The Championdrive Podcast: Episode 3.1 - State Fair Season Kickoff with Jimmy Davis + The Essentials

Release Date: July 21, 2025

In Episode 3.1 of The Championdrive Podcast, hosts Kaitlyn Sister Urban and Steva Robinson navigate through the bustling summer activities ahead of the state fair season. The episode features an engaging interview with esteemed sheep judge Jimmy Davis, highlights current Sud Ram showcases, and introduces a new segment focusing on essential products for show lambs. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the episode's key segments and insights.

1. Summer Recap and Personal Stories

The episode begins with Kaitlyn and Steva discussing their summer endeavors, setting a personal tone before diving into the main content.

• Steva’s AI Adventure ([00:45] - [07:25]):

  Steva shares a gripping account of his recent artificial insemination (AI) trip. Facing unexpected hurdles at Lubbock airport, he was abruptly placed on the rental car’s "do not rent" list due to a past insurance claim. Undeterred, Steva secured a last-minute rental, driving 15.5 hours to make it back in time. Reflecting on the ordeal, he remarks, “it worked out and I kind of told myself...we should be good” ([02:01]).

• Kaitlyn’s Rental Car Fiasco ([08:35] - [08:47]):

  Kaitlyn echoes similar frustrations when her rental plans fell through because she didn’t possess a credit card. This shared experience underscores the unpredictability and challenges associated with travel logistics, especially when coordinating critical activities like AI.

Key Takeaway: Both hosts emphasize resilience and adaptability in the face of unforeseen challenges, setting a relatable backdrop for listeners.

2. Interview with Jimmy Davis: A Veteran in Sheep Judging

The heart of the episode features an insightful interview with Jimmy Davis, a renowned sheep judge, breeder, and retired agricultural teacher.

• Background and Career Path ([10:32] - [12:05]):

  Jimmy narrates his journey from growing up on a family farm in Oklahoma to becoming an ag teacher and eventually a prominent sheep judge. Upon retiring after 32 years of teaching, he reflects on the emotional aspects of leaving a long-standing career and the joys of spending more time with his expanding family.

• Evolution of Sheep Showing ([12:23] - [13:19]):

  Discussing the changes in the industry, Jimmy observes significant advancements: “I think the breeders and feeders, showmen have just made so many strides in making animals better” ([12:23]). The competitive landscape has intensified, with more high-quality animals participating in shows.

• Judging Challenges and Experiences ([14:44] - [17:10]):

  Jimmy elaborates on his experiences judging various national shows like Phoenix, Louisville, and Kansas City. He highlights the unique challenges each venue presents, particularly the depth of competition at Kansas City under the American Rule, making placement decisions more stressful ([14:44]).

• Ideal Sheep Characteristics ([22:19] - [23:12]):

  Defining the traits of an ideal show sheep, Jimmy emphasizes structural correctness and soundness: “Bring me a good looking one that really gets out and moves around the ring sound and we'll be in business” ([22:19]).

• Balancing Judging with Personal Operations ([19:22] - [20:55]):

  Jimmy discusses the logistical challenges of managing multiple state fair judging bookings alongside his own breeding and AI schedules. Despite occasional conflicts preventing him from attending certain fairs, he remains committed and optimistic about future opportunities.

• Advice for Show Parents ([27:44] - [29:44]):

  Offering heartfelt advice, Jimmy encourages show parents to “enjoy your time with your kids because man, it goes so fast” and to focus primarily on their animals rather than the judges’ perceptions: “If he doesn't look right, then you're not doing your job” ([18:10]). He underscores perseverance with his favorite quote: “Never give up...if you keep trying, you keep working hard...things are always going to work out for you” ([29:44]).

Key Insights:

• The sheep showing industry has become increasingly competitive and refined.
• Effective judging requires both technical knowledge and the ability to remain composed under pressure.
• Balancing personal breeding operations with professional commitments is challenging but rewarding.

3. Sud Ram Showcases: Highlighting Top Breeds

Transitioning from the interview, Kaitlyn and Steva spotlight current Sud Ram showcases available on ChampionDrive.com, featuring standout rams that breeders should watch:

• Pink Panther: A registered Dorset, RRFF, known as "Cabana boy Lou Amic Slap Shot," bred by Sidwell Show Sheep.

• Head Honcho: A 2.0 Chief Drago, bred and owned by RCE Livestock (Ricky Stevenson and family) in Iowa.

• Chess (Not Checkers): An RRNNFD, full sibling to "What If," bred and owned by Rule Sheep Company.

Encouragement to Listeners: Steva urges breeders to explore the Stud Ram Showcase page for detailed profiles and to stay updated with the latest offerings.

4. Product Spotlight: Essential Feeds' "Foundation"

Introducing a new and valuable segment, Product Spotlight, the hosts delve into Essential Feeds' latest product, "Foundation," through an interview with Dakota Quickle.

• Product Overview ([33:36] - [35:49]):

  Dakota explains that Foundation is designed to enhance gut health and increase feed consumption in show lambs, especially crucial during the high-stress state fair period. Key components include Zenpro (vitamins and minerals), probiotics, and an ionophore that helps lower body temperature and maximize feed conversion.

• Benefits:

  • Improved Gut Health: Enhances probiotic action for better digestion and nutrient absorption.
  • Reproductive Support: Boosts fertility and egg counts in breeding stock.
  • Temperature Regulation: The ionophore component assists in maintaining optimal body temperatures, crucial for animal comfort and performance.

• Availability: Foundation is packaged in 10-pound buckets, accessible via Essential Feeds' website and distributed nationwide through their representatives.

Takeaway: Foundation offers a multifaceted approach to maintaining and improving the health and performance of show lambs, making it a must-have for breeders aiming to excel at state fairs.

5. So You Suck: ChampionDrive's Social Media Packages

Building on listener feedback, Kaitlyn and Steva introduce their "So You Suck" segment, focusing on tailored social media management packages to help breeders enhance their online presence.

• Package Options:

  1. On-Demand Package ([37:13] - [35:49]):

     Perfect for breeders needing polished graphics for specific events or announcements. Clients can purchase packs of graphics and request designs as needed.

  2. Social Media Strategy Package ([35:49] - [42:39]):

     Ideal for those feeling overwhelmed by social media. This package includes a content calendar tailored to the breeder’s goals, three custom graphics, and strategic posting schedules to streamline their online engagement.

  3. Social Media Takeover Package ([35:49] - [42:39]):

     A comprehensive solution where ChampionDrive handles all aspects of social media management, from planning and posting to engagement and analytics, allowing breeders to focus on their core activities without the hassle of managing online content.

• How to Access: Breeders interested in these packages can reach out via updates@noveldesigns.com or call 800-713-50 for more information and pricing.

Key Highlight: These packages are designed to alleviate the stress of social media management, enabling breeders to maintain a professional and engaging online presence effortlessly.

6. Closing Remarks and Final Tips

As the episode concludes, the hosts offer final thoughts and reminders to their listeners:

• Daily Updates: Listeners are encouraged to visit ChampionDrive.com daily for the latest updates on state fairs, show results, and new content.

• Kindness to Volunteers: Steva emphasizes the importance of treating results getters with respect, acknowledging their role in providing valuable support during the intense state fair season: “Just make sure you're nice to them. And good luck to everyone” ([43:52]).

Final Thought: Emphasizing community and mutual support, the hosts remind breeders to remain courteous and appreciative of the volunteers who play a crucial role in the success of state fairs.

Conclusion

Episode 3.1 of The Championdrive Podcast provides a comprehensive look into the world of sheep showing, blending personal experiences with professional insights. The in-depth interview with Jimmy Davis offers valuable perspectives on the evolution and challenges of sheep judging, while the Sud Ram showcases and Product Spotlight segments highlight the latest offerings and innovations in the industry. The introduction of the "So You Suck" social media packages further equips breeders with the tools needed to excel both on the ground and online. Overall, the episode serves as a rich resource for sheep breeders and enthusiasts gearing up for a successful state fair season.