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What happens when a law enforcement officer and his teenage son discover the world of draft horses? In this heartwarming episode, we're joined by Chris Holley and "Little Chris" from North Carolina as they share their remarkable journey from complete novices to confident teamsters.

Chris, who serves with the Gaston County Sheriff's Office, had never handled draft horses before attending a Brabant Association event where his son first fell in love with these gentle giants. Their story takes off when they attend a customer appreciation barbecue at Haste Draft Horses, where Henry places team lines in Little Chris's hands for the first time. As Chris beautifully puts it, "I saw a different kid" in that moment.

We explore how multiple visits to Kentucky transformed both father and son, culminating in Little Chris becoming a "youth apprentice" at a driving clinic. The progress is remarkable—from nervously handling horses initially to confidently driving teams of Percherons, Belgians, and Halflingers down steep hills independently.

Beyond the technical skills, this conversation reveals something more profound: how draft horses create community. The Holleys describe coming to Kentucky as "visiting family," having formed deep connections with people across the country who share this passion. Their story exemplifies how these magnificent animals bring together people from diverse backgrounds and beliefs.

Whether you're an experienced teamster or someone who's never touched a harness, this episode demonstrates that the draft horse community has room for everyone. As Chris and his son have discovered, sometimes the most unexpected paths lead to the most rewarding destinations.

Ready to experience this community yourself? Join us at our annual customer appreciation event this October 23-25. No experience needed—just bring your curiosity and openness to discover the transformative world of draft horses.

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Meet Victor, a 16-year-old agricultural entrepreneur who's defying odds and building a farming legacy from the ground up. In this heartwarming conversation, we explore how a young man with determination and community support is carving his path in an industry often dominated by corporations and aging farmers.

Victor shares his remarkable journey from joining FFA (Future Farmers of America) to securing personal loans for purchasing his first herd of cattle. Despite early setbacks—losing calves and having to sell underperforming stock—his persistence has paid off. Today, he manages a growing operation with seven mother cows, a bull, and several calves, alongside his prized 1988 Case International tractor purchased through a youth FSA loan.

What makes this story truly special is the rural Kentucky community rallying behind him. Without owning land, Victor has creatively negotiated arrangements to farm others' property, secured equipment borrowing privileges, and gained invaluable mentorship from the Showalter family, who run a local butcher shop and 240-head cattle operation. Their guidance has been instrumental in his development as a young farmer.

Beyond cattle, Victor balances his agricultural pursuits with choir singing, volleyball with friends, and his new YouTube channel "Hidden Valley Cattle," which recently hit 100 subscribers. His wisdom resonates throughout our conversation: "Pick your friends wisely," "keep yourself busy," and "have a personal relationship with the Lord"—advice that reflects maturity beyond his years.

Whether you're a seasoned farmer, an agriculture enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates stories of youthful determination, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on the future of farming. Subscribe, share, and join us for our upcoming barbecue event on October 23-25 at Haste Draft Horses and Mules in Liberty, Kentucky!

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A childhood dream sparked by watching Bonanza, a revolutionary trap design born from wilderness frustration, and a century-old wagon connecting five generations—Kim Harris's story weaves together the threads of innovation, perseverance, and honoring heritage in ways that both surprise and inspire.

From the high plains of Conrad, Montana, Kim shares his journey from custom swathing farmer to inventor of the groundbreaking Centerfire Trap, a design that addressed problems trappers had faced for over 200 years. With candid humor and heartfelt sincerity, he reveals how his obsession with improving wolf trapping led to sleepless nights and eventually, a revolutionary product that changed the industry.

But it's Kim's lifelong dream of owning blue roan draft horses and restoring his grandfather's 1916 Peter Shuttler wagon that truly captures the heart. After preserving this wagon since childhood, Kim details his meticulous restoration project with Doug Hansen of Hansen Wagon Wheel, including plans to recreate his grandfather's journey hauling grain to town—a goal set decades ago in junior high school.

The conversation flows through Kim's experiences acquiring multiple draft horse teams, raising six children, and building connections across geographical boundaries. His story illuminates how these magnificent animals have created lasting friendships and community, including the annual October gathering that brings draft horse enthusiasts together in Kentucky.

Beyond the practical aspects of working with draft horses, this episode explores deeper themes of legacy, family connections, and preserving traditional skills in a rapidly changing world. As Kim reflects, "Everything out there might be different, but it's all the same in here," pointing to the universal values that connect us despite our different backgrounds.

Whether you're a draft horse owner, trapping enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates stories of purpose and passion, this conversation offers both practical insights and emotional resonance. Join us for this remarkable journey spanning generations, geography, and the enduring bond between humans and horses.

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Find us online at DraftHorsesAndMulesForSale.com