Rod Dowers, father of former podcast guest Nick Dowers, is a farmer and rancher from Dyer, Nevada. Rod joins Joe to share the story of how he and his father moved to Nevada in the mid-80s to carve out a life for themselves and their families. Topics discussed include the history of the Dowers in the United States, growing a business while avoiding debt, and the importance of developing your passion.

Joe McDonald sits down with Ryan Rose, a horse trainer, clinician and YouTuber from Wisconsin. Joe explores Ryan's transformative journey from traditional horse training to becoming a clinician and social media influencer. Ryan shares his philosophy of aligning the horse's idea with his, discusses his thoughts on colt starting competitions, and highlights the critical role of networking in the horse industry. Tune in to discover how Ryan leverages social media to expand his reach and prepare for the 2026 Road to the Horse competition.

#horsemanship #roadtothehorse #horses

JD Thacker is a reined cowhorse trainer and 7th generation Nevada cowboy. JD grew up cowboying in n his family’s ranch, and later starting colts and showing horses with his Uncle, Dave Thacker. At the 2024 NRCHA futurity, JD had a stand out performance on his stallion, Casino Cat, placing 3rd in the Level 1 futurity and qualifying for the Limited and Intermediate Finals. JD joins Joe to talk about life as an up and coming horse trainer, working for Nick Dowers and cowboying in the Nevada desert.

This episode is sponsored by Nick Dower's Cowboy Week. Use coupon code "ONTHEMOVE" at checkout for a discount.

https://nickdowers.com/cowboy-week/

This episode is sponsored by C N Garwood Bits & Spurs.

https://www.instagram.com/connorngarwood?igsh=djZ4MDl6cGViazBy

Dalton Darnell is a ranch roping clinician, the CEO of 3:10 Ranch Life and the host of the Art of Suffering Podcast. 3:10 Ranch Life is a company that sells ropes, tack and apparel in addition for I hosting ranch roping competitions and clinics. Dalton joins the show to share how he’s been guiding the growth of his company and his approach to managing his team members. In addition to 3:10 Ranch Life, Dalton runs 3:10 EDU, an online educational service focused around teaching people roping, riding, stockmanship and other cowboy skills. Dalton explains his journey of becoming a clinician and his approach to teaching others and running clinics. Tune in to a fun conversation about business, faith, identity and what it means to truly love one another.

Gus Olds is a fitness trainer from the UK who specifically trains horseback riders. Gus' company, The Rider Movement, helps equestrian athletes from cowhorse, polo, dressage and many other disciplines improve their biomechanics to better fit the horse and prevent injury. Joe sits down with Gus to discuss his journey in building The Rider Movement and what he is doing today to help so many horses and riders. Topics discussed include why riders so frequently suffer back pain, the difference between stretching and strength training, and the importance of preparation when attempting to perform at a high level. Tune in for a in depth conversation about what horseback riders can do to have a longer and more effective career in the saddle.

The United States is currently being impacted by an EHV-1 outbreak causing barns to quarantine and events to be canceled and postponed. Joe sits down with Veterinarian and PhD in Molecular Biology, Caroline Leeth, to discuss the equine herpes virus, its impact on the horse industry and what owners can do to protect their horses.

For updated information on EHV in the United States, you can visit the following websites:

Equine Disease Communication Center

https://www.equinediseasecc.org/

American Association of Equine Practitioners

https://aaep.org/

Tuli Dowers is the 2025 NRCHA Non-Pro Boxing Futurity Champion. Daughter of former guest, Nick Dowers, Tuli joins Joe to tell the story of showing The Rizzler at the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity. After losing cow in the herdwork, the decision was made to have Tuli show the 3 year old stallion in the Non-Pro Boxing. Adjusting on the fly, Tuli was able to navigate the young stud, keep her mind focused and even make it to her homecoming dance. Tune in for a fun episode with one of the most exciting young riders in the NRCHA!

JR Robles is a reining horse trainer from Beaverton, Oregon. JR had a unique entry into the horse world, as he was not involved in horses until after college. From humble beginnings, he slowly but surely built a name for himself in the industry. Including being a Road To The Horse contestant in 2023 and an NRHA professional. Today, JR owns and runs JR Horse Training and helps to manage Clover Oak Ranch in Oregon. Topics discussed include getting started in the horse industry, the dangers of burnout and the importance of putting yourself out there.