What does it really take to build a name in the performance horse industry?

On this episode of The Almosta Cowboy, Al Dunning sits down with longtime friend Cam Essick, the creative force behind Pacific Range Design, to talk about the business of horses, the power of authentic branding, and the people and experiences that have shaped the Western performance horse industry.

From growing up a horse-crazy city girl in Seattle to building a career in equine marketing and graphic design, Cam shares how her passion for horses opened doors to working alongside some of the industry's most influential trainers, breeders, and stallion owners.

Al and Cam reflect on her experiences with legendary horsemen including Bob Avila, Todd Bergen, Andrea Fappani, Carol Rose, and Jeff Oswood, along with the promotion of influential stallions such as Shining Spark, High Brow Cat, Peptoboonsmal, and Gunnatrashya.

The conversation also turns to the business side of the horse industry. What makes a successful horse trainer? How do you build a recognizable brand? And what separates genuine credibility from good marketing?

Drawing on decades of experience in reining, cutting, and reined cow horse, Al and Cam discuss the importance of hard work, integrity, mentorship, and understanding what makes a horse, a person, or a program truly exceptional.

They also share stories from The Run For A Million, discuss the evolution of the performance horse industry, and offer valuable perspective for anyone looking to build a lasting career with horses.

Whether you're a professional trainer, horse owner, breeder, or simply someone who loves the Western performance horse industry, this episode is full of stories, history, and wisdom from two people who have spent their lives immersed in it.

Listen to The Almosta Cowboy with Al Dunning for an inside look at the horses, people, and experiences that have shaped our industry.

The Power of Perspective with Mike Roberts is a thoughtful conversation about success, gratitude, resilience, and the experiences that shape the way we view life.

In this episode, Al sits down with Mike Roberts, better known as the Converse Cowboy, to discuss a journey that began in pharmaceutical sales and evolved into a successful career in real estate investing, entrepreneurship, and personal development. Along the way, Mike shares lessons learned from starting at the bottom, building opportunities through hard work, and pursuing the kind of financial freedom that allows a person to live with purpose.

Al and Mike also discuss the origins of their respective podcasts, the inspiration behind the Converse Cowboy quote series, and the books, mentors, and ideas that have influenced their thinking over the years. Their conversation explores the role mindset plays in navigating adversity, the importance of gratitude during difficult seasons, and how perspective often determines whether challenges become obstacles or opportunities.

The discussion also touches on the Kimes Million Dollar Breakaway and the impact it has had on the Western industry, as well as the value of surrounding yourself with people who challenge you to grow.

More than a conversation about business or success, this episode is about finding meaning in the journey, appreciating the lessons that come with experience, and recognizing the opportunities that can emerge from even the most difficult circumstances.

Bits of Wisdom with Bill Brewer is a rare conversation with one of the most influential figures in the history of the American Quarter Horse Association. In this episode, Al sits down with longtime AQHA horseman and Hall of Fame inductee Bill Brewer, whose career shaped the Association for nearly four decades.

Bill shares how a kid from southwestern Oklahoma dreaming of being a cowboy found his way into Amarillo, starting as an advertising representative for The Quarter Horse Journal before climbing the ranks to eventually serve as AQHA's Executive Vice President. Along the way, he helped change the Association's entire business model, expanded membership programs, elevated major events, championed youth involvement, supported international growth, and strengthened AQHA's role in the broader equine industry.

Al and Bill reminisce about the evolution of AQHA, the people who built it, and the moments that defined entire eras. They share stories about legendary horsemen and visionaries— including Rick Johns, founder of what we now know as the Sun Circuit.

From early registry challenges to worldwide expansion, from the Quarter Horse's role on ranches to its rise in global sport, Bill offers a perspective few people have: one shaped by decades of leadership, innovation, service, and passion.

It's a conversation rich with history, insight, and gratitude for the horse that brought us all here.