The Showmom Code

The barn has its own language and most of it is silent. In this episode, we’re diving into the unspoken rules of the show world: the quiet rhythms, boundaries, and values that every seasoned family knows but rarely says out loud. From trailer parking and ringside etiquette to knowing when to speak and when to stay silent, we explore the code that shapes how we show, raise kids, and build trust in this community. We also open the episode with our NEW segment - The Praise Report - where we give God the glory for the answered prayers, quiet victories, and unexpected blessings in and out of the barn. And in Ringside Unfiltered, we answer two listener questions from first-year 4-H moms navigating friendships, competition, and fair week grace. Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned showmom, this episode reminds us that the best lessons in the barn aren’t always taught. They’re lived.

Behind every seamless show day is a showmom quietly managing a mountain of invisible tasks from scheduling vet appointments and handling paperwork to juggling snacks, emotions, and last minute emergencies. This episode breaks down the mental load of show life - the hidden tasks and emotional weight showmoms carry every day. You’ll get practical ways to stay on top of it all, protect your emotional well being, and hopefully finally stop trying to do it all alone. Sponsored by Heritage Concrete Construction - building legacies with integrity. 🎧 Listen in for: • Tools to lighten your mental load • Why sometimes - good enough really is enough • This week’s listener Q&A in Ringside Unfiltered • A powerful reminder that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness Plus, this week’s Showmom Challenge is your first step toward building the supportive community every showmom deserves. Hit play and give yourself the gift of support. You’ve got this, Showmom. See you ringside.

Welcome back to The Showmom Code! You’re here with Jordan and Brandy, and today we’re tackling a topic every show family has to navigate at some point—buying show stock. Whether you're brand new to the barn or just want to understand the why behind the how, this episode breaks down what it really takes to buy livestock—from sale platforms and breeder relationships to budget expectations and pro tips for families at every level. We’re also diving into Barn Rule 105: Knowledge is Power, because the more you know going in, the better equipped you are to make smart, confident decisions for your kids and your program. 🎉 Huge thanks to Umbarger Show Feed’s Fullback for sponsoring this episode! 🧠 In This Episode: The big picture of what buying show animals really involves Why timing is everything How to build relationships with breeders The differences between private treaty, bid board sales, online sales, live auctions, and fitters/brokers Our go-to platforms Listener question in Ringside Unfiltered about family involvement and judgment in the barn Plus: This week’s Showmom Challenge—share your first livestock buy story! 🎯 Whether it was a total win or a total mess, we want to hear how your first livestock purchase went. Share your story and tag us with #TheShowmomCode. 🧼 In Ringside Unfiltered, we answer a listener question about parents helping with projects—and how to handle those snide comments when you're right there feeding, washing, or fitting with your kid. Spoiler alert: helping isn’t cheating—it’s showing up. If you’re heading into buying season, this one’s a must-listen. 💡 You don’t have to know everything—you just have to keep learning.

In this episode of The Showmom Code, Jordan and Brandy are tackling all things prep — because a new show season means a fresh start for your barn and your people. From scrubbing stalls and checking heat lamps to setting individual and family goals, this is your guide to starting strong and staying intentional. We’re diving into: * The must-do checklist for getting your barn ready * Our favorite disinfecting tips (and the one step you should always do first) * What to look for when inspecting pens, water lines, and fans * How to help your kids set realistic, age-appropriate goals * The importance of tracking progress — and celebrating wins Plus, in this week’s Showmom Challenge, we want to see how your family sets goals for the new season. Snap a photo of your system — chalkboard, poster, post-it — and tag us @TheShowmomCode. Stick around for Ringside Unfiltered, where we answer real questions from real showmoms, thanks to this week’s sponsor: Dieter’s Unlimited. 💡 Barn Rule 103: Prepare with a Purpose. Because a clean barn and clear goals are the best way to start the season strong. Subscribe, follow, and sign up for emails at TheShowmomCode.com so you never miss an episode. Let’s keep showing up — in the barn and in life.

You're here with Jordan and Brandy, and today we’re talking all things Hurricane Prep — because when you’re raising livestock in Florida (or anywhere with wild weather), a good plan is everything. In this bonus episode, we break down what we’ve actually done to prepare our animals, barns, and families before a storm hits. From feed and water storage to evacuation plans and barn security, Barn Rule 104 is simple: Be Prepared. Even if you're not in the Southeast, these tips can help every show family stay ready for unpredictable weather — tornadoes, wildfires, blizzards, or whatever Mother Nature throws your way. We cover: ✔️ Planning your evacuation or shelter-in-place strategy ✔️ Feed, hay, and water stock-up ✔️ Animal ID, photos, and paperwork ✔️ Trailer and generator readiness ✔️ Barn safety and post-storm cleanup ✔️ FDACS tips & why you need a backup plan Plus, we close out with a Ringside Unfiltered listener question: “What’s your ultimate show mom hack?” 👊 Showmom Challenge: Let us know — do you already have a storm plan, or has this episode inspired you to build one? Tag us or send it in!