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What happens when curiosity leads you away from one of America's most restrictive religious communities? When Stephen Haste sits down with Enus Raber (known online as "The Amish Rebel"), we're treated to a fascinating glimpse into a journey few experience: leaving the ultra-conservative Schwarzentruber Amish at age 19 and building a new life in the modern world.

Enus shares captivating stories from his Minnesota childhood in a community where even using a hay baler in the field was considered too progressive. Now living in Texas with his wife (also former Amish) and five children, he navigates two worlds as both a successful construction business owner and a content creator with nearly 70 podcast episodes dedicated to authentic Amish education and supporting others who leave.

The conversation weaves through memorable horse stories, including Enus's favorite team that exemplified perfect teamwork by pulling together rather than against each other - a metaphor he now uses with his own children. Food memories bring both nostalgia and humor, from his mother's roadside baking business to the peculiar tradition of "coffee soup" (essentially a sweet latte with crackers) that horrified non-Amish visitors.

Most compelling is Enus's candid discussion of identity and purpose. After 15 years outside the Amish, he recently completed a challenging 40-day water-only fast seeking spiritual direction, which crystallized his mission to create resources for former Amish individuals. As both men reflect on how technology impacts genuine human connection, we're reminded that meaningful conversations like this one - bringing together seemingly different worlds - carry unexpected wisdom for all of us.

Subscribe to The Amish Rebel Podcast on YouTube under "The Amish Media Group" to hear more authentic stories about Amish life, traditions, and transitions.

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Ever wondered why anyone would choose Texas Longhorns over standard black cattle? Darrell Dickinson, the "Longhorn Legend" himself, reveals how these iconic animals have built his multimillion-dollar empire through unexpected revenue streams that most cattle producers never consider.

At 83 years young, Darrell has transformed his Barnesville, Ohio, ranch into an international Longhorn powerhouse since buying his first six cows and a bull in 1967. While everyone told him he was crazy, that skepticism confirmed he was onto something special. Today, his operation has expanded far beyond just selling breeding stock (though they've sold the highest-priced bulls in history).

What makes Longhorns truly exceptional is their complete utilization potential. When Darrell processes a cow, he doesn't just harvest beef – he transforms the skull into a $6,000 showpiece for European steakhouses and American retailers like Bass Pro Shops. From the horns come 74 different artisanal products. The lean, grass-fed beef yields 34% usable meat compared to only 26% from Angus cattle. Even the tourism aspect generates revenue, with thousands of visitors annually taking narrated ranch tours to see these magnificent creatures up close.

The genetic aspects fascinate Darrell, who likens the breeding process to "a chess game where you're trying to think three pieces in advance." Through careful selection including IQ testing (!), he's developed cattle with exceptional horn growth, striking colors, and adaptable grazing habits that require less land than conventional breeds. His current headliner bull, Jam Box, sports massive 103-inch horns at just six years old.

Looking toward the future, Darrell sees grass-fed Longhorn beef as increasingly important. As concerns mount about feeding human-consumable grain to livestock, Longhorns' ability to thrive on brush, weeds, and marginal pasture positions them perfectly for sustainable ranching.

Ready to start your own Longhorn journey? Visit TexasLonghorn.com to explore Darrell's 14,000-page treasure trove of information, or join one of his upcoming business seminars, where he shares over 90 strategies for Longhorn profitability. As Darrell says, "You don't have to see to your destination – just start with the light you have and keep moving forward."

Check out Darol's Website - https://www.texaslonghorn.com/

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A garden plow turns terrifying in an instant when the earth suddenly opens beneath a team of draft horses in Bedford, Virginia. Hugh Saunders recounts the heart-stopping moment when his beloved Shire horses plunged twelve feet underground through what would later be discovered as a collapsed 116-year-old terracotta pipe.

The rescue operation mobilized the entire community – two backhoes, three veterinarians, and countless neighbors rallied to save the trapped animals. While others urged caution, Hugh insisted on climbing down into the sinkhole with his horses, demonstrating the profound bond between a true teamster and his team. "If they're down here, I'm going to be down here," he explains, embodying the spirit that defines authentic horsemen.

Remarkably, both horses emerged without injuries after a tense two-hour excavation. The incident uncovered not just the horses but pieces of Bedford's hidden history – including a Civil War bullet found during the recovery of lost harness pieces. Hugh reflects on what this experience taught him about community, friendship, and the special relationship between driver and draft horse.

Now driving a Belgian team purchased from host Stephen Haste, Hugh continues his passion for draft horses, regularly appearing in local parades and events that celebrate this traditional way of life. Their conversation explores what it means to face adversity alongside your animals, the value of good neighbors in times of crisis, and the unexpected ways history reveals itself beneath our feet.

Join us for this extraordinary tale of danger, rescue, and the unbreakable bond between a man and his horses. Call Stephen at 606-303-5669 with questions or visit drafthorseandmulesforsale.com to learn more about keeping these traditions alive.

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Ever wondered what it would be like to experience one of America's most pivotal battles the way soldiers did in 1863? Step into the hoofprints of history with Horse Tours of Gettysburg, a family-owned business bringing the Civil War battlefield to life through carriage rides and guided horseback tours.

Doug Stevens, a veteran who served six deployments between Afghanistan and Iraq, founded the company in 2010 as a way to stay connected with horses after sustaining combat injuries. What began as a family operation has blossomed into a thriving business now transitioning to his 6'11" son Spencer and Spencer's girlfriend Jamie, the self-proclaimed "Executive Director of Horseback Riding." Their passion for history, horses, and people creates an experience unlike any other in Gettysburg.

With nine carriage teams and 31 trail horses, the company offers visitors multiple ways to engage with the battlefield's history. Licensed battlefield guides accompany each tour, sharing stories that transport guests back to July 1863 when 34,000 casualties made this the bloodiest battle in North American history. As Jamie explains, "We try to set them up to be safe out there" while ensuring guests gain historical understanding along with their horseback experience.

What sets these tours apart is how they allow guests to experience the battlefield "at the speed of history." Many of the battlefield's wayside markers were designed to be viewed from a carriage, not a car. Guests ride on the same military crests where officers positioned themselves, seeing the landscape through a similar lens as those who fought there. Even more fascinating, some trees that witnessed the battle still contain bullets, occasionally discovered when chainsaws hit metal during maintenance.

In an age dominated by screens and text messages, these tours create space for genuine human connection. As Doug poignantly shares, they once hosted a mother with terminal cancer and her resentful teenage children who transformed from sullen to joyful during their ride, creating lasting memories amid difficult circumstances.

Ready to experience Gettysburg in the most authentic way possible? Book your tour today and discover why thousands of visitors return year after year to see history through the eyes—and from the backs—of horses.

Follow Horse Tours of Gettysburg on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/horsetoursgettysburg/

Check out the website - https://confederatetrails.com/

YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@HorseToursofGettysburg

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Step into the world of working animals with this Fourth of July conversation between Stephen Haste and Andrew, a longtime community member from the east end of Long Island. Against the backdrop of Independence Day preparations, these two passionate "mule men" share stories that reveal why these remarkable animals continue to capture hearts across America.

Andrew brings a wealth of perspective as a military veteran (Army 3rd of the 75th Ranger Battalion) and current telecommunications director planning his retirement to South Fork. His journey with mules began about a decade ago when he discovered their fascinating history—from George Washington's prized "Royal Gift" donkey (whose bloodline runs through every American mule today) to their crucial role in winning World War I by hauling equipment too heavy for horses.

"I want to go out in a field, sit behind an animal, and hear the click-clack of that machine for a couple hours and put my mind at rest," Andrew explains, describing his vision for retirement. After years of managing university campuses and interacting with hundreds of people weekly, he finds profound peace in the companionship of his rescued mule. "My wife says he's my psychologist because when I need to sit and talk to somebody and have them just listen, he'll do that."

The conversation offers listeners a glimpse into the tight-knit draft horse community at Haste Farms, where visitors regularly drop by unannounced and yearly gatherings like the October barbecue create memories that Andrew describes as "the best birthday of my life." Whether you're fascinated by working animals, considering a similar retirement path, or simply enjoy authentic conversations between kindred spirits, this episode demonstrates why these magnificent animals continue to play meaningful roles in modern lives.

Join the Haste community at drafthorsesandmulesforsale.com or call 606-303-5669 with your questions about harness equipment, farm implements, or finding the perfect horse or mule companion.

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What happens when a law enforcement officer and his teenage son discover the world of draft horses? In this heartwarming episode, we're joined by Chris Holley and "Little Chris" from North Carolina as they share their remarkable journey from complete novices to confident teamsters.

Chris, who serves with the Gaston County Sheriff's Office, had never handled draft horses before attending a Brabant Association event where his son first fell in love with these gentle giants. Their story takes off when they attend a customer appreciation barbecue at Haste Draft Horses, where Henry places team lines in Little Chris's hands for the first time. As Chris beautifully puts it, "I saw a different kid" in that moment.

We explore how multiple visits to Kentucky transformed both father and son, culminating in Little Chris becoming a "youth apprentice" at a driving clinic. The progress is remarkable—from nervously handling horses initially to confidently driving teams of Percherons, Belgians, and Halflingers down steep hills independently.

Beyond the technical skills, this conversation reveals something more profound: how draft horses create community. The Holleys describe coming to Kentucky as "visiting family," having formed deep connections with people across the country who share this passion. Their story exemplifies how these magnificent animals bring together people from diverse backgrounds and beliefs.

Whether you're an experienced teamster or someone who's never touched a harness, this episode demonstrates that the draft horse community has room for everyone. As Chris and his son have discovered, sometimes the most unexpected paths lead to the most rewarding destinations.

Ready to experience this community yourself? Join us at our annual customer appreciation event this October 23-25. No experience needed—just bring your curiosity and openness to discover the transformative world of draft horses.

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Meet Victor, a 16-year-old agricultural entrepreneur who's defying odds and building a farming legacy from the ground up. In this heartwarming conversation, we explore how a young man with determination and community support is carving his path in an industry often dominated by corporations and aging farmers.

Victor shares his remarkable journey from joining FFA (Future Farmers of America) to securing personal loans for purchasing his first herd of cattle. Despite early setbacks—losing calves and having to sell underperforming stock—his persistence has paid off. Today, he manages a growing operation with seven mother cows, a bull, and several calves, alongside his prized 1988 Case International tractor purchased through a youth FSA loan.

What makes this story truly special is the rural Kentucky community rallying behind him. Without owning land, Victor has creatively negotiated arrangements to farm others' property, secured equipment borrowing privileges, and gained invaluable mentorship from the Showalter family, who run a local butcher shop and 240-head cattle operation. Their guidance has been instrumental in his development as a young farmer.

Beyond cattle, Victor balances his agricultural pursuits with choir singing, volleyball with friends, and his new YouTube channel "Hidden Valley Cattle," which recently hit 100 subscribers. His wisdom resonates throughout our conversation: "Pick your friends wisely," "keep yourself busy," and "have a personal relationship with the Lord"—advice that reflects maturity beyond his years.

Whether you're a seasoned farmer, an agriculture enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates stories of youthful determination, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on the future of farming. Subscribe, share, and join us for our upcoming barbecue event on October 23-25 at Haste Draft Horses and Mules in Liberty, Kentucky!

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A childhood dream sparked by watching Bonanza, a revolutionary trap design born from wilderness frustration, and a century-old wagon connecting five generations—Kim Harris's story weaves together the threads of innovation, perseverance, and honoring heritage in ways that both surprise and inspire.

From the high plains of Conrad, Montana, Kim shares his journey from custom swathing farmer to inventor of the groundbreaking Centerfire Trap, a design that addressed problems trappers had faced for over 200 years. With candid humor and heartfelt sincerity, he reveals how his obsession with improving wolf trapping led to sleepless nights and eventually, a revolutionary product that changed the industry.

But it's Kim's lifelong dream of owning blue roan draft horses and restoring his grandfather's 1916 Peter Shuttler wagon that truly captures the heart. After preserving this wagon since childhood, Kim details his meticulous restoration project with Doug Hansen of Hansen Wagon Wheel, including plans to recreate his grandfather's journey hauling grain to town—a goal set decades ago in junior high school.

The conversation flows through Kim's experiences acquiring multiple draft horse teams, raising six children, and building connections across geographical boundaries. His story illuminates how these magnificent animals have created lasting friendships and community, including the annual October gathering that brings draft horse enthusiasts together in Kentucky.

Beyond the practical aspects of working with draft horses, this episode explores deeper themes of legacy, family connections, and preserving traditional skills in a rapidly changing world. As Kim reflects, "Everything out there might be different, but it's all the same in here," pointing to the universal values that connect us despite our different backgrounds.

Whether you're a draft horse owner, trapping enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates stories of purpose and passion, this conversation offers both practical insights and emotional resonance. Join us for this remarkable journey spanning generations, geography, and the enduring bond between humans and horses.

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