Country Tough with Brandy Von Holten

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.comYou 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.comBrandy 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/4rtgmkJHere'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.comwww.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 [email protected]  636-357-9457www.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.comVon 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 [email protected] 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.comTiffany 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.comYou 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.comBeing 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.comCountry 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