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
Episode 7- From Generation to Generation: The Sams Story
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 8- Capturing The Soul Of The Sport: With Sara Gordon
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 9- The Long Way Home: Christon Jacksons Next Gen Path
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 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.
Episode 12: Marketing the Magic of Racing with Bella Hodge
In this powerful sit-down, we talk with Blane Servis, a graduate of Stable Recovery whose journey through hardship and healing has reshaped his life both on and off the racetrack. Blane opens up about his struggles, the turning point that led him to Stable Recovery, and how the program gave him not only a second chance — but a vision for his future.
From mucking stalls to building resilience, Blane shares how horses became a mirror for discipline, responsibility, and hope. His story is one of grit, gratitude, and growth — and a reminder that in both racing and recovery, it’s not how you start, but how you finish.
Episode 13- Blane Servis: Racing Toward Redemtion
Episode 14- Breaking Barriers: Katie Davis on Resilience, Racing, and Redefining Equality
In this powerful sit-down, jockey Katie Davis joins Tim and Tanner for an open and inspiring conversation about her journey in horse racing — from her earliest days riding, to battling through adversity, and becoming a voice for change in the sport.Katie shares candid stories about life on the backside, the unique challenges female jockeys face, and her fight for weight allowance equality in racing. She opens up about balancing motherhood with her career, the importance of resilience, and what it means to inspire the next generation of horsewomen and fans. From technical setbacks to personal triumphs, this episode captures Katie’s authenticity, grit, and vision for a modern, more inclusive future for horse racing.Tune in for a conversation that’s equal parts honest, motivating, and deeply human.
Episode 15 Special Release: Retired Racehorse Radio x Next-Gen Thoroughbred Podcast
“Today's show we're chatting with Tim and Tanner from Next-Gen Thoroughbred podcast to learn about their show and get some new perspective on the racing world. I pick an adoptable horse for Kristen and we give our tips for when someone else has to manage our horses. Stay tuned!” Retired Racehorse Radio
Episode 16- Racing Towards the Future: Keeneland Insights and Breeders’ Cup
In this episode, Tanner and Timothy dive into the upcoming Thoroughbred industry events, focusing on the new paddock and facilities at Keeneland. They share their excitement about the Breeders’ Cup, and the giveaway winner scheduled to be picked for October 5th, and discuss recent horse performances, highlighting Mystik Dan and Sovereignty. The duo also covers the Keeneland Fall Stars Weekend, upcoming sales events, and plans to meet at Keeneland to watch races and coordinate with First Rodeo Racing. They express gratitude to sponsors like Stable Recovery and invite listeners to connect with them at the Breeders’ Cup later this month.
Episode 17- From Rock Bottom to the Winner’s Circle: The Will Walden Story
From battling personal demons to training graded stakes winners, Will Walden has lived one of the most powerful comeback stories in modern racing.
In this episode of The Next-Gen Thoroughbred Podcast, Will opens up about the journey that took him from hitting rock bottom to rebuilding his life, his barn, and his purpose. He shares how his connection to Stable Recovery helped him rediscover direction, what he’s learned about resilience, and how faith and second chances can change everything.
We also dive into his training philosophy, the lessons behind his recent successes, and what it means to represent a new generation of horsemen who are reshaping the future of the sport.
🎧 A story about redemption, renewal, and the power of starting over — in racing and in life.
Episode 18- The Business Behind the Barn: Finn Green & Matt Scull of First Rodeo Racing
In this episode, Tanner and Tim sit down with Finn Green, veteran racing manager and bloodstock strategist, and Matt Scull, co-founder of First Rodeo Racing and returning guest to the podcast. Together, they pull back the curtain on what it takes to build a modern ownership group, manage high-level partnerships, and create opportunities for the next generation in racing.
Finn shares his decades of experience managing some of the sport’s most prominent operations and what inspired his collaboration with First Rodeo. Matt talks about bringing new energy and investors into the game and how teamwork and trust are reshaping what ownership looks like today.
It’s a deep dive into the future of racing, told by two minds shaping it right now.