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Joe Merrick
Once Upon The Mountain: Joe Merrick (Ep. 57)

Once Upon The Mountain: Joe Merrick (Ep. 57)

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In this engaging conversation, Billy and Cade interview Joe Merrick, author of ‘Once Upon the Mountain,’ exploring his life growing up around horses, particularly the legendary Easy Jet. Joe shares heartfelt stories about his childhood experiences, the challenges and triumphs of horse racing, and the lessons learned from his father and the racetrack. The discussion also touches on the current state of the racing industry and the importance of preserving its integrity.

Takeaways

  • Joe Merrick’s book captures the essence of horse racing.
  • Growing up around Easy Jet shaped Joe’s life and career.
  • Joe’s father instilled a strong work ethic in him.
  • Easy Jet’s racing career was unprecedented in its success.
  • The transition from racing to breeding was significant for Easy Jet.
  • Integrity in horse racing is a pressing concern today.
  • Joe’s experiences highlight the bond between humans and horses.

 

About our Guest:

As the son of AQHA Hall of Fame member Walter Merrick, Joe Merrick was a 12-year old during the legendary run of his fathers trainee in 1969, and has written a book that gives the account of those events in 1969 from the perspective of the pre-teenage adolescent.

The AQHA Hall of Fame runner and sire Easy Jet rattled out an epic two-year old campaign in 1969 that saw the son of Jet Deck score 22-victories from a lofty 26-starts as a two year-old.  During that run in 1969,  Easy Jet qualified, and claimed victories in the Blue Ribbon Futurity, Columbus Triple Crown Futurity, Lubbock Downs, Futurity, Laddie Stakes at Centennial Park, Rocky Mountain QHA Futurity, All American Congress Futurity,  Sunland Park Fall Futurity, Kansas Futurity, and the All American Futurity at Ruidoso Downs.

 

Link to buy the book below!

Connect with Joe Merrick

About our Guest:

As the son of AQHA Hall of Fame member Walter Merrick, Joe Merrick was a 12-year old during the legendary run of his fathers trainee in 1969, and has written a book that gives the account of those events in 1969 from the perspective of the pre-teenage adolescent.

The AQHA Hall of Fame runner and sire Easy Jet rattled out an epic two-year old campaign in 1969 that saw the son of Jet Deck score 22-victories from a lofty 26-starts as a two year-old.  During that run in 1969,  Easy Jet qualified, and claimed victories in the Blue Ribbon Futurity, Columbus Triple Crown Futurity, Lubbock Downs, Futurity, Laddie Stakes at Centennial Park, Rocky Mountain QHA Futurity, All American Congress Futurity,  Sunland Park Fall Futurity, Kansas Futurity, and the All American Futurity at Ruidoso Downs.

 

Link to Similar Episodes:

Cody Jensen’s Winning Formula in Horse Racing (Ep. 39)

From Jockey to Media Star: Zoe Cadman’s Journey (EP. 52)

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NYRA Horse Racing Andrew Offerman
The Thrill of the Race: Insights from Andrew Offerman (Ep. 56)

The Thrill of the Race: Insights from Andrew Offerman (Ep. 56)

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Billy Peterson and Cade Peterson discuss the current state of horse racing with Andrew Offerman, Senior Vice President of Racing at the New York Racing Association. They discuss the excitement surrounding major races like the Belmont Stakes, the challenges of hosting events at alternate venues, and the importance of engaging younger audiences through influencers and educational initiatives. The discussion also touches on the emotional highs and lows of racing, the economic impact of the industry, and the need for transparency and integrity in the sport. Andrew shares insights on how to get involved in horse racing, whether as a fan or an owner, and the efforts being made to simplify betting for newcomers.

Takeaways

  • The Belmont Stakes is a significant event with a unique history.
  • Hosting major races at alternate venues presents challenges.
  • Horse racing is experiencing a resurgence in popularity.
  • Influencers can attract a new audience to the sport.
  • Every race win is a special experience for participants.
  • Youth engagement is crucial for the future of racing.
  • The economic impact of horse racing is substantial.
  • Transparency and integrity in racing are essential.
  • There are various pathways to get involved in horse racing.

About our Guest:

Andrew Offerman | SVP, Racing and Operations

As Senior Vice President of Racing and Operations, Andrew Offerman is responsible for the leadership and oversight of racing functions at NYRA including the development, planning, and execution of NYRA’s stakes program, marquee events and live racing offerings at Aqueduct Racetrack, Saratoga Race Course and, when complete, the new Belmont Park. Additionally, he oversees several of NYRA’s general frontside operating departments including mutuels, parking, programs, security and cleaning.Prior to NYRA, Offerman served as Senior Vice President of Racing Operations at Canterbury Park in Shakopee, Minnesota. In this role, he was responsible for the direct oversight of Canterbury’s racing office, wagering, track maintenance, security and other operational departments supporting live and simulcast racing operations. Offerman holds an advisory and governance position with the University of Arizona Race Track Industry Program (RTIP) Advisory Committee and previously served in similar capacities with the Thoroughbred Racing Associations of North America (TRA); American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Racing Committee, and the Thoroughbred & Quarter Horse Breeders’ Fund Advisory Committees of the Minnesota Racing Commission. A native of Minneapolis, Offerman earned an M.S. degree from the University of Arizona Race Track Industry Program (RTIP) and holds a B.A. from Gustavus Adolphus College.

 

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Harnessing Your Wealth with Billy Petrson
Honoring a Legacy: The Sam Thompson Memorial Foundation with Laura Joiner (EP 54)

Honoring a Legacy: The Sam Thompson Memorial Foundation with Laura Joiner (EP 54)

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In this episode, Laura Joiner discusses the Sam Thompson Memorial Foundation, which she leads in honor of her friend, the late Sam Thompson, a jockey who tragically passed away after a racing accident. The foundation initially aimed to cover Sam’s medical expenses but has since expanded to support injured riders and others in the horse racing community. Laura shares the foundation’s growth, scholarship initiatives, challenges in running a nonprofit, and the impact of their work on individuals and families in need. She emphasizes the importance of community involvement and helping others.

Takeaways

  • The foundation was founded to support Sam Thompson’s medical expenses.
  • Sam Thompson’s legacy continues to inspire and drive the foundation’s mission.
  • It has grown to support injured riders and others in the horse racing community.
  • Scholarship initiatives have become a significant part of the foundation’s work and the foundation has awarded over 275 scholarships to date.
  • Community involvement is crucial for the foundation’s success.
  • The foundation aims to create an endowment for sustainable support.

Previous Episodes of Interest:

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 About our Guest: 

Laura has been involved in the race horse industry since the day she was born. Previously, she and her husband (Cody Joiner) operated Circle CJ Racing, LLC. Today they are involved in breeding and racing not only quarter horses but also thoroughbreds.

Sam was not only a rider in their stable, but a close friend as well. Laura wants to put smiles on the faces of those who are in need in our industry, just as Sam did to everyone he touched. Laura has been with the foundation since the very beginning and plans to continue helping it grow larger than they ever dreamed.

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Billy Peterson Harnessing Your Wealth
Chapter 10: A Time to Sell – Is this one of those times? (EP 53)

Chapter 10: A Time to Sell – Is this one of those times? (EP 53)

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In this episode, Billy takes the hot seat as his son Cade interviews him about key concepts from his book, focusing on market volatility, goal funding in retirement, emotional investing, tax strategies, and performance-based selling. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding market dynamics and making informed decisions rather than reacting emotionally to market fluctuations. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the implications of wealth loss, government accountability, and the importance of long-term investing strategies. They emphasize the need for taxpayers to be aware of government actions and the impact of economic decisions on personal finances. The discussion also highlights Warren Buffett’s investment strategies and the significance of patience in investing, particularly during market downturns.

Takeaways

  • Market volatility can create both opportunities and challenges for investors.
  • Rebalancing is essential to maintain your original investment allocation.
  • Goal funding is crucial for retirement planning and should be approached strategically.
  • Capitulation often leads to poor investment decisions driven by fear and greed.

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Zoe Cadman Former Jockey and Current TV Analyst
From Jockey to Media Star: Zoe Cadman’s Journey (EP. 52)

From Jockey to Media Star: Zoe Cadman’s Journey (EP. 52)

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Billy Peterson, Cade Peterson and Zoe Cadman discuss Zoe’s Journey into broadcasting and the role of media in horse racing. Check out this episode as they discuss the art of selecting racehorses, the value of underdogs, and the emerging talent among jockeys. The discussion also touches on the challenges facing horse racing today and the journey of retired racehorses, highlighting personal connections and experiences in the equestrian world.

They discuss:

  • Zoe Cadman transition from a jockey to a media role.
  • Engaging events are crucial to attract younger fans to racing.
  • Safety measures in racing have improved with HISA.
  • And more

About Zoe Cadman

Zoe Cadman is host and analyst for XBTV, Santa Anita Park and 1/ST Racing. Born in South Africa and raised in England, Zoe came to America and worked for trainers Michael Dickinson, Christopher Speckert and Mike Stidham prior to taking out her jockey’s license in 2000. She became the first female rider in Chicago history to win a meet riding title when she won the spring 2001 Hawthorne title. In 2008, Zoe relocated to Santa Anita to work with HRTV until 2015, when she began her current broadcast role with XBTV, Santa Anita Park and 1/ST Racing.

Previous Episodes of Interest:

Resources & Previous Episodes of Interest:

Santa Anita Park 

Connect with Zoe Cadman
• Instagram: ZoeCadman_
• 1/ST Things 1/ST, Presented by Santa Anita

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Grit, Resilience and Unity that Define a Utah Mountain Town with Mayor Ben Nadolski (EP 51)

Grit, Resilience and Unity that Define a Utah Mountain Town with Mayor Ben Nadolski (EP 51)

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In this episode, Billy Petersen interviews Ben Nadolski, the Mayor of Ogden, Utah. They discuss Ben’s unique journey from a career in wildlife management to politics, the challenges of public scrutiny, and the importance of mental toughness and resilience in leadership. Ben shares insights on the human side of leadership, the significance of hard work, and the impact of surrounding oneself with the right people. The conversation also touches on Ben’s day-to-day responsibilities as mayor and the current projects he is focused on. In this conversation, they discusses the importance of collaboration in leadership, emphasizing the need for all departments to work together to achieve common goals. The mayor talks about the ‘Ogden Way,’ which focuses on community accountability and the role of government in supporting citizens without overstepping.

Billy, Shaun and Ben discuss

  • Ben Nadolski transitioned from wildlife management to becoming the Mayor of Ogden.
  • Ben emphasizes the value of critical thinking over party lines.
  • Surrounding yourself with supportive people is crucial for success.
  • Local politics focus on community impact rather than national issues.
  • Energy and mindset significantly affect leadership effectiveness.
  • And more

About Our Guest: 

Mayor Nadolski took office on January 2, 2024, bringing with him a breadth and depth of experience to the office, including two terms on the Ogden City Council, and a 23-year career with the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR). Nadolski was instrumental in the inception and implementation of the Ogden River Restoration Project; a $6-million project in Ogden, Utah, that transformed a blighted and polluted river into a Blue Ribbon Fishery that paved the way for a surge in recreational use and community and economic development for Ogden City.

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Chris Petersen Country Singer from America's Got Tlent
From Small Town to Country Music Star with Chris Petersen (Ep. 50)

From Small Town to Country Music Star with Chris Petersen (Ep. 50)

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Billy and Shaun sit down and catch up with Chris Petersen and explore the unique journey from a small town to becoming a country music star, and the challenges he faced in overcoming his fear of singing. Chris Petersen is a country music artist, storyteller, and cowboy at heart. His 2019 album, Cowboy Coming Home, debuted in the Top 10 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart, and his 2023 song, Horse People, has amassed tens of millions of views across social media and streaming platforms. Known for his heartfelt lyrics and authentic style, Chris has performed on prominent stages, including Season 15 of America’s Got Talent, connecting with audiences across the country.
Beyond music, Chris has built a career as a professional photographer, videographer, and creator. Through his business, Diehard Productions, he has worked with major brands like Under Armour, RAM Trucks, and Tony Lama Boots. Chris and his wife, McKensie also host creative workshops for photographers and videographers, where they inspire others to capture the beauty of the western lifestyle. Whether on stage, behind the camera, or in the saddle, Chris Petersen is dedicated to preserving and sharing the spirit of the West.

Takeaways

  • Overcoming fear is a significant step in pursuing one’s passion.
  • Family influence can shape one’s career path in unexpected ways.
  • Setting goals and manifesting dreams can lead to unexpected opportunities.
  • The cowboy lifestyle teaches valuable life lessons and values.
  • Music is a language that can connect people across different backgrounds.

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Navigating the Economic Landscape of 2025 (EP 47)

Navigating the Economic Landscape of 2025 (EP 47)

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In this episode, Billy and Shaun discuss the economic outlook for 2025, focusing on potential slowdowns, the role of the Federal Reserve, market volatility, and the impact of political policies under the Trump administration. They analyze the current economic indicators, including inflation, consumer spending, and the national debt, while emphasizing the importance of financial literacy and investment strategies for navigating the changing economic landscape.

Takeaways

  • Expect a slowdown in the economy in 2025.
  • The Federal Reserve’s actions will significantly impact on the markets.
  • Market volatility is anticipated, with more corrections expected.
  • The national debt is a growing concern with no clear solution.
  • Consumer spending is showing signs of decline, indicating economic stress.
  • The wealth gap is widening, creating two separate economies.
  • Interest rates and inflation are closely linked to the money supply.
  • Political changes under the Trump administration may influence economic policies.
  • Financial literacy is crucial for future generations.
  • Investors should remain diversified and prepared for market fluctuations.

Chapters

00:00 Economic Outlook for 2025

10:39 The Role of the Federal Reserve

20:56 Market Volatility and Investment Strategies

26:46 Political Landscape and Economic Policies

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Real Stories of Fraud and Embezzlement – Part 2 (Ep. 46)

Real Stories of Fraud and Embezzlement – Part 2 (Ep. 46)

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Fraudsters stole a staggering $10 billion in 2023. Even more shocking? Over 2.4 million reports of fraudulent activity flooded the FBI Complaints Center.

In Part 2 of this series, Billy and Shaun dive deeper into these alarming schemes, with a focus on scams targeting the elderly. Discover how fraudsters meticulously research their victims and employ manipulative tactics to execute their schemes. Billy and Shaun unpack the most common scams, reveal their inner workings, and share actionable tips to help you recognize red flags and stay one step ahead. 

Arm yourself with the knowledge to stay safe as this episode covers:

  • Common scams and their most frequent targets
  • The shocking $10 billion lost to scams in 2023
  • Heartbreaking stories, including the infamous “grandparent scam”
  • How scammers exploit personal details obtained from your social media
  • Identifying fake tech support, government imposters, and phishing emails
  • Practical tips to safeguard yourself and stay alert
  • And more

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Real Stories of Fraud and Embezzlement (Ep. 45)

Real Stories of Fraud and Embezzlement (Ep. 45)

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Meet Tricia Justice, a longtime client with a powerful cautionary tale about misplaced trust, overlooked warning signs, and the devastating impact of financial fraud. In 2010, Tricia made the life-altering decision to entrust 70% of her hard-earned savings to a seemingly credible and highly recommended Wall Street financial advisor. With help from the team at Peterson Wealth Services, Tricia discovered that her financial advisor was running a Ponzi scheme and misusing her funds to finance his lavish lifestyle. 

Plus, Billy and Shaun provide other stories of fraudulent activity and scams and highlight why skepticism and sound advice are crucial in today’s investment world. You won’t want to miss this episode!

Critical takeaways include:

  • The importance of researching and interviewing multiple financial advisors 
  • Helpful credential tools to verify fiduciary responsibilities
  • Warning signs and red flags of fraud and scams
  • How and why affluent investors are often targeted in financial scams
  • The role of scammers and psychological manipulators and how you can protect yourself
  • And more

Tricia Justice is a client of Peterson Wealth and is not being compensated for sharing their opinion and experience with our firm. Any compensation creates a conflict of interest and Tricia Justice’s comments may not be representative of any other person’s experience with the firm.

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