EmpowerU Podcast Episode Summary: "Personal Progression... Featuring Kyndal Reitzenstein"

Release Date: June 20, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "Personal Progression," hosts Weston Hendrix and Luke Domingue engage in an insightful conversation with Kendall Reitzenstein, a prominent figure in the livestock industry. This episode delves into Kendall's extensive background, her journey through livestock judging, her coaching experiences, and her current role in the industry. Listeners gain valuable perspectives on personal growth, mentorship, and the evolving landscape of livestock judging.

Guest Introduction and Early Background

Kendall Reitzenstein hails from Kersey, Colorado, where she grew up surrounded by livestock. Her family operates a cow herd of approximately 200 Angus and Simmental cattle. Kendall's father, Mark, is a veterinarian specializing in embryo transplants and cattle management, which profoundly influenced her early exposure to the livestock industry.

Education and Early Involvement:

• High School and Early Showings: Kendall began her journey by showing cattle, horses, and pigs through her family's involvement in livestock programs.
• Photography Passion: An avid visual person, Kendall taught herself photography, which not only nurtured her creative side but also funded her education. "I just love doing it and I do owe a lot to it because it helped pay my way through college" (04:00).

Academic and Coaching Journey

Kendall pursued an Associate Degree in Animal Science at Redlands in El Reno, Oklahoma, followed by a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Animal Science and Agricultural Communications at Oklahoma State University (OSU).

Coaching at Oklahoma State University:

• Assistant Coach Tenure: She served as an assistant coach for OSU's livestock judging team for two and a half years, under the mentorship of Dr. Blake Bloomberg. "I learned a ton from the kids, I learned a normal amount from Blake and all things and especially coaching" (12:20).
• National Championships: During her time, the team secured back-to-back national championships, highlighting her effectiveness as a coach.

Transition to Colorado State University:

• After OSU, Kendall returned to Colorado to coach and coordinate the livestock judging program at Colorado State University (CSU) for three years. This role presented significant challenges initially, but with support from mentors like Brandon Callis and Dr. Blake Bloomberg, she successfully revitalized the program. "We ended on a very high note there at CSU" (12:20).

Current Role and Industry Impact

Kendall now serves as the Executive Sales Representative at Saskatoon Colostrum, focusing on their flagship brand, Colostrux. This role leverages her deep knowledge of livestock genetics and industry trends to support and empower other industry professionals.

Career Transition Insights:

• After facing multiple job rejections post-CSU, Kendall trusted her instincts and network within the industry, leading her to Saskatoon Colostrum. "It's a testament to trusting your gut, trusting the plan" (20:36).

Breaking Barriers as a Female Judge

As one of the few female judges in the livestock industry, Kendall discusses the challenges and triumphs of her journey.

Passion and Resilience:

• Kendall emphasizes that ability and hard work should determine opportunities, regardless of gender. "No matter what age you are, no matter what gender you are, if you're capable to judge and you work hard enough to get to that point, you should be given that opportunity" (22:14).

Judging High-Profile Shows:

• National Western Steer Show: Kendall achieved her dream of judging one of the most prestigious shows in the industry. "Being asked to do that was a dream come true" (25:54).
• State Fair of Texas: She shared her experiences and adaptations required when judging in different environments, highlighting the consistency and quality of livestock across regions.

Mentorship and Coaching Philosophy

Kendall attributes much of her success to the mentors who guided her and emphasizes the importance of being a positive role model.

Advice for Future Mentors:

• Professionalism and Kindness: "Be professional in everything you do, no matter what that is... be a good human and just being nice to people" (45:22).
• Continuous Improvement: Encourage mentees to strive for excellence and never settle for mediocrity.

Personal Empowerment and Motivations

Kendall shares the driving forces behind her continuous personal and professional growth.

Inspirational Philosophy:

• Commitment and Trust: She relies on personal faith, citing Proverbs 16:3, "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans" (46:53).
• Making Others Happy: "What empowers me is just making people happy... being proud of people around you" (48:35).

Overcoming Adversity:

• Kendall recounts her pivotal moment when a severe ankle injury redirected her path from a potential Division I volleyball career back to livestock judging. This experience reinforced her belief in trusting the broader plan.

Reflections on Industry Evolution

Kendall observes significant advancements in livestock genetics and the competitive nature of the industry, which continually push standards higher.

Genetic Progression:

• "The genetics are just progressing so much right now, which is awesome... it just keeps progressing and taking things to another level" (43:59).

Quality and Competition:

• She notes that each new generation introduces higher-quality livestock, fostering a dynamic and forward-moving industry.

Favorite Species and Operations

While cattle remain Kendall's primary focus, she also appreciates judging pigs, leveraging her early experience in showing them.

Cattle Operations:

• Kendall and her family operate a small cow herd, primarily breeding heifers and managing show steers. Their goal is to support and elevate the next generation of livestock enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Kendall Reitzenstein's journey in the livestock industry exemplifies dedication, resilience, and the importance of mentorship. Her experiences as a coach, judge, and executive demonstrate the multifaceted roles one can undertake within the industry. Through her story, listeners are inspired to pursue their passions, embrace continuous improvement, and foster supportive environments for future generations.

Closing Thoughts:

• Empowerment Through Community: Kendall emphasizes the strength found in community and collaboration. "We're a team altogether, working against one odds" (48:35).
• Continuous Learning: She advocates for never stopping in the pursuit of knowledge and excellence, both personally and professionally.

Notable Quotes

• Photography and Self-Financing Education:
  "I just love doing it and I do owe a lot to it because it helped pay my way through college." (04:00)

• Trusting the Plan:
  "It's a testament to trusting your gut, trusting the plan." (20:36)

• Openness to Opportunities:
  "No matter what age you are, no matter what gender you are, if you're capable to judge and you work hard enough to get to that point, you should be given that opportunity." (22:14)

• Inspirational Philosophy:
  "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." (46:53)

• Empowerment Through Others:
  "What empowers me is just making people happy... being proud of people around you." (48:35)

Final Remarks

Kendall's narrative is a testament to the power of perseverance, the significance of mentorship, and the impact of embracing one's passions. Her contributions to the livestock industry continue to inspire and empower individuals striving for excellence.

For those interested in learning more about Kendall Reitzenstein's work or the EmpowerU podcast, stay tuned to future episodes and follow the podcast on its social media platforms.