Vince Emmett is another one of those remarkable individuals who make up the Unbridled Family, a creative spirit whose work, faith, and story all seem to harmonize. 

Vince grew up near Champaign, Illinois, in a deeply supportive, faith-based family. Music grabbed him early, around age eight, after watching his dad strum a G chord and wearing out LPs by Johnny Cash, Hank Williams Sr., Patsy Cline, and Chet Atkins. By nine or ten he was in a kids’ country band called The Reverbs, playing weekly TV shows, live radio, and state fairs, showing up to middle school with gig money in his pocket. 

When some bandmates began playing honky-tonks, his parents pulled him out, a painful moment that turned into a blessing. It led him toward church music under the mentorship of Pastor Phil Hansen, and soon after, a visiting gospel group from Lexington, Kentucky, the Gospel Couriers, heard him play and invited him on the road as a teenager. He toured churches and festivals, sharing bills with Southern Gospel greats like the Stamps Quartet, the Oak Ridge Boys, and the Happy Goodman Family. Those years built not just musical chops but a lifelong bias toward purpose over spotlight. 

After a stint pursuing his own rock project and even fielding offers to tour with major country artists, Vince chose a different path, composing for film. Introduced to filmmaking by Kentucky director Robbie Henson, and through projects involving Kris Kristofferson, Chris Cooper, and Patricia Clarkson, Vince discovered his second home: putting music to story. 

Today, he serves as President and CEO of American Troubadours, a collective of filmmakers and composers producing feature films, documentaries, TV series, and soundtracks. With offices and studios in Los Angeles, Nashville, Arizona, and a 250-year-old log-cabin retreat in the hills near Louisville, Kentucky, American Troubadours reflects Vince’s belief that meaningful art comes from places rooted in authenticity and stillness. 

Over three decades, Vince has collaborated with Oscar, Grammy, Golden Globe, and Emmy-winning artists including John Travolta, Dennis Quaid, Dolly Parton, Bruce Dern, Jon Voight, Chris Cooper, Stephen Lang, Kris Kristofferson, Emmylou Harris, John Doe (of X), Roger McGuinn (of The Byrds), Joan Osborne, Ricky Skaggs, and Alice Cooper. Most recently, he produced the feature film Reagan (2024), starring Dennis Quaid, a sweeping biopic of the 40th U.S. President that marked another milestone in his expanding body of cinematic work. 

Vince and his wife Brenda adopted daughters from Ethiopia and now split their time between their farm outside Nashville and their historic log cabin near Louisville. Their family’s story of faith and adoption continues to shape Vince’s perspective on creativity and legacy. “Applause fades,” he says, “but the imprint you leave on your kids does not.” 

Like everything and everyone in the Unbridled Family, Vince’s journey is about more than success, it’s about purpose, faith, and the stories that endure long after the final note fades. 

We cannot say it enough- the Unbridled Eve Derby Gala could not happen without our incredible volunteers and committee members. This month, we are honored to spotlight Trenda Metcalf, Chairperson of the Décor Committee and one of the creative forces behind the breathtaking look and feel of Unbridled each year. 

Trenda has been part of Unbridled since the very beginning and has a deep history with the York sisters. She and Tammy met in high school and have remained close friends ever since. Their shared vision, creativity, and love for community have helped shape the elegance and heart that define every Unbridled event. 

A proud graduate of the University of Louisville, Trenda holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree. She began her career at GE as a customer service representative and worked her way up to her current position as Area Sales Manager, a testament to her hard work, professionalism, and leadership. Trenda and her husband Jay live in Louisville and are proud parents of two daughters. 

As Chair of the Décor Committee, Trenda leads the team responsible for creating the stunning atmosphere that guests enjoy each Derby Eve. Beyond décor, she is known for going above and beyond. securing exceptional silent auction items, rallying her family to volunteer, and ensuring that every detail reflects the Unbridled spirit of excellence and generosity. 

A dedicated professional, devoted wife and mother, and true Unbridled ambassador, Trenda exemplifies the heart and grace of our volunteer community. We are deeply grateful for her years of service, leadership, and friendship, and we celebrate her as one of the remarkable women who help make Unbridled unforgettable. 

The story of the Unbridled Charitable Foundation cannot be told without Blessings in a Backpack. In 2012, when the York Sisters embarked on their Unbridled journey, Blessings in a Backpack stood beside them as both the inaugural beneficiary and the fiscal agent for the very first Unbridled Eve Derby Gala. At that time, the Foundation’s nonprofit status was still pending, and Blessings’ partnership made it possible for Unbridled to take its first steps. 

For many children in America, the school cafeteria is more than a place to gather with friends—it is often the most reliable source of food they receive all week. When the final bell rings on Friday, far too many face two long days without consistent meals. 

Blessings in a Backpack was founded to meet that urgent need. The organization mobilizes communities, individuals, and resources to provide weekend food for school-aged children who might otherwise go hungry. Its vision is simple yet profound: that every child in America has the nourishment needed to learn and grow. 

Since its founding, Blessings in a Backpack has become a national leader in the fight against childhood hunger. During the 2023–2024 school year alone, the organization distributed more than 3 million bags of food to children at 1,270 schools across 46 states and the District of Columbia. Since 2009, it has provided over 30 million hunger-free weekends for more than one million children nationwide. 

The impact extends beyond nutrition. In partnership with Quaker Oats and Ipsos, surveys show that children supported by Blessings feel more cared for by their community, perform better academically, and experience greater happiness at home. These results confirm that each backpack represents far more than a meal—it is a message of hope, care, and belonging. 

On average, $175 feeds one child for an entire school year, ensuring they return to class each Monday nourished and ready to learn. Blessings in a Backpack operates through seven regional chapters and more than 1,200 community-driven programs, each committed to ending weekend hunger for the kids who need it most. 

Unbridled’s partnership with Blessings in a Backpack reflects a shared belief that no child should have to wonder where their next meal will come from. Together, we continue to fill backpacks—and hearts—with nourishment, dignity, and the promise of a brighter future. 

To learn more or support their mission, visit blessingsinabackpack.org. 

Mario Urrutia is a Louisville native and former football wide receiver for the University of Louisville Cardinals. After a standout college career, he was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals following his junior season and went on to play for both the Bengals and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFL. Mario continued his professional football career in the Arena Football League and the Canadian Football League before deciding, after seven years on the field, that it was time to begin a new chapter. 

Driving home to Louisville after his final game, Mario reflected on how he could help other athletes prepare for life beyond the game. His lifelong dream was to help young people set and reach their goals — a calling that began when he volunteered as a youth mentor in high school. In 2011, he turned that passion into purpose by founding a nonprofit organization focused on Physical Education, Nutrition, Leadership Development, and Economic Empowerment for children ages 8 to 14. 

Mario also made the commitment to finish his college education, believing that he could not encourage young people to value education without completing his own. In May 2016, he proudly earned his degree in Communication with a minor in Business Marketing from the University of Louisville. 

Today, Mario serves as the Founder and President of Super Student Athletes, helping the next generation of student-athletes build leadership skills, financial literacy, mental wellness, and personal brand awareness. He is also guiding the development of myNIL Playbook, a digital education platform designed to empower student-athletes in the evolving Name, Image, and Likeness landscape. 

As the leader of a family enterprise that includes Urrutia Enterprises, MBE Contracting &  Supply, and the Super Student Athletes nonprofit, Mario oversees integrated initiatives  focused on housing, workforce, and youth development. Through his affordable housing  ventures, he’s helping families gain access to quality, attainable homes while investing in sustainable neighborhood growth across Louisville. 

As a board member of the Unbridled Charitable Foundation, Mario brings his spirit of mentorship, perseverance, and service to the mission of helping others live unbridled. His journey from professional athlete to community builder demonstrates that true success is measured not by accolades, but by the lives you lift up.  

A Legacy Born in the Heart of Bourbon Country

Few brands embody Kentucky heritage quite like Chicken Cock Whiskey. First distilled in Paris, Kentucky in 1856, long before “bourbon” became a household word, Chicken Cock began as James A. Miller’s small-town dream and grew into one of America’s most celebrated pre-Prohibition whiskies. Known for its quality, craftsmanship, and unmistakable character, it quickly earned a place in bourbon history. 

After disappearing from shelves in the mid-1900s, Chicken Cock made a triumphant comeback when spirits entrepreneur Matti Anttila revived the storied brand in 2011. Today, from its new home in Bardstown, Kentucky, the brand continues to carry forward its nearly 170-year legacy of excellence, honoring tradition with slow-growing American white oak barrels and meticulous aging standards that make every bottle worth savoring. 

With award-winning releases such as Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Double Oak, and Ryeteous Blonde, Chicken Cock continues to celebrate Kentucky’s proud whiskey tradition with modern flair. Visitors can experience that legacy firsthand at the brand’s two stunning tasting rooms, one in the heart of downtown Bardstown and the other in Louisville’s vibrant NuLu District. 

At Unbridled, we’re proud to partner with a brand that shares our passion for craftsmanship, authenticity, and celebrating life’s finest moments. And this year, Chicken Cock is raising a glass to generosity once again, donating another full barrel of whiskey for our 2026 Unbridled Gala. 

The lucky winning bidder will be treated to an unforgettable exclusive tasting experience featuring three unique, hand-selected barrels from Chicken Cock Whiskey’s finest bourbon inventory, crafted at Bardstown Bourbon Company. Choose to sample and select your favorite in the comfort of your own home, or enjoy an immersive experience onsite at Circa 1856, Chicken Cock Whiskey’s brand home in Bardstown, KY. 

Each barrel, aged a minimum of four years, promises unparalleled quality. Once you’ve chosen your favorite, you’ll personalize your bottles with custom text, up to 20 special characters on the front and back of each bottle—making this truly your own signature bourbon. 

The experience doesn’t stop there. You’ll receive the very barrel that aged your whiskey, along with six 6-pack cases of your custom bottles (typically yielding 180–210 bottles). Your collection can be shipped directly to you, or you may choose to pick it up onsite at Circa 1856 for the full Kentucky experience (travel not included). Please allow up to 90 days after the Gala to sample, select, bottle, and ship your product. 

From Paris to Bardstown, from 1856 to today, Chicken Cock Whiskey remains a symbol of timeless Kentucky spirit. We are honored to celebrate this legacy together as we toast to another Unbridled year of giving, craftsmanship, and community. 

Wyman Marshall has been working with the York Sisters on events for a very long time. If you have attended Unbridled Eve, then you have seen Wyman’s work. Wyman is our volunteer (and Unbridled Family Member) who manages the stage show. He has been a supporter and dedicated to Unbridled’s success from the very beginning. 

Wyman’s story with the York Sisters stretches back to the Mint Jubilee days in 2005, where he was first involved as a sponsor through his role in real estate development and marketing. That early connection blossomed into nearly two decades of volunteer service, with Wyman stepping into stage production by 2006–2008. Since Unbridled’s genesis, he has been a steady hand behind the scenes, ensuring that every stage presentation runs smoothly. 

Raised between Houston, Texas and Anchorage, Kentucky, Wyman’s journey has always been shaped by family. In 2003, he moved back to Kentucky when his sister faced thyroid cancer, a decision that ultimately connected him deeply with the York family and the charitable work that defines Unbridled. In 2011, when his son Matthew was diagnosed with leukemia , Wyman already had a strong support network through his work with cancer-related charities like the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and the James Graham Brown Cancer Center. He describes that as an unexpected blessing: having people and resources already in place when his family needed them most. 

One of Wyman’s most impactful contributions to Unbridled was introducing NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Warren Moon to the York Sisters. Having known Warren since his youth in Houston, Wyman encouraged him to attend the event.  That connection, born of a lifelong friendship, added a new dimension to the Unbridled experience. Over the years, Wyman has played a pivotal role in shaping the Unbridled Eve entertainment and stage experience.  From coordinating red carpets at Churchill Downs in the early days, to unforgettable performances such as Reggie Calloway with Linkin’ Bridge in 2018, he has consistently elevated the event’s magic. His favorite memory? Convincing Goo Goo Dolls’ John Rzeznik to perform “Give a Little Bit” with The Crashers—a moment that still stands out as one of the most special in Unbridled’s history. 

Wyman’s dedication goes far beyond logistics. For him, Unbridled is about family, friendship, and giving back. He has nominated charities that went on to become beneficiaries, and he remains passionate about supporting causes like Blessings in a Backpack alongside cancer-related organizations. 

Looking ahead, Wyman sees entertainment and strategic partnerships as the keys to taking Unbridled to the next level. He believes that securing high-caliber artists and multi-year sponsors will fuel growth and keep the event at the forefront of Derby week celebrations. 

When asked why he continues to volunteer after all these years, Wyman’s answer is simple: it’s about supporting the mission, lifting up worthy charities, and being part of the Unbridled family. His steady presence, creative ideas, and behind-the-scenes leadership have been, and continue to be, vital to Unbridled’s success. 

Rodney Brewer has dedicated his entire adult life to serving others. From his earliest days as a young police officer to becoming the longest-serving Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police (KSP), Rodney’s career has been defined by integrity, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to community. 

Rodney has known the York Sisters since they were teenagers; he even recalls getting a perm from their mother during his undercover narcotics days, when blending in was more important than looking like the polished professional he is today. 

Over the years, Rodney steadily rose through the ranks of KSP, ultimately leading the organization as Commissioner. His leadership was never from behind a desk, during the riots of 2020, Rodney stood shoulder-to-shoulder with his troopers on the front lines, embodying the courage and accountability he expected from those under his command. 

Rodney’s connection to Unbridled began when Tammy approached him for help with security at one of the early events. Since then, uniformed Kentucky State Troopers have been a trusted and reassuring presence at Unbridled, thanks to Rodney’s leadership. Beyond overseeing security, Rodney also serves actively on the Silent Auction Committee. His contributions go well beyond procurement of unique items, he has personally donated handcrafted pieces from his woodworking shop, showcasing his skill as an artisan as well as his generosity (view some of Rodney’s work here). 

Though Rodney retired from KSP in 2020, service continues to run in the family. His son Barrett now serves proudly as a sergeant with KSP, carrying on the Brewer legacy. Rodney and his wife Dana split their time between Kentucky and their condo in St. Simons, Georgia, where they enjoy life at the beach with their grandchildren. 

In addition to his law enforcement career, Rodney is a sought-after motivational speaker and has shared his expertise as a professor at the University of Louisville, teaching future leaders in criminal justice. Now, as a board member of the Unbridled Charitable Foundation, Rodney brings decades of experience in leadership, service, and mentorship to help guide the organization’s mission of giving back. 

Rodney Brewer’s life reflects the very spirit of Unbridled: service, strength, and heart. 

Bob Guiney is another prominent and beloved member of the Unbridled Family. Many first came to know Bob from his national television appearances, where he was a contestant on the very first season of The Bachelorette and later starred as the Bachelor on season four of The Bachelor. His charm and authenticity won over audiences, and those same qualities have made him an enduring part of the Unbridled community. 

Bob first connected with the York Sisters following his time on television, and he has been a dedicated supporter of Unbridled ever since. He has helped secure multiple silent auction experiences and has played an active role in elevating our charitable mission. One of the highlights of his involvement has been his friendship with NFL Hall of Famer Warren Moon. Together, Bob and Warren have hosted memorable dinners for Silent Auction winners, creating one-of-a-kind experiences that our supporters will never forget. 

Beyond his Unbridled contributions, Bob has built a multifaceted career. He graduated from Michigan State University, where he was both a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity and a walk-on quarterback for the Spartans. He has worked as a television personality, hosting GSN Live from 2009 to 2012 and appearing on other programs including TLC’s Date My House. 

Bob is also a talented musician. He performed with the Lansing-based band “Fat Amy” before reuniting with his bandmates as the Bob Guiney Band to release the album 3 Sides in 2003. In addition, he is a member of the philanthropic group Band From TV, which features actors such as Greg Grunberg, James Denton, Hugh Laurie, and Jesse Spencer, with all proceeds from their performances going to charity. 

His creativity extends beyond music. In 2003, Bob authored What a Difference a Year Makes: How Life’s Unexpected Setbacks Can Lead to Unexpected Joy, a heartfelt book sharing his life journey and the lessons he has learned. 

Through all his endeavors, whether on television, in music, through writing, or in charity, Bob has consistently demonstrated generosity, joy, and authenticity. We are grateful that he brings that same spirit to Unbridled, where he continues to help create unforgettable moments for our guests and meaningful support for our beneficiaries. 

Unbridled is proud to shine this month’s Beneficiary Spotlight on APRON, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the heart of Louisville’s hospitality community: the employees of independent food and beverage establishments. 

APRON was founded in 2011 by a group of individuals with deep ties to the local restaurant industry who recognized a growing need. Servers, chefs, bartenders, and other staff in independent restaurants often live paycheck to paycheck, and when illness, accident, or crisis strikes, the financial fallout can be devastating. APRON stepped forward to make sure that in those difficult moments, help is available. 

The mission of APRON is clear: to provide temporary, limited financial relief to professional food and beverage workers in the Louisville metro area who are experiencing financial distress due to illness, accident, emergency, or catastrophic events through no fault of their own. Beyond financial aid, APRON’s vision is one of community strength and resilience: a world where the employees of independent food and beverage establishments have the resources needed to achieve financial and personal well-being, leading to thriving restaurants and thriving communities. 

The late Dean Corbett, beloved Louisville chef and restaurateur, captured the spirit of APRON when he said, “The local restaurant community is a very large family. As with any caring family we work together to help our own. I’m proud to be a supporter of APRON and urge you to financially assist this worthwhile endeavor.” 

Over the years, Unbridled and APRON have stood shoulder to shoulder in both celebration and challenge. During the pandemic, when restaurants and their employees were hit especially hard, Unbridled still hosted a virtual event and donated to support APRON’s mission. Today, APRON continues to provide critical aid as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, ensuring that when unexpected hardships strike, no one in Louisville’s restaurant family has to face them alone. Food service workers and their families may apply for assistance directly through APRON, keeping the process personal, confidential, and compassionate. 

Unbridled is honored to partner with APRON and celebrate the incredible work they do to keep Louisville’s vibrant dining community strong. By supporting APRON, we are supporting the very people who bring life, flavor, and warmth to our city every single day. 

Visit their website at APRON Inc. – Serving Those Who Serve You 

Since 2012, the Unbridled Eve Derby Gala has taken place at the Galt House Hotel, Louisville’s only hotel on the Ohio River and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. What began as a client-vendor arrangement has developed into a long-standing working relationship that has helped shape the Gala experience over the years. 

The Galt House serves as both the event venue and the hospitality hub for the Gala weekend. The Grand Ballroom has hosted a decade of memorable evenings, while our VIP guests, celebrities, and performers have stayed onsite, enjoying the convenience and comfort of one of Kentucky’s largest hotels. 

The Galt House Hotel, established in 1972 as part of Louisville’s Riverfront Urban Renewal Project, is the official hotel of Churchill Downs, the Kentucky Derby, and the Kentucky Oaks. With 25 stories and more than 1,300 guest rooms, it offers a wide range of amenities including six restaurants, two ballrooms, over 130,000 square feet of meeting space, a spa, retail shops, and a three-story glass-enclosed Conservatory connecting the East and West Towers. The East Tower, added in 1984, includes suites with river views and extended-stay options. 

The hotel’s name pays homage to two earlier historic Galt House hotels. The original opened in 1835 at Second and Main streets and was once considered Louisville’s finest. It welcomed notable guests such as Charles Dickens and served as a site for Union military meetings during the Civil War. After being destroyed by fire in 1865, a second Galt House opened in 1869 and remained a focal point of the city’s social life into the early 20th century. 

In addition to being a valued venue and lodging partner, the Galt House has contributed to the Unbridled Charitable Foundation through sponsorship and donations to our silent auction. Their support has played a meaningful role in the growth and success of the Gala. 

We recognize and appreciate the long history we have shared with the Galt House Hotel and thank them for their continued partnership.