Rail Talk Episode 42: Broken Horses: An Industry in Repair

Surprise! It’s a double dose of Rail Talk this week, as Joe Bianca and Jon Green follow up their Derby 150 preview show with an examination of the much-anticipated New York Times documentary Broken Horses. Despite the scary and sensationalist title, Joe and Jon came away feeling like the show did an excellent job telling the entire story of racing in the 21st century—the ills, but also the major effort of the industry to correct and reform itself. After giving their full review, the boys welcome Times reporter and Broken Horses producer Joe Drape for an illuminating discussion on how the show came to be, the ways he’s seen racing change in his 25 years covering the game, his overall outlook on the future and much more.

Rail Talk Episode 41: Derby 150 w/the Brunette Bonanza

The milestone 150th running of the Kentucky Derby is almost upon us and to celebrate, Joe Bianca and Jon Green welcomed the ‘Brunette Bonanza’ of America’s Best Racing’s Keeneland Weekend Preview Show to the Rail Talk set! Alexa Zepp, Ren Carothers and Rachel Miller’s show has caught on a ton and with good reason, bringing the humor and levity of racing/handicapping to the forefront. That was obviously a natural fit with Joe and Jon, so all five of them put together a Derby handicapping contest. Many laughs were had, it was more than a bit unruly, but there were also some sharp insights as each participant picked their top four horses for Saturday’s Run for the Roses. The prize? Naming rights for a DJ Stable 2-year-old of 2025!

Rail Talk Episode 40: Sales and Slam Dunks!

This week on Rail Talk: Sales and Slam Dunks! Jon Green and Joe Bianca are back from Ocala with a wrap from the OBS spring sale while they fanboy over the New York teams in the NBA/NHL playoffs. Joining the boys were Boyd Browning, Fasig Tipton’s President and CEO, and Anna Seitz, their Director of Client Relations. They dove into Fasig Tipton’s digital and physical sales, and announced a special flash sale with DJ Stable's Mensa going live today! Amidst the horse talk, they also had a reminisce about Anna’s college basketball glory days. Joe and Jon then shifted gears to talk about Thoroughbred aftercare efforts by 1st Racing and Gulfstream Park. Thanks for joining us on the 40th episode of Rail Talk, brought to you by our wonderful sponsors, Fasig-Tipton, Taylor Made, and The Green Group. Thanks to our devoted listeners/viewers, and if you aren’t one yet, be sure to subscribe to Rail Talk on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Audible, or RailTalkMedia.com.

Rail Talk Episode 39: An All-Star Lineup, ‘Live’ From Ocala

This week on Rail Talk! Joe Bianca and Jon Green are on-site from Mark Casse's gorgeous training center in Ocala and welcome a star-studded lineup of guests before checking out seven-figure OBS March buy Sandman's latest impressive breeze. Stopping by the set were Casse himself, West Point Thoroughbred's CEO Terry Finley and founder of The Green Group/DJ Stable Len Green. Casse discussed Sandman's rapid progress and the history/legacy of his farm, while Finley touched on a variety of industry issues and Green broke down the tax implication of Thoroughbred ownership.

Breakaway Episode 9 – Michelle Yu & Billy Koch

It’s a “reciprocal” Breakaway Rail Talk episode - as Jon Green welcomes 1/ST racing analyst Michelle Yu and Little Red Feather’s Founder/Managing Partner Billy Koch. Fresh off their discussion on the Owner’s Box Podcast, the gang discusses the complex dynamics of Cali racing, the merits of having owners in the Racing HOF, the added value of buying horses with a well-established manager and a gaggle of other thought-provoking subjects. Don’t miss a minute of this highly entertaining episode on…BREAKAWAY RAIL TALK, brought to you by ARION PEDIGREES.

Rail Talk Episode 38: Eclipse Edition!

In the shadow of a cosmic marvel, there were some star performances on the racetrack this weekend with the final round of major Kentucky Derby preps setting the stage for the 150th Run for the Roses, and Joe Bianca and Jon Green teamed up to break it all down. With two clear favorites emerging in Fierceness and Sierra Leone, who else can we expect to shine on the first Saturday in May? The boys then discussed Frankie Dettori’s remarkable six straight wins on Saturday at Santa Anita, DJ Stable’s decision to give Hades one more chance to get into the Derby and HIWU’s suspension of top trainer Robertino Diodoro.

Rail Talk Episode 37: Fierceness Bounces Back

It was a busy weekend of Kentucky Derby preps as we inch closer to the 150th Run for the Roses, and Joe Bianca, Jon Green and Tinky broke it all down this week on Rail Talk. Showing us his face for the first time, Tinky (Tony Cobitz) appreciated Fierceness’s monster win in the Florida Derby before examining Todd Pletcher’s poor record in the Derby and what it says about owners of 3-year-old colts. Jon then told us what’s next for DJ Stable’s star colt Hades and the three all discussed former Bob Baffert trainee Laurel River’s shocking renaissance in a Dubai World Cup romp.

Rail Talk Episode 36: John Sikura on the industry

This week on Rail Talk, Joe Bianca and Jon Green welcome the always opinionated and thoughtful owner of Hill ‘n’ Dale Farm, John Sikura. The three tackle the challenges of introducing new stallions to the market, breeding for heartiness and not just speed, and innovative ways to increase interest/purses at the Breeders’ Cup. Joe and Jon then praise the three sales companies for coming together to institute new, uniform drug policy, analyze 1/ST Racing’s threat to close Santa Anita and appreciate some rare horseplayer-friendly developments courtesy of Washington state racetrack Emerald Downs.

Breakaway Rail Talk – Episode 8 The Ocho with Samantha Perry

Breakaway Rail Talk - Episode 8 The Ocho. Jon Green speaks with Gulfstream Park Handicapper and Paddock Host Samantha Perry about her cross-country journey from Oklahoma quarter horse tracks to the Jersey Shore to South Beach. They also discuss how to handicap races on Gulfstream’s synthetic track and what to look for on Saturday’s Florida Derby card. Jon asks Samantha how being an exercise rider improved her ability to predict winners and how the recently defunct NowNowNow Stakes launched her career as an interviewer.

Rail Talk Episode 35: Tote-al Disaster

This week on Rail Talk, Joe Bianca and Jon Green are back from Ocala and full of takes. First they discuss the disaster befalling the American betting system on Tampa Bay Derby day and how the sport needs to show more to respect its core customer, the average horseplayer. Then they look forward to Saturday’s Louisiana Derby card and touch on the latest racing Twitter beef. Fresh off his 2,000th career win, the great and always opinionated Kenny McPeek stops by to talk Derby contenders and industry issues, and Andrew Stewart of Arion Pedigrees jumps on at the crack of dawn in New Zealand to talk Sandman’s pedigree and his view on American racing from afar. Make sure to subscribe to Rail Talk on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify so you don’t miss any new episodes. The growth of the show has been really exciting to see, so major thanks to our viewers/listeners and sponsors Fasig-Tipton, The Green Group and Taylor Made for fueling this fire.

Off the Rails – Episode 10

Jon and Joe head to a pizza parlour, Joe is attacked by his own prop and celebrates his birthday with a special gift from Jon and Producer Patty on this episode of Off the Rails! Thank you Lauren Carlisle of Black Dog Bloodstock for sponsoring Off the Rails!

Off the Rails – Episode 9

You can thank (blame) Lauren Carlisle for bringing you outtakes from #RailTalk - Thank you Black Dog Bloodstock for sponsoring!! In Episode 9 of Off the Rails, Joe Bianca, Jon Green, and Patty Wolfe are airing their dirty laundry - not voluntarily as editors decide what goes in!

Rail Talk Episode 34: Tink Tank Two

This week on Rail Talk, it’s the illuminating second half of Joe Bianca and Jon Green’s conversation with Tony Cobitz, the artist formerly known as Tinky. Continuing their discussion on ‘super trainers’ in general and Bob Baffert specifically, Tony also touched on his Twitter debate with Tom Ryan and the appreciation he has for open, respectful debate. The trio then moved on to the recent Mike Repole and Pat Cummings interview, agreeing that the NTA aftercare initiatives are admirable and right while questioning whether the nascent organization will have the discipline and focus necessary to bring about real change.

Rail Talk Episode 33: Tink Tank

Horse racing Twitter lightning rod Tinky has returned for his third visit to the Rail Talk studio and this time came prepared to reveal his true identity to the audience. The former clocker, advisor, writer, author, consultant, track analyst, mating analyst, legal expert and jock’s agent joined hosts Joe Bianca and Jon Green to review his many years in the Thoroughbred industry before weighing in on the topics of the day. The trio expounded on the mare cap discussion and Tinky brought a lot of data along to back up his positions. From there they ventured into the very hot topic of super trainers and their effect on the industry. Alas, there was too much to say and too little time, so the second half of the conversation will be released in a few days to finish the super trainer debate and touch on more pressing industry issues.

Rail Talk Episode 32: Every Horse Matters

This week on Rail Talk, Joe Bianca and Jon Green confront the ugly and apparently avoidable loss of Congruent on Saturday at Gulfstream, wondering why and how the system failed another horse whose life had as much value as any superstar runner’s. Joe and Jon then analyzed the latest round of Kentucky Derby preps and welcomed Steve Crist, a Mt. Rushmore-level figure in the worlds of handicapping and turf writing. With Crist, they debated the merits of computer-assisted wagering, how far we’ve come on eliminating ‘juicer’ trainers and what roles synthetic tracks should play in racing’s future. The boys also welcomed back special correspondent Skip Anderson for the latest edition of ‘Tackle or Trade’ in which we learn Jon is a secret scuba king?

Breakaway Rail Talk – Lauren Carlisle, Black Dog Bloodstock

Jon Green sits with up-and-coming bloodstock agent, Lauren Carlisle of Black Dog Bloodstock. Lauren discusses her recent successes (including Grade I winning Hoosier Philly), what it's like to bid on and sign for a seven-figure horse and how she short-lists a sale with over 4,000 entries. Jon and Lauren also talk about how quickly they fall in and/or out of love with a horse (the amount of time will surprise you). Breakaway Rail Talk is of course brought to you by Arion Pedigrees, the go-to site for your pedigree needs.

Rail Talk Episode 31: State of the Industry with Jim Gagliano

With the racing industry going through a crucial transitional period, Joe Bianca and Jon Green sat down with The Jockey Club President and COO Jim Gagliano for the latest edition of Rail Talk. The three had an expansive discussion on the most pressing issues facing the business and its biggest stakeholders—owners, breeders, horsemen and horseplayers. Topics included: the rollout of HISA, what can be done to attract new bettors to the game, what’s the best way to diversify the gene pool of the U.S. Thoroughbred, where are we on rectifying the problem of performance-enhancing drugs and the continued efforts to reduce racing and training fatalities. Joe and Jon also reacted to the satisfying result of the Saudi Cup and looked forward to a superb Fountain of Youth Day card at Gulfstream.

Rail Talk Episode 30: Tink Twice

The reaction was overwhelming—both positive and negative—to last week’s episode of Rail Talk, where Joe Bianca and Jon Green welcomed polarizing racing Twitter personality Tinky. So naturally, the boys had him back on this week to respond to the vitriol aimed his way, but also for another substantive, illuminating discussion on the hot-button issues in the sport today. The three tackled the failed proposal of a 140-mare cap for stallions and debated what, if anything, can be done to address the shrinking gene pool of the U.S. Thoroughbred. They then touched on the bloated graded stakes schedule, the Saudi Cup and the overall shortsightedness of breeding to sell instead of breeding to race.

Rail Talk Episode 29: Tinky’s Corner

Surprise! It’s a bonus episode of Rail Talk, our second of the week. Only one thing could spur Joe Bianca and Jon Green to return to their mics so quickly—a guest spot by the mysterious and brilliant Tinky. If you’re not familiar, @Tinky47flat has taken horse racing Twitter by storm in recent months with eloquent, funny and insightful posts taking to task some of the biggest names in the game. Clearly well versed in the history of racing, Tinky had heretofore never been seen or heard from outside of his Twitter posts. But he took Joe and Jon up on their invitation to lend his voice to their open and honest discussions on Rail Talk, and the results were magic. The three instantly clicked and talked frankly about many of racing’s biggest hot-button issues, including Bob Baffert, The Jockey Club, HISA and ‘commissioner’ Mike Repole.

Rail Talk Episode 28: All About Gun Runner

This week on Rail Talk, Joe Bianca and Jon Green react to a soggy but star-studded Saturday at Fair Grounds, where progeny of Gun Runner—including impressive Derby contender Sierra Leone—took center stage, as they so often do. They also said farewell to his brilliant daughter Echo Zulu and debated whether or not her career is Hall of Fame-worthy before touching on the issues being caused by the proliferation of computer-assisted wagering. Joe and Jon then welcomed in Ocala Stud general manager David O’Farrell to discuss how the family business has managed to stand out in a crowded stallion landscape, the safety improvements at 2-year-old sales and more. Don’t miss an episode of Rail Talk, be sure to subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Audible. Thanks to our sponsors Fasig-Tipton, The Green Group and Taylor Made for their continued love and support. It’s an exciting week at Taylor Made, as they’re approaching what would have been Daddy Joe’s 100th Birthday this coming Friday. To honor him, they’ve introduced Servant Leader Awards, designed to recognize employees driven to serve their team, clients, community, and horses with unwavering dedication while wearing a smile. Winners will be announced Friday!

Rail Talk Episode 27: It’s Raining Ren

This week on Rail Talk! Joe Bianca and Jon Green, who toughed it out through a case of COVID, discuss two major trainer suspensions and whether or not they were justified before Jon lets it fly on the decisions of certain Eclipse Award voters. Original guest Ren Carothers also stops by to talk about a big weekend of racing at Tampa, a loaded renewal of the Risen Star and how she reacts when someone calls her Mary Poppins, then the boys are joined by special correspondent Skip Anderson for a Valentine’s Day-themed round of Tackle or Trade.

Rail Talk Episode 26: Holy Hades

The road to the 150th Kentucky Derby kicked off in earnest this past weekend, and it started with a BANG as Jon and Len Green’s DJ Stable captured the Grade III Holy Bull Stakes with Hades, upsetting Mike Repole’s heavily-favored 2-year-old champion Fierceness in the process. So naturally this week on Rail Talk, Jon and co-host Joe Bianca talked all about that euphoric experience and welcomed in Hades’s trainer Joe Orseno to map out the next few months leading up to the Derby. Of course it wasn’t just Hades who set the racing world on fire this week—Bob Baffert trainee Nysos dominated the Grade III Bob Lewis Stakes and looks like clearly the best 3-year-old in America. Will it take away from the Derby not having banned Baffert’s top runners in the gate? And what does that mean for the other two legs of the Triple Crown? All that, plus special correspondent Skip Anderson stops by to play a Super Bowl-themed edition of Tackle or Trade on this week’s episode of Rail Talk.

Rail Talk Episode 25: Casa Bianca

At the start of the NFL season, Rail Talk hosts Joe Bianca and Jon Green made a friendly wager involving their favorite teams. Though neither the Jets or Giants could be classified as winners this season, Joe’s Jets finished with a better record than Jon’s Giants and as the slightly bigger loser, Jon had to journey from suburban New Jersey all the way to Joe’s Brooklyn apartment to record Episode 25 of Rail Talk. Even more lively when together in person, Joe and Jon give their spicy takes on certain Eclipse Awards acceptance speeches, react to the Pegasus World Cup card and discussed the proposal of a second Pegasus-like celebration called the California Crown at Santa Anita. Also on the table was the story of Bob Baffert’s owners standing by their man and refusing to transfer their potential Derby horses to other trainers by Churchill Downs’s deadline, plus the upcoming weekend at Gulfstream as Derby prep fever begins to heat up. Joe’s dog Cy makes a special appearance for the last segment and it seems everyone forgot about Special Correspondent Skip Anderson.

Rail Talk Episode 24: The (Unbelievably) Slow Wheels of Justice

This week on Rail Talk, Joe Bianca and Jon Green take an involuntary trip back in time, as Bob Baffert has finally decided to drop his appeal of the 2021 Kentucky Derby disqualification. Will Baffert be welcomed back to the Derby by Churchill Downs now? Would he have even been sanctioned in the first place had he taken responsibility and accepted the decision from the jump? Later, the guys are joined by America’s Best Racing marketing manager Don Tordjman for a fascinating discussion about the challenges of bringing new, younger people into the game. What works, what doesn’t and how do we make the racing world more inclusive? Joe and Jon also look forward to the $1 million Pegasus World Cup Turf, where they’ll be clashing head to head with Integration and Webslinger, and share footage of the Rail Talk namesake 2-year-olds getting their early training lessons in Ocala!

Rail Talk Episode 23: A Couple of Particular Italians

It might be freezing seemingly everywhere, but the cold temperatures also mean we’ve reached foaling and breeding season! This week on Rail Talk, Joe Bianca and Jon Green welcome Darley stallion coordinator Elizabeth Masi to learn all about the matings being planned and new life being welcomed into the world on a major stallion farm. Plus she discusses the unique personalities of Darley legends Medaglia d’Oro and Bernardini and shines light on some of the common misconceptions around Thoroughbred breeding operations. Sticking with that theme, the boys also celebrate the first foals of Flightline hitting the ground and debate what would be considered a successful first few years at stud for the generational superstar. They also touch on an emergent Kentucky Derby contender bred by the Greens’ DJ Stable and new initiatives led by young people in the industry to help combat negative PR thrown at racing.

Rail Talk Episode 22: And Just Like That, It’s a New Year

We’re welcoming in the New Year on Rail Talk! Jessica Paquette joins hosts Joe Bianca and Jon Green to talk race calling, Parx, combatting sexism in racing, and getting young people into the sport. More money in the pot for the Kentucky Derby tops the Triple Crown news while Maryland racing braces for some big changes. How will Stronach leaving Maryland and the influx of state money affect the Preakness Stakes? Rail Talk welcomes its first special correspondent, Skip Anderson to the show for game called Tackle or Trade which attempts to get to know – or at least embarrass – our hosts. We thank our sponsors for running it back with us in the new year as we celebrate hitting half a million views. Fasig-Tipton, The Green Group, Taylor Made, Arion Pedigrees and Black Dog Bloodstock, we are honored by your support and look forward to a great year together.

All I Want For Christmas Is You, And Also Transparency in the Graded Stakes Evaluation Process

Happy holidays from the Rail Talk team! In this final, bonus episode of 2023, Joe Bianca and Jon Green take on the perplexing decisions of the American Graded Stakes Committee. The AGSC continued its trend of downgrading several historic New York races per year in 2024, while the list of 30 total races downgraded somehow included zero from Kentucky. Joe and Jon asked for more transparency in the decision-making at the very least, and brought on former voting member Craig Bernick of Glen Hill Farm to try to shed some light on the process. Finally, they looked forward to some of the biggest storylines for 2024, including the Belmont Stakes heading north to Saratoga. Thank you so much for supporting Rail Talk in 2023.

Breakaway Rail Talk Episode 6

Kim Wickens, author of Lexington: The Extraordinary Life and Turbulent Times of America's Legendary Racehorse joins Jon Green to discuss her national best-selling book which is attracting readers inside and outside of the racing audience. Lexington, 1850-1875, was a champion Thoroughbred racehorse with international fame. He rose to stardom at a time when the United States was fracturing. The Civil War provides a backdrop for this incredible tale of hardship, grit, determination, and dominance. Lexington is considered the most successful sire in American racing history and his name appears often many times in the pedigrees of racing champions today. Reviewers are calling Kim’s book phenomenal and her research exhaustive. Many reviews mention a new appreciation for racing: “I am not a fan of the horse racing world. To say I went in with a chip on my shoulder reading this would be light, but I wanted to give this book a shot and I'm so glad I did...Lexington is a foundational American sire in the US horse racing world...This is an expansive and interesting story for anyone who knows horses…” - Amazon reviewer And “Horses haven't ever been my thing. But lately my interest is piqued, and Kim Wickens's book Lexington: the Extraordinary Life and Turbulent Times of America's Legendary Racehorse, provides a wealth of information that places this particular horse in the context not only of his time, but all time. Lexington was the father of a dynasty!” - Amazon reviewer We are happy to bring you this interview as we salute Kim’s ability to bring a new audience to racing. Thank you to Arion Pedigrees for your continued support and sponsorship. We love how deep Arion’s pedigree of Lexington runs. “Back to the stone ages,” according to Jon.

Breakaway Rail Talk – Vicky Leonard: Correcting Racing Misconceptions

Jon Green welcomes Vicky Leonard for Episode 5 of Breakaway Rail Talk. Vicky is the managing director of Kick Collective in Sydney, Australia and the founder of the successful Kick Up for Racing, an initiative which counters the negative press and impressions of horse racing through media in Australia. Kick Up for Racing is based on four pillars: 1) Addressing misinformation, 2) Amplifying positives and progress, 3) Empower the racing community 4) Accountability. You can learn more at kickup.com.au. Vicky is teaming with partners in the USA to launch Light Up Racing with the same mission of educating the non-racing public on the many positives of the industry and correcting misimpressions through data and information. You can sign up for more information at LightUpRacing.com. Thank you to Vicky for spending time with us and for all she does for the industry. Also, a big thank you to Arion Pedigrees for sponsoring Breakaway Rail Talk.

Rail Talk Episode 19: Reasons to Give Thanks

This week on Rail Talk, Joe Bianca and Jon Green get the rest of the story that 60 Minutes left out of its ‘drugs in racing’ piece with HISA CEO Lisa Lazarus. The three discuss the reforms racing has implemented *in response* to its doping crisis that are already showing tangible results, making the sport safer and cleaner. To that end, Joe and Jon branch off to celebrate that from their perspectives as horseplayer and owner, they’re seeing way fewer inexplicable results in the HISA era. They also touch on the spotless 2023 training record of Saratoga’s Oklahoma training track despite it being utilized more than ever, and the incredible performance of emerging West Point/Woodford star 3-year-old Integration.

Off the Rails – Episode 8

Rail Talk Episode 18: 60 Minutes, Only Half the Story

This week on Rail Talk, Joe Bianca and Jon Green react to the biggest news of the week: an expose on doping in horse racing that aired Sunday on legendary news program 60 Minutes. Was the story reported fairly? Or was there too much focus on the sensationalist drug bust of 2020, not enough focus on what racing is doing to clean itself up in the aftermath? Plus, the guys react to the HBPA head predictably making 60 Minutes' broadcast all about himself and his anti-HISA campaign, celebrate the news that Auguste Rodin will race as a 4-year-old and wonder whether or not Churchill's turf course needs to be torn up again.

Rail Talk supports the New York Race Track Chaplaincy

Over 3,500 people make up the community of workers who toil behind the scenes in support of the Thoroughbred racing industry at Belmont Park, Aqueduct Racetrack, and Saratoga Springs Race Course. The New York Race Track Chaplaincy ministers to the heart and soul of this entire community of stable workers and their families with children’s enrichment, teen mentoring, women’s programming, social service, recreational, and educational programs as well as non-denominational religious services. The NY Chaplaincy provides these extensive services with the intent of satisfying spiritual needs and basic human necessities, as well as providing the tools necessary for the realization of personal strength and growth through a connection to God and community. Michael Dubb, Nick Caras, Xochilt Solorio, and Irad Ortiz discuss their passion for the work of Chaplain Humberto Chavez and his tireless team. To learn more about the New York Race Track Chaplaincy, visit: https://www.rtcany.org/

Rail Talk Episode 17: The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Fresh off their groundbreaking on-site episode from the plane to the Breeders’ Cup, Joe Bianca and Jon Green were back at their regular stations to break down a phenomenal week of racing and sales on the latest episode of Rail Talk. Jon and Len Green’s DJ Stable had the honor of selling a champion at Fasig-Tipton November’s Night of the Stars in Wonder Wheel, and Jon takes us behind the curtain for all the excitement when their beautiful filly hammered for $3.2 million. Then the boys recap a terrific Breeders’ Cup experience, headlined by the brilliant performance of Auguste Rodin, and pay tribute to the touching story of Cody Dorman and Cody’s Wish.

Racing For Home with Sherrie Courtney

Sherrie Courtney founded Racing for Home with her daughter and broadcaster Acacia Clement. Racing for Home rescues retired race horses who are most in need. Sherries gives them a second chance at life. Some go on to second careers. Many are adopted. And some will stay under Sherrie's care for the rest of their days. Sherrie Courtney is one of our Odds On Favorite people.

Breeders’ Cup Pick ‘Em Contest Results

Joe Bianca and Skip Anderson of Baa Baa Acres announce the winner of the Breeders' Cup Pick 'Em Contest.

Episode 16: Reaching New Heights

Joe Bianca and Jon Green host the show from this week’s special guest Len Green’s plane en route to the 40th Breeders’ Cup. DJ Stable’s (owned by Len, managed by Jon) Can Group is scheduled to run in the Juvenile Turf on Friday. The hosts cover the news of unfortunate scratches and losses before welcoming Len Green to talk about his fifth successive Breeders’ Cup. Len also shares valuable tax and business advice for individuals in the horse industry. Joe and Jon welcome another passenger from the back of the plane, horse owner Aron Yagoda, to do some quick handicapping before the weekend.

Rail Good Bets: Breeders’ Cup Bonanza with Jim Politano

It’s Breeders’ Cup week! And to celebrate the 40th renewal of the World Championships, we at Rail Talk are proud to premiere the first episode of our latest spinoff series, Rail Good Bets! For the new handicapping-focused podcast’s debut we welcomed owner and sharp bettor Jim Politano to break down all 14 Breeders’ Cup races with host Joe Bianca. Joe and Jim put their heads and opinions together to construct multi-race bets for both Friday and Saturday’s races, then Jim provided insight on how he’ll attack the Breeders’ Cup Betting Challenge, a $10,000 buy-in live money tournament where he’ll be competing against some of the best horseplayers in the world.

Episode 15: A Couple of Funky Nuts

The countdown to the Breeders’ Cup has entered its final stages, and Joe Bianca and Jon Green welcomed an array of fun guests to get you primed for the 40th renewal of the World Championships this week on Rail Talk. First, the brilliant and hilarious FanDuel/TVG reporter/analyst Andie Biancone stopped by for a rollicking discussion on what she looks for in a horse’s physical appearance, the therapeutic power of horses, handicapping Hong Kong racing and growing up with/working for her quintessentially French father, successful trainer Patrick Biancone. The boys were also joined by Andrew Stewart of Arion Pedigrees for an international perspective on the Breeders’ Cup’s European and Japanese hopes, and ‘Joe or Jon’ contest winner Anna Simms sat in on the show after guessing 8/10 facts correctly about the hosts! Joe and Jon also touched on the HISA penalties applied to small-time trainer John Pimental and whether more common sense is needed in HISA’s enforcement, and previewed next week’s show which will be shot on the plane to the Breeders’ Cup.

Episode 14: Studs & More Studs

This week Joe Bianca and Jon Green talk stallion fees as farms begin to release their 2024 rosters. Three at $250,000 still hold good value while another’s doubled fee is clearly ‘justified.’ Some second-year sires see reduced fees but not reduced quality. While on the topic of breeding Joe and Jon welcome Bret Jones to catch up on Airdrie Stud’s roster and a lot more including growing up (and raising kids) in the business. And what would we be without another contest? Instead of true or false, it’s Joe or Jon. Winners guessing the most correct answers will be invited to be in the virtual studio for next week’s record. Is that a “win”? Time will tell, but it is always a lot of fun. See behind the curtain and witness the nonsense.

Off the Rails – Episode 7

The cameras keep rolling, they keep talking and we remain committed to showing you the less serious side of our esteemed hosts Joe Bianca and Jon Green. We also are honored to welcome Black Dog Bloodstock to the Rail Talk family. Thank you Lauren Carlisle!

Episode 13: All Together Now

Does racing need a new association of owners and trainers to confront its challenges? Should there be an increase in the Kentucky Derby purse? Just how many words can a person fit into one tweet? Those are all questions ultra-successful Thoroughbred owner Mike Repole attempted to answer this week, and it provided fuel for a fascinating discussion this week on Episode 13 of Real Talk. Joe Bianca and Jon Green dissected Repole’s rants, which they said contained a number of great, actionable ideas that need the kind of attention Repole is providing, but also wondered whether or not a new organization would be helpful or harmful in an era of racing that *finally* has a central governing body. Later, Joe and Jon welcomed FanDuel/TVG host Scott Hazelton to talk about what makes racing at Keeneland so irresistible, and celebrated some monster performances on the racetrack during the last big tuneup weekend for the Breeders’ Cup.

Episode 12: Let Them Fight

This week on Rail Talk, the boys go guest-less because there was simply too much news to discuss, starting with the ultimate confrontation between Horse Racing Twitter™ and the sport’s institutional giants. Bob Baffert is suing two of racing’s most well-known social media firebrands/instigators/rabble-rousers for alleged defamation and extortion, and Joe Bianca and Jon Green break it down from every angle. Joe and Jon then ask when is enough enough re: Paco Lopez and his irresponsible riding style, and analyze the findings from a Blood-Horse investigation into the seemingly preventable death of New York Thunder. Finally, they look forward to a monster weekend of racing across the country, as the last round of tickets to the Breeders’ Cup will be punched.

Breakaway Rail Talk: Of Matzos and Men

Jon Green catches up with his best friend and racing companion, Aron Yagoda, Executive Vice President of Streit's Matzos, in this installment of Breakaway Rail Talk presented by Arion Pedigrees. These two put the fun in dysfunctional. No holds are barred/no topics off limits. Aron shares the story of his first Kentucky Derby -- the highs, ALMOST making a $750,000 deal and the lows, ALMOST losing his shoes on a Greyhound bus. And all at the age of 16. They reminisce about past sales, Eclipse Awards, and big races with D.J. Stable owners Len & Lois Green and how "Aron is the son they never had." You can try not to laugh and have fun listening to this episode, but you will fail.

Breakaway Rail Talk: Making It On Your Own w/Jim Politano

It’s not easy to be a successful racehorse owner, even with all the money and institutional backing in the world. It’s even more challenging to try to do it on your own, as a regular person. But Jim Politano, a die-hard racing fan and renaissance man from Boston, has proven it can be done. A West Point Thoroughbreds partner, he struck out on his own in 2021 and his horses have earned over $750,000 since. Friday, Jim sat down with Joe Bianca for the latest episode of Breakaway Rail Talk, sponsored by Arion Pedigrees. The two had an immensely fun and candid conversation about what it takes to make it in this game, the overall state of racing, his night job as the lead singer of a band that’s also carved out a strong niche in the New England area, and much more.

Episode 11: Conquering New Terry-tory

This week on Rail Talk, Joe Bianca and Jon Green welcome Terry Finley, the founder and CEO of West Point Thoroughbreds, for an illuminating discussion on racing, auction strategy, the brave new world of HISA and much more. Fresh off of a huge three-week span of graded stakes successes, West Point was also extremely active at the Keeneland September Sale, including taking a piece of the $3-million topper. Finley takes the audience behind the curtain and let us in on how those million-dollar deals come to fruition. He also talked about how special it was for Carson’s Run, named after a WPT partner’s son who has a rare disease, to win a Grade I to punch his ticket to the Breeders’ Cup, and laid out the significant early accomplishments of HISA. Piggybacking off that, Joe and Jon later talked about how mind-explodingly great it is to finally have a unified voice to respond to industry crises with both strong words and action. They also paid tribute to racing/breeding legend Brereton Jones and touched on the latest track to close in Turf Paradise.

Episode 10: Jay Talking

Joe Bianca and Jon Green are back at their mics for a late-night record of Rail Talk, with Jon reporting from the September Yearling Sale with lots of good news and big numbers. Joe then welcomes one of his racing heroes, illustrious journalist Jay Privman, who recently retired from his post as the excellent National Correspondent for the Daily Racing Form. Joe and Jay cover the topics and challenges of racing today, including renewed safety concerns, the implementation of HISA, Bob Baffert, the progress of California racing and much more. We couldn’t get enough of Jay, so we asked him to join us again leading up to the Breeders’ Cup at Santa Anita for more insights and for some reason he said yes. There were also updates on the ill-fated NFL bet between the hosts that included a debate over whether or not Jon is a witch, after his eerily accurate prediction of Aaron Rodgers’s injury, plus a discussion of Churchill’s new claiming restrictions some are calling “The Linda Rice Rules”.

Episode 9: Winds of Change

They're back! Joe Bianca welcomes Jon Green back from his European adventures as Mark Casse brings some sanity to the mix. There's a lot of catching up to do. Reflections on the Saratoga meet, the (preventable?) tragedy of New York Thunder, synthetic tracks, wearable biometrics and a look ahead to the Breeders' Cup are all on the table this week. Celebrated trainer Mark Casse offers expert insight on keeping horses safe. Spoiler alert: synthetic tracks are at the top of the list. We are so grateful Mark took some time to spend with us. He has more experience than most with synthetic surfaces, and we learned a lot from the discussion. See video of the naming contest yearlings along with some of Jon's personal stash of vacation pictures.

Breakaway Rail Talk: All About Pedigrees with Arion’s Andrew Stewart

Andrew Stewart, Bloodstock Manager for Arion Pedigrees, Ltd. joins Joe Bianca this week for a fun discussion to kick off Arion’s presenting sponsorship of Breakaway Rail Talk, the shorter, one-on-one spinoff of the Rail Talk podcast. Arion Pedigrees, Ltd. is a New Zealand-based pedigree provider with a comprehensive and unparalleled database. Joe used Arion Pedigrees while he was a thoroughbred industry writer and though he and Andrew have known each other for a while, this was the first time they actually met—computer face to computer face. The two dove into the rich world of racing and breeding in Australia/New Zealand and why those countries’ exports do so well on the world stage, Andrew’s maiden voyage to Saratoga, his random support of the Cincinnati Bengals and much more. For the deepest pedigree dives, Andrew will return in special Pedigree Corner segments of the Rail Talk podcast. Thank you to Arion (hyper link) for their sponsorship of Breakaway Rail Talk. We know our audience will be equally grateful to use their service to explore the fascinating world of pedigrees.

Episode 8: Hall of Fame Jockey, Even Better Person Ramón Dominguez

It seems like yesterday that Ramón Dominguez, the three-time defending Eclipse Champion Jockey, was forced to walk away from racing after several bad falls put him on the precipice of catastrophic injury. In reality, it was 10 years ago, and if anything, Ramón’s legend has only grown since. A regular at New York racetracks since his retirement, he’s become one of the game’s top ambassadors and one of the most revered people in the industry, for good reason. This week, the always engaging Dominguez sat down for a fun and enlightening conversation with Joe Bianca and Jon Green on Rail Talk. In it, he touched on the most exhilarating feeling he ever experienced on a horse, the importance of mental health support for jockeys, his charity work with the Race Track Chaplaincy, and how his passion for the game always keeps a smile on his face. We could’ve talked to Ramón for hours, he’s just that good of a dude, but Joe and Jon also found time to preview a star-studded Travers and Personal Ensign, visit with jockey-turned-theatre-star Robert Montano for a sneak peek at his off-Broadway play “Small”, and announce the winner of their latest yearling naming contest.

Robert Montano’s show “Small” is a BIG hit!

Robert Montano's life's ambition was to be a jockey. He struggled to get rides from trainers, worked to get trust from the horses and - like so many jockeys - tortured himself to make weight as his young body grew. In this one man show, Robert shares the extreme emotion of being a rider and the utter heartbreak too. Small is getting rave reviews in its Off Broadway run and we were honored to visit with him and learn more about his incredible journey. To purchase tickets visit: https://www.59e59.org/shows/show-detail/small/

Off the Rails – Episode 5

They simply can't stay on the rails. A most contagious giddy fit has taken hold.

Episode 7: State of the Union

It’s a new era in racing. Long clamored for, the sport finally has an umbrella organization to unify its rules and regulations—most significantly, its anti-doping policies. The woman at the top of that organization, the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority, is CEO Lisa Lazarus. This week, she joined Joe Bianca and Jon Green on Episode 7 of Rail Talk to answer questions about the successes and missteps of HISA’s early days, reveal how the industry has reacted to the new sheriff in town and project what the path forward looks like for all of racing’s stakeholders. Elsewhere on the show, Joe relived his visit to sweltering Colonial Downs for Arlington Million Day and Joe and Jon came to grips with the inevitability of the Triple Crown changing forever.

Episode 6: Mourning Those Loved and Lost

It was an incredibly difficult weekend for horse racing at Saratoga. Emotions were as raw as they’ve ever been, particularly over the soul-crushing breakdown of Maple Leaf Mel as she was just a few strides from winning the Test Stakes. Incidents like that make us fundamentally question the sport we all love so much. This week on Rail Talk, Joe Bianca and Jon Green held an informal therapy session to cope with the devastating losses of Maple Leaf Mel, Ever Summer and Sopran Basilea at Saratoga. They also gave appreciation for how, through tragedy, the outpouring of support for the fallen and their affected caretakers displayed the best of this community, and hoped that kind of love will help light the way forward. We still found time to smile and laugh, too, discussing the Whitney Stakes, analyzing the electrifying results of Fasig-Tipton Saratoga and struggling to remember how our yearling naming contest worked, even as we announced the winner. Let us know if there’s anything you need to say in the wake of this heartbreaking week. We’ll bring you on the show.

Episode 5: Tour Stop One

Road shows are always the most fun. With the intersecting buzz of Whitney weekend, the Hall of Fame induction ceremony and the upcoming yearling sales, there was no better place to be Friday morning than Fasig-Tipton in Saratoga. With buyers inspecting horses in the and the enshrinement after-party in the background, thats exactly where the Rail Talk crew set up shop, recording Episode 5 of the growing podcast featuring an array of illustrious guests. Joe Bianca and Jon Green welcomed Fasig-Tipton President & CEO Boyd Browning, who remembered the night the lights went out in the middle of the Saratoga Sale, Taylor Made Sales President & CEO Mark Taylor as a share in their stallion Not This Time goes up for auction, and Fasig-Tipton Director of Client Relations Anna Seitz to discuss the growth of New York-bred and Horses of Racing Age sales.

Breakaway Rail Talk: Episode 1 with Jennifer Kelly

Jon Green launches our inaugural Breakaway Rail Talk with Jennifer S. Kelly, author of The Foxes of Belair and Sir Barton. Breakaway Rail Talk is one on one conversations departing from our usual current event format. We talk in depth with interesting people in and around the horse racing industry.

Off The Rails – Episode 4

Off the Rails is what it is. With Joe Bianca and Jon Green the cutting room floor is too much fun to delete forever.

Rail Talk reacts to Jason Servis sentencing

Joe Bianca and Jon Green react to Jason Servis sentencing in this bonus episode.

Episode 4: Your Eyes Only

This week's episode has all the twists and turns of a classic Bond Flick - action, peril, villains, and suspense. Hosts Joe Bianca and Jon Green welcome the "Voice of Saratoga" Frank Mirahmadi to the show. The guys discuss Frank's journey from Beverly Hills High to the heights of race calling at the most premier tracks in the country. Frank also provides insight as to how the Golden Gate closing affects the Golden State. Thanks to Joe's persistence (some would say grovelling), we unveil an exciting "secret" naming contest, exclusively for Rail Talk subscribers.

Off the Rails – Episode 3

The problem with recording when the work day is through, is that everyone is punch drunk by that point. Acacia Clement did her best to keep Joe & Jon on point, but there is only so much a person can do.

Episode 3: Acacia the Mondays

This week, on Episode 3 of Rail Talk, Joe Bianca and Jon Green welcome star host/reporter for NYRA/Fox Sports Acacia Clement! The three break down an upset-filled opening week at Saratoga and the closure of Golden Gate Fields before paying tribute to the late, great Funny Cide. Joe and Jon also tackle the unorthodox decision to put 2021 Preakness winner Rombauer back into training after he failed to secure a high-profile stud deal, and try to determine once and for all whether Joe actually listens to Jon when he talks. Don’t miss an episode (or a blooper reel) of Rail Talk, which is proudly sponsored by Fasig-Tipton, Taylor Made and The Green Group. Subscribe on YouTube, Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and check us out on RailTalkMedia.com

Off the Rails – Episode 2

Sometimes it feels like they are each playing to an audience of one. Do they even need us?

It’s Rail Talk 2: Electric Boogaloo!

This week on Rail Talk, longtime host of industry-leading daily radio show At the Races on Sirius/XM Steve Byk joins Joe Bianca and Jon Green to talk about finding his dream job in racing in his late 40s and the legacy he’s been creating since. The three also reflect on what makes Saratoga so special as the marquee summer meet gets underway and later, Joe and Jon react to the monumental suspensions handed down in the early days of HISA’s anti-doping program.

Off The Rails – Episode 1

Keeping it together is not in our skill set. Here's another episode of what we, mercifully, left on the cutting room floor.

Annnnd we’re off! Pedigeek Ren Carothers visits | Rail Talk Ep. 1

Annnnnd we’re off! Hello Rail Talk family! Joe Bianca here, and I’m proud to present the very first episode of our irreverent new racing podcast, Rail Talk. For our maiden run, Jon Green and I were joined by award-winner writer, analyst and pedigree expert Ren Carothers. We talk Bob Baffert vs. Churchill Downs, breeding lines and have a ton of laughs, mostly at each other’s expenses. Special shoutout to sponsors Fasig-Tipton, The Green Group and Taylor Made Sales Agency. We’re so excited to begin this journey with you, our beautiful listeners! Don’t forget to subscribe and let us know your thoughts in the comments—we might just bring you on the show!

Episode 0: Welcome To Rail Talk

Eclipse Award winners Joe Bianca and Jon Green reunite to co-host Rail Talk, an innovative weekly podcast tackling all topics in the world of Thoroughbred racing. The longtime friends and co-hosts take on racing’s hot-button issues, review top races, handicap upcoming stakes, preview sales and provide humorous insights in a free-flowing format. In this abbreviated episode, Joe & Jon discuss Royal Ascot, Frankie Dettori and George Weaver.