Podcast Summary: The Championdrive Podcast - Episode 2.17

Title: Similarities between The Masters & Showing Livestock, as well as visits with Representative Mr. Dick Lowe & Ms. LaRay Cox
Host: Championdrive.com
Release Date: April 14, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 2.17 of The Championdrive Podcast, hosts Katelyn Sister Urban and Steva Robinson delve into the parallels between major sporting events and the livestock showing industry. This episode features insightful conversations with Representative Dick Lowe and young exhibitor LaRay Cox, offering listeners a comprehensive view of leadership, education, and dedication within the agricultural community.

Conversation with Representative Dick Lowe

Background and Passion for Livestock Representative Dick Lowe opens the discussion by sharing his deep roots in the livestock industry. He emphasizes the importance of the FFA (Future Farmers of America) and speech contests, highlighting how these platforms help cultivate essential skills in young individuals.

"If you want to get a job, you have to be able to communicate. Communication skills are lacking in today's world" (01:20).

Parallels Between The Masters and Livestock Shows Katelyn introduces a captivating comparison between The Masters Golf Tournament and livestock showing. She narrates the emotional journey of golfer Rory McIlroy's near victories and eventual win, drawing a parallel to the dedication and perseverance required in livestock competitions.

"We put in all this work. No one sees all the work at home that we do in the barn... Sometimes it pays off and sometimes it doesn't." (03:30).

Dick echoes this sentiment, relating it to the importance of stepping out of comfort zones and demonstrating respect within the industry.

"We just expect it to be handed to us is the way I see it. And I don't agree with that." (05:24).

Importance of Respect and Communication Skills The conversation underscores the necessity of basic etiquette in professional settings, such as using polite addresses like "yes, ma'am" or "no, sir." Dick argues that these simple gestures foster respect and open doors for future opportunities.

"If you can say these four sentences, yes, sir, no, sir, yes, ma'am, no, ma'am, someone's gonna hire you" (05:24).

Championing Youth Development Katelyn shares her commitment to nurturing the next generation through livestock showing, emphasizing the broader impact on personal development and leadership skills.

"It's really about the kids... we just have to try to make them better, make that person a better person to serve our state." (05:24).

Representative Katelyn Sister Urban's Journey and Leadership

Career Path and Public Service Katelyn provides an in-depth look into her career, from managing a ranch at a young age to transitioning into education and eventually politics. She serves as the State Representative for House District 56 in Oklahoma, where she chairs the Education Committee.

"I started out working for the Cattle Association right out of college... I've mastered the way policies need to be built on relationships." (11:02).

Balancing Family and Responsibilities Balancing her role requires significant dedication, often limiting time spent with family. Katelyn shares strategies to maintain familial bonds while fulfilling her legislative duties.

"The hardest part of this job for me right now is I got to see my grandkids all three times a year." (52:56).

Educational Initiatives and Goals Katelyn discusses her legislative achievements, including introducing financial literacy into the public school curriculum and ensuring every school has a resource officer. Her ultimate goal is to enhance educational support and safety for Oklahoma's youth.

"My goal is that we help every kid in the state of Oklahoma start progressing education better than we are now." (54:54).

Advice for the Next Generation Emphasizing the importance of communication and public speaking, Katelyn advises young individuals to develop soft skills that are crucial for personal and professional success.

"Learn to communicate well... Those soft skills are missing in your generation." (65:26).

Interview with Young Exhibitor LaRay Cox

Early Involvement and Passion LaRay Cox, a 16-year-old exhibitor from Elgin, Oklahoma, shares her journey in livestock showing, inspired by her sister Kylie. Her dedication and passion have led her to achieve remarkable success at shows.

"If you have a dream, chase it because a dream won't chase you back." (88:28).

Support System and Teamwork LaRay credits her success to her supportive family and mentors, including her parents, AG teacher Mr. Bradshaw, and coach Tyler Rhodes, who have all played pivotal roles in her development.

"My parents... Tyler Rhodes... my brother Kaden, sister Kylie, my grandparents, and my AG teacher, Mr. Bradshaw." (86:46).

Philosophy and Inspiration LaRay emphasizes perseverance, giving her all, and maintaining a positive mindset as key factors in her achievements.

"Always give 100%, always do your best and never let yourself down." (86:21).

Sales and Livestock Updates

The hosts provide updates on various livestock sales and events, highlighting opportunities for breeders and exhibitors:

• Fisher Club Lambs: Partnering with Wixom Show Lambs, featuring Chill/Idaho and Jar Jar sired lambs. Sale date: April 14th.
• McLennans Sales: Combined online Ulam and weather sale with Elon Splitter and Blood Brother sired lambs. Delivery available for Oklahoma sales.
• Hobbs Show Lambs: February ET weather sale on April 15th in Newton, Kansas, featuring 25 lots from prominent sires like Trace and Don Juan.
• Alan Newcomb’s Open House: April 16-19 in Amber, Texas, showcasing Bucklanders and other premium lambs.

Conclusion

Episode 2.17 of The Championdrive Podcast offers a blend of inspirational stories, practical advice, and industry updates. From Representative Katelyn Sister Urban's dedication to education and youth development to LaRay Cox's impressive achievements in livestock showing, listeners gain valuable insights into the intersections of agriculture, leadership, and personal growth. The episode concludes with actionable updates on upcoming sales and events, ensuring that the agricultural community remains well-informed and connected.

Notable Quotes:

• "If you want to get a job, you have to be able to communicate. Communication skills are lacking in today's world." – Dick Lowe (01:20)
• "We put in all this work. No one sees all the work at home that we do in the barn... Sometimes it pays off and sometimes it doesn't." – Dick Lowe (03:30)
• "If you can say these four sentences, yes, sir, no, sir, yes, ma'am, no, ma'am, someone's gonna hire you." – Dick Lowe (05:24)
• "Learn to communicate well... Those soft skills are missing in your generation." – Katelyn Sister Urban (65:26)
• "Always give 100%, always do your best and never let yourself down." – LaRay Cox (86:21)
• "If you have a dream, chase it because a dream won't chase you back." – LaRay Cox (88:28)

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and inspirational moments from Episode 2.17, providing listeners and newcomers alike with a clear understanding of the episode's content and its relevance to the show lamb industry and beyond.