The Championdrive Podcast: Episode 2.15 - O.Y.E. Time with Tyler Norvell & Vince McGolden

Release Date: March 11, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 2.15 of The Championdrive Podcast, hosts Kaylin Sister Urban and Steva Robinson delve deep into the world of the Oklahoma Youth Expo (O.Y.E.) with esteemed guests Tyler Norvell and Vince McGolden. This episode offers a comprehensive look into the intricacies of O.Y.E., the challenges faced by livestock events, and the impactful roles played by industry leaders in shaping the future of youth involvement in agriculture.

Interview with Vince McGolden

Background and Career in Agriculture

Vince McGolden, a longstanding advocate in the agricultural sector, shares his rich background and journey within the industry. Growing up in Amber, Oklahoma, Vince's passion for agriculture was ignited through his involvement in FFA and livestock judging. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship and surrounding oneself with knowledgeable individuals to foster success.

Vince McGolden [16:52]: "The more experience you get in life, the wiser you are... it's all about good people and people that work ethic. People have honesty and integrity, really."

Role in Oklahoma Youth Expo (O.Y.E.)

As a pivotal figure in O.Y.E., Vince discusses the organization's evolution since its inception in 2002. Originally struggling with volunteer fatigue and funding, O.Y.E. transformed into a robust 501C3 nonprofit, significantly expanding its reach and impact. This year marks a bittersweet milestone as O.Y.E. transitions from the historic "Big House" to a new state fair arena.

Vince McGolden [20:21]: "This year will be the 110th edition of the spring livestock show in Oklahoma City... but this will be the last year that we have O.Y.E. in the Big House."

Challenges Faced: The Impact of COVID-19

Vince recounts the harrowing experience of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the abrupt shutdown of the livestock show. The emotional toll was immense, with many participants distraught over the cancellation. However, O.Y.E. adapted by raising funds to support affected seniors and expanding their operations to other states, ensuring the organization's resilience and continued support for youth.

Vince McGolden [24:03]: "It was the worst thing I've been involved in... but we were able to adapt and overcome like we have done time and time again."

Building and Leading the O.Y.E. Team

Vince highlights the dedicated team behind O.Y.E., from board members like Bob Funk and Jimmy Harrell to operational leaders like Cass Newell and Bray Haven. Their collective effort ensures the smooth execution of events and the continuous growth of the expo. Additionally, Vince underscores the importance of having staff who have firsthand experience with livestock shows, fostering a more empathetic and efficient management style.

Vince McGolden [27:12]: "Cass, she's the backbone of that office... Jacob Sanderson has come on board. He's director of Livestock data."

Youth Involvement and Internships

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the role of interns and youth in O.Y.E. Vince emphasizes that involvement in livestock shows and internships provides invaluable life skills, such as teamwork, work ethic, and resilience. These experiences not only benefit the individuals but also strengthen the agricultural community as a whole.

Vince McGolden [33:57]: "When these employers call me... the first list I have cast go to to recommend me names or me to look at names is the intern list or the Oale list from Hawaii or Congress."

Balancing Family and Professional Responsibilities

Vince candidly shares the challenges of balancing his professional duties with family commitments. As a dedicated father, he strives to support his children's involvement in livestock shows while fulfilling his responsibilities at O.Y.E. This delicate balance underscores the interconnectedness of personal and professional life within the agricultural community.

Vince McGolden [35:10]: "I try as much as I can to be around when the girls show and be supportive of them... It takes, as you know, it takes a village."

Advice to Show Parents and Youth

Drawing from his extensive experience, Vince offers heartfelt advice to show parents and young exhibitors. He stresses the importance of teaching children to handle both success and failure gracefully, emphasizing integrity, hard work, and the value of constructive feedback over blame.

Vince McGolden [39:56]: "We can't go out there and talk to our kids about it and run judges down to our kids because then they become us... it's okay to lose because we're going to lose a lot more than we win."

Personal Anecdotes and Memorable Moments

Vince shares touching personal stories, including the bittersweet moments of announcing the COVID-19 shutdown and celebrating his daughters' achievements in livestock shows. These narratives highlight the emotional and communal aspects of participating in O.Y.E., reinforcing the organization's mission to support youth through agriculture.

Vince McGolden [38:15]: "Madeline showed her first animal, a miniature Hereford, in the summer of 2014... it's just something I hope every parent gets to experience."

Sheep Breeding and Agricultural Practices

The episode also delves into modern sheep breeding practices, discussing the transition from natural breeding to artificial insemination (AI) and embryo transfer (ET). Vince and Tyler explore the genetic advancements and selective breeding strategies that have refined livestock quality, ensuring competitiveness in show circuits.

Vince McGolden [66:34]: "AI and the embryo deal has made it that much better... you really got to be cautious of the dwarfs."

Stud Ram Showcases and Sales Highlights

Towards the end of the episode, hosts highlight various stud ram showcases and upcoming sales, providing listeners with valuable information on new and noteworthy livestock available for purchase. This segment serves as a beneficial resource for breeders and enthusiasts looking to enhance their flocks.

Conclusion

Episode 2.15 of The Championdrive Podcast offers an in-depth exploration of the Oklahoma Youth Expo through the eyes of Vince McGolden and Tyler Norvell. The discussion sheds light on the foundational changes, challenges, and triumphs of O.Y.E., emphasizing the organization's pivotal role in fostering youth engagement and excellence in the livestock industry. With heartfelt anecdotes and expert insights, this episode serves as an inspiring guide for current and aspiring participants in agricultural youth programs.

Notable Quotes:

• Steva Robinson [02:06]: "This is the last year in the Big House. Right. And isn't that what you call it?"
• Vince McGolden [16:52]: "It's all about good people and people that work ethic. People have honesty and integrity, really."
• Vince McGolden [33:57]: "When these employers call me... the first list I have cast go to to recommend me names... is the intern list."
• Vince McGolden [39:56]: "You can't go out there and talk to our kids about it and run judges down to our kids because then they become us."
• Vince McGolden [41:02]: "Absolutely, that's the way it should be."
• Vince McGolden [82:58]: "You couldn't climb the ladder of success with your hands in your pockets."

For more insights and updates on livestock shows, breeding, and youth involvement in agriculture, visit ChampionDrive.com.