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There are so many people who’ve left a mark on my life, but the Lind and Purfeerst families were the first to bring me into this industry. They didn’t have to, but they did. They taught me the ropes, believed in me early on, and opened the door that changed everything. I carry that with me every day, and I hope to do for others what they did for me. FOUR WHAT IS THE VALUE OF RAISING KIDS IN THE LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY? It gives kids something real to believe in. You learn early on that nothing is handed to you, and that work ethic, humility, and grit matter. But more than that, it gives you people, families who become your own, mentors who push you, and moments that shape who you are. It’s not just about learning how to lead a calf, it’s about learning how to lead your life. FIVE WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF YOUR MOST MEMORABLE JUDGING MOMENTS? The moments that stick aren’t always about the champions. It’s the conversations afterward! The “thank yous,” the hugs, the families who let you know what the day meant to them. It’s when a kid walks out with a smile, even if they didn’t win, because they know their hard work was recognized. Those are the moments that remind me this is bigger than just a banner or ribbon. SIX WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE ABLE TO JUDGE EXHIBITORS IN WISCONSIN? It’s an honor and a responsibility. I know the time, the energy, and the emotion these families pour into their projects. To be trusted with the
chance to sort through all that effort means a lot. My goal is always to bring integrity and gratitude into that ring, because I know what it means to the people standing on the other side of the fence. It’s an honor to sort the cattle, but it’s even more meaningful to respect the stories behind each one of them. SEVEN IF YOU COULD MEET AND HAVE DINNER WITH ANY PERSON, WHO WOULD IT BE? Honestly, I’d love to sit down with my parents at a table where they didn’t have to worry about anything. I’d want to hear more about what they went through—the sacrifices they made, what they hoped for when they came to this country, and what keeps them going. So much of my life has been shaped by their quiet strength. EIGHT WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF JUDGING? It’s watching young people grow right in front of you. Sometimes it’s the first-time showman who finds their confidence. Sometimes it’s the seasoned kid who handles themselves with quiet maturity. Those little moments when someone takes pride in how they handled the moment, those are my favorite. That’s when you know the process is working. NINE WHAT DON’T PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT YOU? I didn’t grow up on a farm. I didn’t come from generations of cattle breeders. Most of what I’ve learned came from people who chose to believe in me. I’m proud of my story, but I know it’s different—and that’s why I always try to be someone who sees potential in others, even when it’s not obvious yet.
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