Echoes from the Saddle; Great Whites, Great Cattle & Great Cowboys episode hosted by Katie Surritt and Katie Schrock, explores the fascinating history of Hawaiian cowboy culture, known as Paniolo. In this episode, the hosts delve into the unique blend of Hawaiian and Western influences that shaped the Paniolo way of life.

The hosts begin by acknowledging the challenges in researching Hawaiian history, emphasizing the reliance on oral traditions due to the lack of recorded history by the natives. They highlight the conflicting dates and historical uncertainties, underscoring their efforts to present the most accurate information.

The historical narrative starts in 1793 when Hawaii received its first cattle from Captain James Vancouver, a gift that marked the beginning of the Paniolo legacy. King Kamehameha I, the greatest King in Hawaiian culture, played a crucial role in the introduction of cattle to the islands. The cattle, initially considered imperialistic tools, soon multiplied, leading to chaos and havoc as they destroyed the islands.

Native Hawaiians faced many challenges in managing the wild and aggressive cattle. The introduction of rock walls proved ineffective, and the "Great Cattle Menace" era ensued. The cattle, similar to those used in California for sport against grizzlies, posed a serious threat to human lives and property.

The narrative shifts to King Kamehameha III, who recognized the need to control the cattle population. The hosts detail the innovative methods employed by Hawaiians, such as trap pits and bullock hunting, to manage the aggressive cattle. However, the cattle were not initially utilized for consumption; instead, efforts were made to reduce their population.

The turning point comes when King Kamehameha III invites vaqueros, the original cowboys, from California to teach Hawaiians their methods. The vaqueros introduce new techniques, including roping and cattle management, shifting the focus from lethal actions to utilizing cattle as a resource. The hosts spotlight John Palmer Parker, a key figure in ranching, who played a pivotal role in assimilating into Hawaiian culture and promoting cattle as a valuable asset.

The hosts emphasize the significance of the Paniolo in Hawaiian history, asserting that it's impossible to separate Hawaiian history from cowboy culture. The Parker Ranch, established by John Palmer Parker, becomes a symbol of the successful adaptation of cowboy culture in Hawaii. They also touch upon the transformation of Paniolo horses, bred specifically for their unique roles in herding cattle and assisting in the shipping process.

In conclusion, the Mahlo Paniolo podcast provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of Hawaiian cowboy culture, highlighting its origins, challenges, and enduring impact on the islands. The hosts celebrate the Paniolo as a vital part of Hawaiian history, showcasing their resilience and ability to adapt while preserving their cultural identity.

There’s been a new movement in the past year regarding rodeo athletes placing an emphasis on athlete as a big part of their budding career success. Natasha McCann grew up an athlete before a major injury sidelined her from her collegiate dreams. A resilient young lady, Natasha became a buckaroo riding colts and then, on the side, got her EMT license and worked in an ambulance. Her passion for fitness and the western life led her to become a 2023 COWGIRL Magazine 30 Under 30 Recipient, as well as an athletic trainer for some of rodeos top athletes and a training coach with Champion Fitness Living.

Rookie Saddle Bronc Rider Q Taylor is on the hunt for his first National Finals Rodeo - no small feat for a first year professional rodeo cowboy! The 21 year-old Casper, Wyoming, native had a stellar permit year in 2022, and is one of the great young guns that the That Western Life podcast team is following through the 2023 season. 

Currently sitting #2 in the Resistol Rookie Standings, Q dives into his upbringing, his rodeo strategy, and his hobbies/interests out side of the rodeo arena. 

Kiah Twisselman Burchett is a sixth-generation rancher from San Luis Obispo, California, whose love for the beef industry took her to a job for the Beef! It’s What For Dinner team at the Kentucky Beef Council. There she was trained in media and the beef industry on a national and professional level - something that would come in handy when her entire life changed with just the shift of her mindset. From PEOPLE Magazine to The Kelly Clarkson Show to being the upcoming Keynote at the COWGIRL Magazine 30 Under 30’s first ever Girl Talk breakout session, Kiah is a positive light in the western industry helping people break toxic fad trends and changing their lives for the longterm and the better!