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.

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 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.