Episode Details

In this incredibly powerful episode of Beyond the Front Door Podcast, we sit down with Andrea Allen from the Cowboy Cole Memorial Foundation to share the story of her son Cole and the journey her family has taken after losing him to suicide. 

Through unimaginable grief, Andrea and her family have turned heartbreak into purpose. Together with the Jae Foundation, they are working to raise awareness about suicide and mental health by encouraging real conversations and genuine connections. 

One of the most inspiring missions is the High School Senior Boot Initiative, which aims to provide a pair of cowboy boots to every high school senior in the state of Wyoming. The boots symbolize strength, community, and a reminder that every person matters.

We also talk about the meaningful tradition of the yellow feather worn in the cowboy hats at Cheyenne Frontier Days, where cowboys wear a feather in honor of Cole and to spark conversations about suicide awareness. 

Rhea shares her personal experience going through the boot ceremony that high school seniors go through before being given a beautiful pair of cowboy boots. The boots are a reminder that each person is loved and valued and the boots help start a conversation to help break the silence around mental health. 

Andrea shares about the upcoming fundraiser:

6th Annual Tri-Tip Dinner Fundraiser
@ Pine Bluffs Distilling
Saturday, March 14, 2026
4-7pm

Proceeds from this event help fund the High School Senior Boot Initiative and continue the mission of spreading suicide awareness and hope across Wyoming. 

This episode is heartbreaking, inspiring, and a powerful reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is still purpose, connection, and hope.

If you or someone you know is struggling or experiencing thoughts of suicide, please remember you are not alone and you are deeply valued. Help is available.

You can call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, to speak with someone who cares and wants to help. 

Please reach out to someone you trust, a friend, family member, counselor, or community. Your life matters, and you story is important.