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About CLN Author:
Jodi Erpelding

Author Biography

I grew up on a Midwest farm with dirt under my fingernails and the sound of wind rustling through cornfields. My childhood was all about 4H – raising pigs and horses, learning to bake and sew, and discovering the magic of transforming a garden into jars of summer sunshine. Those years taught me the value of hard work, the thrill of seeing a project through to the end, and the simple joy of creating something beautiful. A country girl with a need for speed and a thirst for adventure. Maybe that's why I love the feeling of wind in my hair – whether I'm cruising down a dusty road on my Harley or tackling a mountain trail on my trusty mountain bike. Some of my earliest memories of rodeo are watching my father compete at small local events. That's also where my love for country music comes in – long car rides listening to 8 tracks. The lyrics and melodies always spoke to my soul. These days, you'll find me cheering on the cowboys and cowgirls at rodeos, two-stepping to my favorite bands, belting out a country tune at a concert or sharing stories and laughter with friends around a bonfire. When I'm not soaking up the country life and getting my boots dirty, I'm a nurse, caring for folks in my community. Follow along for more stories from the heart of rodeo and country life!

CLN Stories By Jodi Erpelding

The Hondo Rodeo Fest presented by Chevrolet and Valley Chevy Dealers

The whole month, told well.

A free monthly email, read across Arizona and the West

Every story we publish. Rodeo, country music, and the people behind the Western lifestyle. Plus first word when something big is coming.

Boot Barn presents the Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway, Nov 23-29 2026 at WestWorld of Scottsdale. Get tickets.