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How Cowpokes Became Indiana’s Go-To Western Wear Store

Jeff Boone shares how Cowpokes grew from a 1993 startup to Indiana's top Western wear destination, plus his family's auction legacy.

Podcast Summary

Giddy-up! On today’s show I saddled up with Jeff Boone, co-owner of Cowpokes Work and Western, an established Western apparel retailer in Indiana.

Jeff shares the origin story of Cowpokes, which began in 1993, and discusses the challenges and growth phases the business has experienced over the years. He also dives into the importance of community and the expansion of Cowpokes to a new location in Cloverdale in 2022.

Additionally, Jeff touches on his involvement in the auction industry, highlighting his family's long-standing history in auctions and how it has influenced his career.

 If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast.

You are going to learn about:

  • The Founding of Cowpokes Work and Western

  • How Western Wear has Evolved Over the Years

  • The Auction Industry

Check out these great clips from the show:
00:25 Guest Introduction: Jeff Boone, Cowpokes
01:32 The Founding Story of Cowpokes
02:29 High School Days and Early Inspirations
03:56 The Unique Wedding and Honeymoon
04:57 Taking the Leap: Starting the Store
06:45 Challenges and Early Struggles
11:48 Marketing and Community Support
20:21 Expansion and Moving to a New Location
24:40 The Evolution of Western Wear Brands
34:13 Navigating Economic Downturns
37:25 Transitioning to the Auction Business
38:00 Grandfather's Legacy in Auctions
39:23 First Job in the Auction Business
40:53 Learning the Auctioneer's Chant
45:12 Impact of Online Auctions
53:38 Expanding Cowpokes
56:05 FFA National Convention and E-commerce
58:34 Western Lifestyle and Pop Culture
01:08:51 Hidden Gems and Final Thoughts

Guest(s)

Jeff Boone

Date Published

February 2, 2026

This podcast is sponsored by

Sweetwater

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

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Know someone with a great Indiana story? Nominate them as a guest for the Get IN podcast and help us share real Hoosier voices.

Podcast

Share Your Indiana Podcast Guest

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A person in casual attire poses with a person in a vibrant red mascot costume wearing a baseball jersey that reads "Indians," both against a blue backdrop with text promoting "Get Indiana" with Nate Spangle.