EmpowerU Podcast: Episode Summary

Title: Better To Be A Terrible Ending, Than An Endless Terrible...
Host: Weston Hendrix
Guests: Kase Laro & Kelton Poe
Release Date: August 1, 2025

Introduction

In this eighth episode of Season Four, host Weston Hendrix welcomes seasoned livestock judging experts Kase Laro and Kelton Poe. The discussion revolves around their collegiate judging careers, team dynamics, personal growth, and invaluable advice for aspiring judges.

Guest Introductions and Background

Weston opens the episode by introducing Kase Laro and Kelton Poe, highlighting their significant contributions to the livestock judging industry and their long-standing friendship.

• Kase Laro:

  • Originates from near Waco, Texas.
  • Began his judging career post-high school at Blinn College under Quest Adrian.
  • Currently pursuing a master's at Texas Tech and coaching the judging team.

• Kelton Poe:

  • Hails from Needville, Texas, southwest of Houston.
  • Judged at Blinn College alongside Kase before transferring to Texas Tech.
  • Now sells insurance in Bell County, Texas.

Notable Quote:

Kelton Poe [02:41]: "Growing up in Needville and judging for two years under Quest Adrian set the foundation for my career."

Building Friendship and Team Success

The conversation delves into how Kase and Kelton met during junior college contests and forged a strong bond that transitioned into their collegiate judging careers.

• Meeting Through Contests:
  • Both attended numerous county fairs and major shows like Heart of Texas State Fair and Aggie Fest.
  • Their teamwork at Blinn College, despite challenges like COVID-19 restrictions, led to significant successes, including winning San Antonio and Houston contests.

Notable Quote:

Case Laro [05:37]: "We hit the ground running early in the summer to catch up for Bears show, keeping our minds on the game and avoiding unchecked downtime."

Challenges Faced and Overcoming Adversity

Kase and Kelton share memorable challenges, including harsh judging days and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their early careers.

• Blue Dragon Contest Experience:
  • Faced extreme weather conditions leading to significant score drops.
  • Highlighted the importance of team resilience and mentorship from coaches Quest and Adrian.

Notable Quote:

Kelton Poe [10:15]: "Blue Dragon was a good time. I wish they would take y'all there just so y'all can get the memories right."

Advice for Upcoming Sophomores

The guests offer strategic advice for those entering sophomore year, emphasizing mental preparedness, persistence, and focusing on incremental improvements.

• Mental Maturity:

  • Importance of not taking setbacks personally.
  • Focusing on small successes to build overall confidence.

• Long-Term Perspective:

  • Judging is a marathon, not a sprint.
  • Maintaining gratitude and building strong relationships within the team.

Notable Quote:

Case Laro [17:28]: "Focus on the small things, clean up, and keep on trucking. If it's a bad day, it's not going to be a bad week unless you make it."

Maintaining Team Cohesion

Discussion on fostering a supportive team environment to prevent drama and ensure collective success.

• Growth Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset:

  • Encouraging teammates from a place of support rather than competition.
  • Viewing team success as collective rather than individual.

• Handling Setbacks:

  • Emphasizing grace and understanding when a teammate has an off day.
  • Maintaining open communication to resolve conflicts swiftly.

Notable Quote:

Kelton Poe [25:19]: "Understanding that your win can also be my win. All boats can rise."

Senior College Recruitment Process

Insights into transitioning from junior to senior college, highlighting the importance of proactive communication with senior coaches.

• Reaching Out:

  • Encouraging judges to contact senior college coaches directly.
  • Understanding the busy schedules of coaches and being persistent yet respectful.

• Campus Visits:

  • Emphasizing the significance of campus tours and meetings to make informed decisions.

Notable Quote:

Kelton Poe [47:46]: "Don't be afraid to reach out. Send them an email or a text and schedule a visit at any time."

Comparing Junior and Senior College Judging

Exploration of the differences between junior and senior college judging, including contest structures and preparation strategies.

• Contest Focus:

  • Senior college judging builds anticipation towards a critical contest, often Louisville.
  • Junior college operates on a cumulative excellence model across multiple contests.

• Preparation and Strategy:

  • Emphasis on long-term preparation and adaptability.
  • Maintaining high performance consistently throughout the judging season.

Notable Quote:

Kelton Poe [75:05]: "Every contest is important, but you're always thinking about that day in November where everybody has to be at their best."

Life Lessons and Personal Growth

Kase and Kelton reflect on how livestock judging has shaped their personal and professional lives beyond the arena.

• Relationship Building:

  • The importance of friendships and mentorships formed through judging.
  • How these relationships provide support and opportunities post-college.

• Professional Skills:

  • Development of communication, persistence, and relationship management skills.
  • Transitioning from judging to careers, leveraging the discipline and teamwork learned.

Notable Quote:

Kelton Poe [59:33]: "Judging frames your life in a way that you understand that winning and success is not all of it. It’s prioritizing relationships that make up a meaningful life."

Motivation and Personal Empowerment

The guests discuss sources of motivation, including faith, gratitude, and the desire to help others.

• Faith and Belief:

  • Kelton attributes his drive to his faith and belief system.
  • Emphasizing a life centered around serving others rather than personal success.

• Continuous Improvement:

  • Striving to be better than before through reflection and intentional actions.
  • Encouraging others to find their purpose beyond competition.

Notable Quote:

Kelton Poe [86:05]: "I am a sinner saved by Jesus. I try to operate every day in my life as a believer and a follower of God."

Closing Thoughts

Weston and the guests conclude the episode by reinforcing the importance of relationships, personal growth, and maintaining a balanced perspective in both judging and life.

Notable Quote:

Case Laro [82:02]: "Those relationships and opportunities from judging are things you just can't trade for the world."

Key Takeaways

• Build Strong Relationships: Success in judging is deeply intertwined with teamwork and mutual support.
• Focus on Personal Growth: Emphasize incremental improvements and mental resilience.
• Proactive Recruitment: Take initiative in reaching out to senior college coaches to secure opportunities.
• Balance and Gratitude: Maintain a grateful mindset and balance competition with personal well-being.
• Long-Term Perspective: View judging as a journey that offers valuable life lessons beyond immediate successes.

This episode of EmpowerU offers a comprehensive look into the lives of experienced judges, providing listeners with both practical advice and inspirational insights. Whether you're an aspiring livestock judge or seeking personal development tips, Kase and Kelton's experiences offer valuable lessons on perseverance, teamwork, and personal growth.