#245 - Tim O’Connell | Beyond the Gold Buckle
“You’ll never forget rodeo, but rodeo will forget you. That’s as true as the day is long.” — Tim O’Connell
In this episode, I sit down with three-time World Champion bareback rider Tim O’Connell — a name synonymous with toughness, perseverance, and faith in the face of adversity. Tim opens up about the highs and lows of his career — from the glory of world titles to the grit of countless surgeries and comebacks. He shares how his wrestling roots built his mental edge, how prayer grounds him before every ride, and how perspective shifts when the sport you love tests every ounce of who you are. We dive into what it means to redefine winning, to find peace when plans change, and to build a life that matters beyond the chutes. As Tim puts it, learning to let go doesn’t mean giving up — it means growing up. This episode is raw, inspiring, and full of heart — a powerful reminder that while rodeo may move on, the lessons you carry never leave.
In The LOOP Podcast hosted by Jordan Jo Hollabaugh, is inspired by the western culture and breakaway roping lifestyle. This podcast highlights the raw, real, truth behind the box of the breakaway roping industry. Bringing you behind the scenes stories of what real life looks like everyday from breakaway ropers, cowgirls, cowboys, producers, leaders, trailblazers, and the like, all sharing stories of the western culture and lifestyle that they live daily. In The LOOP Podcast & Fabrizio Marketing LLC are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast.
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