Bailey Heryford

Tag: content-marketing

  • Infographic Analysis – Communicating Rodeo’s Story Visually

    As rodeo continues to grow in visibility and audience diversity, the way we present information about the sport matters more than ever. Visual storytelling—through infographics, timelines, maps, and branded graphics—can help make complex data feel accessible and engaging. This week I explored a few infographics focused on PRCA and Western sports to better understand what makes a strong visual communication strategy in this space. These examples stood out not only for their design, but for how they respected the tone and culture of the rodeo world. I was overall impressed and inspired!

    PRCA California Circuit Map

    1. PRCA California Circuit Rodeo Map

    Why It’s Effective:

    • Visual Hierarchy: This map-based infographic organizes rodeo locations using bold pins and regional groupings. The layout guides the viewer’s eye easily across the state, making it intuitive to follow.
    • Color Choices: The soft neutral background lets red pins pop, giving immediate focus to the event sites without overwhelming the viewer. It is very attractive.
    • Typography: The simple, readable fonts help differentiate between headers, subheaders, and small text. This structure allows for quick scanning and a smooth flow.
    • Visual Focus: By centering the image around a single map and keeping text to a minimum, the infographic offers instant understanding for people seeking regional rodeo information.
    • Storytelling Impact: This piece communicates the wide reach of the PRCA in California, reinforcing the idea that rodeo isn’t just a niche sport—it’s actively happening across communities statewide.

    Takeaway:
    This visual taught me how location-based graphics can effectively communicate reach and frequency. It’s a great example of how design can make data more engaging and regionally relevant.

    PRCA Events Overview

    2. PRCA 2024 Events Overview Calendar

    Why It’s Effective:

    • Structured Layout: The calendar-style format creates a natural flow, guiding the reader from month to month while organizing events by category with custom icons and subtle color coding.
    • Color Scheme: A warm Western palette—rusts, browns, dusty reds—grounds the infographic in the culture it represents. It feels authentic and visually cohesive.
    • Typography: Bold headers and minimal body text make each date block easy to digest. The event names and dates are highlighted clearly, encouraging viewers to save or share it as a reference.
    • Balanced Design: Every block of information contains just enough detail. There’s a sense of white space and breathing room, which keeps it from feeling cluttered.
    • Narrative Value: This infographic communicates that rodeo is a year-round sport with a packed schedule. It captures the excitement and consistency of the Western lifestyle.

    Takeaway:
    This calendar approach shows how a consistent design style and simple layout can highlight a lot of information without overwhelming the viewer. It also demonstrates how color and icon use can bring energy and personality to an event-based infographic.

    These examples helped me understand how strong visual communication can elevate storytelling in rodeo. A good infographic doesn’t just present information, it overall makes the audience care about what they’re seeing. Whether it’s showing where events are happening or breaking down seasonal trends, the design should feel like an extension of the sport’s identity. Which is done very well!

    Here are a few key lessons I took away:

    • Clarity is everything: Clean layouts with strong visual flow help viewers understand content without needing a deep background in the subject.
    • Visuals over text: Icons, charts, and maps often speak louder than paragraphs, especially when you’re trying to reach busy or unfamiliar audiences.
    • Design reflects identity: Color palettes, fonts, and imagery should align with the culture of the sport. In rodeo, that might mean earthy tones, bold lines, and a sense of values and tradition.
    • Every detail should serve the story: Whether it’s an event calendar or a map, each visual choice should lead back to the core message like the growth, diversity, and impact of rodeo as a sport and culture.

  • Marketing Rodeo Right: How to Actually Connect with Western Audiences

    Western sports have a distinct culture—rooted in tradition, community, and grit. As rodeo continues to grow in both reach and audience diversity, brands are racing to keep up. Some genuinely connect with fans through thoughtful storytelling and authentic partnerships. Others rely too heavily on outdated stereotypes or surface-level aesthetics, missing what really matters to their target audience.

    I decided to explore a few brands that are getting it right, some common mistakes, and what future marketing efforts should consider when entering the Western world!

    Getting It Right:

    Total Feeds: Niche, But Growing with Purpose
     Total Feeds is a great example of a brand that understands the values of the rodeo community—consistency, reliability, and wellness for both humans and animals. With strong partnerships in breakaway roping and team roping circles, they’ve positioned themselves not just as a feed provider but as a supporter of athlete success. Their marketing doesn’t feel performative, but it overall reflects a deep understanding of the sport’s demands and a commitment to those who live it.

    Yeti: Blending Utility with Lifestyle
     Yeti has successfully entered the rodeo space by aligning with lifestyle rather than leading with product. Their campaigns often feature real ranchers, rodeo competitors, and outdoor enthusiasts who use their gear daily. It’s a subtle but smart strategy—rather than pushing a product, they show how it fits into the Western way of life. Whether through a branded tumbler at NFR or a rider highlight reel, their messaging feels earned, and I am definitely impressed!

    YETI Coolers GoBox Collection TV Spot, 'Goes Anywhere' - iSpot.tv

    Ariat: Blending Performance with Style
     Ariat strikes a strong balance between high-performance gear and fashion-forward Western wear. I’ve always enjoyed Ariat and the influencers that the choose to work with. Their marketing is tailored to different rodeo demographics—youth, women, pros—and it feels intentional. Collaborations with top athletes and campaigns centered on innovation and style show they’re not just trying to sell boots—they’re supporting the people who wear them in and out of the arena.

    Ariat Ad Campaign – Teton River Idaho Temple

    CINCH Jeans: Built for the Arena and the Audience
     I’ve known that CINCH is a legacy brand in the Western world, but it’s stayed relevant through smart branding and athlete partnerships. I learned a lot about their messaging and how it consistently centers on durability, performance, and authenticity. CINCH sponsors top PRCA athletes and leans into visual storytelling—whether it’s showcasing someone climbing into a chute or walking into a county fair. It is very interesting. Their social content is clean, action-focused, and rooted in real experiences.

    Where they really succeed is in keeping their branding consistent across platforms, for example through print ads, website, and social channels all feel like the same voice. It is overall super impactful.

    Dress Like The Pros And Feel Like A Champ With Cinch - Cowboys and Indians Magazine

    Where Brands Miss the Mark:

    Oversimplified Stereotypes
     Throughout my research I noticed that throwing a cowboy hat into a photoshoot doesn’t make a campaign authentic. Or necessarily appeal to western audiences. Some brands treat Western marketing like a costume party, like focusing on aesthetics without engaging with the actual community. Rodeo fans and athletes are quick to recognize when something lacks depth or intention.

    Strategic Messaging
    One thing I’ve really noticed is that not every rodeo fan is the same. What works for someone in Texas might not connect at all with someone in Oregon. For example, a breakaway roper competing at a pro level is probably looking for different content than a high school athlete just getting started. That’s why I think the best marketing in rodeo really understands those differences and speaks to each group in a way that feels personal. As someone who grew up around sports and cares about the stories behind the athletes, I’m always more drawn to content that feels real and relatable.

    Key Takeaways: What Works for Western Audiences

    • Show real people. The best content comes from the athletes and fans living the lifestyle.
    • Think beyond the product. Focus on the values your brand shares with the overall community.
    • Embrace tradition, but stay relevant. A respect for heritage doesn’t mean avoiding innovation.
    • Segment intentionally. Tailor your message for different audiences including age, gender, discipline.

    Final Thoughts

    Looking back, I’ve realized how deeply rooted the rodeo community is in loyalty, values, and connection. The brands that truly succeed aren’t just promoting products—they’re showing up, supporting, and respecting the people behind the sport.

    What really stuck with me is that the best marketing in this space comes from shared values and real experiences. Learning about these strategies gave me a deeper appreciation for the Western world and what it means to connect with that audience in an authentic way!

  • Scrollin’ Through the Chutes: The Evolution of NFR’s Social Media Coverage

    Rodeo, Rebranded

    The National Finals Rodeo (NFR) has always been the Super Bowl of the rodeo world. But let’s be real—10 years ago, unless you were parked in front of the TV (or lucky enough to be in Vegas), you weren’t getting the full experience. Fast-forward to today, and the NFR isn’t just on screen—it’s on your phone, in your feed, and maybe even on your FYP if you’re a big fan.

    Over the years, social media has completely transformed how fans experience the NFR, and it’s been so fun to watch (and scroll along with).

    The old NFR posters had a classic, vintage feel—often showcasing bold typography, dramatic rodeo scenes, and traditional Western art styles. They were designed more for collectors and event promotion than digital engagement. While iconic in their own way, they represented a time when rodeo marketing was more static and print-based, before the shift to real-time storytelling and interactive media.

    From Highlights to Hashtags

    The NFR’s online presence has gone from basic updates to full-on digital storytelling. We’re talking real-time clips, athlete interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and fans sharing their own experiences across platforms.

    Here’s how NFR’s social media game has evolved:

    • Live Instagram and TikTok updates during each round
    • Reels + slow-mo rides with trending audio
    • Athlete fits, prep routines, and mic’d up moments
    • Fan interactions + community shoutouts

    The vibe now is more personal, polished, and playful—and honestly, more fun.

    One of the best parts of the NFR’s social media glow-up? The way they highlight athletes as people—not just performers. We get to see their personalities, routines, and even goofy behind-the-scenes moments. It brings a new level of connection to the sport.

    Social strategies:

    • Athlete takeovers where competitors post their own content for the day
    • Story polls and Q&As that make fans feel involved
    • Spotlights on rookies and legends alike
    • Highlight reels with captions, stats, and style

    The PRCA’s media team—and The Cowboy Channel—have made it easier than ever for fans to follow, favorite, and feel part of the rodeo world.

    The NFR as a Western Influencer Hotspot

    Beyond the arena, the NFR has also become a major moment for Western influencers—especially women—to showcase their style, build their personal brands, and connect with followers. From daily outfit inspiration to behind-the-scenes content, social media during NFR week is packed with fashion hauls, meetups, and brand collabs. For many, it’s not just a rodeo—it’s the biggest Western influencer event of the year. Which I very much enjoy!

    Why It Matters

    The glow-up isn’t just cool—it’s clever, calculated, and culturally relevant. Social media coverage has helped the NFR:

    • Reach younger fans who live on their phones
    • Create a year-round presence, not just during NFR week
    • Open up partnerships and sponsor opportunities
    • Preserve the culture of rodeo while making it more accessible

    And for those of us who grew up loving rodeo or just recently got into it, it’s been awesome to feel like we’re part of the action—even from miles away.

    Final Ride

    The NFR’s evolution on social media shows that rodeo isn’t stuck in the past—it’s charging confidently into the digital frontier. From dusty chutes to dynamic feeds, the way we engage with the sport is changing—and honestly? It’s a ride worth watching.

    https://www.nfrexperience.com/

    https://www.instagram.com/LasVegasNFR/

  • Roping in the Digital Age: The Cowboy Channel’s Impact on PRCA’s Digital Frontier

    The Future of Rodeo Is Now

    If you’ve ever stayed up late watching the National Finals Rodeo or caught yourself deep in a rabbit hole of barrel racing clips on TikTok, chances are you’ve experienced The Cowboy Channel effect. Since teaming up with the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), The Cowboy Channel hasn’t just aired rodeo—it’s helped reshape how the sport lives online.

    This partnership has brought rodeo into a whole new digital frontier, giving longtime fans and brand-new viewers a front-row seat to all the action, no matter where they are.

    Rodeo, Reimagined for the Digital Age

    Before this collaboration, most PRCA content was limited to live events, reruns, or word-of-mouth. Now Rodeo content is just a few taps away available on phones, smart TVs, and social feeds.

    Here’s how The Cowboy Channel has changed the game:

    • Live-streaming rodeos through The Cowboy Channel+ app
    • On-demand content for fans to catch events on their own schedule
    • Athlete features that tell the story behind the stats
    • Increased access for younger, tech-savvy audiences

    Social Media, but Make It Western

    Let’s talk about social. Whether it’s behind-the-scenes reels, slow-motion recaps, or athlete Q&As, The Cowboy Channel has helped PRCA level up across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. It’s giving rodeo the kind of spotlight it’s always deserved.

    A few standout strategies:

    • Athlete takeovers that bring fans along for the ride
    • Cross-promotion between @prca_prorodeo and @cowboychannel
    • High-quality content that captures the grit and glamor of the sport
    • Consistent storytelling that keeps fans coming back

    Honoring Tradition While Embracing Innovation

    One thing I love about this shift is how it balances tradition and tech. Rodeo will always be about grit, community, and heritage—but that doesn’t mean it can’t thrive in today’s digital landscape.

    The Cowboy Channel has helped PRCA:

    • Stay connected with longtime fans
    • Build a modern platform without losing its Western roots
    • Reach brand-new audiences

    Wrapping It Up

    So, what’s the real impact? The Cowboy Channel didn’t just give PRCA airtime—it gave it a whole digital identity. From streaming to storytelling, it’s helped rodeo make a name for itself in the modern media world. And honestly, it’s only getting better from here.

    One of the best parts of the NFR’s social media glow-up? The way they highlight athletes as people—not just performers and athletes . We get to see their personalities, routines, and even goofy behind-the-scenes moments. It brings a new level of connection to the sport.

    Social strategies:

    • Athlete takeovers where competitors post their own content for the day
    • Story polls and Q&As that make fans feel involved
    • Spotlights on rookies and legends alike
    • Highlight reels with captions and statistics

    The PRCA’s media team—and The Cowboy Channel—have made it easy for fans to follow, share, and obsess over rodeo from anywhere.

    https://www.prorodeo.com/

    https://www.cowboychannel

  • Exploring PR Through the Lens of Sports and Rodeo

    Welcome to my blog! I am excited explore the ever-evolving world of public relations and sports communication, with a particular focus on the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) and other organizations that are leveraging digital media to elevate their brands. As a Public Relations and Sports Business student at the University of Oregon, this blog reflects my academic journey, my lifelong passion for sports, and my growing interest in strategic communication.

    Sports have always been a huge part of my life. I grew up playing lots of sports including volleyball, softball, and golf, and spent countless hours watching and attending games with my family and friends. My dad was always the one with the TV on, watching every sport imaginable, and his love for competition and the stories behind the games rubbed off on me. Through these experiences I developed a deeper interest in the stories behind the sport—the narratives crafted by public relations professionals to engage audiences. As well as the business behind it.There’s a raw intensity in rodeo that’s unlike any other sport. The mix of tradition, skill, and determination really caught my attention, and I became fascinated with how public relations plays such a crucial role in conveying that energy to the audience. Rodeo is deeply rooted in history, but it’s also evolving rapidly, especially through digital media, which makes it even more exciting for me to explore.

    PRCA has effectively captured the attention of a younger audience through their strategies. At the same time, they’ve ensured that older, more traditional fans remain engaged by offering a mix of content, from live event coverage on television to updates through newsletters and social media apps. The PRCA continues to emphasize the culture and history of rodeo, showcasing classic moments that resonate with long-time fans.

    What to Expect
    This blog is designed to offer insights and reflections for a variety of readers—public relations professionals seeking fresh perspectives, rodeo fans curious about the behind-the-scenes communication efforts, and students of communication interested in real-world sports applications of public relations theory.

    In future posts, I will explore how sports organizations foster brand loyalty through compelling content, examine how the PRCA utilizes platforms like Instagram and YouTube to expand its reach, and share actionable strategies for effective digital communication. I’ll dive into the strategies that are reshaping the way rodeo and other niche sports organizations communicate with their communities. I’m excited to share my findings, discuss challenges, and offer insights into how PR can drive change in both traditional and modern sports.


    Source:

    https://www.prorodeo.com/news