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 second and first guest featured episode of Next-Gen Thoroughbred Podcast we are right at home as we sit down with our very own Mary Ormsby. A lifelong “horse girl” whose passion for equines took her from Chattanooga, Tennessee, to one of the most iconic breeding farms in the country.
Mary shares her journey from interning at top ranches and farms to becoming the Equine Operations Manager at Claiborne Farm. We talk about what it takes to manage sale consignments, breeding seasons, and daily farm life—plus her heartfelt work advocating for retired racehorses.
Mary also opens up about her commitment to mentoring and shaping the next generation of horsemen and horsewomen, sharing knowledge, values, and a deep respect for the animals that shaped her life. Tune in to hear how Mary’s dedication, grit, and love for horses helped her build a career rooted in purpose—and how she’s passing it forward.
Episode 2: Horses, memos, and missions: Managing life at Claiborne Farm
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.