In this very first episode of Next-Gen Thoroughbred Podcast, your hosts Tanner Reisman and Timothy Schmidt introduce themselves, share their backgrounds in the Thoroughbred industry, and lay out the vision behind the podcast.
We talk about what inspired us to launch this show, what listeners can expect in future episodes, and why we’re passionate about shining a light on the people shaping the future of Thoroughbred racing and breeding.
Whether you’re a young professional, a lifelong fan, or just curious about life behind the scenes, this is your all-access pass to the real stories of the industry.
Episode 1: Welcome to Next-Gen Thoroughbred
In this episode of the Next- Gen Thoroughbred Podcast, Tanner sits down with Annise Montplaisir, co-founder and executive director of Amplify Horse Racing. Growing up near Fargo, North Dakota, Annise's passion for Thoroughbred racing ignited after watching the movie Ruffian in 2007. Her journey took her from 4-H Horse Projects to internships at Canterbury Park, the American Quarter Horse Association, and The Saratoga Special, culminating in her acceptance into the prestigious Godolphin Flying Start program .
Annise shares how her diverse experiences led to the creation of Amplify Horse Racing in 2019, an organization dedicated to amplifying education, mentorship, and career opportunities for young people in the Thoroughbred industry. We delve into her vision for making the sport more accessible and inclusive, and how Amplify is paving the way for the next generation of racing professionals.
Episode 3- Changing the track: The Movement Behind Amplify Horse Racing
In this episode, Tim and Tanner sit down to get real about what it’s actually like to break into the Thoroughbred world when you’re new, young, and trying to find your place. From intimidating first days on the farm to navigating networking as a newcomer, we’re talking about the wins, the roadblocks, and the little things that no one tells you—but everyone goes through.
Episode 4- Breaking In: What No One Tells You About Starting in the Thoroughbred Industry
In this episode of Next Gen Thoroughbred, we sit down with Matt Scull, founder of First Rodeo Racing, to talk about what it really takes to build a Thoroughbred operation from the ground up — without a big-name legacy or a traditional playbook.
Matt shares the real behind-the-scenes of launching a stable as a newcomer, the importance of staying authentic in a legacy-driven sport, and what motivates him to carve out space for fresh voices in the industry. From lessons learned to what keeps him going, this conversation is for anyone chasing something bigger than themselves.
If you’ve ever dreamed of doing it your own way — this one’s for you.
Episode 5- Off and Running: The First Rodeo Racing Story
Episode 6- Captured Moments: Racing, Reflection, and the Launch of Next-Gen Thoroughbred Photography
This week, Tanner and Tim take you inside their experience covering Stephen Foster Day at Churchill Downs — not just as fans, but as credentialed media representing Next-Gen Thoroughbred. From the grandstand to the paddock, they share the standout races, personal takeaways, and the unforgettable behind-the-scenes moments that rarely make the broadcast.
But this episode isn't just about what happened on the track — it marks a major moment for the podcast itself: the official launch of Next-Gen Thoroughbred Photography. This new branch of the brand is focused on capturing the soul of the industry through storytelling imagery — the grit, the heart, and the unscripted moments that define Thoroughbred racing today.
To close things out, they introduce a new weekly segment: The Highlight Reel — spotlighting a horse, human, or moment each week that embodies the spirit of the next generation in racing.
Whether you’re tuning in for the stories, the visuals, or the vision, this episode frames where we’ve been — and where we’re head
In this special father-son episode, we sit down with legendary bloodstock advisor Bernie Sams and his son Bernie Sams III to talk about legacy, leadership, and the evolution of Thoroughbred breeding. From Bernie’s decades-long career at Claiborne Farm to launching his own bloodstock company, and now working alongside his son, this conversation bridges the past, present, and future of the industry.
We explore how knowledge gets passed down, how the younger generation is making its mark, and why the future of Thoroughbred racing depends on mentorship and forward thinking. Whether you're just starting out or have deep roots in the sport, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and generational wisdom you won’t want to miss.
Episode 7- From Generation to Generation: The Sams Story
Sara Gordon, Social Media Manager for Thoroughbred Daily News, shares her background in the horse industry and discussed her approach to creating content for TDN's social media platforms. She emphasizes the importance of transparency, careful content selection, and attracting new audiences to horse racing through engaging social media content. Gordon offers advice for young people interested in working in the industry, discusses the importance of connecting people with horses, and shared details about her work schedule and upcoming projects at TDN.
Episode 8- Capturing The Soul Of The Sport: With Sara Gordon
In this episode of the Next-Gen Thoroughbred Podcast we sit down with Christon Jackson — a rising force in the racing and bloodstock world. A Lexington native with early roots in Arabians and Saddlebreds, Christon’s journey back to the horse industry was anything but ordinary. From working the Fasig-Tipton Night of the Stars sale to gaining hands-on experience with global players in Australia to Todd Pletcher’s Barn in Saratoga Christon has carved out a unique path.
Now serving as Buyer Liaison for Taylor Made and a partner in First Rodeo Racing, he shares his insights on yearling prep, navigating sales, and making the most of every opportunity in the industry. Whether you're new to the game or chasing your next big break, this episode delivers a fresh perspective from someone helping shape the future of racing, from the shedrow to sales rings.
Episode 9- The Long Way Home: Christon Jacksons Next Gen Path
Episode 10-Redemption Through Racing: Christian Countzler and the Mission of Stable Recovery
In this powerful episode, we sit down with Christian Countzler, CEO and founder of Stable Recovery, to explore how the structure and rhythm of the Thoroughbred industry are helping rebuild lives.
A former addict turned equine entrepreneur, Christian opens up about his personal journey from rock bottom to building a residential recovery program centered around care, consistency, and connection through horses. From the early days of Stable Recovery to its growing impact on the lives of men in treatment, this conversation dives deep into the healing power of responsibility, the lessons horses teach us, and the hope that emerges in the barn.
Whether you’re passionate about racing, recovery, or second chances, this episode delivers a heartfelt reminder of the purpose behind the sport.
In this week’s episode of the Next-Gen Thoroughbred Podcast, we sit down with veteran trainer Jeremiah Englehart for an in-depth look at his journey through the world of horse racing. From growing up in a racing family to building a name of his own on the national stage, Jeremiah opens up about the lessons learned along the way, the evolving landscape of the sport, and what it takes to develop young horses into winners. We talk training philosophies, career highlights, and the next generation of talent — both equine and human.
Whether you’re a racing insider or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode offers honest insight into what it means to commit your life to the game.
Episode 11- Behind the Barn Doors with Jeremiah Englehart
In this episode of The Next-Gen Thoroughbred Podcast, we sit down with Bella Hodge, Racing Marketing Manager at Colonial Downs. Bella shares her journey into the Thoroughbred industry and how she’s helping shape the fan experience at one of the most historic tracks in America.
From innovative promotions and community outreach to creating a welcoming atmosphere for both newcomers and seasoned fans, Bella gives us an inside look at what it takes to market horse racing in today’s world. Tune in for a fresh perspective on racing, branding, and building connections that last beyond the finish line.