this could mean for breeding programs, stallion owners, and the long-term impact on genetics within the industry. They also talk about the idea that occasionally gets floated around about adding ¼-point increments to the reining judging scale, and whether a change like that could improve accuracy and consistency in scoring. Along the way, the conversation touches on the Run for a Million qualifier coming up next week, thoughts on the broader direction of AQHA, and a brief mention of the new NRHA schooling show dress code rule. With plenty of laughs and honest opinions, this episode covers a wide range of conversations currently happening across the reining, breeding, and performance horse world. • • • The Show Podcast | Reining Horses | NRHA | AQHA | Performance Horses | Horse Industry Conversations
#120
February 28 · 1 hr 39 min
How Million Dollar Performance Horses Changed the Industry | Austin Shepard
The performance horse industry isn’t what it was 10 years ago — and few people have had a front-row seat to that shift like $11M+ rider and NCHA Hall of Fame member Austin Shepard. In this episode of Tom McCutcheon’s The Show, we dive into the rise of million dollar performance horses, the sales that changed the cutting industry, and how major events like The Run For A Million have influenced the broader western performance horse market. Austin shares his perspective on how the game has evolved — from horse values and showmanship to work ethic, mentorship, and what it takes to stay relevant at the highest levels of competition. From million dollar mares to industry growth, leadership, and the next generation of horsemen, this is an inside look at how cutting — and the entire performance horse world — continues to change. Whether you’re involved in cutting, reining, cow horse, or simply follow the western performance industry, this conversation offers insight you won’t hear anywhere else.
#119
February 14 · 1 hr 20 min
6X NFR Qualifier–Joseph Harrison (EP 119)
This week on The Show, we’re joined by team roping standout Joseph Harrison. Over the course of his career, Joseph has competed on some of rodeo’s biggest stages, including six NFR qualifications and a win at The American Rodeo. He has built a reputation for skill, consistency, and a deep respect for the sport. More recently, he’s turned his focus to the futurity world, developing young rope horses and shaping the next generation of competitors. In this episode, Joseph shares how he first got started in roping, what it was like spending a decade working for Bobby Lewis, and the lessons that shaped both his riding and his approach to horses. He also reflects on the evolution of the team roping industry and offers insight into life on the rodeo road versus life training futurity horses—from long miles in the truck to long hours in the arena. The conversation also touches on the similarities and differences between the roping and reining industries, giving listeners a behind-the-scenes perspective on what it takes to succeed in both arenas. With plenty of laughs, honest stories, and practical insight, this episode offers a thoughtful look at what it takes to build a lasting career in the rope horse world. Thanks for joining us, Joseph! We really appreciate you sharing your story.
#118
February 7 · 1 hr 12 min
The Rise of Breakaway Roping–Sarah Angelone (EP 118)
This week on The Show, we’re joined by a true force in breakaway roping—Sarah Angelone. At her young age, Sarah has already built a résumé that puts her among the elite in the sport. With career earnings surpassing 1 Million Dollars and championships on some of rodeo’s biggest stages, she’s no stranger to the winner’s circle. In Episode 118, Tom, Gunny, Joe, and Cade sit down with Sarah to talk about her journey into rodeo, the moments that shaped her career, and what it takes to compete at the highest level in today’s breakaway industry. We dive into how the sport has evolved, where it’s headed, and the differences between breakaway and reining. Of course, things wouldn’t be complete without a little fun. Tom officially challenges Sarah, Trevor Brazile, and Miles Baker to a breakaway roping competition—and to make sure it’s not just talk, Trevor gets a call on air. Let’s just say… accountability was established. Between laughs, real insight, and an impressive story of discipline and drive, this episode is a must-listen. Sarah’s perspective, humility, and passion for the sport shine through, and we’re grateful she joined us to share her story. Thanks for coming on, Sarah—we loved having you.
#117
January 24 · 1 hr 50 min
The Legends Edition–Bob Loomis & Tim McQuay (EP 117)
Sitting down with NRHA Legend Bob Loomis and NRHA $3 Million Rider Tim McQuay is something truly special. These two horsemen have helped shape reining into what it is today — from defining the sport’s patterns to building breeding programs and careers that set the standard for generations. Bob Loomis, a six-time NRHA Open Futurity Champion, former NRHA President, and Hall of Fame inductee, shares insight into how his career began, how influential breeding programs were built, and how selecting the right mares played a key role in long-term success. His impact on the industry spans decades and continues to influence the way reining horses are trained and bred today. Joining him is Tim McQuay, the first rider in NRHA history to surpass $3 million in earnings and a true trailblazer of the sport. Tim has won every major NRHA event, qualified for the Futurity Finals nearly every year since 1978, and earned money on more than 200 horses. From world-level competition to building McQuay Stables, his influence reaches far beyond the show pen. Together, Bob and Tim dive into how today’s patterns were created, how the industry has evolved, and what truly matters when building horses and programs that last. Along the way, they share unforgettable show-pen stories, lessons learned, and perspective that only decades at the top can provide. We are incredibly grateful to Bob Loomis and Tim McQuay for joining us and sharing their knowledge, history, and stories. This episode is a rare opportunity to learn from two men who helped build the industry we all love.
#116
January 17 · 1 hr 23 min
Between Spotlights And Cowhorses–Corey Cushing (EP 116)
This week on The Show, we’re joined by a true legend of the cow horse world — NRCHA $4 Million Rider Corey Cushing. As the first NRCHA professional to ever reach the four-million-dollar mark, Corey has firmly earned his place as one of the very best to do it. With four NRCHA Open Snaffle Bit Futurity wins and three The World’s Greatest Horseman titles, he brings a lifetime of experience, perspective, and success to the table. Corey also brings some big news: Theorem Ranch has just acquired Teton Ridge’s iconic TR9 Ranch & Equestrian Facility, along with the incredible legacy that comes with it. He shares what this exciting new partnership means and what’s ahead for the program — and we can’t wait to see how it all unfolds. From there, the conversation dives into Corey’s journey — how he got started, making his first Snaffle Bit Futurity Finals, and even the time he fell off in front of Tom McCutcheon. We talk about the riders who inspire him, how he structures his training weeks while juggling three disciplines, and how both the reining and cow horse worlds have evolved over the years. Tom, Gunny, Joe, Cade, and Corey also get into training philosophy, including why it’s important to always finish a pattern even when things don’t go perfectly. The conversation then turns to family life and raising kids around horses — and why it’s actually a good thing for them to have a few hobbies that don’t involve horses. Cade laughs about how, looking back, he now really appreciates those high-school years before horses completely took over, and how important those moments end up being. It’s a fun, insightful, and honest conversation with one of the most respected horsemen in the industry — someone who truly loves the horses, the sport, and the people who make it special. Thank you for joining us, Corey.

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