First Rodeo Radio

Enjoy this conversation with Edgard Zayas. From son of a barber in Puerto Rico to the champion jockey at Gulfstream Park multiple times. Edgard tells the story of how he got into jockey school, what it was like, the jump to the USA, and finally his latest jump from riding in FL to riding in NY ------------------- Interested in chasing firsts yourself? Check our firstrodeoracing.com to see how you...

Enjoy this conversation with Daniel Shocks His authentic storytelling and educational Reels has grown his Instagram following to over 20k followers. Today, he’s building his path toward the NCHA and learning what it really takes to become an elite horseman. Follow Daniel on Instagram @danielishocks ------------------- Interested in chasing firsts yourself? Check our firstrodeoracing.com to see how...

Enjoy this conversation with Brian Mermelstein Brian takes us from his first sideline pass to his first contract after starting his own media company, BM Media. Follow Brian on Instagram @mermel213 ------------------- Interested in chasing firsts yourself? Check our firstrodeoracing.com to see how you can do that on and off the track with First Rodeo Racing ---------------- Most companies kill the...

Most trainers wait years for a breakthrough, Ray Handal got his in just his second start, winning at 75-1 and instantly commanding attention. It was the kind of upset that makes the racing world take notice. But that moment wasn’t lightning in a bottle. It was years in the making, rooted in resilience, early independence, and a childhood in Jamaica where he learned the game by handicapping races w...

In this episode, jockey agent Jose Santos Jr. shares his journey from aspiring jockey to influential agent, offering insights into the horse racing industry and the role of technology in its future. He discusses the challenges and innovations shaping the sport today. Interested in getting off the sideline and into the sport of horse racing? Learn more at firstrodeoracing.com TIMESTAMPS [0:28] Jose...

In this episode, Gavin Saylor, aka GavZilla, shares his inspiring story of turning a passion for barbering, fashion, and creativity into a viral brand with designs that took the internet by storm. Discover how personal branding, unique design, and bold moves can make you stand out in competitive markets. Connect with GavZilla on IG: https://www.instagram.com/gavzillaaa/ Key Topics: ‍ ‍ Gavin’s bac...

Summary In this conversation, Frank Turman shares how a chance encounter at a Kentucky Derby laid the pathway to being a graded stakes winning owner. Frank & Matt recount their wins at Oaklawn in February, where the two met and discuss how Frank got his start as an owner. The conversation covers how Frank got connected to a bloodstock agent, Mike Maker, and Norm Casse. They talk through some o...

Summary In this engaging conversation, Anthony Montedoro shares his journey from growing up near Monmouth Park to becoming a successful jockey agent. He discusses the vibrant atmosphere of horse racing, the importance of community, and his personal struggles with addiction. The conversation delves into the mechanics of entry day, the relationships built in the racing world, and the future of horse...

Summary This conversation centers around the questions submitted by those that are partners in First Rodeo / own a piece of Two Seven O. Matthew and Eric Gary discuss their recent win at Oaklawn Park, Eric's journey in horse racing, and the training regimen for TSO. They delve into the strategies for future races, the need for uniform regulations in horse racing, and share personal insights throug...

Summary Justin Adakonis, the current championship leader of the MX-5 Cup, shares his journey from karting to professional racing. He discusses the intricacies of race strategy, particularly at Daytona, and explains the structure of the IMSA series. The conversation delves into the business model of racing, highlighting the importance of sponsorship, funding, and personal branding for drivers. Just...

Summary In this engaging conversation, Olivia Witkowski shares her journey into the world of horse racing photography. From her childhood love for horses to her experiences at the Saratoga Special, Olivia discusses the importance of storytelling in racing through photography. She highlights the unique energy of mornings at the track, the excitement of big race days, and the differences between Sar...

Summary In this conversation, Jamie Haydon shares his extensive experience in the horse racing industry, detailing his journey from working on the Keeneland maintenance crew to his current roles at the Jockey Club and Grayson Jockey Club Research Foundation. He discusses the importance of equine research, the role of the Jockey Club in regulating the sport, and the future of horse racing, emphasiz...

Summary In this engaging conversation, Brian hosts Marcus and Brendan from Horse Racing Kings, who share their journey into the horse racing industry at a young age. They discuss their interview approaches and their aspirations to grow their community and content creation efforts. The conversation highlights their experiences, challenges, and the excitement of engaging with notable figures in the...

Summary In this episode of First Rodeo Radio, host Matthew interviews Bret Middleton, a passionate horse racing enthusiast who shares his journey from growing up on a farm in Indiana to becoming an active participant in horse racing ownership. Bret discusses his experiences with various ownership groups, the importance of community in the sport, and the opportunities for enhancing the ownership ex...

Summary In this episode, the hosts celebrate the New Year and reflect on their experiences in horse racing throughout 2025. They discuss their favorite moments, including significant achievements and challenges faced in managing their racing team. The conversation shifts to the highlights of the year, including notable races and horses, leading to a discussion on the horse of the year. The hosts s...

Summary In this episode of First Rodeo Radio, host Matthew speaks with Donald Little III, the VP of Sales for Centennial Farms. They discuss Donald's journey to become the third generation to eventually lead Centennial Farms, the economics of the racing industry, and much more. Interested in owning your own sports team? Limited spots open in 2026 - Text Matt (732-947-2792) or go to www.firstrodeor...

Summary In this episode of First Rodeo Radio, host Matthew speaks with Jonathan Rapp, the owner of Twin Sports Racing. They discuss Jonathan's journey into horse racing, the challenges of ownership and the economics of the racing industry. Jonathan shares insights on the need for transparency and accountability in the sport, as well as the emotional rollercoaster of being a horse owner. The conver...

Summary In this episode of First Rodeo Radio, host Matthew speaks with John Kelsey, managing partner of Delta Thoroughbreds, about his journey into horse racing, the excitement of ownership, and the challenges of modernizing the sport. John shares his experiences from childhood visits to Monmouth Park to his current ventures in horse ownership and partnerships. The conversation delves into the str...

Summary In this episode of First Rodeo Radio, host Matthew interviews Christopher Sutton, who recently started a horse racing partnership called Paddock Pat. Christopher shares his journey into horse racing, starting from his childhood in North Carolina, his experiences at various racetracks, and the challenges he faced in establishing his racing stable. He discusses the thrill of claiming horses,...

Summary The first live podcast! We recommend everyone make their way over to YouTube to get a full grasp of the incredible undertaking getting the family farm back up & running. Link to channel - https://www.youtube.com/@FirstRodeoRacing Interested in owning a part of a sports franchise? Visit our site: https://www.firstrodeoracing.com/apply Or reach out directly matt@firstrodeoracing.com Inst...

Summary In this episode, Matthew and Glenn Gunter discuss the upcoming Breeders' Cup, sharing insights on horse racing, handicapping strategies, and personal stories from their experiences in the industry. Glenn shares his journey into horse racing, the importance of understanding track biases, and his betting strategies for the races. They analyze specific races, including the Juvenile Turf Sprin...

In this episode of First Rodeo Radio, Matthew, Nick, and Brian discuss their experiences at the Keeneland September Sale, sharing insights on horse selection, the importance of shortlisting, and the excitement of acquiring a new horse. They reflect on their ownership journey, upcoming races, and the lessons learned throughout the process, emphasizing the highs and lows of horse racing and the impo...

In this episode, we interview Dr. Jeff Boschwitz, who describes how he built a claiming syndicate that has captured 50 wins over 5 years on the NYRA circuit while not losing any money. Jeff discusses how he uses a unique database he has built that captures the ROI on every claim made on the NYRA circuit since 2018 to show him what ponds are best to fish in for claims and who the best trainers to w...

In this episode of First Rodeo Radio, Matthew Scull interviews Shannon Castagnola, the Director of Sales and Stallion Seasons at Airdrie Stud. Shannon shares her journey into the horse industry, her experiences in sales, and the intricacies of evaluating mares and stallions. The conversation delves into the evolution of horse sales, the importance of breeding strategies, and the future of horse ra...

In this episode of First Rodeo Radio, host Matthew Scull interviews Eric Resendiz, who shares his journey in the horse racing industry, from his early experiences at Arapahoe Park in Colorado to his current role at Saratoga. Eric discusses his involvement with the Amplify mentorship program, his time at Johnabelle, and his transformative experience at the Irish National Stud. He reflects on the im...