2026 Centennial Convention Speakers and Sessions
2026 Convention Speakers & Sessions
Celebrating 100 years of dude ranching, the 2026 Centennial Convention brings together the heart and heritage of the West. This historic event brings together ranchers, industry partners, and supporters from across the country to reflect on our shared legacy and look ahead to the future of dude ranching. Please see below for the featured speakers joining us at this landmark celebration.
2026 Speakers
Lynn Downey
Speaker Title: ‘The Dude Ranchers’ Association: The First 100 Years’
Monday, January 26, 2026 at 6:30 pm
Biography – Lynn Downey is an award-winning historian, novelist, and short-story writer. She first got interested in the history of the dude ranch when she was the company historian for Levi Strauss & Co. in San Francisco and discovered their line of clothing called “Dude Ranch Duds.” The McCracken Research Library at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody awarded her a Resident Fellowship, and the American Heritage Center in Laramie gave her a travel grant, which allowed her to do extensive research on dude ranching. Her book, American Dude Ranch: A Touch of the Cowboy and the Thrill of the West was published by the University of Oklahoma Press in 2022. Lynn lives in Sonoma, California where she grows wine grapes in her backyard.
Synopsis: Join dude ranch historian Lynn Downey as she takes us on a ride through the first century of the Dude Ranchers’ Association and the storied heritage of American dude ranching. Her fun and educational talk, illustrated with great vintage photos and advertising, will kick off the Centennial Celebration. The stories she tells will remind attendees of the role the dude ranching industry plays in protecting the future of the western and cowboy way of life, as well as preserving its history.
Joe Pokay
Speaker Title: ‘Principles of Regenerative Grazing: Grazing with Horses’
Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Biography – Joe Pokay serves as General Ranch Manager to Noble Research Institute. He provides oversight to the management and operations of the 6 different Noble ranches encompassing 13,500 acres. Before coming to Noble in 2021, Pokay has been employed full time in grazing animal production with family ranches as well as corporate ranches since graduating from Colorado State University in 2007. He has committed his career, and livelihood, to balancing ecosystem health and function with grazing animal production.
Synopsis: This session explores the foundational principles of regenerative grazing, with a special focus on how horses can be effectively integrated into holistic grazing systems. Attendees will gain an understanding of how regenerative practices support soil health, biodiversity, and forage resilience, while also meeting the nutritional and behavioral needs of horses. The session will cover topics such as rotational grazing strategies, pasture rest and recovery, managing equine impact on land, and aligning horse management with ecological goals. Designed for ranchers, land stewards, and equine professionals, this session provides practical insights and tools to enhance the health of both the land and the animals that depend on it.
Jeff Kortes
Speaker Title: ‘Give Your Employees C.R.A.P…Building an Engaged and Loyal Workforce in the New Workplace’
Wednesday, January 28, 2026 – 8:30 am – 9:45 am
Biography – Jeff Kortes has more than 25 years’ experience in human resources. He has worked at companies that specialize in manufacturing, construction, food processing and software development. During his career he has worked to recruit, retain and develop employees at companies such as SPX, Midas International and ConAgra Foods. Jeff is the founder of Human Asset Management LLC which helps organizations to recruit, engage, develop and retain talent. He is a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) through the National Speakers Association and a frequent speaker on the topics of employee retention, recruitment strategy, and culture building. He is an avid high school wrestling fan, Power Lifting competitor as well as a US Army Veteran. Jeff is the author of Give Your Employees C.R.A.P…and 7 Other Secrets to Employee Retention and HR Horror Stories…True Tales from the Trenches. For more information visit http://www.jeffkortes.com
Synopsis: Have you ever wondered why some bosses and organizations have people who are incredibly loyal to them and who will do anything for them while others have a revolving door of employee turnover? Those bosses and organizations people want to follow give their employees lots of C.R.A.P.! (Caring, Respect, Appreciation and Praise). Jeff provides a “headhunter’s” insight into why some employees are loyal and engaged while others do the bare minimum and work only to get a paycheck.
>Through real-life stories and interactive participation, Jeff has created a program which helps participants understand how to demonstrate Caring, Respect, Appreciation, and Praise, so that they can foster engagement, build employee loyalty and reduce employee turnover in their organization.
>Because Jeff is a “headhunter,” in addition to having 25 years in human resources leadership roles prior to starting his own company, he hears first-hand from candidates why bosses and organizations who give their people lots of C.R.A.P. have people who will go the extra mile for them when things get tough and others will leave at 5 o’clock on the dot.
Jeff’s unique insight will provide realistic takeaways that are actionable when attendees return to their organization.
Katie Schrock
Speaker Title: ‘AI Tools for Your Marketing Toolbox’
Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at 10:00 – 11:15 am
Biography – Katie Schrock is the founder of Western Insights Media, a fractional CMO agency serving Western-based nonprofits, rodeo committees, events, and rural organizations. With over a decade of experience in marketing, communications, and event strategy, Katie specializes in helping small teams do big things—especially when it comes to streamlining systems and storytelling through smart tools and AI.
Synopsis: In “AI Tools for Your Marketing Toolbox,” Katie breaks down how to use practical, budget-friendly AI solutions to simplify content creation, boost engagement, and reclaim time in your day. From Canva Pro to ChatGPT and beyond, this presentation is tailored for those wearing all the hats, whether you’re running a festival, managing a guest ranch, or leading a nonprofit with a mission to serve your community. Streamlining the process of content creation, digital advertising strategies, social media scheduling, and email marketing is not only a click away, but something that can be done by anyone to make marketing a little bit easier for those who wear many hats in their day-to-day operation.
Amanda F. Esch
Speaker Title: ‘Current Labor Law Updates and Key Points to Consider’
Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at 1:30 – 2:30 pm
Biography – Amanda F. Esch is a partner with Davis & Cannon, LLP in Sheridan, Wyoming and practices in the areas of employment law, administrative and local government law, and general civil litigation. Ms. Esch represents employers in discrimination, wrongful termination, and wage and discrimination disputes before the Wyoming Department of Employment, the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and state and federal court. She also conducts independent work place investigations, and advises employers on policies and conduct to stay out of court. Amanda was raised on the historic Eatons’ Ranch, a working cattle and dude ranch, and is proud to be a fifth-generation Wyomingite. In her free time she enjoys outdoor activities, reading, cooking, running and spending time with her family.
Synopsis: Stay informed and compliant with the latest changes in labor laws impacting the hospitality, agriculture, and tourism industries. This session will provide a comprehensive overview of recent federal labor law updates, including wage and hour regulations, employee classification, overtime rules, and general workplace safety standards. Attendees will gain practical insights into how these changes may affect hiring practices, payroll, and daily operations. Ideal for business owners, managers, and HR professionals, this session will also include a Q&A segment to address specific concerns and provide actionable recommendations to help you navigate the evolving legal landscape with confidence.
Motivational Keynote Speaker – Micah Fink
Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 3:15 – 4:00 pm
Biography – Micah was raised in upstate New York and joined the military in 2003, later becoming a US Navy Seal and paramilitary contractor. He is the founder and CEO of Montana-based nonprofit, Heroes and Horses, and is known for the execution of ideas that change people’s lives through action, inspiration, and the shifting of beliefs.
Micah is an innovator and communicator in every sense of the word. When he was a young boy, Micah’s father told him that the key to success was to “look at what everyone else is doing, and do the exact opposite”, and Micah has lived that advice to a ‘t’. Micah started Heroes and Horses in 2014 after realizing that, despite the thousands of PTSD-related nonprofits, and the billions spent every year, the statistics on veteran suicide and addiction was growing rapidly. In response to these staggering statistics, Micah created a veteran nonprofit with programming that was unlike anything else out there. His work with veterans has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Men’s Journal, Tedx, YETIs 180 Out, the documentary 500 MIles (produced by Fink), The Ben Shapiro Show, The Laura Ingraham Show, and many other national media outlets.
Micah continues to inspire groups of people, from all different walks of life, through his unique approach to “motivational speaking”, and is frequently hired by sports teams and large corporations to ignite innovative thinking within their team members.
2026 Sessions
The 2026 Centennial Convention of the Dude Ranchers’ Association will feature a dynamic lineup of sessions designed to educate, inspire, and connect our members as we celebrate 100 years of dude ranching. From expert-led panels and hands-on workshops to certification classes and industry updates, each session offers valuable insight into the evolving landscape of the dude ranch industry. Whether you’re focused on operations, marketing, horsemanship, or guest experience, there’s something for everyone at this once-in-a-century gathering.
Join the Dude Ranchers’ Association as they officially begin the Centennial Celebration of the Association with the Opening Session of the Convention. This session sets a welcoming and purposeful tone for the convention. The meeting begins with the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation, followed by a warm welcome and introductions of the Board of Directors and members. Attendees hear the State of the Association, receive a convention overview, and the Treasurer’s Report. The session also includes sponsor recognition, upcoming convention locations, and a presentation of the DRA Marketing Report.
The Dude Ranch Foundation Report highlights the Foundation’s mission to preserve and protect the history, heritage, and future of dude ranching. Key updates include scholarship distributions, historical preservation efforts, and growth in educational programming. Attendees learn how Foundation initiatives directly support the industry’s next generation and strengthen awareness of dude ranching’s cultural and economic impact across the American West.
The Dude Ranch 101 Session offers an open-floor, roundtable discussion where ranchers and industry professionals come together to ask questions, share insights, and learn from one another. This collaborative session encourages honest conversation about daily operations, guest experiences, staffing, marketing, and more. Designed for both new and seasoned ranchers, it provides a unique opportunity to explore different approaches, gain practical knowledge, and strengthen community connections within the dude ranching industry.
Moose Milk – a drink mixture of Jack Daniels Green Label whiskey, milk, sugar, and raw eggs. This drink was started in the late 1950s-early 1960s at the Past President’s Breakfast at the DRA Conventions as a hangover cure after the annual auction night. Eventually, it was offered to everyone at breakfast after the auction to bring the convention to a close. It became an annual tradition, and there are several ranches that still offer this drink during their guest weeks as a piece of history and fun! For the 100th convention, we will bring Moose Milk back “for old time’s sake” and enjoy the memories, stories, and fun times this memorable drink brought, and create new memories!
The District Meetings are breakout gatherings for each region—Wyoming, Montana, Colorado, and the Rest of the West. Attendees discuss district-specific business, elect board representatives, and address local challenges and opportunities. These sessions foster regional collaboration and ensure every area’s voice is heard within the broader Association.
Dress Like the “Dudes” Do Dinner & Costume Contest invites attendees to don their best dude-inspired outfits for a fun-filled evening of laughs, delicious food, and friendly competition. Creative costumes, great company, and exciting prizes make this a memorable and lighthearted highlight of the convention.
The Convention Business Session focuses on key organizational matters and member engagement. District representatives present their reports, highlighting regional updates and initiatives. Member ranches participate in elections to select leadership and board members for the Association, ensuring continued representation across the Association. The session also includes a presentation on DRA member benefits, showcasing valuable resources, programs, and opportunities available to support ranch operations and growth. This session reinforces transparency, collaboration, and the collective strength of the Association.
The DRF Horse Safety Certification Class & Panel Discussion focuses on promoting safe, effective horse programs across the dude ranch industry. Participants receive guidance on the certification process and standards, followed by an engaging panel discussion featuring experienced ranchers and equine professionals. The panel covers best practices in guest safety, staff training, and horse management. Attendees gain valuable insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of how to elevate safety while maintaining authentic riding experiences.
Circle the Wagons is an intimate, roundtable-style session where ranchers gather in small groups of 10–12 to ask questions and share insights. Focused on ranch operations, staffing, and daily challenges, this collaborative format encourages deeper discussion, personalized advice, and stronger peer connections within the dude ranching community.
Speaker Proposals
If you are interested in speaking at our event in 2027, please send a biography, cost, proposed topic, and links to previous presentations by May 1, 2026, to Bryce Albright at bryce@duderanch.org.