Don’t Aim, Just Fire... Featuring Jon Gevelinger

Summary

EmpowerU Podcast – Season 4, Episode 1: "Don’t Aim, Just Fire... Featuring John Gar"

Release Date: June 6, 2025

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Introduction

In the inaugural episode of Season Four of EmpowerU, hosts Weston Hendrix, Luke Domang, and guest John Gar delve deep into the intricacies of the livestock industry, education, and personal growth. This episode, titled "Don’t Aim, Just Fire," sets the tone for an empowering season aimed at fostering knowledge and confidence among individuals, leaders, and operators within the livestock sector.

Guest Introductions

Luke Domang [00:38 – 01:27]

Luke Domang kicks off by sharing his roots from Lafayette, Louisiana. Raised amidst Simmental cattle, Luke's journey in livestock began early, participating in 4H and FFA during high school. His dedication led him to Blink College, where he is actively involved in the livestock judging team. With aspirations to major in veterinary science, Luke embodies the blend of hands-on experience and academic pursuit in the livestock field.

John Gar [00:55 – 09:10]

John Gar provides a heartfelt introduction, tracing his origins from Wisconsin to Texas. A lifelong participant in the livestock industry, John's journey includes attending Oklahoma State University, where he earned a degree in Business and Marketing—a strategic choice influenced by his mentor, Nick Ryman. John's transition from corporate roles to dedicating himself to show cattle and educational clinics highlights his passion for empowering others through knowledge and hands-on experience.

John Gar’s Journey and Influences

Early Influences and Mentorship [01:29 – 08:59]

John credits much of his expertise and passion to his uncle, Bob May, a pioneer in the livestock industry. Growing up, John had the unique opportunity to shadow Bob during Purina video series clinics at Carousel Farms. Reflecting on these formative years, John shares:

"I had a front row seat to what I'm doing now... I learned everything. It's not lost on me what an opportunity that was." [06:00]

This early exposure not only honed his technical skills but also instilled a strong work ethic. Despite the privileges, John emphasizes the rigorous work that accompanied his learning:

"There was a decade where I worked for free... We worked hard, a lot of days, long hours." [08:06]

Educational Path and Business Acumen [09:08 – 14:49]

Choosing a path in Business and Marketing at Oklahoma State was a strategic move encouraged by his mentor, Nick Ryman. This decision allowed John to blend his livestock knowledge with essential business skills, setting the foundation for his multifaceted career. Post-graduation, John navigated opportunities in corporate roles, including a stint with Vermeer Corporation. However, sensing complacency in the corporate ladder, he pivoted back to his true calling—dedicating himself fully to the livestock industry through show cattle and educational clinics.

"I could feel a little bit of complacency creeping in... So I stepped away from that just because I thought this wasn't exactly what I'm passionate about." [11:48]

Transition to Coaching and Educational Initiatives

Establishing a Coaching Program [18:52 – 29:18]

John discusses the inception of his coaching and clinic initiatives, driven by a desire to bridge the knowledge gap in the livestock industry. Recognizing that many young exhibitors lack access to quality mentorship, John and his team embarked on offering educational clinics and coaching programs.

"When you're doing stuff like that, it's bound to come back. Whether they come by calf or come to a clinic, or come up to you at a show and say thank you for what you do. That's good enough for me." [19:00]

Through these efforts, John emphasizes the importance of hands-on learning and community support, ensuring that aspiring livestock enthusiasts receive the guidance they need to succeed.

Navigating Challenges and Diversifying Skills

Balancing Multiple Roles [24:55 – 29:18]

John elaborates on the multifaceted nature of his endeavors, from clipping and fitting to dehorning and hoof trimming. This hands-on approach not only supplements his income but also ingrains a deep understanding of every aspect of livestock management.

"I sometimes have four side hustles... They all complement each other." [25:08]

However, this diversification comes with its own set of challenges. John candidly shares his least favorite tasks, highlighting the time-consuming nature of dehorning despite his appreciation for the immediate results it provides.

"Dehorning is what takes up the most of my time." [29:28]

Social Media and Communication Skills

Leveraging Modern Platforms [35:50 – 43:28]

Transitioning into the digital age, John discusses the role of social media platforms like TikTok and Facebook Live in expanding his reach and enhancing his communication skills. Reflecting on his early experiences:

"Facebook Live helped me hone some of my communication skills... Now TikTok feels easy because we can do a 30-second or 2-minute segment." [37:25]

John's pragmatic approach to entrepreneurship is evident as he encourages budding entrepreneurs to "just start" rather than getting bogged down by perfectionism.

"Just do something... You can figure it out as you go." [30:40]

Enhancing the Livestock Industry

Fostering Gratitude and Authenticity [48:58 – 52:35]

John emphasizes the need for the livestock community to cultivate gratitude and authenticity. Reflecting on the industry's strengths, he urges peers to appreciate the robust support systems and resources available, advocating for a more kind and supportive environment.

"We need to be more authentic in terms of just helping more people... probably being kinder to people at a show." [49:25]

John's perspective serves as a reminder of the collective effort required to sustain and grow the livestock industry, highlighting the importance of mutual support and shared success.

Faith, Family, and Personal Empowerment

Integrating Faith with Professional Life [52:35 – 65:55]

A significant portion of the episode delves into John's personal faith and its profound impact on his professional and personal life. Sharing his favorite Bible verse:

"Joshua 1:9 – Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." [57:35]

John discusses how his faith provides the strength and courage to navigate challenges and make impactful decisions. He intertwines his professional endeavors with his spiritual beliefs, ensuring that God remains central to his business and family life.

"What empowers me to keep improving and being better is my faith and my family." [62:36]

Additionally, John emphasizes the importance of leading by example for his children, instilling values of hard work, integrity, and continuous improvement through his actions rather than mere words.

"I want my kids to see Dad working hard... That's why I want them to see Dad doing the right things." [62:36]

Concluding Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the profound discussions and the blending of technical livestock knowledge with personal growth and faith. The episode serves as a testament to the multifaceted nature of leadership within the livestock industry, showcasing how resilience, continuous learning, and a strong support system can drive both personal and professional success.

"Talent will only get you so far... it's about consistency and hard work." [60:32]

John Gar's journey, as shared in this episode, encapsulates the essence of EmpowerU's mission—to empower individuals through knowledge, confidence, and authentic leadership within the livestock community.

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Notable Quotes:

• "I had a front row seat to what I'm doing now... I learned everything. It's not lost on me what an opportunity that was." – John Gar [06:00]

• "Just do something... You can figure it out as you go." – John Gar [30:40]

• "We need to be more authentic in terms of just helping more people... probably being kinder to people at a show." – John Gar [49:25]

• "What empowers me to keep improving and being better is my faith and my family." – John Gar [62:36]

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References: For more insights and to follow the EmpowerU journey, visit empowerupod.com and follow the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Transcript

[Weston Hendricks]

Welcome to season four of Empower youw and I'm your host, Weston Hendricks and I developed this platform alongside my team with the objective of aiding to your interests as an individual in the livestock industry. Our goal is to empower you while gaining insights and trust and consuming it from some of the most significant people in our industry. With that said, a new episode is released every Friday with a sneak peek available on social media platforms a day prior to. So as usual, thank you for tuning in and enjoy the episode. Here's to empowering you.

[Luke Domang]

We're live.

[John Gar]

Cool.

[Unknown]

Well, this is start of season four, episode one. There's a lot of change, There's a lot of new things coming our way and I'm excited more than ever for the season to start. More so with you, John and our new co host, Luke. Luke, I'd like you to introduce yourself first.

[John Gar]

Cool.

[Luke Domang]

Yep. Like, like Weston said, my name is Luke Domang. I'm from around Lafayette, Louisiana. Growing up, family rose mainly simmental cattle. And then as I got older, we started trickling into the main au jus and club calves. So sure, a little bit of heifers, steers and also hogs kind of in the mix. And then in high school, judge livestock and meats both in 4H and FFA, which then led me to Blink College where I'm now on the livestock judging team and then past that and hoping to go to senior college majoring hopefully in vet science and then we'll see where the world goes from there. Excited to be on here.

[Unknown]

Straight from the swamps of Louisiana.

[John Gar]

That's right.

[Unknown]

So John, if you'd like to introduce yourself, you can. It's not like you're not known in this industry. You're very, very impactful to a lot of families. But introduce yourself and we'll get started, you bet.

[John Gar]

Well, appreciate y' all having me. I've really enjoyed it and looking forward to it, I guess I should say. I grew up in Wisconsin. I think a lot of people probably identify that from my accent, Luke and I's accent, it's going to contradict each other a little today, but I grew up in Wisconsin. I made my way pretty slow to Texas. I went to school at Oklahoma State, met my wife and started selling cattle in Texas. And I moved her to Oklahoma for about two weeks and she, she missed her. Her state of Texas. So we ended up down here in South Texas. I'm about pretty close to 20 hours from where I grew up now. And so Texas has been really good to us. We. I've been in the livestock industry of my entire life and had some pretty neat mentors along the way. And we've kind of morphed into several different things over the years. We've done clinics, a lot of the things we still do to this day. But, um, we breed, raise, show cattle. We've went back and forth from heifers to steers. We're predominantly steers now. Now our kids are showing. We show heifers as well. But we've never really wavered from education. We. I started doing clinics at a young age. We had a couple, five, six, seven years ago. We came out with the. Before the banner book, another educational piece. We've done videos along. Just have always felt in my gut that there was a need for just education in this space. And so we do it as a family. We have. My wife Taylor, helps with the operation, and I got two kids. My daughter Grayson, who's 5, and my son Carter, who's 2. And we just like to do it as a family. And we also have stock up supply. And that's a venture we started just a year ago and kind of bring things full circle. We do a lot of educational stuff with it as well. So our supply company, we do a lot in terms of education on social media platforms.

[Luke Domang]

Right.

[Unknown]

Well, before we start with all of my questions and. And Luke's as well, I want to say thank you. And thank you, Luke. This is something that I can't believe is still going. I don't know how it's gotten this big, I guess, but I. I've thoroughly enjoyed this. So first I want to start with. You started in high school and uncle was Bob May. How was that showing and working for him? Obviously that's where your mentor was and you learned everything pretty much from him and then grew and learned from others.

[John Gar]

Yes, I had a very unique opportunity in terms of getting to learn from what I think is one of the pioneers of the business in the industry and just showing livestock. I mean, there you could probably count four or five people that at that stage of the game, that were kind of the ringleaders, I guess you would say. And so it's not lost on me, the fact that the opportunity that I had growing up, um, my uncle was a big part of why I'm who I am today. And I. Not only the things I learned from him show cattle wise, but I think probably the person I am. And so. And I think the neat thing is, and this is probably a little bit of a rabbit hole, but a lot of people know that I'M Bob May's nephew, but I think as the older I get, a lot of people don't know I'm Bob May's nephew. And so I think not having the last name May, but being almost the son to Bob, I mean, I mean, I grew up every day with him and spent my entire childhood with him. So I think there's some advantages of. I mean, there'd be people that come to my clinics and are like, where did you start and where did you learn all this stuff? And where. You know, because I don't carry that last name, but I had the opportunity to learn everything. Like I was his son and being his nephew, I think is. Was a big blessing just to be able to not only learn from him, but the people around him and the connections he had. And really that's where the clinics got started. The first clinic that I can remember, quote unquote helping with was Purina did a video series. It was probably DVD or VHS back then. It makes me feel old. But they did it at Carousel Farms and I had to been seven or eight years old. And that's where I feel like when I look back on, you know, the short life I've had and everything's led to kind of where we are now. We were doing. I was the kid running the rotobrush when Bob was talking on those VH VHS videotapes that Prena was making. And like I wasn't talking, but that's. I had a front row seat to what I'm doing now. And so I'm 7 or 8 years old. Coleman part in the tailhead while Bob's explaining it and Kirk Steer Walt's explaining it. And I'm not trying to. To name drop, but I'm sitting there and literally have a front row seat to some of the biggest guys in the industry doing. In the most influential guys in the industry doing what they're doing. And I'm learning from them at a young age. And I don't know if I even realized. I just thought it was cool that I got a free Purina jacket that day to wear and you know, I would. I don't know that I realized what the opportunity I have. And looking back, I. It's very. It's not lost on me what an opportunity that was and that I still use some of the skills and the knowledge that I was taught at a very young age to this point on whether it's making a reel on Instagram or doing a clinic in. On the other part of the country, those are Things that I had. I'm very blessed to have and privileged to have those opportunities at a young age.

[Luke Domang]

Yeah, man, that's awesome. I think there's definitely plenty of kids that wish they could grow up like that. Any memories or stories or anything you think we need to hear about?

[John Gar]

Yeah, I. I think about, I guess the one thing that. Yes, that it was privileged to be Bob's nephew, but I. I mean, if he was sitting here next to me, we worked hard.

[Luke Domang]

Yeah.

[John Gar]

I mean, and of course, when you're young and you love it, but there's. There's a decade where I work for free. I mean, just not that he wasn't good to me and I got to show some high quality show steers, but, I mean, we worked hard and we worked every day and we put in the time like I was. I didn't know no different because that's how we were raised. But we worked hard, a lot of days, long hours. And I do. I mean, that was a privilege, too, because I think you can outwork people. I don't think I'm the most talented. I don't think that I'm the smartest, but I do think we work hard, and I think it can be, you know, we can outwork some. Some people and some operations, and it can be to our advantage, too. So, yeah, I would say there, when I look back, I think about how insane it was that we worked that hard at a young age. Yeah. And a blessing, too.

[Unknown]

Absolutely. And so, like, then after high school, you went to Oklahoma State, got a business degree, right? Am I correct?

[John Gar]

Yes. Y. Business and marketing.

[Unknown]

Why business and marketing?

[John Gar]

So I give a lot of credit and I'll try not to be emotional about this part, but a good mentor and buddy of mine, Nick Ryman, influenced this decision. Nick passed away in a airplane accident six or seven years ago. But Nick clipped, like, my steer, the one Louisville. Nick clipped him. And he was a big influence in my life as well. But he went to Oklahoma State and I just would. I was telling some guys that, hey, I'm going to go to Oklahoma State. I was just curious what to meant or what to major in. And he's like, man, everybody goes there and does animal science. Everybody, livestock judges, they all do animal science. Animal science. He said, you got a front row seat to the best quote, unquote animal science degree you could ever have the last decade of your life. He said, go learn business and take the animal science degrees or classes that you want. And that was some awesome advice. So I got to get A business degree. And the other thing Nick said that really hit me hard was you can do everything with that you want with an animal science degree. You can do everything you want with an ag business degree as you can with an animal science degree, but you can't do everything that you want. The same opportunities with an animal science degree. And you, he just said you can take those business classes and those marketing classes and then the elective animal science classes that you want to take to just go take them like take them more as electives. And that's the reason that I went the business route is because I just blindly followed his advice on that. And I'm not saying every kid needs to do that, but I just think the economic side and the business side really helped me learn the business side. The marketing aspects of it really helped. And then it was cool because I still got to take the, you know, Dr. Crops, cow calf management class. And the there was. I just got to pick and choose the animal science ones that I really wanted to. So I don't that that's the reason Nick Ryman's the sole reason that I decided to go the egg business route. So. And I loved Oklahoma State. I know I'm a Texan now, but I really do like still water and Oklahoma State. It's home.

[Luke Domang]

So now you get kind of towards the turning point in your life. And from what we've gathered, you worked at a corporate company for a while and then you decided to fully dedicate yourself to show cattle and clinics. Kind of what made you got to go that route instead and kind of step off and create a new path.

[John Gar]

Yeah. So I got hooked up with Vermeer Corporation and that was through a cattle opportunity as well. And I tell kids all the time, like, there's a lot of kids that aren't going to go out and be full time cattle kids. Like you're going to grow up in this industry. You're going to. There's going to be an opportunity outside the livestock world, but it's probably going to come from within. And uh, I had. When Bailey Corps was showing, I would help the cores a lot. Um, I would go to shows and help them fit their. Fit some of Bailey's heifers. And just got to know Mark and Deb Core very well. Like they were very good to me. And when I graduated from Oklahoma State, they basically Mark kind of helped making out he made a position for me. Like there wasn't a position in Oklahoma. I didn't really want to leave Oklahoma. I had a standing offer from Cargill at the time. And I can't remember if it was Cargill or Lanco, but. And he's like, we want you. And I said, well, I'm not leaving Oklahoma. I don't, you know, I'd like to stay in Oklahoma. And he said, well, we need a sales rep or sales territory manager for Oklahoma area. And I think it was North Texas, too. And so, like, that opportunity existed because of the livestock industry and it had nothing to do. It was way kind of outside of the realm of that. But, yeah, so for a solid year, I. I worked for Vermeer Corporation and had that territory, and I really enjoyed it. But I could feel, I guess, I don't know if I'd want to want Mark to hear this, but I could feel a little bit of complacency, like, creeping in. Like, you get that job where it pays good and you. I could, I could definitely, like I had the conversation with myself, man, I could see this, like, getting too comfortable and like, not stepping away from it and doing what maybe I felt more called to do because I do think one of the maybe not kryptonites to, you know, something being special or successful is just maybe comfortable. I think the saying the enemy of. Of great is just good. And I felt like I could see that creeping in, like it was just going to be good. And so I stepped away from that just because I. I thought this could get, you know, it's a nice job. It's a little kush. It's like, you know, you got your weekends off and most people tackle that and be all over it. And I just thought, you know, this isn't exactly what I'm passionate about. I felt in my gut that there was probably more. And it's the first time I'd ever done anything away from the livestock industry. I mean, you're still dealing with agriculture, but, you know, the show. Show Livestock World. And I just kind of always had it on my heart that I wanted to stay a little closer to that.

[Weston Hendricks]

All right, guys, we're going to take just a minute to recognize the businesses and operations that have powered this episode. And we pride ourselves in standing by businesses and operations that make an impact in the. In this industry. And Trademark Genetics is one of them. At Trademark Genetics, they are committed to excellence in every aspect of their family owned and operated business specializing in elite Red Angus and Red Brangus genetics. They pride themselves on breeding cattle that perform exceptionally in real world conditions, delivering superior quality and lasting value. Whether you are in search of a project for a young exhibitor or looking to enhance your herd with fresh produce. Proven Genetics Their mission is to produce high caliber livestock while fostering lifelong relationships. Their bull battery and donor females are rooted in generations of proven performance, maternal strength and impeccable structural integrity traits that add tangible value. Whether your focus is on cow power or carcass quality, they are pleased to offer embryos and semen from standout sires and proven donors across both breeds. Whether establishing a foundation or elevating an existing program, their genetics are designed to advance your operation with confidence. Owned and operated by John Mandy and Madison Fisher, Trademark Genetics is dedicated to exceeding customer expectations through unparalleled quality and service. We encourage you to connect with Mandy at 713-204-7535 or Madison at 832-963-4233 to explore how they can support your goals. Discover the latest cattle offerings and stay informed on their journey by visiting trademarkgenetics.com and follow them on Facebook and TikTok. But if you're looking for a club calf producer that's diverse in almost every aspect, Reed Vessel Ranches is your answer.

[Luke Domang]

Reed Vessel Ranches is a premier ranching operation specializing in the process production of top tier show cattle offering a wide range of American, British and exotic breeds. Over the course of just five years, RVR has grown from four donors and 20 AI cows to over 50 donors and 500 AI cows, ensuring their commitment to quality and excellence. Their success is rooted in a strategic, intentional approach, planning years in advance to maximize the potential for their customers to succeed in the showroom.

[Weston Hendricks]

In addition to breeding competitive show cattle, Reed Vessel Ranch's team is dedicated to offering a full range of services for show preparation, from clipping and fitting to feed management and expert show assistance. RVR ensures that their clients are fully supported throughout the entire process.

[Luke Domang]

For more information about Reed Vessel Ranches, including their private treaty cattle, SARS donors and upcoming sales, visit their website@reed Reedveselranches.com.

[Weston Hendricks]

But if you're looking for proven club calf sires, then stay tuned in at Hartman Show Cattle.

[Luke Domang]

They believe and stand by the saying in order to predict the future, you must create it, which is one of the reasons why they have become so profound in terms of promoting their bulls and show progeny.

[Weston Hendricks]

They have focused on promoting bulls that are backed by pedigrees, knowing that their cow families have a proven track record and their cow families and legacy is what helps ensure predictability and consistency when using their bulls on your cows.

[Luke Domang]

Speaking of promoting bulls, have you heard of pure Reflection. Well, if you have, you've noticed many of his high sellers and contenders in big ring settings. He speaks for himself and is only DS positive.

[Weston Hendricks]

And when I say he speaks for himself. He sired the next promo bull named Born to win. And he's a TH&DS carrier in the Dame herself has produced over 175,000 in 2024 on just six head.

[Luke Domang]

But if you're looking for no genetic defects, that's built until a gray hided bull named return on investment, this triple clean bulls dam also produced the grand champion steer at Denver in 2024.

[Weston Hendricks]

If you have any questions at all, don't hesitate to reach out to Aaron Hartman himself at 502-655-8323.

[Unknown]

Why start the coaching in the clinics? And did like, did those motivate you to keep going?

[John Gar]

Yeah, I think. I wouldn't say a lot of what I do. I wish, I wish it was more strategy based. Like, it'd be a cooler answer if I said, hey, I had this plan. And I was like, to be honest with you, some of the educational stuff. I came down to Texas and we started selling cattle down here. And I think just starting, you know, and I guess to step back in Oklahoma, I was selling heifers and we had a bread heifer sale and that was going well. When I moved to Texas, I realized pretty quickly, like, hey, this state is pretty. I mean, the market animals are kind of where it's at. And, you know, growing up showing steers, I've always had this. I mean, that's kind of been a little bit more my wheelhouse too. And so I. I think some of it was just, we thought, hey, we've got to get our name out there a little bit. And it was more of a marketing thing. And I think I defaulted back to those days where I talked about, we were, you know, helping with those prena videos, and I was already. I always looked at it like I was the JV squad. Like, when Bob and Kirk Steerwalt couldn't do a clinic, they would call and say, hey, you know, it wasn't uncommon for Kirk to be like, hey, I need help with this clinic, or, hey, you know, I can't do this clinic. Can you. Could you cover this one? Or Bobby, be like, hey, I need you to do this clinic. We got two on the same weekend. And I think just a couple. And I wouldn't say it was, you know, it was two or three, four a year. And I just got more comfortable doing them and enjoyed it. And I probably got A little better with my communication skills and explaining. And I think all of that was just training ground to doing more of the educational stuff. And that's. The more I did it, the more I felt comfortable with it. And I think that's the why we swayed more towards that direction of. And we. I mean, a couple years into being in Texas, you know, I was doing some clinics and I enjoy doing them. And we looked at each other one day and I was like, man, we're as much of a. Almost like cattle clinics, coaching type businesses. We are actual cattle. And I think all of us are. Whether we just admit it or not, or if it's in the name of our business or not, we're all. We all need to be in the coaching business in this deal. Because these kids start off in. A lot of kids that show don't have somebody to help them. They don't maybe didn't grow up with a Bob May in their back pocket to, you know, guide them. And they like to do it and they just need to help. And it's not lost on me to know that I had a big advantage to have somebody help me. And not a lot of kids have that. And so I think with technology nowadays, we can reach a lot of people and help a lot of people. And whenever you're doing stuff like that, it's bound to come back. And whether they come by calf, it's the supply business, or they come to a clinic, or they come up to you at a show and said, thank. Say thank you for what you do. That's good enough for me. And that's kind of what got us on that path of more coaching than as much coaching as we do cattle. I got tired of hearing not tired. You know, it kind of hurts me a little bit when a lot of these families come up to you and they're like, man, we got it all figured out. And it's our senior year. You know, like, if you can give them kids, get them to where they need to be by the time they get to high school, they can have four good years of just success. And it's a big learning curve. Like, if you bring a family in that's never done this before, you can have them there in a few years with some of the resources that are out there now. So that's kind of. I don't even remember the question that you asked, but I thought it was about the coaching side and. Yeah, yeah. So.

[Luke Domang]

So then. Now you were with the J and G coaching program and everything. I know you've been able to reach and get out to hold different a lot of kids. So now that you have your own little girl showing, how. How's that affect is any different? Is it kind of. How's that aspect?

[John Gar]

Yeah, so far, she listens good to me. They'll come a day because I just know I'm gonna have to send her to somebody else's camp because dad won't know nothing. He can teach every other kid in America how to show a calf. But it's special. Everybody told me, like, when your kids actually start doing this and. And like to do it, you know, it'll be different because, I mean, we take a lot of pride in the families that we help, and. And it's special to us. But, like, your little girl out there in the ring, like, your heartbeat just. It's just at a different level when it's your own flesh and blood out there. And I don't know why, but it just is. And it's a lot of fun. I think what's neat about this whole industry is, like, where I. Where I don't think it even stacks up to soccer and baseball is, like, we're out there together in the barn doing this stuff. Um, you know, not that you can't play catch with your kid in the backyard, but, like, this deal. We're in the car, in the truck together. You're fitting around the. The stall. I mean, you can do it as a family, and I think it's just special. You can come down here and we have the stereo playing, and she gets to listen to what she wants to listen to while we're washing her heifer. And, you know, mom's out here helping, too. And it's just. To me, that's pretty special to be able to come out to the barn and spend a lot of quality time. And we're busy people, just like everybody. But it just feels like when we're down here in the barn working together and having our kids running around the barn with us, we feel pretty blessed that we're able to do this and make a living and support our family doing it as well.

[Unknown]

And so now what I want to ask is more, so you're doing everything that an individual could possibly do, like literally clipping, fitting heads, hooves, all that breeding?

[John Gar]

Yep.

[Unknown]

What I want to know is how has that affected you? What's your favorite thing? What's your least favorite thing? And who did you reach out to to be? I guess, what you'd say full circle.

[John Gar]

Yep. We kind of added them as we went like the D horn. And I called Bob Ransom, who I thought was probably the pioneer of, you know, dehorning and surgical dehorning, and I had him come spend a day with me and. And teach me how to do it. And the hoof trimming. I mean, I held 10,000ft for my uncle growing up in those 10 years that I was at the. And just watching. I think that's the thing that's probably lost on a lot of people is like, you know, you get to. I come to your place, or you come to our place and I trim your feet. And it takes me 10 minutes, if it's a long one, to trim your calf's feet. And they're like, wow, that was quick. And, you know, that was. That looked. It probably looks easy, but literally, like, that's 10,000ft in terms of experience that I just watched before I ever trimmed my first one. And since then, I've probably trimmed another 10,000ft. Like, there's 20,000 head. There's been some years where we did close to 2,000ft. Like, I trimmed 2,000 head of feet a year. So there's a lot of work that goes into become, you know, getting good at what your skill level is. Yeah. And I think some of it's just survival mode, to be honest. Like, you know, to grow and to build, you know, our place and, you know, build a cooler room and build a wash rack and pay a mortgage and a lot of that stuff. It just a necessity of, you know, we gotta make money. We gotta. And I know that's. It shouldn't be that way, but, like, we. We work. Worked hard to. And it. I think it's hard to just sell show cattle. I wanted to learn how to do kind of all aspects of it, whether. I mean, I'm not saying when my kids finish a show career, I won't haul one off and have somebody else dehorn them or hoof trim them, but I just felt like in order for us to be successful at this and to be at the. As competitive as it is, I wanted to know how to do all those things, whether I'm actually the one doing it or not. I wanted to know how to do it. And it's hard to know if it's getting done right if you don't know how it needs to be done. And so I guess that's to answer your question. I. Sometimes I do feel like I'm a jack of all trades. And my. My grandpa used to say, it's not a jack of all trades. You're A jackass of all trades. Like, you need to zero in and do one thing good. I don't know if I can cuss on this podcast. Like, I just feel like sometimes you can be. You need to be. Are we good on audio? I feel like sometimes I'm better off zero in on one thing. But I think when you. When you add up the book, the supply company, the. And I don't want you to feel like I'm giving you my resume, but we do have trimming. We do dehorn, and I feel like those are all. Yeah, they're. That's a. Like spreading yourself pretty thin. But it all comes back to the same animal. And so again, I just. I think it's important to know how to do all those things. And I wanted to learn. And on the other hand, like, it helps pay the bills and being able that De Hornen and hoof trimming help supplement income and times of the year where we're not selling cattle. And so it just made sense to me. And I feel like I sometimes have, you know, four side hustles. And I imagine, like, as the supply company grows, you ask which one was my favorite. I like the supply company. Like, it's. It's my favorite. And maybe it's my favorite because it's the newest and I have a little ADD and I can get spread out and just. I'm. I'm okay with having four balls in the air and knowing one of them might get dropped and it might be the dehorning or hoof trimming someday. And just as one ball gets a little bigger, I might drop a different one and. And run in that direction. So. But the neat thing is, and I feel like I'm rambling a little bit, but I feel like they all complement each other. Like, again, we're going back to the same species on all of it, and they. They feed off of each other.

[Luke Domang]

So now that you had your favorite, I know there's definitely got to be a least favorite part of it. Since you do it all. Is there anything you kind of hoof trimming being throwing hoof dust and everything everywhere, dehorning, having blow throwing everywhere.

[John Gar]

It'd be dehorning. And I love dehorning because it's gratifying. Like, you get to see one change quick, but it's. It takes the longest in terms of just set by the time you like. If I'm set up, I can do one every 20 minutes. Like, we can crank through them. But the set, by the time you set it up and get all your supplies out and you get them prepped it, it's just the slowest. I mean the hoof trimming, I can do 10 head in the same time that I can do one one dehorning. And so I, if I didn't have anything else going on. I love the, the you know, changing them and sewing them back up and all that and the skill set of it. But running through and doing 20 of them in a day, it's the one that takes up the most amount of my time. And I feel like the older I get, time's probably the more valuable asset to me. So.

[Unknown]

You'D mentioned earlier your favorite was the stock up supply. What I want to know is why'd you start it, what allowed you to start it? And what's advice you can give to big beginning entrepreneurs? Like what's the biggest thing that you can tell them to make them be successful?

[John Gar]

Okay, so the reason I started stock up was one, I thought there was like there was a need in the marketplace for a place where you could just go get everything. You know, we have our own products, we have our own line of products, but we sell I would say our competitors products. You know, we've got Sullivan and Weaver there too with the end user in mind. Like I found ourselves like we liked one certain kind of shampoo, we liked Weavers combs, we liked Sullivan's Sheen, whatever it was. And like we found ourselves checking out three different places. Like we get our medical stuff from another place and we're not all the way there yet but. And then there's the one offs. Like there's a lot of awesome products and the company is the product. Like you know there's like the scrub buddies that we sell that is a product that you can only, could only get in one, one place. And you had to go six different places to get your supplies. And so as far as stock up supply online, we feel like our vision is where an exhibitor could go get everything they needed. And I think the other thing that the reason I wanted to start it was it was very complicated too. Like if you took a beginner family and said hey, you know, go get you some show supplies. There was just so much that it needed simplified a little bit. And on our site like there's instead of you could literally have I think two to 300 blades options and on our site there's six at the most. Like because literally you can do everything you want on a show calf with a T84, a blocking blade and a blending blade. And so Just, just I felt like simplifying some of this. It was just too complicated for a family that, you know, I don't want to say novice but just getting started. There's so many families that it's. This thing can be intimidating from the outside looking in when you're starting. And the more we could simplify the supply end of it where hey this doesn't have to be complicated. We can help you and the educational videos that are tied to the products on the online site. So we're not just selling you a product. We want you to know how to use it and use it the right way. And I just felt like there was a gap there in the supply world. And then your second question was what advice I would have to whether it's anybody that's wanting to get started would be start. I think a lot of times and my wife would probably say it to a fault I'm the other way. Like I don't sit around and think about, you know, what we should do. I just start doing it. Like get in the car and drive. Don't worry about the directions. And sometimes I do I, I'm driving the wrong direction. But you can figure it out real quick that you're going the wrong way and turn around. Like just do something different. I think a lot of things we overanalyze and we try to figure out the best path and we make a list and do 10 lists and I have a, I make a deal with myself if I'm going to write I have a note page in my iPhone but like if I'm going to put something on my list like a to do list, I'm going to do it like because if I, if I'm doing something else and I forget but like action like just start down that path. Like if we have a new product idea like all like the heads up lead we, we made one before. Like the day I thought hey we need something else to to I went and bought a, a poll and started making it before I even knew what I wanted. And then we just changed it and morphed it and it let it develop and we, we let it guide us. And I think that's the biggest thing is just starting And I like the metaphor of going back to you don't need to build a car, just get in the car and go and, and you can. Or maybe a better metaphor is I've heard the metaphor, you're building the airplane as you're flying it. Like get in and start flying it and then build it as you go, rather than try to build the perfect airplane and, and try to take off, I think you're better off to build it in there. And I don't know that that works for everybody. Like a buddy of mine that I used to work with would say, not to throw a bunch of cliches out there, but he used to say there's two types of people in this world. There's the ready, aim, aim, aim, aim, aim, aim, aim guy, and then there's the ready, fire, aim guy. And you're the ready, fire, aim. Like you just go. And then you try to aim the bullet after you fire it. And I actually took it as a compliment. I think he meant it as kind of a dis. And I was like, yeah, you're right, I'll own that. Because, well, you're trying to aim at, at the precise location I'm going to take a shot and aim that bullet as we're going and figure it out as we go. And I really do. I think that's, I think the secret sauce on some of it and it does probably work for every, every individual or entrepreneur, but I think for me is just do it. Just action. Get started and get heading in the right direction. Yeah.

[Luke Domang]

So, yeah, I agree with you because if you sitting there and waiting, waiting or aiming, aiming, aiming before you fire, that, that target could eventually be gone.

[John Gar]

And just like this podcast, like you guys have probably worked out kinks as you went, but if you tried to get everything perfect, your first podcast and if you go back, I'm guessing your first podcast wasn't just beautiful and the audio wasn't perfect.

[Unknown]

It was rough.

[John Gar]

Yeah. And, but like who cares? Like you got it going and you can fine tune it as you go.

[Unknown]

What I find interesting is what you're saying and describing with stock up supply or anything you've just started I can resonate with because senior in high school have nothing to do. Just started a podcast and the first two episodes were terrible. Like I go back and listen to them just because I like to go back and refresh my mind and be like, okay, we've gotten somewhere. But looking back now, I'm glad I started when I started and learned to. Now I'm at a point freshman year in college. I'm not in a stuck path and we're just. I started earlier. Yeah. And that's what I, I'm, I'm happy but it's grown, it's. And now we're here.

[John Gar]

Yeah. And, and I think that's like that, that's what it takes is just getting going. Yep. So many people get stuck with, like, trying to figure it all out before you get going and. Yeah, I think just role. I agree.

[Luke Domang]

So on the way here, me and Weston were listening to a episode you did with Ferris Simon on shoot side. Oh, yeah. And in there, you had said that's when you were just starting your TikTok. Said you weren't sure how you felt about it. So how do you see it now? I know that's a big part of what y' all got going on now.

[John Gar]

That's a good question. I don't even recall that. That part. So it. It said I had talked about just like Tick Tock in general and how you were.

[Luke Domang]

You were like, just getting on it. I think y' all were. You were talking about your social medias and everything and where they can find y' all. You're like. And we just recently got a Tick Tock account, so we'll see how that goes.

[John Gar]

I'll see how that involves. Yep. Well, it's evolved. That was actually probably. It had to have been closer to Covid because Tick Tock kind of blew up a little bit during COVID I feel like people were probably sitting around and, you know, it looking for something to do. And we. I'm not probably a huge consumer like, of TikTok, but, man, I follow a guy called Gary Vee, and he was talking about TikTok when it was actually music. Ly musically. And I just. I mean, that was a long time ago. And he kept talking about how you need to get on this app. You need to get this on this app. And, you know, we. It comes full circle because I've been doing educational stuff for two decades prior to, like a TikTok. And we actually, when Facebook Live, this feels like ancient. But Facebook Live used to be like the thing like, and we were doing Facebook lives with educational type stuff. And I really think it was probably the breeding ground, if you will, for me to just really hone some of my communication skills maybe a little better because there was no. There was no editing it. There was no. I mean, like, if you were stumbling and stammering, like, everybody got to see that part of you. And I think it probably helped. And I still have too many filler words like, you'll hear me on this podcast and I'll be like. And I think. And I, you know, or whatever. But those Facebook Live era, I felt like, helped me hone some of my communication skills and get my point across in a little bit more concise. MANNER. And now TikTok, it feels like it's easy a little bit because we can do a tick tock and whether it's 30 seconds or 2 minutes or 5 minutes, my wife can go back and, you know, make it sound. Make me sound a little smarter when she edits that tick tock or whatever. And I feel like we're kind of hitting our stride a little bit on some of that. So I would probably give Facebook Live the, The work we put in. And I just like you talk about your first podcast, those first couple Facebook Live videos. I go back and I look at and I'm like, cringe, but there again, just start. I think a lot of people are worried about, you know, what somebody else might think. And I think you just need to flip the camera around and go. And if you have something to say or some value to add, start. And TikTok's been great. It's a great platform, I would say. You know, I was thinking that Tick tock was going to be, you know, the kids showing. The demographic was the kids showing. I would say our number one fan base on there is show dads coming up, show moms and show dads coming up to me at a show. And it's funny, like. Taylor laughs sometimes, but we have show dads. We were eating dinner at, in San Antonio one night during San Antonio and we had show dads come up and want to take a picture with me. And like, I just, I always thought like, the kids. But the, the back to doing this as a family, like the dads and the moms need to see some of that information and help their kids along the way and whether it's setting up their barn. And so it's, it's cool to see that you're bringing value to the moms and dads that are helping these kids too with their show projects. And I love that. I know, I don't know that I set out for that to be the. Maybe the audience, but it's cool to see that it's helping the family, all the whole family.

[Luke Domang]

And I like how you brought up how the Facebook Live help your communications and everything because, like, I brought up earlier with her accents and everything, being from Louisiana and then having to go give a set of reasons. Give me excited, give me. The words will get jumbled up.

[John Gar]

Yeah, I can see it. No. Yeah. And I think like, back to your guys's judging, that's something I wish I would have done. Like, growing up. I started judging shows and stuff at a younger age, but I never Judged collegiate. And I feel like I missed a little bit there. Like, I wish I had, because the communication skills, the people you meet, I. Those, Those kids that come out of the judging programs are just sharp. Yeah, they can. They can talk well, they can defend their self in a. In a reasons room. And I officiate some contests at San Antonio, Dallas, some of those. And those kids walk in and I'm like, I could never do that. Like, I'm just blown away and impressed by their. How articulate they are and to be able to give a set of reasons with that kind of confidence. So those skills, whether it's a Facebook Live, a TikTok judging in an interview, those skills, them kids learn are valuable.

[Unknown]

One thing I say is like, I'm glad that we started Jud or I started judging specifically because one, I was homeschooling. So it's like kind of, like a little weird, kind of quiet. And so I think that really opened up myself to learn how to talk. But I could honestly say, like, this podcast helped that too. But I guess back to the judging, the reasons I sucked at when I first got there, and I've improved since then. And so if I could say, do it or not do it, I 100% do it all the way.

[John Gar]

I.

[Unknown]

It had helped me in so many different ways. Just communication, people skills, all kinds of stuff like that.

[John Gar]

And don't you think, like, you can. Even if you're not like, marking cards, you can pull so much value out of just like those. Those judging coaches critiquing you on being a better speaker and maybe even just like, evaluating lifestyle stock in general. Are we rolling again? Okay.

[Unknown]

It's like we're one o' clock in the morning, and Luke's like, I don't want to do this. Like, we had to take math exams all last night, and it's one o' clock in the morning, and we're trying to figure out how to do all this. And I set it up and it was working great.

[John Gar]

And then we hear you work out the kinks, man.

[Unknown]

Gotta work out the kinks. It's fine. But I guess back to what I was saying.

[John Gar]

Oh, sorry. Go ahead.

[Unknown]

The judging side of things, like bouncing each other's ideas back and forth and listening to question. Adrian could teach me about how my speech and how to fluctuate when to have a pause and take a breath but still be able to say 270 to 90 words in a minute.

[Luke Domang]

20.

[Unknown]

Like, that's impressive. Yeah, just for any person, I think. But, like, even if Per se. There's not a kid that marked at one college, but he's called to go judge a show. He's still able to do that.

[John Gar]

Do that too.

[Unknown]

Yes.

[John Gar]

And your communication skills, yes, school's important, but like you think about regurgitating information like you're talking about taking a math test. Like we have calculators, we have computers, like we have if history. I'm not saying school's not important, but your communication skills are probably more important than, I mean, if you, if you ask me, hey, you know, who is the 42nd president? I can, I probably can't tell you, but I can Google that like in a second. And I, I'm on the other end of the spectrum. I think you should get some of that stuff out of your brain. I mean, unless you're going to go and try and win Jeopardy. I don't know that some of that stuff is like, I'm being a smart ass now, but some of that stuff is just like taking up space in your brain. When I can Google that. I'd rather kids work on skills like given a set of reasons that are going to. I mean, whether you're in front of a camera on YouTube or TikTok or on a podcast. I mean, I still don't feel like my communication skills are where they need to be. But those have probably gotten me way further than knowing, you know, an algebraic equation which I got a D in.

[Unknown]

And then you have people like vacation saying and that steers real comfortable on the side. Oh yeah, it's so bad.

[Weston Hendricks]

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[E]

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[Weston Hendricks]

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[Luke Domang]

Just wrapped up our or end of this week we'll be wrapping up our first year. So first year of college, done. First year of judging, done. And I can pretty much assure you that I've definitely learned more being on the judging team or traveling around at workouts or even thinking back to high school, I think majority of my time in high school I spent in the ag classroom or ag shop just because I was actually doing something I was enjoying. Yeah, so definitely life skills and a lot more working out in the barn, being at contest, being at workouts in.

[John Gar]

School is for some people, like if you're gonna go be a vet, like you probably do need to know organic chemistry, parts of that and stuff. Like I'm not all but I, you know there's rare exceptions. If you're going to be a doctor, if you're going to slice me, I.

[Luke Domang]

Want you to go, yeah, you need.

[John Gar]

To know your stuff. I don't want you googling stuff in the middle of a surgery. But so, but the vast majority of us, I mean yeah, education's important, but the people you meet and your communication skills you build are way, way more important. Absolutely.

[Unknown]

And so talking about all this, like our industry as a whole, like you do all this and then we're kids in College, livestock judging, and then there's other people that are vets. But this industry that we're in, I believe is one of the best. Like I'm grateful that I had the opportunity can be raised in this industry. But what I want to know from a level headed person like you that a lot of people look up to, myself, Luke, whoever, how do you think we as people can improve?

[John Gar]

That's a real good question. I found myself sometimes getting like on a mic at a, at a show and just talking about how good of an industry we have and giving back. And I think being more authentic in that is something we could all do. When you think about giving back in terms of whatever that looks like for you, helping, helping a family, sharing knowledge, truly just diving in and doing some of those things, I think, you know, I guess I hear at a show sometimes, you know, I love to give back to this industry. I think we could all just be more authentic, myself included, in terms of just helping more people. Probably being kinder to people at a show. I do think we go to the show and we try to win and we're competitive and, and I mean, I think we're all in this together and just probably being better stewards of what, what we really have. And I think we need to be more grateful. I think I see a lot of, you know, we might see a post about, you know, this show could be better. This, you know, this could be ran better. But man, not growing up in Texas, we got it good. We have it real good. And I don't know, I don't want to sound like I'm dogging on Texas, but I don't think some, some people know how good we got it. I mean, we got steers at shows that bring 50,000 that are second, third in their class. We got six, seven majors. I mean, not seven majors, but we got six, seven shows we can go to between Odessa, San Angelo, San Antonio, Houston, Austin. I mean, and you can be fourth in class and pay for a steer and show the next year, where in the Midwest we got one show at a lot of them state fairs, you know, you can go to Kansas City, Louisville, Denver. But I think we need to be grateful for what we have in this industry, the support we have, the donors that are behind it, the, the companies that help support the kids through scholarship. Like, I think we need to be grateful for what we have. And there's. Sometimes I can get to complaining about stuff and I think we can. I could probably take some of my own advice and just be grateful that how good we really have it and that there's that kind of support in this industry because you can get to complaining on social media here and there and you know, this judge wasn't very good or the show was ran poorly or I, I think we all need to take a step back and realize how, how good we got it. And I think Covid was good for us to realize, hey, this, we don't even take this stuff for granted. Like it could be gone tomorrow. And I think we all could use a dose of humility on that, that end. And I don't want to sound like I'm preaching because I, I get that way too. Like we get competitive and we go to a show and we forget that hey, there's more to it than just probably winning. Yeah.

[Luke Domang]

So normally we'd ask what's your favorite quote or Bible verse? So I want you to answer that and tell us why you think it's so important to keep God in the middle of everything. Because we've noticed your Sunday sermons on TikTok and we like them. We think that's definitely a good thing that people need to see and we enjoy seeing them every week.

[John Gar]

Thank you. Yeah, my journey with God's probably been. It's been a little slower than probably it needed to be. Like I probably needed to get on this earlier. I think when you lose a parent and you have kids probably all within the same five years, it can rock you a little bit and make. Start making you think about stuff that's probably more important than winning a cow show. And I don't know, I mean I don't want to sound condescending, but I don't know how one has a child and not see God in it. Like it's. I think we get to see the miracle of birth through livestock every day. So I think it's neat to. I think we have a front row seat and I'm without our kids. Like my little girl get to see her show heifers have a baby someday. And I just. Not to get too deep but I don't know how you witness that and not realize that there's a higher power running all this stuff. But my wife's been good about getting us maybe incorporating what we do more into the limelight. I don't in terms of through whether it's JG cattle and coaching for stock up supply. Like just probably making it more of a priority in some of our, some of our not marketing but like some of our videos just like we do every Sunday we try to do trying to keep God kind of in front and center of our businesses as well. And one back to what you asked though. One of my favorite quotes is from Life Church. So my quote, my favorite Bible verse and my favorite quote would kind of go back more biblically. But where I kind of started our, my journey with Christ was when I was in college at Oklahoma State. They had a Life Church campus there and it was just different than anything. I grew up in a Lutheran and Catholic household and it was very traditional and you know, I knew God existed and was there, but I never really had a relationship with him. And going to, starting going to church at Life Church, it was kind of cool. They had cool music. It was more just neat and it kind of sucked me in a little bit. But their mission statement, and I would say their mission statement was I felt like just grabbed a hold of my heart just a little bit. And I'm going to read it for you because it's one of my favorite quotes. But it's. And I want to read it because was convicting to me, I guess, and I don't want to mess it up. It is, we are faith filled, big thinking bet the farm risk takers will never insult God with small thinking and safe living. And I think that word insult insult God. It like is visceral to me. Like when I think about things that I want to do or things that I could do or things that I'll, I think I'm not qualified to do that. Like that I think about insulting God with that. So that's one of my favorite quotes. And it's funny, Taylor and I both had parts of that in our vows. I mean we didn't share our vows till our wedding day, but we both had that quote somewhere within our vows. And I, I just thought that was pretty cool. Like, and I think we're on the same page on a lot of that stuff. And so that back to that word and salt. When I think about, hey, I don't know if this product is going to work, whether it's with stock up, like, hey, is this, is this a good product? I'm like, man, you don't need to insult God by not doing something and also not being willing to take a risk. And I'm not saying you need to go max out six credit cards and put yourself in a bind. But like you can do it smart and then once it works, go all in. Like you need to be a risk taker and, and do some things that you're convicted on doing and, and Some of them are going to work out more. More of them are probably not going to work out, but I don't want to insult God by not doing them, I guess is what. Why I love that quote. Sorry I'm talking too much, but good. You asked my. Yeah, my favorite Bible quote, too. I think I said, oh, Joshua. I think it's Joshua 1:9. Be strong and courageous. And it ties back into my favorite quote, too. But do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord, your God is with you wherever you go. And I probably need those to complement each other. If you're going to be a big risk taker, you've got to probably take God along with you. And so he's. He's got your back. And I just think those, the quote and the Bible verse kind of complement each other a little bit with you.

[Unknown]

Saying all of this. What I find crazy is two days ago, I had been told something over the phone and he mentor mine told me, God's going to put his fiercest warriors in the hardest challenges to test their faith.

[John Gar]

I love that.

[Unknown]

I think with putting, going after the risks, trying to achieve those, you have to have the faith. But with those risks come the hazards of life.

[John Gar]

Yep. And the obstacles.

[Unknown]

Obstacles and the challenges. So you have to maintain that faith and essentially show God that no matter what, I trust you.

[John Gar]

Yep. And I think if you're going to, if he's going to put something on your heart, a lot of people are like, you know, I just don't know what I want to do. And a lot of kids that we mentor, like, I don't know what I want to study in school, and I don't know what I want to be when I grow up. But I mean, God's put something on your heart to do something. He's going to give you a path to do it. He's not going to put something on your heart and say, hey, you know, Weston, I want you to start a podcast and not give you the tools to be able to and the knowledge and the wisdom to do a podcast. Like, if you put that on your heart to do this, he's going to give you the tools and show you the path to make it happen. And so I tell a lot of our kids that you need to listen to some of those things that, like, are on your, on your heart and not in your gut that you're like, hey, I'd love to do this, but I don't know how to do it. Like, start and figure it out. And I think it kind of Brings all this full circle. When you guys asked, you know, what advice you give to an entrepreneur, like, I think there's things in. In your heart and you just need to start chasing them. And it may change. You may go down a different direction. And I don't know if you'd have told me when I was 7 years old running a rotobrush in a prena tutorial, you know, video that my uncle was explaining that we'd own a supply company someday and be making our own products. I don't know that I would have. I probably would have laughed at you and. But like it may morph into that someday and. And I probably when I was that age just wanted to be the guy that sold the champion steer at our state fair. And I'd still like to. To do that, but I really like the supply side of things and coming up with products too. So I think it let. Let it morph in that direction. But yeah, I don't think. I love that what you said there about some of that stuff come full circle. Yep.

[Luke Domang]

And listen to doing a live interview here on your barn before we start to wrap it up. I've been kept looking at this quote you have on your wall over there that without hustle, talent will only get you so far. Yeah, I got two quotes in my room in my barn and some of my dad always been telling me since I can always remember is that champions do the ordinary, ordinary things extraordinarily well and that you practice like you never won and perform like you've never lost love. I think that's. I like that no matter kind of what you're given in life or what you're faced with, as long as you push through and give everything you got, you'll get there and you'll be successful.

[John Gar]

Yep. I love that. I like the fact that I don't. I just probably resonate with. I don't ever feel like I'm probably the most talented person. And I think that's takes a little weight off your shoulders too, because I've never been the smartest. I've never been the. The. I think some of those things aren't variables that you can control. Like if you're the most talented, it's reassuring to me to know that I don't have to be the most talented, that I could just work harder. Now. Talent is important. Like you got to have a little. Like you can't just. I always tell people that too. Like you can't just work your way in. You gotta start with a good Animal and have a good project. But, like, that ain't what matters. You gotta be able to. The consistency and the hard work is what matters. And that quote is actually Gary Vaynerchuk's quote. You got. You gotta work hard. There's just no substitute. You guys said you guys had exams last night. It had been pretty easy just to lay in bed. This morning. It's rainy out. It had been dang easy. But you guys loaded up your equipment, you guys got in the pickup, you drove two hours over here, whatever it was, and you're sitting here slugging through an interview, and it just. That stuff's going to pay dividends. And I just. It's reassuring to somebody that I don't feel like I'm the most talented. It's reassuring to me that I can maybe work harder than somebody and get to that same level. And I think for those of you listening to this, too, I think that should be encouraging to you that you don't. You don't have to start off as the most talented. The talent can actually come as you are busting your butt and working hard.

[Unknown]

I'm going to keep this last question in season four. I started it in season one. I can't get rid of it. I think it's like one of the most important things that I've ever been asked in my life. And so then when I answered it and it was wrong, I was told by my mentor, give it a couple days and it'll come back around. And then I finally got it right and my perspective opened up. So I'm going to keep it. So, John, what empowers you to be better than who you were before?

[John Gar]

That's a solid question. This is going to sound a little bit cliche, but I would say God and family. And the reason I say that back to my quote about, I won't insult God with small thinking and safe living, but also for my family, like, I want to. That's what keeps me kind of driving is I. We only get one shot at this life. And not to get too deep, but, like, we're all gonna die. And so I want to make the most of it. I want to impact people. I want to, you know, even through some of our. Whether it's the hat I wear or the. The Sunday sessions. Like, there's only one thing that you can take with you to heaven. Like, we can build barns and we can have nice trucks and trailers, but there's only one thing you can take with you to heaven, and that's other people. And I don't want this to be like a spiritual podcast, but I'm just saying, like, a lot of that grounds back to what. What empowers me to. To keep improving and being better is my faith. And in my family, Like, I want to be more for them. Like, I've got two kids that look up to me and watch what. What I do, and. And I want them to. I want to show them rather than trying to tell them. Like, I don't want them to think, dad says we need to work hard. I want them to be like, dad works hard. You know, that's why I want them to see dad working hard. I want them to see dad doing the right things. I want them to see dad act in the right way. I don't want. I don't want my kids to be like, dad says we need to do this. I want them to say, you know, dad does this. That's why we should do it. And another quote that I like is more is caught than taught, and I want them to see. See dad doing things right. Yeah.

[Unknown]

I can really resonate with that in a lot of ways.

[John Gar]

This got deep.

[Unknown]

No, I'm, like, kind of shocked because I never thought, like, I'd have a. An episode that would go this deep into it. I knew the minute that I'd bring Colton thick pin back on, it'd probably get this deep, but not. I mean, just outsider. I didn't know, and. But I'm glad. I'm grateful for it because there's a lot of stuff going on. But again, I needed to hear a lot of that. And this is. This has been good.

[John Gar]

Yeah. Cool. And I've enjoyed it, guys. You guys are doing an awesome job.

[Unknown]

We always end with the scripture, and so the one that we found today was from 1st John 4.

[John Gar]

4.

[Unknown]

He says, Your children are from God and have overcome them because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. And that, I feel, like, resonates well with everything that we've talked about for however long it's been.

[Luke Domang]

Yeah.

[Unknown]

With all this said, and I'm proud.

[John Gar]

Of y' all for, like, keeping that front and center, too. That's. And God will reward you for that, I believe. And I think it's neat, too, that it's accepted in our industry, too. Like, I just love that we can talk open about some of that stuff and. And we don't have to shy away from it and be ashamed of it.

[Unknown]

I. I completely agree. I think there's too many people that are scared of what other people think.

[John Gar]

Yes.

[Unknown]

I was that person.

[John Gar]

I think we all were. I was, too. And I still can find myself sometimes. Like, gosh, do I want to go there? Yeah. Yep. I'm proud of you.

[Unknown]

Thank you. I'm proud of both of y' all. I've enjoyed watching you a lot. You mentored me quite a bit.

[John Gar]

Thank you. So cool.

[Unknown]

With all that said, this is probably one of the greatest openings to a season that I think I've ever been able to do. This is going to be empowering you with John Gar and we'll see y' all next time. Thank you for tuning in.

[John Gar]

Thank you.

[Weston Hendricks]

Ranch House Designs is America's rural marketing hub and they're proud to power Empower you's new and improved website. We couldn't be more grateful. Grateful for their efforts in helping us build a brand.

[E]

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[Weston Hendricks]

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[E]

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[Weston Hendricks]

Once again, we just want to thank you all for tuning in and please follow us on Spotify and Apple podcasts and if you like what you hear, leave a five star rating. With all this said, have a blessed day.