The Boundless Podcast

Before women were allowed in the breeding shed, Sandy Hatfield was told where she couldn’t go. She went anyway.In this episode of Boundless, Dr. Ferrin Peterson sits down with one of the most respected stallion managers in the Thoroughbred industry: a woman who built her career from the ground up, working with yearlings, mares, and putting in long hours on the farm before earning her place among the sport’s elite.Sandy shares her journey from growing up around quarter horses in Oklahoma to building a life in Kentucky, working at top farms, and eventually managing world-class stallions, including champions like Gun Runner.Her story isn’t just about horses.It’s about:• Breaking into a space where women were once not allowed• Earning respect through consistency, patience, and work ethic• Leading by example in one of the most demanding roles in racing• Mentoring the next generation and opening doors that once didn’t existSandy talks about the reality of working with stallions, the danger and discipline it requires, and why understanding both horses and people is the key to lasting success.She also shares the mindset that carried her through rejection, setbacks, and moments where the path forward wasn’t clear:show up, work hard, and when someone tells you no, find someone who says yes.This conversation is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and what it really takes to build a life doing what you love.Where Limits End and Boundless Begins.

Dr. Kayce Anderson’s path didn’t follow the “straight line” we’re often promised. In this episode of Boundless, Ferrin Peterson sits down with Kayce—scientist, conservationist, and the heart behind For the Good—to unpack how rejection, resilience, and a deep respect for community shaped a mission that’s changing lives in rural Kenya. Kayce shares how For the Good began with a simple but massive barrier: many girls miss school during puberty because they don’t have access to menstrual hygiene products. What started as providing reusable sanitary pads—paired with reproductive health education—evolved into something even larger: enrolling out-of-school students (most of them girls) and partnering with Maasai communities in Narok County to build local, affordable secondary schools. You’ll hear why humility matters more than “having the answers,” what it really takes to earn trust with elders and educators, and how sustainable impact is built through shared ownership—sometimes literally one goat at a time. Kayce breaks down the community-matching model that funds these schools, the patience required to work at the “pace of the earth,” and why education is both a lifeline and a tool for preserving culture and protecting land rights. This conversation is a powerful reminder that real change isn’t fast, flashy, or imposed—it’s relational, community-led, and built to last. Learn more or support For the Good: ForTheGood.org

In Season 2 Episode 2, we sit down with Andres Martinez, a globe-trotting foreman for the Doug O’Neill barn whose journey proves just how far horses can take you.Andres began with humble roots in Tijuana — long days in the barn, hands on horses, learning not from textbooks but from sweat, patience, and instinct. His dedication opened doors that many only dream of. Before long, the horses he cared for carried him to Churchill Downs, Japan, Dubai, and racetracks across the world.Andres lives the life most people only see from the stands. Early mornings. Missed parties. Sacrificed hobbies. All in service to the horses he loves — braiding manes with pride, grooming with care, always showing up with heart.He’s proof that passion can become purpose, and purpose can take you places you never imagined.This is a story of grit, devotion, and a life shaped by the animals who gave him wings. A story that embodies Boundless.

Diane Crump: First to the GatePioneer. Competitor. History-maker. In this conversation, trailblazing jockey Diane Crump—the first woman to ride in a pari-mutuel race and later the first woman to ride in the Kentucky Derby—revisits the 1960s track where she was often the only woman on the backside, the boycotts that tried to keep her out, and the surreal walk to the paddock with an armed guard as the crowd swelled around her. Diane shares why she felt relief, not nerves when the doors finally opened, the grind of galloping 20 a morning while struggling for mounts, and the infamous Puerto Rico match race that turned into a literal tug-of-war at speed.Alongside host Dr. Ferrin Peterson—professional jockey and veterinarian—Diane reflects on faith, grit, and giving back (from answering kids’ letters to therapy-dog rounds), and offers clear-eyed advice for anyone chasing a hard dream: tune out the naysayers, find your people, and keep riding through the wire.Highlights• Breaking the barrier: from illegal on the backside at 14 to the Derby post parade• Boycotts, headlines, and showing up the next day—taped collarbone and all• Why cheap horses teach the toughest lessons• Fans, integrity, and riding hard for every placing• Faith, kindness, and the long arc of impactListen now and share with someone who needs a push to bet on themselves.

Olympic silver medalist, current world leader, and American outdoor record holder in women’s pole vault — Sandi Morris brings a powerful close to Season 1 of The Boundless Podcast.In this episode, Sandi sits down with Dr. Ferrin Peterson, a professional jockey, veterinarian, and former pole vaulter herself. The two dive into the mindset it takes to stay at the top, bouncing back from injury, and what it really means to bet on yourself — again and again.Now training at the University of Louisville, Sandi has her eyes set on the world record and LA 2028. Her story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless pursuit of greatness.🎧 Tune in to hear from this decorated and determined pole vaulter — and get inspired to break your own limits.

Saddle up for an unforgettable ride with 3-time Hall of Famer Sandy Hawley—a legend who helped shape the golden age of horse racing. From the pivotal mentorship of Canada’s greatest horseman to blazing trails on tracks across the globe, Sandy shares the highs, the hurdles, and the heart behind his historic career.🌟 Hear what it was like riding beside icons and breaking barriers in Canada, the U.S., and beyond. This is one for the books.🔗 Tune in now — wherever you get your podcasts. #TheBoundlessPodcast #SandyHawley #HorseRacingLegends #HallOfFameRider #EquestrianExcellence #BehindTheReins

In this episode of Boundless, we meet Bee Buck—a powerhouse behind the lens and a passionate storyteller of the racetrack. A freelance photographer who’s captured six Kentucky Derbies and two Breeders’ Cups by age 38, Bee brings a gritty, detailed eye to some of the sport’s most iconic moments. Beyond the camera, she also works in a pediatric unit, proving that dual careers are not only possible, but powerful. Bee shows us what horse racing feels like through her lens—and reminds aspiring photographers that there’s always “room on the rail.”

🎙️ In this captivating episode of Boundless, Hall of Fame jockey Chris McCarron sits down with Dr. Ferrin Peterson to share the extraordinary journey behind one of horse racing’s most legendary careers. 🏆🐎From being inspired by his older brother Gregg McCarron to becoming one of the all-time greats himself, Chris opens up about the moments that shaped him. He reflects on the strength it took to race and win in honor of his mother just days after her passing—a deeply emotional victory that exemplified his resilience.Chris also dives into his historic Breeders’ Cup triumphs aboard Tiznow in 2000 and 2001, including the challenges of riding such a headstrong horse and the pride of winning during a time when America needed hope after 9/11.But the conversation doesn’t stop there—Chris shares his thoughts on how the racing style has evolved over the years. He discusses how the straight-legged, high-seated style some jockeys use today creates unnecessary drag and wind resistance, offering insight into the nuances of technique and efficiency that separate the good from the great.This episode is filled with heartfelt stories, expert advice, and behind-the-scenes perspectives that go far beyond the racetrack. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of racing or simply love hearing from those who have achieved greatness, this is one conversation you won’t want to miss.Timestamps00:09 Intro00:43 Gregg McCarron - Brother and Mentor03:20 Was it important to have the foundation as a hotwalker?04:20 First Race05:25 Beating Sandy Hawley’s record for most wins in a year06:09 Were you self taught or did you have a mentor?07:45 Were you a well rounded athlete? Family of athletes08:40 Born with balance10:10 Being in the horses center of gravity11:05 The importance of getting along with a horse12:07 Riding the Mid-Atlantic Circuit - Establishing trust with 5-10 minute warmup17:28 Tiznow has a mind of his own!23:25 “Don’t be surprised if you don’t see me hitting him coming down through the stretch.”26:17 The Comeback King - Fitness and Balance27:26 Winning the Travers Stakes in Honor of His Mother35:20 Developing your mindset to thrive under pressure?38:06 Aerodynamic Colors - Rhonda Allen 198740:20 The riding styles of Irad Ortiz Jr. & Tyler Gaffalione - “Straight legs down the stretch”43:53 One of the few jockeys who tactically adapted their riding style45:40 Southern California Jockey Colony - 12 Hall of Famers47:21 1980-81 Winning Streaks49:20 Competitive up until the last race50:35 Retirement - Injuries53:55 Came Home - Final Race55:18 Doing the math on horses mounted: over 50,000 legs over a horses back55:53 Advice to younger self59:14 Riding a horse well past the finish line1:00:25 What advice would you give to a young rider starting their career?1:03:33 Next Episode: Dana Zook1:04:12 AM Wager Ad#BoundlessPodcast #ChrisMcCarron #HorseRacingLegends #Tiznow #BreedersCup #RacingTechnique #EquestrianInspiration #JockeyLife #Jockey #Horse #Horses #Horseriding

With 8,803 wins, nine Triple Crown victories, and a reputation as one of the greatest jockeys in history, Pat Day’s career is nothing short of legendary.But to him, those accolades aren’t his greatest achievement. In this episode of The Boundless Podcast, Dr. Ferrin Peterson sits down with the Hall of Famer to uncover the mindset, faith, and resilience that shaped his journey. From the lessons horse racing taught him to the impact of mentorship and the choices that defined his path, Pat shares wisdom gained from a lifetime in the saddle.Tune in for an inspiring conversation with one of racing’s most patient and purposeful riders. 🎙🐎#TheBoundlessPodcast #PatDay #JockeyLife #HorseRacingTimestamps00:00 intro01:00 What first sparked your interest in horse racing?01:50 Riverside thoroughbred farm - Gene Cummings05:05 First Win on Forblunged07:16 What set you apart from other riders?09:18 How did you learn to manage the highs and lows?10:58 Leading rider in North America - Last possible races12:40 Party Lifestyle14:40 Coming to Christ - Jimmy Swagert20:20 Telling Sheila he’s a Christian25:13 Sheila Day - Marriage, Support on the track28:40 How did you keep your standard high?30:55 22% Win record means 78% loss record - bouncing back31:43 Emotional and Mental Challenges - Dangerous sport33:41 Racing several consecutive seconds in the Kentucky Derby before winning34:16 49er 1988 Derby37:30 Easy Goer 1989 Derby40:05 Before Christ I was an arrogant winner and a terrible loser41:43 Summer Squall42:45 Offered Unbridled and lost46:47 The Wall and the sound barrier throwing his horse off49:30 3 most meaningful races in his career58:10 Kentucky Derby with LIL E TEE59:13 Mentoring other jockeys - leading by example01:02:45 Turning down a stake mount for a young jockey with an opportunity01:05:00 What advice would you give to someone just starting their career?01:06:45 Ferrin is the hardest working jockey Pat Knows01:08:25 Next Episode: Susan Naylor

From breaking barriers as the first female jockey to ride in the Preakness to becoming a respected figure in horse racing, Patricia Cooksey’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. 🏇✨ In this episode, professional jockey Ferrin Peterson sits down with Cooksey to discuss her biggest challenges, Kentucky Derby experience, and the mindset that set her apart on the track. Now in a leadership role at the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission , she shares wisdom for the next generation and reflects on the greatest gifts racing has given her.Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, passion, and the boundless possibilities in the sport we love! 🎧This is a must-watch episode for horse racing fans and sports enthusiasts alike! Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring interviews. 📌 Follow Ferrin Peterson for more updates: [⁠www.instagram.com/ferrin_peterson⁠] 🎥 Subscribe for exclusive interviews & racing content: [⁠www.youtube.com/@ferrinpetersonKY⁠]⁠Ferrinpeterson.com⁠#BoundlessPodcast #PatriciaCooksey #WomenInRacing #JockeyLife #BreakingBarriersTimestamps:00:00 Intro00:36 What drew you to horse racing?01:45 Early Career Challenges03:10 Riding under a more masculine name05:37 Still not many female riders today06:51 Taken off horses because of gender07:30 Strength vs Finesses08:19 Wellness and Fitness11:39 Jockey colony in her prime12:10 Female jockey quarters14:26 Pat Day15:36 Riding style16:25 Becoming one with a horse16:59 Learning different horses18:00 She’d ride anything18:44 Horses you dont get along with19:45 Career sacrifices20:41 Pre-race routine22:07 Protected during fall23:35 Venezia Award25:10 Taking care of the grooms and trainers26:34 Hollywood Prevue Chris McCaron22:59 2nd female in Kentucky Debry28:19 Don Brumfield - The Wall30:40 Advice for people starting their career31:38 Kentucky horse racing commission33:47 Whip rules, helmets and vests36:07 what has horse racing taught you about yourself37:15 Horse provide opportunity38:03 Joy in life39:08 Horse racing industry in Kentucky