X Factor Roping Podcast

Fresh off winning the PRCA Announcer of the Year for the third straight year, Anthony Lucia joins us to share the journey behind the voice. From growing up trick roping on rodeo’s biggest stages to discovering his passion for announcing, Anthony opens up about identity, setbacks, faith, and fully committing to your calling. He talks about heartbreak, breakthrough moments, mentors who shaped him, and why loving what you do is the only way to succeed. Inspiring, honest, and full of heart — this episode shows exactly why he’s one of rodeo’s greatest storytellers.

In this episode, Clay Logan breaks down the huge growth of his ropings—2,450 entries and nearly $1.5 million paid out—and the changes that made this year’s event the best yet. He talks about the importance of great cattle, the addition of the big scoreboard, and what makes the 377 arena so roper-friendly. Clay shares how his ropings began, how rising cattle prices affect producers, and why the new Solo Select Futurity is a game-changer for the horse industry. He reflects on his years as a trainer, the shift in judging, and his philosophy: “If you can make a good horse great, you’ve done a good job.” From advice for young trainers to the power of attitude, Clay opens up about what makes a great horseman, the horses he’s loved, and the incredible talent rising in today’s roping world.

In this inspiring episode, Trey Johnson shares his journey of faith, growth, and discovering true purpose. He challenges us to look beyond success and ask, “If you take the money out of the equation, would you still do it?” — a powerful reminder to align our time and gifts with what truly matters.

X Factor Team Roping presents a powerful conversation with Kyle Stull—team roper, coach, and expert in human performance with a graduate degree in Rehabilitative Science and a Doctorate in Behavior. In this episode, we explore the intersection of science and sport: how muscle memory, natural talent, and deliberate practice come together to create elite-level roping.Kyle shares how his unique background bridges the physical and mental aspects of performance—from injury prevention and recovery, to building sustainable routines that keep athletes sharp without burning out. We dive into the role of goal setting, the importance of finding the right coach, and how behavioral science can help ropers maintain focus, motivation, and longevity in the sport.Whether you’re chasing your next header, refining your loop, or just trying to stay consistent under pressure, Kyle’s insights offer real-world tools to elevate your mindset and your mechanics. This is more than rodeo talk—it’s performance science applied to the arena. The Best way to reach Kyle is through email: kylestull7@gmail.com ReferencesCoyle, D. (2009). The talent code: Greatness isn’t born. It’s grown. Here’s how. Bantam.Ericsson, A. (2016). Summing up hours of any type of practice versus identifying optimal practice activities. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 11(3), 351–354. https://doi.org/10.1177/1745691616635600Ericsson, K. A., Krampe, R. T., & Tesch-Römer, C. (1993). The role of deliberate practice in the acquisition of expert performance. Psychological Review, 100(3), 363–406. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-295X.100.3.363Herrigel, E. (1953). Zen in the art of archery (R. F. C. Hull, Trans.). Pantheon Books.Huberman, A. (Host). (2022, September 5). Focus toolkit: Tools to improve your focus & concentration [Video]. YouTube. Huberman Lab. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yb5zpo5WDG4Huberman, A. (Host). (2023, March 20). Science-based mental training & visualization for improved learning [Video]. YouTube. Huberman Lab. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RYyQRQFgFkSun Tzu. (2005). The art of war (L. Giles, Trans.). Filiquarian Publishing. (Original work published ca. 5th century BCE)

In this episode, we sit down with John Dowdy, the driving force behind Equinety, to explore the story behind the company and its game-changing equine supplement. John takes us through Equinety’s origins, its mission to enhance horse health and performance, and the science behind its unique amino acid formula.We also dive into the business side—discussing the challenges and successes of growing a brand in the equine industry, customer success stories, and what sets Equinety apart from traditional supplements. Whether you’re a horse owner, equestrian competitor, or just curious about equine wellness, this episode is packed with insights on maximizing your horse’s potential.Tune in for an engaging conversation that blends passion, science, and business strategy!

Dive into the World Youth Team Roping Championship with Tyler Wade and Wesley Thorp. Find out why this event is so special to them, how they came up with the idea, and what you can expect on this bonus episode! The World Youth Team Roping Championship is March 22-24th at 377 arena in Stephenville, TX. You can find more info on the roping on their facebook page!

Jessica Wahlert is the marketing manager for CINCH Jeans and Shirts where she oversees the marketing department. She shares her journey to this career path and how her upbringing played a vital role in her success. She also discusses her thoughts on branding, marketing, and the process that her CINCH team uses to make these decisions. Listen to the end to hear about the CINCH Playoff Series Championship in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and the impacts it had on several NFR qualifications.

Jake Cooper has been a member of the PRCA since 2004 and has qualified for the NFR three times. He recently made the decision to try his hand in the rope horse futurity world with the purchase of a stallion named Reys of Pep. In this podcast, he discusses the changes he has made to be successful in the futurity world and his plans for the future.

Billy Myers is the founder of the Platinum Metal Rope Horse Futurity and Sale. August 31- September 2 will be the very first event with the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie, Oklahoma being the host. In this podcast, Billy dives in the idea behind this even, details about the event, breeding/raising horses and building a successful horse program.

It’s no secret that your mental game plays a huge role in the roping arena. 23 year old, Jared Fillmore, from Payson, Utah shares his perspective on life and rodeo. This is a deep dive into the relationship between winning and self worth.

J.C. Yeahquo started his professional rodeo career in 2020 with his brother, L.J. Yeahquo. Throughout the past couple of years, he has learned that he must do HIS job and stay true to the run they like to make as a team. J.C. and his brother have had a strong start to the 2023 season and he is looking forward to the summer run.

Cory Kidd is from Statesville, North Carolina. In this podcast, Cory discusses what it was like growing up roping on the east coast, the move to Texas, and the adjustments he has made along the way. In 2022, he ended up 16th in the PRCA World Standings. He talks about this accomplishment and how he has stayed mentally strong as he enters a new rodeo season.