We caught up with Barrett Carlisle before he steps “Inside the Ring” at the 2026 Georgia National Fair. Learn more about Barrett below…
What is “nonnegotiable” for you when judging good livestock?
They need to hit me with some presence when they walk in and make a strong first impression.
What is your favorite part about working with the next generation of young people?
It’s rewarding to see there are still some kids out there that “get it”, and they tend to really stick out. It’s fun to see those who will continue to be ones who push the industry forward in the coming years.
What is your best piece of advice for someone looking to pursue a judging career?
Just pick the ones you like, and in a world that is increasingly unhappy on the internet, just know you’re not going to make them all happy. The chirping is short lived.
Biggest showmanship pet peeve?
Distracting sound effects and unnecessary hitting. And pulling out of line by a distracting amount.
Do you prefer to judge on the profile or on the walk?
Walk, tend to find myself placing a lot of the top end of a good show while they are on the walk.
If judges had a walkup song, what would yours be?
Enter Sandman
Favorite show you have judged?
Hard to pick a favorite, but a few standout. Indiana State Fair ewe show, NAILE Breeding Does, American Royal Wether Dams, Denver market lambs and San Antonio market goats. And generally any show with above average hospitality.
Go-to road trip snack?
Starbucks iced tea, or fountain Coke Zero and sugar wafer cookies, despite the mess they make.
What impression do you hope to leave on the crowd and exhibitors when you exit the ring after judging?
No matter where somebody placed, I described them exactly how I saw them and informed people of my thought process behind each class.
