There is no doubt that Pam Minick has broken down many barriers as a woman in the Western industry. From being Miss Rodeo America, Women’s World Champion Breakaway Roper, multi-time Women’s National Finals Team Roping qualifier, the first woman to announce a major pro rodeo, past president of the WPRA, to a successful businesswoman and TV personality. She has also been the first and only woman to date to be named “Western Horseman of the Year” by Western Horseman Magazine. Is there anything she can’t do?

Her show The American Rancher was one of the first series on RFD-TV over 20 years ago. At the time the network was launched, Patrick Gottsch had an ongoing relationship with Superior Livestock Auction and its ownership group. This partnership still holds strong to this day, and The American Rancher continues to be a vehicle to showcase cattle breeds, production sales, and educational stories on improving genetics and profit in the cattle business. “In 20 years, I’ve met the salt-of-the-earth cattle ranchers and been honored to tell their stories.”

“I think the Cowboy Channel and COWGIRL Magazine have helped shine a big spotlight on women, and thus giving them opportunities to shine.” Pam recalls when she was the only female sideline rodeo reporter, “So many girls came to me and shared their dreams, but the work opportunities were so thin. Now there are so many job openings that a good knowledge of the equine industry and a hearty work ethic will probably land you a job!”

She has recently spread her equestrian wings and made a move from roping to showing horses. “It’s been intimidating because I’ve always been in timed events and it’s humbling to be judged.” She was fortunate to win the Reserve World Championship at the AQHA World Show in 2020 on her horse “Smart Smartie”, and recently placed 3rd at the Versatility Ranch Horse World Show on “Bet Hes Chrome.”

Throughout her distinguished career, Pam has acquired volumes of experience and knowledge. “When doing interviews, I’ve always tried to make a star of the person I interviewed. It’s not about you, it’s about them. Let them tell their story.” She also encourages anyone that wants to go into broadcasting to learn to write stories, shoot, and edit them. “It gives you a more rounded skillset and makes you understand how the process works behind the scenes of a telecast.”

Pam’s inspiration is her mother. She never let her say the word “can’t” and always made her believe she could accomplish anything she put her mind to. “The doors I ended up walking through weren’t necessarily open at the time, I just stepped in when opportunity knocked and never stepped back.”

(Originally posted November 10, 2021)