Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Podcast – Episode 2

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Episode two of our three-part series on the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is live and we’re taking a deep dive into the rodeo this week! You can check out the start of the series by heading over to the Black Barrel website.

First, you’ll hear from the Managing Director of Sports and Events Presentations, Catherine Schultz. Her title quite simply means she runs the rodeo. We talked about some of the unique features of Rodeo Houston; the realities of life as a rodeo athlete; and some of her favorite memories of the event.

And then stick around for a fun interview with five-time world champion steer wrestler, and past Rodeo Houston champion, Luke Branquinho. We hit a ton of topics including, the importance of keeping the cowboy lifestyle alive; the unique partnership between a steer wrestler and his horse; and some of the strangest things that have happened to him in a competition, as well as much more.

These interviews were taped in NRG Stadium, so you might hear a little sound check background noise from time to time. And, in Luke’s interview, he refers to the venue of his first experience at Rodeo Houston in 2000. A reminder, he’s talking about the Astrodome, not NRG Stadium.

Make sure to check out the full story on what happens in this episode of Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo.

To find out how this podcast started, check out Legends of the Old West Podcast, or listen & subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Visit Black Barrel Media ( https://www.blackbarrelmedia.com/podcasts ) to discover their new series “Infamous America.” Their new podcast series explores the wildest and darkest chapters of American history. Season One features the tale of the Salem witch trials.

Now playing: Bonus Season — Houston Rodeo

Danny O'Donnell

Danny co-founded Cowboy Lifestyle Network (CLN), now a western media powerhouse with over 4 million fans. CLN’s success reflects his deep understanding of the western community—not just its spirit, but its economic heartbeat—connecting businesses, events, and enthusiasts in a thriving industry. With this massive reach, Danny has become a trusted voice on rodeo culture, horse care, and Western traditions, covering events from the Houston Livestock Show to the Super Bowl Party Trophy Bar. His journey to building this platform began in Arizona, where he spent eight years in Pinal County’s 4-H program, learning ranching by caring for lambs and getting to know the land like an old friend. At Arizona State University, Danny shone as a two-time "All American" diver and team captain, graduating with a business degree that sparked his entrepreneurial drive. After a decade in corporate management sharpening his leadership skills, he launched CLN. "Giving back has always mattered to me," Danny shares. His support for Horses Help, Harris Brothers Charity Foundation, and a 25-year CLN Christmas Toy Drive proves it, building community trust through action.