Summer Podcast Playlist for the Parents

For parents in the ag + western industry, finding content that resonates with their lifestyle, values, and day-to-day is a special treat. For a good summer listen, we’ve put together six Leaders Of The West episodes of parents in the industry who are simultaneously trailblazers, leading companies, building businesses, and inspiring other parents to dream big and follow their passions. These episodes offer personal stories, professional insights, and heartfelt reflections on balancing family life with the demands of the industry and lifestyle!

Whether you need something to listen to on an afternoon walk, driving the tractor, on the road to the next summer rodeo, or just during some good ‘ole alone time, these episodes will provide inspiration, connection, and a sense of community. Find each of the episodes below and listen to the stories of these incredible parents and industry leaders!

Mentorship & Business Strategies with Josi Young of Silver Lining Herbs – Listen Here!

In this episode, Jessie is joined by former rodeo professional and current CEO of Silver Lining Herbs, Josi Young. Jessie and Josi dive deep into Josi’s rodeo background, his transition to business, the importance of mentorship, and his role as a husband and father. 

You’ll love Josi’s story about getting back on a bucking horse, years after “retirement”, solely to show his son the work and preparation that goes into striving to be your best. 

Growing Through Hardships Katelyn Kaney – Listen Here!

On this episode, Jessie has guest Katelyn Kaney, the CEO of Cattaneo Bros, one of the oldest family-owned and operated jerky and sausage factories in America. Jessie and Katelyn get into the loss of both her parents and brother, thrusting her into the CEO role, while simultaneously raising twin boys and navigating her life without those closest to her!

You might be surprised to hear this, but you’ll end this episode with such a positive outlook on life because of the simple advice Katelyn shares with her boys when they’re going through something “not fair.”

Quitting Your Corporate Job and Coming Back to the Farm with Mary Pat Sass – Listen Here!

On this episode is the one and only Mary Pat Sass! Mary Pat Sass is a farm wife and mom who grew up on a dairy farm in Wisconsin, and now farms alongside her husband’s parents, his two brothers, and their families in Illinois. 

We know there are so many of you who will relate to this episode because, for so many of us, it’s on our heart to leave our corporate job to be more present with our family and our operation, and that is exactly what Mary Pat did. You’ll hear how she and her husband made that difficult decision, and what her role in their operation looks like now as a stay-at-home mom and entrepreneur!

Building a Place for Yourself and a Strong Family Relationship with Alex Templeton – Listen Here!

Alex (Templeton) O’Connor is a farmer and rancher in Northwestern Missouri, working day-to-day alongside her dad, living the life she always dreamt of! We know you will appreciate how candid Alex is about how she balances motherhood and ranching, and how she has been able to create a place for herself not only in her family’s operation but the ag + western industry as a whole!

The Power in Leading By Example, Jessie Solo – Listen Here!

Jessie is riding solo on this episode and dropping some truth bombs! Whether you’re leading an organization or a family, it’s important to be an encouragement to those around you by walking the walk AND talking the talk.

You’ll enjoy hearing the story of how Jessie’s parents encouraged her to be a voracious reader growing up by, you guessed it, being readers themselves!

Growing the Brand with Hailey Nelson of Western and Co. – Listen Here!

In this episode, Jessie chats with one of her best friends and founder of Western & Co., Hailey Nelson! Hailey gets real about the inception of her business, the challenges she has incurred, and the sacrifices she, her husband, and their family have made for Western & Co. to become an iconic brand in the western retail space.

We know you will appreciate hearing about a vulnerable moment in Hailey’s life after she had one of her four kids where she had to take time away to find her creativity again, something we believe so many of you can relate to!