"A hidden gem of Western storytelling"

Stories of the American West

Ride along as we journey through the untamed spirit of the American West. Each episode of the Way Out West podcast brings you closer to the men and women whose grit, wisdom, and heart built a nation. One unforgettable story at a time.

Recent Episodes

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Cowboys and Indians: How the West Became a Story
113
Oct. 7, 2026

Cowboys and Indians: How the West Became a Story

How did “cowboys and Indians” become the familiar story of the West? From Cherokee grazing agreements to Buffalo Bill and Sitting Bull, this episode explores how popular entertainment turned complicated history into recognizable roles while the Old West was still alive.
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Who Really Owned the Cattle on a Cattle Drive?
112
Sept. 30, 2026

Who Really Owned the Cattle on a Cattle Drive?

Who owned the cattle that cowboys drove north? Explore the ranchers, buyers, partnerships, and contract drovers behind the herds, and how brands, trail bosses, and hired hands helped protect an investment across hundreds of miles of open country in the American West.
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The Cowboy Gunfight: What Hollywood Got Wrong
111
Sept. 23, 2026

The Cowboy Gunfight: What Hollywood Got Wrong

Did working cowboys really face off in the street at high noon? Chip Schweiger revisits Wild Bill Hickok’s famous shooting, the fight near the O.K. Corral, and the everyday cattle work Hollywood left out of its gunfight stories.
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How Did Cowboys Find Their Way Across the Open Range?
110
Sept. 16, 2026

How Did Cowboys Find Their Way Across the Open Range?

Without roads, signs, or GPS, trail outfits moved thousands of cattle across hundreds of miles. Discover how water, grass, river crossings, landmarks, experienced trail bosses, and point riders helped cowboys find their way across the open range.
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What Did Cowboys Do With Their Money?
109
Sept. 9, 2026

What Did Cowboys Do With Their Money?

A working cowboy might earn only $25 to $40 a month, but food, horses, and a place to sleep often came with the job. Here's what cowboys actually earned, what they bought for themselves, and where their money went.
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Reviews

Amazing content
Definitely a unique perspective of applying the lessons of the past to true business problems of today. Well done and great information.
  • Cooljames5555
  • March 6, 2025
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Fantastic and educational
This podcast is an intriguing look into cowboy culture and history. It’s educational, entertaining, and just downright fun.
  • AlamoJay
  • Nov. 20, 2025
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Cowboys
Very interesting perspective on the history of the west and western way of life. Spot on subject matter. I grew up around really old cowboys so I appreciate the authenticity
  • Texas Girls are Smart
  • June 14, 2026
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Latest From the Way Out West Journal

WHERE DID THE WORD “COWBOY” COME FROM?

The American cowboy owes much to Spanish and Mexican vaqueros. But did the word cowboy come from vaquero? The answer runs through English pastures, the cattle country of the Southwest, and a second word with a clearer Spanish connection: buckaroo.

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