Horse Wise

Episode 82: The difference between nice ladies and macho cowboys as horse owners. It's not as big as you might think.

If you love the podcast and want more in-depth study,  please check out Horse Wise Scholars at https://horsewisecoach.com/scholars/ Each month, the group studies a specific podcast episode --- with customized lessons, videos and private zoom Q&As with Horse Wise podcast guests.

Episode 81: The difference between gurus and guides in horsemanship education -- and why I have such a strong preference for the guide approach.

At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way). 

Episode 80: Brent and Kris Graef on how to make the right thing obvious (for both young horses and people). For more information on their wonderful horsemanship work, please go to https://www.brentgraef.com/  This interview is part of the series "Teachers who teach the teachers" in my Horse Wise Scholars podcast study group.

At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way).

Episode 79: The difference between fixating on rewards versus pursuing knowledge (for you and your horse).

At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way).

Episode 78: Amy Skinner and I discuss emotionalism in horsemanship. Or as I like to put it, the wrong kind of “feel” to offer your horse. Please check out Amy’s work on her website https://amyskinnerhorsemanship.com/

t Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way).

Episode 76: Why "good loops" are so important in horsemanship and life.

At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way).

Episode 75: I interview Dr. Stephen Peters, author of Evidence-Based Horsemanship. Dr. Peters is a neuroscientist who specializes in brain functioning. He has studied the equine brain extensively. His book, co-written with horseman Martin Black, outlines good horsemanship practice actually tracks with how a horse’s brain operates. You can follow Dr. Peters and his work at https://horsebrainscience.info as well as on social media at https://www.facebook.com/evidencebasedhorsemanship

Episode 74: In this third episode of the “F-word” series, I discuss the fear of looking bad while riding or working with your horse. And how that seemingly minor fear can sometimes grow into a very negative experience for the horse.

At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way).

Episode 73: In this second episode of the “F-word” series, I discuss the fear of missing out (aka FOMO) in horsemanship. And how that particular fear often sets us up to actually miss the most important things that the horse is offering us.

At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way).

Episode 72: In this first installment of the “F-word” series, I discuss the fear of running out of time to learn horsemanship. And how that very fear is exactly what our goal in life should be.

At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way).

Episode 71: Why “one small good thing” is the most important principle I bring to my horsemanship practice. 

At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way).

Episode 68: In this episode, I discuss the gifts I received from three special horses this holiday season. Merry Christmas to all my listeners, clients, fans and equine teachers!

At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way).

Episode 67: Zoe Mazepa is a young horsewoman full of heart, integrity and love for the horses. Her dedication, hard work and commitment to the art of horsemanship is inspiring. Plus she has tons of entertaining stories about her ongoing horsemanship journey. I really enjoyed interviewing Zoe! She is down to earth, funny and full of enthusiasm — and she has a true calling for her work with horses. If you would like to follow her adventures, please check her on social media at https://www.facebook.com/zoe.mazepa and https://www.instagram.com/zoemazepa/   If you would like more information on Rocking X - A Horseman’s Academy, please check out their website at https://www.rockinx.org/

At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way).

Episode 66: I took a recent sabbatical to study the concept of pressure and release. What I learned was that there is a huge difference between moving away from pressure versus going toward softness. Both approaches might seem like they get to the same goal. But they each have very different ways of HOW you reach the goal — whether you only move away from pressure (a negative) or whether you actively seek something positive (softness). This is true for both people and horses. How you get to the goal is just as important (maybe even more important) than reaching the goal itself.

At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way).

Episode 65: Cowboy clinicians taught me that grit and refinement go hand in hand. Horsemanship is the art of balance — yin and yang. As Buck Brannaman once said, “Gentle in what you do. Firm in how you do it.” This lesson was profound for me — and kept me safe years later while working with a troubled horse.

At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way).

Episode 64: Dr. Janet Jones is a brain scientist - as well as a lifelong horsewoman and trainer. In her groundbreaking book, Horse Brain, Human Brain, Dr. Jones does an in-depth study of the neuroscience of horsemanship. By explaining how equine brains work, Dr. Jones demystifies horse behavior and the common misunderstandings between horses and riders. She describes the scientific differences between human brains and equine brains —while telling entertaining stories of horse case studies. This book is must read for all students of horsemanship! For more information on Dr. Jones’ work, please visit her website at https://janet-jones.com/

At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way). 

Episode 63: The ONE key to horsemanship – do you know what it is? If you’re like many horse people, you’re always on the lookout for it. The secret tip, the ultimate hack, the one thing you MUST know. Social media marketing and sponsored ads are full of “the one thing” and the “amazing secret” that you can get by just clicking the link (and buying the advertised service).The trouble is that there are SO many of those “secret tips” – how do you know if you’re buying the right one?

I ‘m here to help. I’m going to share the ONE real key you need to know. Ready? There is NO one thing. There are no shortcuts or amazing hacks in horsemanship. You just have to take the time to study and practice horsemanship consistently. Not with big dramatic activities once a month or twice a year. But instead with small daily actions that steadily increase your knowledge and skill.

It’s called the compound effect. It’s how horses learn, people change and new patterns develop.The compound effect is the strategy of reaping huge rewards from small, seemingly insignificant actions. Small choices + consistency + time = significant results. Simple. Not easy. But always rewarding (in the long run). 

Episode 62: Karen Rohlf is the creator of Dressage Naturally, an innovative teaching program that combines dressage and natural horsemanship. Her work includes a ground breaking book (the first to combine dressage and natural horsemanship), one of the first ever video library classrooms and a super unique approach to training your horse in harmony. In our discussion, Karen shares her insights, teaching philosophy and overall love of horses! Her adorable dog Remi also makes an impromptu appearance in the episode. For more information on Karen and Dressage Naturally, please check out her program at http://dressagenaturally.net

Episode 59: Jec Ballou is the ultimate equine fitness and physiology expert. Her books on corrective exercises, dressage tools and equine training tools have helped thousands of horses and riders. Originally a competitive dressage rider, Jec changed her focus to equine biomechanics after meeting Manolo Mendez. Her journey has included exhaustive study of equine biomechanics, rehabilitation and performance — as well as a far ranging literary study in multiple topics. Jec is an accomplished trainer and writer — her books summarize complex veterinary concepts into easily understood training and conditioning guidebooks for equestrians. Please check out her work, books, online courses and videos at www.jecballou.com.

Episode 58: Ginger Gaffney is the trifecta of horsemanship. A renowned teacher and trainer, Ginger also is a highly successful author. Her debut memoir, Half Broke, details her experiences with an alternative prison ranch in New Mexico. The facility conducts a daring experiment: setting the troubled residents out to retrain an aggressive herd of horses. The horses and prisoners both arrive at the ranch broken in one way or many— the horses often abandoned and suspicious, the residents, some battling drug and alcohol addiction, emotionally, physically, and financially shattered. Ginger Gaffney’s job is to retrain the untrainable. With time, the horses and residents form a profound bond, and teach each other patience, control, and trust. Ginger’s book has received much critical praise and accolades — including selection as a NY Times Editors pick. Please check out her work (both literary and equine) at www.gingergaffney.com.

In this episode (#57), I discuss how horses don’t care about your politics. They respond to your presence and your actions -- right now and in the moment. Too often, I see people using horses as a blank screen -- on which they project their emotions, worldview and political beliefs. When the horse doesn’t behave in a way that correlates to those premises, some people will blame the horse than re-evaluate their approach.

But the truth is that the horse reflects back reality at all times. Whether we choose to accept that or not is what determines our growth in horsemanship (as well as in our characters).

Leading a horse is one of the best ways to communicate with your horse — in ways that translate into practical results under saddle. In this episode (#56), I discuss why your lead rope is nothing like a leash -- and why that's a good thing.

As part of the our youth education services, we have started a Horse Wise® Horsemanship Buckle for 4-H groups. In this episode (#55), I discuss the buckle standards and why we decided to start this specific initiative. The buckle requirements focus on learning ground work techniques -- to help young riders become more aware of their horses (and learn to "do less sooner" for better partnership and performance). Prize includes the buckle AND $100 cash prize. If you work with a 4-H club and are interested in our buckle series (and its requirements), please email me at horsewisecoach@icloud.com.

Alicia Landman has devoted her life to the study and dedicated practice of horsemanship. I’ve been inspired by her work for years — and I especially admire her willingness to always evolve as a horsewoman and teacher. In this episode (#54), we discuss the importance of embracing the basics — and how fun it is to discover new nuances in those basics each year. Alicia also shares her decision to take a sabbatical from teaching for a month — so she can focus on her young horses and on developing her skills even further. Please check out Alicia’s work at https://www.facebook.com/Alicia-Byberg-Landman-Horsemanship-169812219699049

In this episode (#53), I look back at 2020 as it draws to a close.. For me, this most unusual year was full of unexpected gifts. Most especially, a return to classical study that led me to become a better student of the horse. Happy New Year from me and the equine teachers (Santo & Cozy) at Horse Wise!

Often the biggest questions have the simplest answers. In this episode (#51), I discuss how two words (“it depends”) have given me much insight over the years — especially in 2020.

Sometimes horsemanship insight comes from unexpected sources. In this episode (#48), I discuss how big waver surfer Laird Hamilton, yoga workouts and a tall QH named Santo helped me learn several key lessons.

Renowned horsewoman Kathleen Beckham has spent decades in pursuit of horsemanship excellence. A lifelong student of the horse, Kathleen shares her knowledge via her blog, FB study group as well as ongoing lessons, clinics and coaching sessions. I’ve followed Kathleen for years on FB — and have found her blog posts to be incredibly helpful and insightful. What is remarkable about Kathleen is her dedication to personal growth and ongoing learning in her own work. As a talented young professional trainer, Kathleen’s world was upended by a debilitating stroke at age 28. Undeterred, Kathleen steadily climbed out of a long rehab and returned to her work in the horse world. Since then, she has continued to deepen her skills (and stretch herself beyond her comfort zone). From traveling clinician to riding for the public to developing colts into safe riding horses — and then writing about each step of her journey in wonderful detail — Kathleen truly is always thinking about horses. For more information on Kathleen and her work, please visit:

It’s easy to get fixated on a certain result and grit our teeth through the process to achieve that result. But the irony is that the process itself is actually the result. Join me on this episode as I discuss how this is true in both horsemanship and life in general.

Many times, riders feel frustrated and behind schedule with their horse. It can be tempting to rush and try to catch up as fast as possible. But ironically this approach will have the opposite effect — and will create more setbacks. In this episode, I discuss why the hurry and catch up mentality works against both you and your horse. I also examine the classically negative (if unintentional) motivation behind this mindset— and how to ask yourself a key question to avoid this pitfall. The bottom line is that it isn’t about getting more things done with your horse (as fast as possible). Instead, it’s about how to get the right things done with your horse. The little things that help him become balanced, straight and supple —and that mean the most to the horse. Those are the things that we never “catch up” on — but instead are the focus of each ride, slowly and steadily building a consistency and compound effect over time.

No one will be surprised to learn that my favorite way to coach involves talking. I’m known for my colorful teaching style — lots of vivid metaphors, humorous stories and (of course) laughter. My regular clients will recognize serious curriculum concepts like “giant stripper boobs” and “50 lbs of queso in your pockets.” While I’m not exactly the Spanish Riding School in terms of presentation, I love to coach — and my favorite way to do is through audio coaching. In this episode, I describe what’s unique about my customized audio coaching services (besides references to strippers and queso). I also include a real audio coaching segment I did for a special client and her horse. Best of all, I include a super fun offer to my listeners to email me any issues with their horses or horsemanship that they would like assistance with. I will be selecting one or two each week — and will do a customized audio coaching segment for them on the podcast! My email is horsewisecoach@icloud.com 1

“Horse trainers train horses. Horsemen work on themselves.” -Tom Dorrance

“Horse trainers train horses. Horsemen work on themselves.” -Tom Dorrance

The concept of turning loose is very important in horsemanship. When a horse “turns loose” and trusts a person, it is such a key moment. The horse essentially allows the person to guide him fully — even into unknown situations and circumstances. It is not exactly submission (in my opinion) — it’s more of a voluntary surrender to allow the person to fully direct his feet, mind and body. It’s an honor and privilege when a horse lets down his guard and allows himself to trust a person. In this episode, I share the story of Ellie, a fierce little mare who could not turn loose — even when it was a life or death situation.

When horses are in a state of learned helplessness, they are shut down and in a form of cocoon. Over time, they have learned not to try — to always stay within their comfort zone. Sometimes this can show in a horse as a stoic form of behavior (on the surface). The horse seems unflappable — mostly because he isn’t entirely present. But — once you ask him to go outside his normal routine or habits, that same horse will often become very emotional and troubled. People also can learn not to try. In this episode, I discuss the difference between a horse and a person who both displayed learned helplessness during key sessions with teachers.

One of my favorite books is Turning Pro by Stephen Pressfield. It describes the importance of taking ownership in your work (and your life). The book is short, direct and full of humor. When I finished the book, I sat back and thought about a particular mare long ago. She was injured, frightened and needed to be transported asap from a busy fairground facility. Due to unforeseen circumstances, my usual mentors weren’t available — and I had to figure out a way to safely load her on the trailer. While well-meaning spectators offered advice and tools ranging from ropes to brooms to holistic solutions. It was quite an experience for both me and the mare!

Most of us dread the idea of doing things wrong. But the only way to learn how to do something right is to do it wrong at first. Or many times. When it comes to riding and horsemanship, we have to learn (and feel) for ourselves what the right things are. A good teacher will help set it up so you can discover what the right thing is on your own — rather than just being told to do something a certain way. And of course the same is true for horses!

“Have the courage to do nothing.” I’ve seen this quote used in many different ways. While I’m not sure who said it first (or why), I can see how it might apply to good horsemanship (and to certain circumstances in life). I first learned this from a wise horse named Dan. Many years ago, I met Dan at Park Police training barn. I was a volunteer exercise rider there. Dan was often my assigned mount — and his quirky personality (and impressive athleticism) made him the perfect schoolmaster. In this episode, I share Dan’s lessons — and how they are perfect for coping with the unexpected pandemic of 2020.

"I often tell people that I truly want the horse to be my feet and legs. I want to be an extension of the horse and him to be an extension of me. That's what I'm always working toward when I'm on a horse.” -Buck Brannaman

“So you make the wrong thing difficult and the right thing easy. You just fix it up, and let him find it.” -Ray Hunt

Like many riders, I’m prone to trying extra hard to get something right. If at first I don’t succeed, I try, try again. But sometimes it’s much better to not TRY so hard. Instead, slow down and take a step back — so you can see the situation from a different perspective. Trying hard usually means you’re already expecting to fail. You can put effort into things, you can put in steady, good work — but trying too hard often closes your mind and gets you fixated on a particular approach. Instead of trying to make something happen, instead experiment with setting up a situation so that you and the horse can learn together.

Even if you are in quarantine and can't ride your horse, you can STILL make real progress with your riding goals. What are the things that you always wished you had time to study or learn or get better at? Because what's good about now is that we ALL have lots more time on our hands. And we have the luxury of slowing down. So many big gains in performance come from slowing down to get things right first. I want to share my knowledge and help during this temporary chaos of coronavirus. So I’ll be offering customized education tips, classes, podcast episodes and coaching to support riders who feel sidelined and frustrated now. For more details, please stay tuned for future podcast episodes!

I know this is a challenging time for horse people. Shows and favorite clinics are postponed. Riding stables and lesson programs are on hiatus. Some equestrians are confined in self-quarantine. Over the years, I’ve been through periods of epic disruption (such as multiple natural disasters). Each time, I gained insight about my horses and myself. After the chaos subsided, I found that my riding had improved significantly – in spite of being completely removed from my normal barn routine. I want to share my knowledge and help during this temporary chaos of coronavirus. So I’ll be offering customized education tips, classes, podcast episodes and coaching to support riders who feel sidelined and frustrated now. For more details, please stay tuned for daily posts here.

Equestrians are people of action – and we don’t idle well (especially if we can’t ride much). Let’s put our energy toward making progress on our horse goals – and wrestle amazing positive results from this annoying pandemic phase. We ride at dawn!

If you have horses, you know that it’s inevitable that you will deal with unexpected issues or problems. It’s the nature of horses to constantly introduce mayhem into their own lives. Or at the very least, shake up the normal routine by losing shoes, getting pasture injuries, developing sudden performance angst and so on. The good news is that these situations almost always give you a way to grow as a rider and a horseman/woman. In the episode, I also share a story of a particularly frustrating rehab case that I encountered with a personal horse.

In this episode, I tell a recent story about taking my own advice from the podcast. In Episode 28, I shared some ways you can improve your horsemanship and riding during forced periods away from the barn (due to weather, work commitments, injury, etc). Due to family illness, I haven’t been able to ride or work with the horses consistently. I followed many of the strategies that I described in Episode 28, to make good use of the my limited time with the horses. As luck would have it, I was then contacted by a television series that wanted to do an episode about my work with the horses and horsemanship in general. It sounded like a fun opportunity! 

They wanted to film a session of me working with a horse as the sun rose behind us. Which meant being “on set” well before dawn — on a extra cold, dark morning preceded by days of wet weather. The horse I planned to use (who had been in more consistent work) had become feral due to the cold and was running around his pasture happily. His pasture buddy (Cozy) was less feral and more open to be haltered. But I hadn’t worked with Cozy in weeks. And here I was, taking him up to the arena in the pitch dark morning. Where a camera crew and lots of chaotic activity awaited him. Fortunately, my own podcast advice from Episode 28 kicked in and helped the session go smoothly.

In this episode, I discuss how to take advantage of extended breaks from riding (due to weather, injury or other annoying factors). It can be frustrating to have a forced break from riding. But there are fun ways you can use this time to actually improve your riding -- even with very little time in the saddle. If you can take a playful and fresh perspective, the exercises I share will be of great benefit (plus will make you laugh). I speak from much experience — over the last seven years, I’ve had multiple  involuntary breaks from riding (from reasons such as natural disasters, athletic injury and family member illness). Each time, I emerged with greater insight and improved horsemanship skills — precisely because I couldn’t ride in my usual routine (and in my old patterns). 

Below are some of the resources I mention in the podcast:

55 Corrective Exercises for Horses book by JEC Ballou

The term “bombproof horse” is always a red flag to me. Many times, that can mean that the horse is shut down and essentially unresponsive to its environment. In this episode, I discuss the reasons why you don’t want a bombproof horse — and how to help a horse that has become desensitized to the point of equine zombie status. A good riding partnership requires that both members truly participate in their endeavors together.

Winter can be challenging for equestrians. The weather is often cold, snowy or icy (depending on where you live). Your normal riding routine gets disrupted on a regular basis. How do you make progress  with your horse during the winter months? In this episode, I share a fun exercise that is easy to do in the winter — and reveals much about your riding patterns. Best of all, it doesn’t even involve your horse or the outdoors. All you need is your car and some groceries. I came upon this exercise purely by accident a few years ago — and it changed my entire perspective on my equitation and riding goals.

It seems like a paradox that nice people can ruin horses. When we think of a ruined horse, we envision cruel owners who abuse and mistreat their horses. But unfortunately sometimes truly nice people can create big trouble for their horses. Mostly through small things that don’t seem important at all. As well as things that don’t seem at all related to horses — like what type of perspective you bring to learning or listening to advice. In this episode, I share some examples of what I’ve observed over the years with nice people and troubled horses. Including the story of a hard luck little mare who had only nice people for owners — yet still ended up deeply in crisis.

I didn’t learn to ride until I was an adult. Predictably, I wasn’t exactly the smoothest rider at first. In fact, I was a downright nerd at the barn. If there was a wrong fashion choice to make, I made it. Rubber riding boots. Giant bright sweaters. Oversized helmets that made me look like an uncoordinated motorcycle cop. You name the worst equestrian fashion faux pas — and I embodied it. I longed to be rugged, tough and world wise, like the pro horse trainers I knew. But over time, I came to realize that my nerdy perspective was actually a positive thing. It gave me a fresh and completely non-cynical approach to the horses. My “beginner’s mind” was open to many possibilities that experts would never consider. Because of that, I became aware of small things in the horses’ behavior and expressions that seemed significant to me (and to the horses). I was more receptive to learning — and the horses were happy to teach me because of that. 

I owe this insight to an early experience at a Ray Hunt clinic. It was the first clinic I had ever ridden in. Blissfully clueless, I went into the colt starting class with a polo saddle, Gap jeans and a barely broke 3 yo TB straight from the track. A wiser, less nerdy person would have never ridden in that clinic. But I learned so much from Ray. And it’s because of that clinic that I became a dedicated (and perpetually nerdy) student of horsemanship.

I started the Horse Wise podcast in February 0f 2019. At the time, it was just an experiment. As I look back on the year, I’m amazed at the growth of the podcast. It has become one of the key tools of the Horse Wise education program. We now have listeners in 48 states and 23 countries! I have learned so much from doing the podcast — including my own aptitude for talking endlessly about horses, horsemanship and horse people. Enjoy this episode about the lessons I learned from hosting the Horse Wise podcast — and thank you all for listening. Happy New Year!

The most important principles in life are often simple. They seem self-obvious and straightforward to understand. But putting them into practice isn’t always so easy. Especially when the principle involves becoming aware of how you need to change. One of the most helpful horsemanship sayings to me is the seemingly simple Ray Hunt quote: “Believe in your horse, so your horse can believe in you.” But there are many layers of wisdom beneath that short sentence. In this episode, I share some of my own experiences with believing in my horse — and how those led to me learning how to believe in myself. True to form, the podcast includes entertaining analogies (such as how tying your child to a dining room table is like you not allowing your horse to make a mistake) — none of which are suitable for actual child supervision or parenting techniques.

There is a classic mistake I see most riders make when a ride doesn’t go as expected. And that is the tendency to immediately assume that 1) you suck; and 2) your horse hates you. Pretty much every horsewoman I’ve ever known has experienced the “I suck and my horse hates me” syndrome. It can be overwhelming— and involve sleepless nights, inner turmoil and complete loss of perspective. We think that we are taking constructive action by berating ourselves — after all, we failed and we should pay a price for that right? But the truth is that all of the angst actually prevents us from helping and supporting our horse. The chaotic wave of emotion acts like a fog — we can’t see the what actually happened during the ride because of it. The good news is that there are some fun, simple ways to prevent the “I suck and my horse hates me” scenario. Listen to the episode to discover how you, giant muddy puppies and a sense humor can change everything for the better.

What's your dream horse like? Most people have specific ideas about what they want in their dream horse. They make a detailed list of qualities (like height, conformation, bloodlines, movement type, color, discipline training and so on).  For me personally, I never much believed in the idea of dream horses. The horses in my life had all crossed my path at the right time — rather than me specifically searching for a certain kind of candidate. None of them were perfect by traditional standards (they had sports injuries, personality quirks or imperfect conformation). But they all were good horses for me and I enjoyed our time together immensely. This year, I had to unexpectedly retire a 9 yo gelding due to EPM complications. Inspired by several friends who had acquired young prospects, I began a quiet search for a new horse. My list of ideal attributes was a little offbeat — so I didn’t expect to find a horse that matched them all. But then I met a 16H bay gelding who had the most important quality of all. One that wasn’t even on my list. I knew this horse was my next schoolmaster — and I brought him home immediately. His name was Cozy Kitten (a great name) — and he had recently retired from the track at age 11 (after 94 races). Listen to the podcast to find out why I chose him — and why I feel so fortunate to have found such an ideal teacher.

Did you find your dream horse? You and your horse could be on the Horse Wise podcast! If you’d like to share the story of how you found your dream horse — and why he/she is the perfect horse for you — please contact us. We are doing a series of interviews about dream horses and what they have  brought to their owners’ lives.

Links from the podcast:

Horse Wise

This interview is the last of a series in honor of the Retired Racehorse Project TB Makeover event in Oct 2019. Erin Shea and I discuss the history of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (“TAA”) and the evolution of its partnership with the racing industry. TAA accredits charities that provide assistance to off-track TBs throughout the US. Due to their rigorous accreditation process, TAA literally sets the standard for aftercare in the nation. Once accredited, organizations are then eligible for grants through TAA. The TAA accreditation and grants allow TB charities to gain key national support for their work that they might not otherwise be able to access.

The TAA accreditation process also promotes the sharing of best practices and mentoring among TB aftercare charities. I’m honored that the aftercare charity I founded (LOPE) has been been accredited since 2015. Speaking from experience, TAA has played an invaluable role in LOPE’s warhorse program. Because of their accreditation and support, LOPE has been able to take in warhorses from all over the US (including Puerto Rico).

Since 2012, the TAA has granted more than $13.8 million to accredited aftercare organizations and 9,000 Thoroughbreds have been retrained, rehomed, or retired by accredited organizations. Currently, 70 organizations with approximately 160 facilities hold TAA accreditation.

TAA is one of the official charities of the 2019 Breeders Cup — plus will have a presence during the World Championships. They are excited to announce that Keeneland has initiated their tote donation software — so anyone can donate to TAA from a winning ticket from a self-service betting terminal. Please consider a donation to TTA before the end of the year. Their work is invaluable to the aftercare of Thoroughbreds retiring from their track careers — and a donation to TAA helps horses receive top notch care from the best groups in the US!

Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance:

This interview is part of a series in honor of the Retired Racehorse Project TB Makeover event in Oct 2019. Erin Crady and I have a fascinating discussion about the evolution of Thoroughbred aftercare and TCA’s role in the industry. TCA’s history literally began in a living room (a very nice living room at CandyLand Farm) over thirty years ago. Since then, TCA has has provided over $23M grants to over 200 Thoroughbred related organizations.

In addition to aftercare groups,ŤCA also supports Thoroughbred incentive programs, backstretch and farm employee programs, equine-assisted therapy programs that utilize Thoroughbreds and equine research. Their Horses First Fund is a ground breaking initiative to assist Thoroughbreds in crisis situations (such as Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico). TCA is the Presenting Sponsor of the prestigious Retired Racehorse Project TB Makeover. They have supported the Makeover since 2012 (at its inception) and its mission of creating markets and public demand for OTTBs in the show ring.

Held each January, TCA’s largest fundraiser is a Stallion Season Auction. The event consists of an online and a live auction of select seasons and other items. Most seasons sell during the online auction however approximately 10 select seasons, as well as other items such as trips and tickets to sporting events, are sold during a live auction. Their next Stallion Season Auction will be on January 8-10, 2020.

Thoroughbred Charities of America:

This interview is the first of a series in honor of the upcoming Retired Racehorse Project TB Makeover event in Oct 2019. Sarah Coleman and I have an entertaining talk about racehorse adoption, horse show swag, cat herding techniques and the importance of the color pink. We also discuss the importance of education in the horse world – and how both New Vocations and Horse Wise focus on education as a key part of our programs.

New Vocations is the oldest and largest racehorse adoption charity in the country. They adopt and rehab hundreds of horses each year. Sarah runs the special events at NV and oversees the development of their lovely headquarters at Mereworth Farm in Kentucky.

This interview was full of great information and much laughter! Dr. Jyme Nichols and I have a fascinating discussion on equine nutrition breakthroughs and the parallels to new theories for human nutrition. Issues such as leaky gut, ulcers, inflammation and metabolic disorders have surprising connections in both horses and humans. Dr. Nichols is an ARPAS certified Professional Animal Scientist (PAS) in the Equine discipline. She is the Director of Nutrition for Bluebonnet Feeds and leads efforts behind the Stride Animal Health brand. 

Lest you think she is a boring scientist type, Dr. Nichols is a true cowgirl who grew up on a ranch at the border of Nebraska and South Dakota. Her family included saddle bronc riders, ropers and barrel racers. She went to college on a rodeo scholarship. After entering her graduate academic program, Dr. Nichols then assisted in coaching the team members to a national championship. In between rodeo competitions, her published research focused on managing blood glucose and insulin concentrations in horses with an oral psyllium supplement. Which sounds technical but just think about it as related to Snickers bars and Captain Crunch. 

Dr. Nichols’ additional research has focused on identifying equine veterinarians' educational needs in equine nutrition. Dr. Nichols has been part of the Bluebonnet Feeds team since 2011. 

Informative links from the interview:

Jennifer Holme is a dedicated dressage rider and Horse Wise client. She has two wonderful geldings (Teddy and Jade) who are truly her dream horses. An adult amateur, Jennifer learned to ride as a child. But after a fall, she put aside horses to focus on dance, college and adulthood. Twenty years later, a lesson at a hunter/jumper barn led her back to horses. She hasn’t looked back since. Her journey has included multiple disciplines (jumping, western and her current passion of dressage), a move to Texas and two quests for the perfect horse (which resulted her acquisition of both Teddy and Jade).  Teddy is former reining horse with a heart of gold and the build of a burly dachshund. Jade is a young Lusitano with fabulous dressage potential and a sweet temperament. During the interview, Jennifer discusses how classical horsemanship has helped with her dressage goals and (most importantly) her riding partnership with Jade and Teddy. For more information on Horse Wise and to download a free study guide, please visit our website at www.horsewisecoach.com

Jennifer has worked with both Penny Reeves of Graymar Farm and with Nancy Fair of Fair Oaks Farm. She also has attended a key clinic with Linda Hoover (sponsored by Horse Wise). Please visit their sites for more information about their wonderful services:

Shadow Warrior was a handsome, well-bred Thoroughbred gelding. His sire, A.P. Indy, was a huge personality at the track. Even now, at age 30, A.P. Indy still has swagger (see link below to his 30th birthday video). Shadow had his father’s good looks, competitive fire and epic presence. Born in 2008, he raced 83 times and retired at age 9. Shadow ended his career in Puerto Rico, after Hurricane Maria devastated the island in Sept 2017. Abandoned at the track, Shadow was rescued due to the heroic efforts of Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare. He came to the racehorse charity I ran (LOPE) in Dec 2017. It soon became clear that Shadow had intense aggression and PTSD issues. I had never encountered or worked with a horse as troubled as Shadow. But thanks to the mentorship and coaching of a good friend (Nathan Greiner), Shadow and I slowly made progress together for several months (see three-part series below for details). During that phase, Shadow helped many people learn — including at-risk youth, horsemen of the highest caliber and many racing professionals. 

But then Shadow took a turn for both the better and the worse simultaneously. The combination led to behavior that was even more dangerous than before. Although Shadow’s life was much too short, it had great meaning and purpose. The last year of his life was happy, with many days of contentment and peace. I’ll always regret that I couldn’t develop the skills in time to help Shadow fully. But I'll never regret that I had the honor to know him, work with him, learn from him and (lastly) own him. Many thanks and deep gratitude to all the people who helped Shadow and me along the way: Caribbean Thoroughbred Aftercare, Gary Bailey of Bail-e Horsemanship and Colt Starting, Tom Curtin Quality Horsemanship, The Burke Center for Youth, Dr. Matt Evans of Austin Equine Hospital — and most of all, Nathan Greiner. 

My horse Santo is big, sweet QH with a heart of gold. He also is a very emotional kind of guy. Santo has LOTS of feelings that he wants to share with everyone, all the time. He had some dressage training (not a massive amount, but much more than I had as a rider). One year, I came to realize that both Santo and I needed to concentrate on foundation work together. So I took Santo to a clinic with Peter Campbell.  I put aside my usual dressage tack — and I decided to ride in western gear (wade tree saddle, mecate reins). My goal was to concentrate on the fundamentals and do my best to set Santo up for success. A calm, slow ride without any dressage bells and whistles. Instead, a whirlwind of troubled colt swept across the arena, leaving a wake of chaotic riders behind him. The outcome turned out to be my first ever canter pirouette, an advanced dressage movement that I never expected to experience on Santo. This episode is dedicated to the memory of Peter Campbell (1964-2017).