Few names in the horse world carry the respect that Craig Cameron does. A Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame inductee, world-renowned clinician, and five-time EXCA World Champion, Craig has spent decades helping horsemen build confident, willing partners instead of simply creating obedient horses. Joining him is his son Cole Cameron, trainer, competitor, and former Texas A&M football player turned professional horseman.

In this episode, we sit down with both Craig and Cole to talk about the philosophy that has shaped thousands of horses—and horsemen.

We discuss:

• Why trust comes before performance
• Building a foundation that works in any discipline
• Cross-training horses with obstacles, trails, cattle, and arena work
• Knowing when a horse should become a cow horse, rope horse, or trail horse
• The importance of slowing down instead of rushing progress
• Cole's journey from Texas A&M football to professional horsemanship
• Craig's career in bull riding, clinics, and the Calgary Stampede
• How great trainers develop confidence instead of forcing results

Whether you're starting your first colt or have spent decades in the saddle, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and timeless horsemanship.

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Craig Cameron

Cole Cameron

Five-time World Champion bullfighter Rob Smets joins the Black Knuckle Ranch Podcast to share the incredible journey that made him one of the most respected names in rodeo.

Rob takes us from his childhood growing up around the world, to discovering rodeo, earning his PRCA card as a teenager, and shocking the sport by winning the Cow Palace and the U.S. Cowboy Bullfighting Championship during his rookie season. Along the way, he shares the mindset, preparation, and split-second decision making that separates great bullfighters from everyone else.

We also dive into:

• How boxing, football, and rugby shaped his bullfighting style
• Why bullfighting is far more technical than most people realize
• The psychology behind protecting bull riders
• The physical and mental cost of a career in the arena
• Funny stories from the road—including how one of his bulls got the name "Blackberry"
• Teaching the next generation through the Rob Smets Bullfighting School
• What it really takes to become a professional in one of rodeo's most dangerous jobs

Whether you're a lifelong rodeo fan or just want to hear from someone who's spent a lifetime competing at the highest level, this episode is packed with stories, wisdom, and laughs.