The Equestrian Podcast: Recent Episodes
Bethany Lee
Bethany Lee gets up close and personal with some of the top of the industry to talk about parts of the equestrian world that aren’t often talked about.
Dr. Joanna Frantz has been helping me on the road to recovery with my broken hip! Her PT has been world class and I love her background as both an equestrian and one of the official Physical Therapists for the Olympic Para Dressage Team! Hear about how she got to where is she today treating her equestrian patients, come common ailments and injuries she sees, and some exercises I am doing to get me back in the saddle as soon as possible.
Reading A Pony Met the World Today with my nephew! Author Vivian Laughman owns and operates a breeding and retirement farm and was inspired to write A Pony Met the World Today after she had her daughter. She always enjoyed creative writing, and has written several short stories and articles for Young Rider Magazine. They always say write what you know - so she wrote about a pony being born on the farm! Grab a copy today on Amazon or Barnes and Noble.
On May 7, I broke my hip (technically my right femoral neck) and then had surgery on May 8 with four screws and a plate! As equestrians, we know this can often be part of the sport we love and dedicate our lives to. My community has been so supportive so I thought I'd share my journey thus far (now on week 5 of recovery) and the rehab protocol between vitamins, supplements, PT, and peptides that really seem to be helping my body heal fast and well... anything to get in the saddle faster!
I have a million nieces and nephews so I thought I would start a fun series highlighting equestrian children's books and read them to my family... and see what funny things happen...Enjoy!!
Mark your calendar for July 11-13! If you are a hunter rider, trainer, and fan, get ready for the hunter event of the year taking place this summer in Valkenswaard, Netherlands. "The Baran" is the first of its kind Global Hunter Classic with big aspirations to grow the hunter sport. Bethany sits down with co-founder Andrew Lustig to hear all about the inaugural event.
My mom, Kay Cassel comes to the studio for Mother's Day, but instead of the normal format, the roles are reversed and she interviews me! We chat about my childhood, riding, memories growing up, changing my major in college, working through the grief of losing my dad, and how I made my love for riding into a multi-faceted career. Lot's of tears, but it's a good one!
Welcome back to a BRAND NEW SEASON of the Equestrian Podcast! Bethany catches you up after taking a break during the winter show season at WEF... including why she ended up taking a long break than normal and what she learned. Hear about what's new for this season like more video, podcast vlogs, and cohosts.
After a slammed couple of weeks, Bethany is back! Join us this week as we get to hear all about her iconic annual Lookbook for the 2024 season. We even get some early Black Friday deals! Tune in to the episode and make sure to check out this year's Holiday LookBook.
Tune in this week for another solo episode from our host! After two recent hurricanes Bethany Lee has hurricane preparation for her horses down. Hear how she prepares and keeps her horses safe and and sound through bad weather.
What is equestrian chic? Join us this week with Bethany Lee as she does another solo episode! Get ready with Bethany and talk about how she achieves the equestrian chic look and what has been going on at Capital Challenge!
Join us this week as we hear how Jacque Arnold, founder of Wit Equestrian, deals with riding comparison as an adult amateur. We also take a deep dive into her childhood surrounded by Tennessee Walking horses. She gives us an in depth explanation to what really goes on with the Big Lick and how we can help put an end to it.
Welcome back to a new season of The Equestrian Podcast! While we were reruning some of our favorite past episodes this summer, host Bethany Lee had quite the packed schedule! Get the full recap as she goes through her summer by scrolling her camera roll. NEW THIS SEASON- You can now watch the full episode on YouTube via our website!
Peder Fredricson, the Swedish Olympic Show Jumper, recently competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics. With numerous wins under his belt, Peder joins the Equestrian Podcast to share his experiences as a fifth-generation rider, discuss his team of horses, and dive into his background in riding. Tune in for an inspiring conversation!
In this week's episode of the series highlights, we look back at Karl Cook's insights on the equestrian industry. Raised in a family of riders, he developed a lifelong passion for the sport, which he now channels into his work at Pomponio Ranch Stallions. Karl shares his expert knowledge through the Noëlle Floyd Equestrian Masterclass and his insightful IGTV videos on Instagram. Tune in to learn from one of the best in the industry!
Join us as high-performance coach Natalie Hummel shares her journey from athlete to expert in nervous system regulation and emotional mastery. She explains how understanding nervous system states can boost learning and performance and provides strategies for managing stress. We also address equestrian challenges such as perfectionism and imposter syndrome, offering practical tips for managing emotions and enhancing performance.
In this episode of Series Highlight, meet Ashlee Bond, an American-Israeli show jumper renowned for her speed in the ring. Discover Ashlee's techniques for developing young horses and learn about her journey of hard work and passion.
In this episode of our series highlight, we feature Boyd Martin once again. He shares his inspiring journey to becoming a top eventer, delving into his story and discussing the challenges he faced and the perseverance required to reach the pinnacle of his sport.
Back by popular demand, we are sharing the legendary Laura Kraut episode. Laura is a member of the U.S. show jumping team, an accomplished international competitor, and an Olympic champion. Her extensive and successful career in international show jumping has endowed her with a vast wealth of knowledge. This expertise enables her to coach juniors and amateurs to achieve the highest levels in global competition. Laura's hands-on experience allows her to effectively identify and develop prospective show jumpers to their full potential.
Credit: laurakraut.com
Mari Llewellyn is the founder of Bloom Supplements and host of the Pursuit of Wellness podcast where she shares and inspires for a healthier wellness lifestyle. Mari along her husband Greg operate Bloom together and this year became Forbes 30 under 30 honorees. Mari is incredibly passionate about caring for physical and mental health all while making time for her horse, Beaux. Since she started riding as an adult, Mari has been sharing her horse journey on Instagram and is learning the gratification of building a relationship with horses. Listen in!
Jennifer Gates Nassar, daughter of Bill Gates, is a successful show jumper who recently graduated from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Both Jennifer and her husband Nayel Nassar work out of her International Show Jumping Stable, Evergate Stables. Jennifer began working with horses at the age of 6 in the hunter/jumper world and she now competes on the global circuit at the top of the sport. In addition to riding, Jennifer is a MD, MPH. resident physician, avid book reader, mother, and more. In this episode we asked Jennifer to answer listener submitted questions about all things lifestyle as well as her personal horses, and she delivered! This episode originally aired July 30, 2020 as episode 71. Listen in!
Scott Keach is a two-time Olympian with a remarkable 28-year gap between his Olympic appearances. Sharing his incredible journey and insights, Scott’s unique path from competing in eventing at the 1988 Seoul Olympics to show jumping at the 2016 Rio Olympics offers a fascinating look at dedication and perseverance in the sport. Scott reveals his essential practices for maintaining peak horse performance including training routines, care strategies, and the importance of understanding each horse's temperament. Listen in to hear Scott’s thoughts on the vital role of mentors in his career, his approach to guiding young riders today, and his advice for those aspiring to reach the top.
Sarah Louise Lilley is here to introduce us to EFT, an evidence based stress reduction technique which combines modern western psychology and the ancient eastern art of acupressure. It’s a tool that not only can be used to move past trauma, but also calm your nervous system and help get you into your body before working with horses. The best thing is, once you’ve learned the modality, it’s a free and easy tool you can use to release stress, limiting beliefs, and unwanted habits in all areas of your life. EFT as an emotional regulation tool, so you can choose how they show up as opposed to coming from a triggered, habitual or reactive place. Listen in!
More on the topic of all things fashion, Bethany Lee starts a conversation about what's in and what's out for summer fashion in 2024. Strictly from observing trends, Bethany shares her observations on everything from helmets to belt bags and sunscreen to hairnets. What would you add to this list? Listen in!
Jay Buxton the founder of Strides Equestrian and has built a reputation for sourcing, training, and leasing top-class showjumping horses, making high-level competition more accessible. Jay's wife, Paige, has joined, transitioning from a successful career at Deloitte to co-managing Strides Equestrian, bringing her business acumen and love for horses together. Her journey from a childhood hobbyist to a key player in the equestrian industry showcases her dedication to the sport and her innovative approach to managing their thriving equestrian center. Today, we’ll explore how the two have come together to run a premier equestrian center in Croft known for its innovative approach to showjumping. Join us to hear insights on the future of showjumping, efforts to make the sport more inclusive, and the legacy Strides Equestrian hopes to leave in the equestrian world.
Resharing this super helpful packing for a horse show solo episode where our host, Bethany Lee, shares her recent endeavors on traveling for a horse show. Having to play the role of groom, barn manager, and trainer can be a lot, sharing from personal experience, Bethany literally unpacks all of her tips and tricks of important necessities to have in your car before the horses arrive at the show grounds. Being prepared is everything!! Listen in.
Callie Schott is an international U.S. show jumping athlete who grew up in Versailles, KY. Both of Callie's parents come from a background with horses, and Callie's mother, Elaine Schott, currently runs River Mountain Farm in Versailles, KY. After she graduated college, Callie was able to work under the leadership of John and Beezie Madden, producing young horses and competing at the national and international levels. Callie also has a background working in the horse racing industry, but quickly realized her love to continuing growing in show jumping. After recently being named on the U.S. Jumping Team Olympic Short List for Paris 2024, Callie has moved up in the rankings and made quite a name for herself. Listen in!
Featured Photo By: US Equestrian
Katie Dinan is an American Show Jumper with a long history of success in the sport. After she started riding at the age of 4, Katie quickly rose to the top in her junior career as she represented Zone 2 in gold medal-winning teams at the USEF Junior Jumper National Championships at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show in both 2010 and 2011. Katie has participated in multiple World Cup Finals, Nations Cups, and earned accolades such as the USET Foundation Maxine Beard Show Jumping Rider Award and the USET Foundation Lionel Guerrand-Hermès Trophy. After being named on the US Equestrian Short List for the 2024 Paris Olympics, Katie’s focus has shifted to the preparation for those games and shares with us a behind the scenes look at how to make it to the top of the sport. Listen in!
Lauren Klehm is the Director of Education at the United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA), and has held the position since summer 2019. She grew up in the Chicagoland area, where she left after receiving her Masters degree. Lauren caught the ‘horse bug’ early and never grew out of it. To this day, Lauren is an active rider and competitor in the Hunters at National and Premier shows, mostly showing at the Kentucky Horse Park. Additionally, Lauren has her ‘r’ Hunter and Hunter/Jumping Seat Equitation judges cards. She now resides full-time in Lexington, Kentucky with her husband, four dogs, and boards her mare nearby. When not riding or working, Lauren enjoys travel, cycling, and gardening in her spare time. Listen in!
Chris Burton is a seasoned elite rider known for his exceptional skills in Eventing and Show Jumping. From his early childhood experiences with horses spent on a farm near Toowoomba in Queensland, Australia, Chris’s ignited passion for Eventing set him on the path to becoming a top-level rider. Chris has competed on the Australian, British and European Eventing and Showjumping circuits, and is currently based in Dorset, UK. He finished the 2019 season ranked as World Number 3 and in this episode, we reflect on Chris’s career, including his memorable rides on Spice and Just Joshin, as well as representing Australia at prestigious events like the World Equestrian Games and the Olympics. Listen in!
Alexandra Frazer is an Equine Scientist and Nutritionist with a profound passion for equine gut health and overall horse well-being. As a long time equestrian, Alex took her passion to understanding how equine nutrition plays a role in performance while building her own brand EquiNutritive, and partnering with some of the top supplement companies in the world like Banana Feeds and their B-Complete product. In this episode we'll dive into the world of equine nutrition as Alex shares her insights, debunking myths, discussing supplements, and offering valuable advice for horse owners. Listen in!
Richard Howley is an accomplished Irish showjumper, known for his remarkable success in the competitive arena. He has won two consecutive World Cup qualifiers, a feat that highlights his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. Richard's journey in the equestrian industry has been shaped by pivotal moments, including overcoming a significant injury at a young age. His emphasis on horsemanship, training methods, and understanding of horses has not only led to his success but also positioned him as an excellent candidate to represent Ireland in the upcoming 2024 Olympics. In this episode, we delve deep into Richard's journey, exploring his approach to training, horsemanship, and the road to the Olympics. Listen in!
Let's talk about bananas! Join us for an eye-opening conversation with John McArthur, the visionary founder behind Banana Feeds and the groundbreaking B-COMPLETE™ supplement. John's journey started from a passion for horses to pioneering natural solutions for gut health and performance as he became inspired to uncover the untold stories and essential truths in the equine supplementation industry. In this episode, we dive deep into the transformative potential of B-COMPLETE™, its impact on the well-being of horses worldwide, and gain exclusive insights into the differences between the Australian and American equestrian worlds with the challenges of developing show-safe supplements. Listen in!
In this solo episode host, Bethany Lee, compares and contrasts all the riding looks and fashion from East Coast to West Coast during her travels on the show circuit. From Kashmir vests in Wellington, to sunglasses in California, Bethany shares all the best tips and tricks for functional riding outfits across the states. Listen in!
Charlotte Jacobs is a professional show jumper with deep roots in riding. She joins us today to share her journey since our last podcast conversation in 2022. Charlotte comes from a family steeped in equestrian tradition, and her path in the sport has been influenced by her upbringing and her family's support. As an integral part of North Star Sport Horses, Charlotte expresses her passion for producing young show jumpers and the fulfillment it brings to her career. Additionally, Charlotte emphasizes the significance of the rider-horse relationship in show jumping, highlighting her role in her horses' development, and the importance of establishing strong bonds. Listen in!
Mark Bluman is an accomplished rider with a lifelong passion for the sport. From taking his first riding lesson at the age of 3 to becoming the World Children’s Jumper Champion and Colombian National Champion, Mark's journey in horse riding has been nothing short of remarkable. With extensive international experience competing in Nations Cup competitions and FEI-rated classes, Mark brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to the table. Join us as we explore Mark's career highlights, his role within the family-owned Bluman Equestrian, and the tools and strategies he employs to achieve success in the highly competitive world of show jumping.
Ansgar Holtgers Jr. is a young show jumper originally from Germany, who recently clinched his first international Grand Prix victory at the $140,000 KASK CSI3* during Week 6 of the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF). Today he joins the podcast coming from a unique story with his horse, Chanyon; a partnership that has evolved to achieve remarkable success. In this episode Ansgar shares about how he first entered the equestrian industry, what fueled his passion for riding from an early age, and the mental preparation he employed to tackle challenging courses while navigating high-pressure situations in the show ring. Listen in!
Darragh Kenny is an Irish equestrian sensation who has consistently ranked among the world's top riders in show jumping. He joins the podcast for the third time since we've started with a history of growing up around horses, showing talent from an early age and competing in his first Grand Prix at just 14 years old. Darragh's journey to success led him to the Dublin Horse Show, and got the opportunity with trainers like Missy Clark and John Brennan at North Run Stables in Vermont. In 2012, Darragh founded Oakland Stables, a venture that allowed him to both ride and train clients, marking a significant milestone in his career. Darragh's expertise extends beyond the arena, as he shares valuable insights into, training philosophies, and the mindset required for success in the highly competitive world of show jumping. Listen in!
Mimi Gochman is a young show jumper making waves at this year’s Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF). Fresh off her incredible second place in the $215,000 Mars Equestrian Grand Prix, Mimi joins us to share the inside scoop on her journey from the arena to the winner's circle. Mimi's story is nothing short of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence as she learns to balance school with riding and drawing inspiration from the world's top riders. With a foundation rooted in equitation and a strong performance in the jumper ring, Mimi is redefining what it means to be a young powerhouse in the equestrian world. In this episode we dive deep into Mimi's riding philosophy, her secret to success, and the unforgettable moments that have shaped her into the rider she is today. Listen in!
Lauren Crooks-Brennan is an international show jumper and Head Rider & Trainer at Crooks Show Jumping, LLC. Lauren competes across the country advocating for young horse development at the top venues in the US, alongside her husband, James. With a career spanning her whole life, Lauren is dedicated to competing at the highest level and nurturing the next generation of equestrian talent. In this episode Lauren not only shares about her training methods, but also her talent for rider-horse matchmaking, as well as the essential balance between physical fitness and mental well-being for horses. Join us for a look at Lauren’s methods, how she overcomes the many setbacks of preparing young horses for long careers, and her strategies for long-term success. Listen in!
Grace Debney joins the podcast once again (almost a year later since her first episode aired) to talk about her recent week at WEF 2024. Grace is a young, talented show jumper originally from England where she first started her riding career, and is quickly becoming one of the top young riders in the sport today. For her stand out season so far this year, Grace has already won the CSI2* Grand Prix. Some of her other notable wins include two five-star classes- the first one at WEF and the second at Traverse City Horse Show back in 2022, as well as 2nd place in the U25 Grand Prix at WEF in 2023. We're excited to see where her career continues. Listen in!
From Saturday Night Lights, to shopping vender row, Bethany Lee takes us through a day in the life at Wellington International for Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) 2024. This season has been a fun one, but it wouldn't be what it is without the camaraderie of the equestrian community within WEF's state-of-the-art facility. Listen in as Bethany answers some listener submitted questions about the Showgrounds, shopping spots, and everything in between.
Jorge Valiente is the founder of Equitrials, a pioneering company specializing in test-riding horses on behalf of clients interested in purchasing horses overseas. With over ten years of experience in the sales department as a horse agent, scout, and trials rider for some of Europe's best stables, Jorge brings a wealth of expertise to his services. Equitrials provides clients with unbiased evaluations of horses through recorded trials, ensuring transparency and accuracy in the purchasing process. Jorge's commitment to client satisfaction is evident, boasting a 100% rate of happy clients and having tried over 100 horses across 10 countries. Beyond test-riding services, Jorge has expanded his offerings to include training programs for horses purchased overseas, ensuring they arrive in the US ready for their new owners. Listen in!
Kaitlin Christopherson is the CEO at Grand Slam Social, soon to be renamed to GSS The Agency, a social digital media consulting agency working with clients to build comprehensive and actionable social media plans. Kaitlin is also a co-host for Amplify Horse Racing podcast and has much knowledge for the horse racing industry. Back in 2014, Kaitlin joined WinStar Farm to spearhead marketing efforts and execute social media campaigns for the farm and its world-class stallions. Since then, she has worked for Executive Jet Management before eventually coming back to horses and becoming Head of Operations at GSS. Listen as we discuss careers, her horse, Charles, and more!
Sisters Horsing Around was founded by sisters Emily and Sarah in 2018 as a movement aiming to bring diversity, understanding, and shared love for horses to equestrians and non-equestrians alike. As first-generation horsewomen, the sisters recognized a gap between those within the horse world and those outside of it. Their mission is to bridge that gap by sharing their experiences, wisdom, and the sheer joy of being part of the vast equestrian community. Listen in as we dive into their journey from making beginner mistakes to becoming multi-discipline riders, trainers, judges, and advocates for unity in the equestrian world.
Laura Goodall is a UK-based showjumper who was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis in 2015. Laura faced a daunting crossroads that threatened her passion for competitive riding and was initially sidelined by symptoms that disrupted her vision, muscle strength, and balance, but she refused to let MS dictate her future. Laura navigated the challenges of MS with innovation and adaptability, devising unique strategies to manage symptoms while making a return to the show jumping arena. Her comeback marked by impressive wins and achievements competing both against para-riders and able-bodied competitors, is a testament to her unwavering spirit. Listen in!
Micha Knol is a USDF Gold Medalist and a multifaceted personality in the equestrian world. Born and raised in the Netherlands, Micah's passion for horses ignited at a young age, leading him through an illustrious journey encompassing show jumping, a corporate stint in banking, and ultimately a full-time commitment to dressage. With a background competing internationally in show jumping and transitioning seamlessly into the world of dressage, Micha's career is a testament to adaptability and pursuing one's true calling. Micah is now located in Wellington, where he's flourished as a trainer, competitor, and entrepreneur, co-founding MRK Dressage—a thriving venture specializing in sourcing and selling high-quality dressage horses. Listen in!
Cosby Green is an eventer with an intrinsic passion for horses who traces her fascination back to early childhood. Raised on the eventing-centric Champagne Run in Lexington, Kentucky, Cosby's exposure to events like the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event fueled her love for the sport. As student at the University of Kentucky and a pivotal member of the UK Eventing Team, Cosby excels both academically and in the eventing world, showcasing her dedication to education and sport. Her achievements include individual accolades like an NAYC bronze medal in 2019 with Takine de la Barbais and being the CCI3L National Young Rider Reserve Champion in 2021. She has also been named to the USEF U25 Emerging Athlete List for 2022, 2023, and 2024. After transitioning to the UK and basing herself with Tim and Jonelle Price at Chedington Equestrian Centre, Cosby has marked a significant milestone in her career, culminating in a top 20 finish in her first 5 at Pau, riding Copper Beach, fondly known as "Sean." Cosby's continuous progression, including her recent advancements to the CCI4*S level with horses like Copper Beach and Highly Suspicious, underscores her readiness for higher levels of competition and her pursuit of excellence in the sport. Listen in!
Angie Natale is a children's book author who joins the podcast to talk about the magical realm of Sky View Farm Adventures. After deciding to take a break from her job as a financial controller, Angie began writing creative stories about the horse world with a cast of characters based on her real-life animals. Her books are not only inspired by love for horses, but also from chaotic life on a farm and shared experiences with her daughters. With a taste for adventure and creativity, this sweet series will delight and inspire young readers who love horses and animals as much as Angie does. Listen in!
Brianne Link is the Founder and CEO of Equisite Elements of Style, an equestrian apparel and accessories brand born from her passion for horses and elegant clothing. Graduating with a B.A. in Equestrian Studies and a Minor in Business Entrepreneurship from the Savannah College of Art and Design, Brianne focused on blending art, design, and her love for horses. With over 20 years of experience in competitive show jumping up to 1.45m and U25 Grand Prix levels, Brianne has observed and contributed to the evolution of equestrian fashion and functionality. Brianne serves as the Chair of the inaugural Young Professionals group at JustWorld International, where she aims to unite and engage young professionals passionate about the equestrian community to support the organization's initiatives impacting thousands of children globally. Listen in!
Katie Wood is known as The Equestrian Physio where she blends an understanding of equine science, horses, riding, and expertise in physiotherapy to help riders become the best partners to their horses. With degrees in Animal Bioscience and Equine Science from the University of Guelph, Katie's journey evolved from years as an equine veterinary assistant to a pivot towards physiotherapy driven by a passion for enhancing the relationship between riders and their horses. Katie's multifaceted experience has spanned various riding disciplines like eventing, fox hunting, and gaited horse training coupled with her dedication to equestrian sports' modern athletic development is what truly sets her apart from the crowd. Katie's mission is not only about rehabilitating injuries but also empowering riders of all levels and disciplines to elevate their performance by focusing on strength, mobility, and control both in and out of the saddle. Listen in!
Steffie Hornig is a true horse girl from Bielefeld, North-Rhine Westphalia, Germany. Born with an innate love for horses, Steffie's journey led her from studying fine art in Prague to immersing herself in the equestrian world. Her captivating artworks are a true testament to her deep connection with horses, each painting reflecting a blend of artistic precision and a heartfelt understanding of their unique personalities. Through her art and equestrian endeavors, Steffie invites everyone to appreciate the beauty of details and emotions often overlooked in our fast-paced world. Get ready to be inspired by Steffie's journey of combining art and equine passion on today's episode. Listen in!
From her sparkly Western beginnings to her soaring successes in eventing, Alyssa Phillips' story is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep connection with her horses. At just six years old, Alyssa traded her Western attire for eventing, embarking on a path that led her to the adrenaline rush of cross-country. Her journey hasn't been without challenges—learning to embrace dressage, navigating the loss of her father, and the profound impact of teamwork on her career. Alyssa's pivotal moments, like winning gold in honor of her late father and her transition to the East Coast under the guidance of Jennie Brannigan, shaped her into the accomplished rider she is today. Now, Alyssa's focus is on honing her skills with her three remarkable horses: Cornelius Bo, Carrigshawn, and her top horse, Oskar. Their partnerships represent dedication, trust, and the fulfillment of Alyssa's dreams. Listen in!
Helen Abrams is an equestrian lifestyle blogger who has turned her passion for riding, fashion, and all things horses into a multi faceted online platform called Life Equestrian. As a soon-to-be mother, competitive rider, and business woman, Helen remains focused on health and well-being of equestrians by promoting safety products that help her, and all riders, stay at the top of their game. Helen returns to the podcast to talk about all her new endeavors since being one of our very first guests back in 2019 for episode six. Listen in!
Emma Marlowe started out as an equitation rider in California. Unlike other Grand Prix riders, Emma didn't follow the traditional path of North American Youth Championships or junior jumper teams. In fact, she didn't even ride her first jumper class until she was 18, but what sets her apart is her unyielding belief in herself and her unrelenting determination to succeed. Emma's journey took a pivotal turn when she took a chance by stepping onto a plane to Wellington, Florida, eventually leading her to the CSI5* Major League Show Jumping team. With the help of American Olympian, Lauren Hough, Emma was able to land a working student position with Cara Raether Carey & Niall Carey at Trelawny, and has a job working with them to this day! Listen in!
Erika Straub began riding at the age of five and continued developing her passion for the sport by committing herself to making the best possible decisions for the health of her horse. After suffering a riding accident at the age of thirteen, Erika began leaning into her intuition and seeking a better solution by making some major changes for herself and her horse. Erika's career in helping people work through trauma and create better relationships has helped her be in tune with her horse - making it easy to recognize when things aren't working out. Listen in!
Alexa Pessoa grew up riding horses in Connecticut and trained with some of the biggest names in the industry throughout her junior career. Working with top trainers such as, Timmy Kees, Leslie Burr Howard and Kent Farrington, Alexa continued to learn and eventually moved forward with her own successful career. After a scary breast cancer diagnosis last year, Alexa shared her profound experience revealing how horseback riding became her anchor during the most challenging times of her life. Facing a breast cancer diagnosis, she found solace, control, and unwavering support in the world of equestrian pursuits. Listen in!
Featured Photo By: @irinakazaridi
Host, Bethany Lee, recaps a successful Indoors season wrapping up in Lexington, KY for the National Horse Show. After traveling over the last month, Bethany shares the importance of rest and recovery in preparation for the next show season not only for the horses, but for ourselves. Getting refocused for the year ahead, Bethany talks about the transition of getting back into routine, feeling rested, and enjoying what you do! Listen in.
Cassie Sanger is a young eventer originally from Connecticut whose dedication to the sport has won her the top Young Rider Award. Cassie finished third overall in the CCI3*-L USEF National Championship at the Maryland 5-Star, riding Fernhill Zoro, a 14-year-old Anglo-European gelding (Verdi x Oronia 2/Voltaire) which she started leasing from Alice Roosevelt in 2021 and purchased in 2022. In addition to her most recent accomplishments, Cassie is a U.S U25 Emerging Athlete, participates on the 2023 U.S European Development Tour, was second at the ‘23 FEI Strzegom Nations Cup Team, and was third for the ’22 Young Rider of the Year. Listen in!
Caroline Signorino is a top Junior Hunter rider with some big finishes already in this Indoors Season. She was champion in the Large Junior Hunters at Capital Challenge and the Pennsylvania National Horse Show, as well as Grand Large Junior Hunter. Caroline also won the High Point Large Junior Hunter at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show. She has an incredible string of horses, but especially a very special hunter named Drumroll, who is really the hunter to be watched this year. Listen in!
Geoffrey Hesslink joins the podcast once again as The 2023 Pennsylvania National Horse Show Leading Hunter Rider! Thanks to his amazing horses including Drumroll, Westport, and Monarchy, it's no surprise Geoffrey has accomplished numerous wins in the hunter world with his dedication to the sport. Along with Drumroll as Champion Green Hunter 3'9", Grand Green Hunter Champion, Grand Champion Hunter, and winning the EMO High Five Award with a score of 93, Geoffrey has continued to make a name for himself all throughout indoors. Listen in as we discuss the remainder of goals set for the 2023 Indoors Season!
Sarah Tubman (previously known as Sarah Lockman) first appeared on the Equestrian Podcast for episode 113 in the winter of 2020. Much has changed since then, including a new name as she married FEI 4* Judge, Lee Tubman, in 2021. Since we last spoke to Sarah she has continued to make a name for herself in Dressage. With top finishes at international venues, including Aachen World Equestrian Festival. Sarah has made appearances on the FEI Nations Cup United States Dressage team and joins us today to talk about how she maintains her competitive edge both personally and with her horses. Listen in as we discuss whether or not balance actually exists within the equestrian industry.
Jena Antonucci is a lifelong equestrian who began her riding career in the hunter/jumper world, eventually landing in Thoroughbred training. Jena studied as a veterinary assistant for four years, and got her start in Thoroughbred racing by training horses under legendary Hall of Fame trainer, D. Wayne Lukas at Padua Stables. On June 10, 2023 at the Belmont Stakes, Jena became the first female trainer to win the race in its 155 year history after her 3-year-old colt, owned by Blue Rose Farm, crossed the finish line. Listen in!
Mari Llewellyn is the founder of Bloom Supplements and host of the Pursuit of Wellness podcast where she shares and inspires for a healthier wellness lifestyle. Mari along her husband Greg operate Bloom together and this year became Forbes 30 under 30 honorees. Mari is incredibly passionate about caring for physical and mental health all while making time for her horse, Beaux. Since she started riding as an adult, Mari has been sharing her horse journey on Instagram and is learning the gratification of building a relationship with horses. Listen in!
Cover Photo By: @carmelsamiri
Dr. Paige Billek DVM, CERP, CERPV, CBA, CVMM, is an accomplished veterinarian and practice owner who has a focus in preventative and sports medicine, rehabilitation, as well as chiropractic care and Chinese medicine. In 2018, Paige graduated from Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, and has quickly become a wealth of knowledge when it comes to keeping the modern equine athlete feeling and performing its best. Paige has been an integral part of many top rider and trainers’ programs and received her certification in Equine Rehabilitation from the University of Tennessee. Listen in!
Jenna Steffens is an equestrian and Real Estate Specialist located in Palm Beach, FL, downtown West Palm Beach, and equestrian facilities in Wellington, FL. A dressage rider from the age of 10, Jenna first started traveling to South Florida to compete. After falling in love with the area, Jenna has remained there ever since. Passionate about the sport, the community and bringing the two together, Jenna shares her expertise to help her clients find the best properties from beach to barn. Listen in!
Keely McIntosh is an amateur rider competing in both the jumpers and hunters, and has overcome some very challenging issues including several injuries and setbacks with her heart horse, Hilton. After a 2022 accident that left Keely severely injured and partly paralyzed, she had to readjust her plans and work incredibly hard to get back into the show ring. Keely is here to inspire others with her story, remain competitive, and have fun along the way. Listen in!
Gonzalo Busca is a top show jumper who has been competing internationally for many years now. With wins in Wellington, WEC, Tryon and more, Gonzalo has had incredible success with his first show season in the US aboard his string of great horses. Gonzalo truly puts so much time and energy in making sure his horses stay happy, healthy and well rounded within his program. Listen in!
Cassio Rivetti started to ride at age of seven at his father's farm in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Throughout his career, Cassio has participated in various international competitions including the Olympics and World Equestrian Games. His notable accomplishments include earning medals in several prestigious events and consistently ranking among the top riders in the world. Cassio's riding style is characterized by precision, finesse, and a deep connection with his horses. His ability to navigate challenging courses with grace and composure has earned him the respect of fellow equestrians and fans alike. Now based on the West Coast, Cassio has been racking up a string of top finishes. Listen in!
Caitlyn Connors is a competitive rider and owner of BreakAway Farm, based in Wellington, FL and Malvern, PA. Caitlyn started riding at 3-years-old and quickly made a career for herself by helping trainers sell ponies, breaking racehorses, and competing on the AA circuit. At the age of 18, Caitlyn became a professional and started working with luxury brand, Hermes, as a prescribed rider. Since then Caitlyn has competed for Team USA, and ridden and sold horses for top riders such as Roberto Teran Tafur and Alonso Prado Valdez. Listen in!
Leah Tenney is an international dressage rider and interior designer based in Wellington, Florida. She grew up outside of Portland, Maine, and started riding at the age of five. After graduating from Endicott College, Leah knew the traditional post-college track was not for her. Looking for a job that could fit with her schedule and passions, Leah started Leah Tenney Interiors. Based in Wellington (a natural fit for her many equestrian clients), Leah offers residential and interior design and organization services. She is passionate about her work as both a dressage rider and an interior designer, and believes that her unique experiences in both fields have given her a unique perspective on design. Listen in!
Join us for another solo episode with host, Bethany Lee, as she shares her experience not only traveling to Milano for the FEI Jumping European Championship but creating content for the event over at @fei_horse_world. From interviewing riders to meeting the FEI team, Bethany shares all about how her and her husband, Ethan, filmed TikToks to reach a wide audience of horse lovers! Listen in!
Jennifer Bliss grew up in New York where she showed extensively on the "A" horse show circuit as a Junior rider. As a professional, Jennifer is the owner and head trainer of Harris Hill Farms, located year round in Wellington, FL. Her main passion is developing special young hunters, and many of her biggest achievements in the show ring have come on horses that Jennifer has brought along herself- including the 2014 WCHR Developing Pro National Championship, top placings at Devon and Indoors, National and International Hunter Derby wins, top 10 finishes in the USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship, and recently finishing 18th at this year’s Hunter Derby Finals.
Sandra Beaulieu is an accomplished horsewoman and artist. She was introduced to horses at the age of seven and from that day forward they have been her sole purpose in life. Sandra is passionate about all creative aspects of horses, training, performing, freestyles, and art. She is the only rider in the world that has created an entire painting from horseback, and she even offers online courses so you can teach your horse how to paint too! Follow her journey @sandrabeaulieu.official
Charlotte Jorst is an avid horse lover who “rode Fjord horses bareback” in her youth, but never received any formal instruction. As an adult, she shifted her focus into building a successful career as an entrepreneur and business owner, creating and growing watch brand Skagen into a distinguished company that was later acquired by Fossil. Her most recent venture is the internationally adored sun-safe athletic wear brand, Kastel Denmark. Surprisingly, Charlotte only began training and riding with the focus of competition at age 35, which is certainly the exception for a rider of her level. Her joyful dedication to her horses, natural understanding of them as individuals, and drive to improve herself and her equine partners led her to nearly immediate success. Listen in!
Skydog Ranch is a forever home for wild mustangs and burros who have ended up in horrible and dangerous situations - at kill pens, auctions, or in unloving homes where they have often been starved and neglected. Skydog’s mission is to provide a safe landing for horses coming from horrible situations, stop horse consumption in other countries and encourage people to better understand what is happening with the Bureau of Land Management’s round up of Wild Mustangs. Their biggest, most important part of Skydog Sanctuary is to shine a spotlight on ALL these issues and make mustangs and burros a talking point across the US. Listen in!
Where western meets english- Join us for our very first Live Podcast Episode at the AETA International Trade Show! Follow along as Bethany interviews many different guests to chat all things brands, marketing, lifestyle, and more right from the event. Featuring Amy Harper & Bailey Watson of @dallasmarket Cindy Lay of @exceptionalequestrianCatherine Winter of @rideequisafe Shaley Ham of @westdesperado Madelyn Houser of @theblondeandthebay_ Kristy Lake of @dreamersnschemerssocks Jill Tweedy of @tuckertweed Jamey Griffin of @ariatequestrian and Matilde Urdinola of @yagyariders!
Cara Klothe is a Grand Prix dressage rider and USDF gold, silver, and bronze medalist. Based in Lehigh Valley, PA, Cara has ridden many horses across various levels, consistently delivering top results and training with some of the best in the industry. When not riding and competing herself, Cara is usually found teaching - she feels that it’s her job to teach her students how to think through problems so they can confidently ride their own horses and achieve their goals. On June 14th of this year, Cara received quite the surprise when her mare, Lhegally Blonde, delivered not one, but twin foals. Despite excellent veterinary care, which included multiple ultrasounds, these two were completely unexpected. Cara shares the story of how Elle and Emmett (keeping in the theme of Legally Blonde) came to be and what their future holds. Listen in!
Allie Heninger is an equestrian and writer who currently lives in Utah with her husband, horses, and their four cats! Not only is Allie passionate about equine health and rehabilitation, but she's also interested in human health and disability, being a rider with an autoimmune disorder. Allie has adjusted her goals, advocating for other autoimmune equestrians in this space. Her story is intended to motivate, educate and inspire. You can follow Allie's journey by reading her blog at autoimmuneequestrian.com
Today’s interview is presented by LiveEQ, an app created to give equestrians of all backgrounds an easier way to find opportunities that fit their unique riding journey. In an industry that can sometimes feel hard to break into, LiveEq creates a platform where users can find their next barn, horse, or job… including working student positions. Working students have long been a staple in the equestrian world and is where many top equestrians have gained the experience to make them great riders and horse people.
Today we’re talking with Ava Stearns, a rider with an impressive career who also happened to be a working student while competing in the top events of our sport. She shares with us the benefits of being a working student and how important it can be to finding your place in the equestrian world. Listen in!
Anna Buffini is a professional dressage rider, longtime friend, and returning podcast guest! She has continued to be a rising star in the Dressage world, winning in both team and individual tests on young rider teams. With her continued success, Anna has several notable performances including a first and second in the 2016 USEF Young Adult Brentina Cup Dressage National Championship, a 2019 FEI Grand Prix Freestyle win, and most recently an 6th place performance in the 2023 Freestyle at the FEI Dressage World Cup Final in Omaha. There's no stopping her. Listen in!
Rachel Barker is the founder of Weather or Not Equestrian, a brand dedicated to helping riders stay clean and dry in all conditions. As a lifelong equestrian, Rachel is turning her riding experience into a business and stating "I want to give back to the equestrian community that has given me so much over the years. We don’t always love riding in the rain but we need the rain for the flowers to grow. I hope Weather Or Not Equestrian can help people on those rainy days and to be able to see the beauty that comes from them." Listen in!
Charlotte Babbitt is a professional Grand Prix show jumper and advanced level eventer. After beginning her career in eventing, a new job working for a professional Grand Prix show jumper helped Charlotte develop skills in both disciplines. Charlotte now competes in both with a passion for developing horses and building her career as a professional. Listen in!
Aisling Byrne is an Irish international showjumper, business owner, and model whose hobby and passion is horses. She successfully competes across the UK and Europe with a string of competitive rides. Having gone through a serious riding accident in recent years and recovering from injury, Aisling's goal is to share a message of hope and positivity to others in a similar position, both inside and outside of the equestrian world. Listen in!
Today’s interview is presented by LiveEQ, an app created to give equestrians of all backgrounds an easier way to find opportunities that fit their unique riding journey. In an industry that has long operated by word of mouth and “who knows who”, LiveEQ is here to give horse enthusiasts everywhere access to the community around them. We are excited to invite Devin Conley on the podcast to talk about all the opportunities available through the app.
Devin, also known on TikTok and Instagram as Devin Out West, shares her experience finding and building community in the horse world. She is based in Colorado and uses her platform to make folks laugh, feel something, and spread a little kindness. Listen in!
Warning The topics discussed in this episode may be sensitive for some listeners as it pertains to alcoholism/addiction in equestrian sport. Here at the Equestrian Podcast we believe every equestrian should have the opportunity to share their story and discuss topics that aren’t brought to light as often as they should in the equestrian industry. We believe that while some topics may be harder to talk about, it is important that we bring education and awareness to the fact that recovering from addiction is not something to be taken lightly.
Elyse Hart is a California native, equestrian, and a recovering alcoholic/addict who found comfort in horses during some of her darkest moments. In addition to being a wife and mother, Elyse shares her story of recovery and sobriety via her blog and Instagram, All Hart Equestrian. Elyse is now a dressage rider, working on developing her skills and continuing to share her story and support those in the equestrian community.
Today’s interview is presented by LiveEQ, an app created to give equestrians of all backgrounds an easier way to find opportunities that fit their unique riding journey. In an industry that has long operated by word of mouth and “who knows who”, LiveEQ is here to give horse enthusiasts everywhere access to the community around them. We are very excited to have Anne Hawkins, founder of LiveEQ join us in today's episode and share about all the opportunities available through the app. Listen in!
Sarah Caswell began her riding career as a kid in New York, but took a short break when she lost her childhood pony. After some time, Sarah came back to the sport as an adult and you could say her addiction is stronger than ever. Sarah now competes in the adult amateur hunters as well as the equitation and some derbies with her current horse, Ocelot. Recently Sarah also purchased a young horse, Enzo, and chronicles her adventures of her adult amateur life on both her blog and Instagram @Oxers2Oncology. Listen in!
Emily Wendt spent her childhood riding, quickly moving from weekly lessons to riding and showing multiple horses a day. After a break from riding going into college, Emily found herself dying to get back in the saddle. Not long after her return, Emily discovered that new anxiety around riding was keeping her from doing the thing she loved. Set out to find a solution, Emily created Rider’s Relief - a company dedicated to providing relief from pain, inflammation, anxiety, & stress to equestrians as well as their cats & dogs through the use of high potency Nano CBD products. Listen in!
Maddie Houser is a United States Dressage Federation Bronze and Silver Medalist with many years of dressage experience under her belt. Maddie remains passionate about the sport to this day and is known on Instagram as “The Blonde and the Bay” where she showcases her life with horses. She began her blog as a way to share photos and updates of her riding career, and since its start in 2015 has continued to share the successes, struggles, and everything in between. In 2021, Maddie and her husband acquired a 2012 model AQHA gelding affectionally known as "Ryder" who has become her western pleasure "reject" turned upcoming dressage superstar. Listen in!
Courtney Carson began her equestrian career in eventing and eventually become the head groom and barn manager for Payne Equestrian in North Carolina, home of Olympic eventer Doug Payne. Courtney has been head groom at several five-star competitions, Nations Cups, the Pan American Games in Lima, Peru, and the Tokyo Olympics back in 2021. Though it was a successful position, Courtney left Payne Equestrian last year to pursue an even higher equestrian calling. Courtney became a founding board member of the International Grooms Association (IGA) in 2021, and now serves as the U.S. coordinator for the organization. Listen in!
Kelly Giordano is the CEO of Avenue Equestrian, Executive Director for the Equestrian Podcast, and a certified Horse Girl! When she's not riding, Kelly enjoys working with new businesses at Avenue Equestrian as an Equestrian Business Consultant & Strategist. Kelly has many years of experience under her belt working in corporate positions, starting her own business, and helping other business grow to their full potential. After taking a break from the equestrian world in college, Kelly returned to horses at full spend and enjoys riding her own horse, Crosby. Listen in!
Paige Jardine is a 29-year-old Showjumper operating out of Guardian Stables with her boyfriend Nicky Galligan. Originally from Australia, Paige has been living abroad in the US for the last 10 years. She’s had a challenging last year, losing her beloved mare Chaccara Blue, but is more committed than ever to pursue the highest levels of this sport. Listen in!
Amanda Anderson is a trained saddle fitter with over 20 years of experience helping horses and riders better understand saddle fit and its impact to performance. With over 4,800 hours of instruction from a German Master Saddler, Amanda focuses on how anatomy and biomechanics influence saddle fit. Using “science and common sense” Amanda is passionate about helping riders understand how their saddle works and resolving common problems that are impacting our horses. Listen in!
Philip Richter serves as Treasurer of the United States Equestrian Team Foundation, Chairman of the Lake Placid Horse Show, and is on the board of directors for the Hampton Classic Horse Show, the United States Equestrian Federation and more. Additionally, Philip is the president and co-founder of New York-based Hollow Brook Wealth Management, LLC, a leading independent wealth management firm that manages and advises capital on behalf of families, foundations, endowments, pension plans, and individuals. In his spare time Philip is an amateur equestrian show jumper and has successfully campaigned his horses on the “A” circuit for over three decades. Listen in!
You may recognize her from the judges stand or perhaps from her articles in the Plaid Horse Magazine- Sissy Wickes is a Princeton University (New Jersey) graduate, a lifelong rider and trainer, a U.S. Equestrian Federation R-rated judge, a freelance journalist, and an autism advocate. Her resume includes extensive show hunter and jumper experience and she has served on the USHJA board of directors and the USEF National Breeds and Disciplines Council. Sissy currently lives with her family in Unionville, Pennsylvania, and Wellington, Florida. Listen in!
Shawna Karrasch is a pioneer in the use of Positive Reinforcement Training with horses. Her powerful and humane behavioral training techniques are an eye-opening experience for equine professionals, competitors, and amateurs alike. She has produced books and videos, and traveled worldwide to teach the concepts of bridge conditioning and positive reinforcement for horses. Shawna began her training career far outside the equestrian world, and when she was introduced to top equestrian competition, Shawna saw immediately how reward-based training could be used to engage the horse’s willingness in equestrian pursuits. Shawna has worked with many equestrians, most notably, John + Beezie Madden, and helped Beezie’s horse to overcome his fear of water. Listen in!
Tony Sandoval (aka Coach Sando) is a D1 Strength and Conditioning Coach who got his start in the equestrian space after he worked with a severely injured rider to bring her back to competition. Soon after her progress, Coach Sando decided working solely with equestrians was his passion. Being a rider himself, Coach Sando knows how to help riders feel connected to their horses and sharp in the ring by understanding how to increase their physical and mental skills. Coach Sando loves watching his students ride and compete in order to help them achieve their goals, and his team is passionate about using their experience to help riders become more athletic, ride with less pain, and feel more confident about their abilities. Listen in!
Tamie Smith is an accomplished equestrian and ICP Level 4 Certified Instructor with over 25 years of industry experience. Specializing in Eventing, Tamie recently became the first US Winner of the Kentucky Land Rover 3 Day Event in 15 years, the first woman to win the event in 12 years, and the first US woman to win the event in 18 years. In addition to having ridden Dressage at the Grand Prix level and having earned multiple Show Jumping accolades, Tamie has made a name for herself with career highlights including being named to the United States Developing and Elite Rider List multiple times (a proven training ground of the United States Olympic Team), participating as the fourth member of team USA and the traveling reserve in the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, winning team silver at the 2022 World Equestrian Games, and more. Tamie takes great pride in each horse she works with and has developed excellent training skills. Achieving her long time goal of representing the United States in an Olympics or World Equestrian Games would be a dream come true and culminate her already fantastic equestrian career. Listen in!
Ashlynn began riding horses at a young age in Kalispell, Montana. She began competing in three day eventing at age eleven in the Northwest area of the country. Since then, her career in three day eventing has taken her all over the United States. She spent time on the eventing circuit in California before graduating college and moving to the East coast in order to pursue eventing as a full time career. Ashlynn works with horses and riders to achieve results through consistent education. Ashlynn has recently decided to pivot her personal career goals to focus on show jumping. She still trains her eventing clients, using what she learns across both disciplines to develop top horses and riders. Listen in!
Christian Simonson is an accomplished dressage rider with many diverse interests. Inspired by his mother’s interest in riding, Christian discovered Dressage at the young age of six. He quickly became the protégé of USDF Gold Medalist, Gail Hoff Carmona and when, by the age of 13, Christian was ready to start showing at a national level, began training under the tutelage of Olympian, Jan Ebeling in Moorpark, Ca. He subsequently won both the Gold Team medal and Silver Individual medal in the 2016 Adequan/FEI NAYC, and the Silver Individual medal at the 2017 Adequan/FEI NAYC. Additionally, he was awarded the USDF Bronze and Silver medal that year. Christian and his horse Sonny were recently ranked number 1 in the CDIO 1 world rankings, along with Zeaball now second in the CDIO1 horse rankings. Listen in!
Emma Tate grew up in a small lakeside town in central New York State riding, living, sleeping, and breathing horses. From day one, Emma has been affiliated with the colorful equestrian world. Her passion for horses led her to compete in several of the top competitions in the United States throughout her riding and training career. It wasn't until the final year of college when she took her first Figure Sculpture class, Emma realized her passion to make one of her greatest loves in art form. Emma's first sculpture was a self-portrait, and the second one a life-sized horse rearing out of the ground which now sits among the trees at the Stone Quarry Hill Art Park in Cazenovia, New York. The rest is history. Listen in!
Samuel Hutton is a professional showjumper who spends most of his time showing in Europe and the U.S. Prior to 2022, Sam had taken a several year break away from WEF, but since returning last year he has had great success. Sam is a regular Team GB Nations Cup rider, starting his career in the UK, and then making the move to Europe where he has been based for over 10 years. Sam has spent the last few years working for Abdel Said and has just spent the winter at WEF in Florida where he had multiple top placings, including 4th in the 4* Grand Prix. Listen in!
Hunter Holloway is one of the top emerging riders in the hunters and jumpers both nationally and internationally. Based in Topeka, Kansas, and Ocala, Florida, Hunter comes from a family deeply rooted in horses, and recently she won the bronze at 2023 FEI World Cup™ Finals Omaha this past April. In 2016, she rode to win the coveted ASPCA Maclay Championship as well as the 2016 Washington International Equitation Championships, winning all three phases of the competition. Hunter also won the U25 Jumper Championship at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show in 2016. Hunter travels about eight months of the year competing in both Domestic and International competitions while also spending the Winters in Ocala, Florida competing at HITS and the World Equestrian Center winter circuit series. Listen in!
Joey Emmert Evans is the head trainer and barn manager at Whidbey Stables, located in the heart of wine county in Sonoma, California. She grew up riding in Pony Club, getting a love for foundational cross training that she still uses with her horses today. With a huge passion for groundwork, Joey's diverse background has given her a deep love and appreciation for riding and working horses outside of the competition arena. Joey currently trains with Guenter Seidel (EP 110), but has also worked with various clinicians such as Lilo Fore, Mike Osinski and Christine Traurig. In addition to riding, Joey is a busy mother of two, keeping family at the center of her passion and life. Listen in!
Nick Haness is a hunter/jumper professional and owner of Hunterbrook Farms which was established in 2009. Currently located in Temecula, California, Nick grew up riding in Orange County as the only one in his family to work with horses, until his lifelong dream of owning his own farm came true. Nick has had many wins in some of the most prestigious hunter classes in the country, including the 2022 $25,000 WCHR Pro Final at Capital Challenge (Maryland), the $100,000 WCHR West Coast Hunter Spectacular (California), the $65,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby Southwest Regional Championship (California). Listen in!
Carly Anthony was first on the podcast back in 2020, and today she returns to share about her career since we last spoke, and to get the highlights from her 2023 WEF season! Originally from Seattle, Carly grew up riding with her mother Cara Anthony and equitation master Karen Healey. After accruing numerous wins and honors in the Equitation division, including a gold medal in the USET Final, she was recruited to compete for the University of Georgia Equestrian Team. There she received a national title, numerous All American honors, and a degree in business management. Since graduating, Carly turned professional and went on to work for Olympians Eric Lamaze and Ben Maher in Europe and world renowned horse dealer Neil Jones. Carly wants to share her knowledge and experiences with people who enjoy the sport and love of horses as much as she does. Listen in!
Amelia Newcomb is a USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medalist, and a member of the USEF Dressage Development Program. She has trained and competed close to 50 horses in almost 500 competitions with several horses that she started at a young age all the way up to Grand Prix. Amelia hopes one day to compete internationally and to represent the United States at the Olympics. Dedicated to helping riders achieve their dressage goals, Amelia provides riders with the skills and information they need to work and develop a trusting and confident relationship with their horses. Using elements from both natural horsemanship and classical dressage, Amelia creates a holistic approach to dressage training that adapts to fit the needs of each individual horse and rider through her program, Amelia Newcomb Dressage. Listen in!
In this solo episode, our host Bethany Lee shares her recent endeavors on traveling to a horse show and playing the role of groom, barn manager, and trainer. Sharing from personal experience, Bethany literally unpacks her tips and tricks of important necessities to have in your car before the horses arrive at the show grounds. Being prepared is everything!! Listen in.
Renate Larssen is an Equine Ethologist with a BSc in Veterinary Medicine from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and a MSc in Applied Ethology from Linköping University. Renate believes the horse world would benefit from knowing about more science, and has an ethos of understanding how horses think, feel, and perceive the world as important to building relationships with them. Renate aims to bridge the gap between science and action to help horse people better understand the current research to support their relationships with horses. Aside from her research and education, Renate has experience rehabilitating behavioral issues in horses, with a special interest in severe aggression cases and pain and stress-related behaviors. Renate enjoys teaching and lecturing about equine behavior for a wide range of audiences including university students, veterinarians, equine professionals, and horse owners. Listen in!
Neda DeMayo is the president and founder of Return to Freedom. She has worked hard to develop the organization into what it is today, garnering support from many passionate individuals such as Ed Harris, Viggo Mortensen, along with creative collaboration with Native American tribes, and all types of people who support and love wild horses. Return to Freedom is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and conservation of America's wild horses and burros. Founded in 1998, RTF is located in beautiful Santa Barbara County with several thousand sanctuary acres across two locations. Return to Freedom pioneers innovative alternatives to standard wild horse management that can be applied on the range and advocates for viable solutions to prevent the removal of wild horses from their natural rangelands. Listen in!
Wendy Hofstee is a veterinary surgeon, traveler, horse lover, and owner of the largest portfolio of horse-riding holidays worldwide! Unicorn Trails was created to hand pick a selection of the best riding holidays with horses in excellent condition and to make it as easy as possible to ride abroad. Today Unicorn Trails and puts thousands of people into contact with different cultures, all sharing the common language of horsemanship. Additionally, they offer access to an extensive knowledge base of horse riding all over the world which is continuously being updated and extended and guarantees a knowledgeable service, happy horses in good health, small groups of riders and unspoiled natural environments. Listen in as Bethany shares her recent experience getting to travel with Unicorn Trails!
Lucas Porter is an international show jumper who splits his time between the US and his European home base in the Netherlands. Born into an equestrian family, Lucas's parents both rode when they were younger and wanted Lucas and his brother Wilton, to have experience with horses from a young age. After much success in his junior years, Lucas started training with Jeroen Dubbeldam and has been working with him for many years. Lucas is excited about his future and has set big goals with the hope of representing the US at the top levels, as well as breaking into the Top 10 in Worldwide Rankings. Listen in!
Steven Wilde is an equestrian sports commentator who is originally from Wiltshire, England. He began equestrian sports commentating in 2001, and grew up in the sport of show jumping with his mother who was an international rider. Steven has had great success organizing shows as well. With a long list of events on his resume, Steven has commentated at many shows including four Olympic Games, seven European Championships, two World Championships, over 100 World Cup Qualifiers, and over ten years on the Longines Global Champions Tour. His voice is a staple at WEF and other shows in the US and abroad. Listen in!
Chris Cervantes and Mallory Nicklas work for Mustard Seed Ranch- a nonprofit program that provides youth with a safe place where they would have the opportunity to participate in therapy services and build hands-on skills in a ranch environment. Chris is a professional horse trainer and equestrian coach at Far West Farms in Calabasas, CA. He has worked for multiple FEI and Olympic trainers in jumper and dressage disciplines. In addition to joining Mustard Seed Ranch as an Equine Therapist, he continues post-grad counseling at the Orange County LGBTQ Center, working with individuals and facilitating process groups. Mallory is the Colorado Program Director. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in clinical social work. With experience working in various educational settings, inpatient behavioral health treatment, and non-profit program facilitation, she enjoys creatively pairing her clinical knowledge to the experiential process of engaging clients in a meaningful way. In 2021, Mallory participated in the Fundamentals of Natural Lifemanship program.
Alex Matz is the owner and operator of Vintage Farm Sales, a training and sales program operated out of Coatesville, PA and Wellington, FL. Alex's early education in the horse industry came from both his father, Olympic silver medalist Michael Matz, and his mother, Pan-American bronze medalist DD Matz. Additionally, Alex has spent time learning from Olympic medalists Beezie Madden and Jos Lansink. In his business Alex focuses on developing young jumpers into top Grand Prix competitors and provides training services for clients both at home and at shows. As a young rider, Alex competed at the 2015 & 2016 North American Junior & Young Rider Championships aboard Quinta. Since then Alex has had success in U25 and Grand Prix competition. Most recently, Alex and long-time partner Cashew CR earned multiple top five placings in Grand Prix competition during the 2020 season, including a 5th place finish against a tough field of competitors in the $137,000 CSI3* during Tryon Fall IV. Listen in!
Bethany got a group together for a little Equestrian Book Club this winter and started it off with With Purpose: The Balmoral Standardby Traci Brooks, Carleton Brooks with Rennie Dyball.
Anna-Christina Abbelen is a young German Grand Prix Dressage rider currently ranked number 39 in the FEI World Rankings. She was the 2014 European Junior Riders Champion and is now a professional for the riders' team at Hof Kasselmann in Hagen. Anna-Christina had a very successful season in Wellington at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, consistently finding herself at the top of the class including being a part of the winning Nations Cup Team for Germany. Anna-Christina ended the Global Dressage Festival season on a high note with a 4th place finish in her first 5* Grand Prix and one of the highlights of her WEF season was a Grand Prix personal best score of 77% and a 2nd place finish.
Gaby Reutter is a professional show jumper and founder of Lumière Horses Inc. She has been training United States for several years now with shows across the US, Canada, and Europe. Originally from Chile, Gaby is currently ranked the #1 female Chilean show jumper with the goal of becoming Chile’s second woman to represent the nation in the Olympics, and the first since 1972. Gaby's most recent career highlight was a Bronze Medal finish at the 2022 South American Games in Paraguay with her horse, Maharees Rock. Listen in!
Daniel Coyle is the lead rider for Lothlorien Farm and recent winner of the CSIO4 Grand Prix during WEF 8. Originally from County Derry in Northern Ireland, Daniel has represented his home country of Ireland at the European Championships in Riesenbeck, Germany, and the World Equestrian Games in Herning, Denmark. In 2022, Daniel qualified for the 2023 FEI World Cup Finals in Omaha, NE, as the leader of the North American League standings thanks to brilliant performances from both Legacy and Ivory TCS throughout the year. He also took home the win in the CSIO5 Grand Prix in Rotterdam (NED) on Oak Grove’s Carlyle in 2022. So far in 2023, Daniel has been moving young horses up the levels and focusing his international string on select events at Wellington International, including the CSIO4* Grand Prix, which he won aboard Ivory TCS. Listen in!
Daniel Bluman joins the podcast once again after winning the $425,000 Wellington Equestrian Realty CIS5* Grand Prix during Week 9 of the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF). As a young rider, Bluman competed in Colombia, Germany and in the U.S.A. and trained with some of the top equestrians in the world including Nelson Pessoa, whom he trained with in Belgium for a few years. Some of Daniel's achievements are The Rolex Grand Prix of Rome, The Rolex Grand Prix of Central Park, The Hampton Classic, The FTI Wellington Finale, The Douglass Elliman Grand Prix, being a Finalist in the 2012 London Olympics, and now his recent accomplishments at WEF! Listen in to hear about Daniel's mindset going into the class.
featured image by: @ashleyneuhofphotography
Chloe Reid is a young, competitive show jumper who became the youngest international U.S. Team member at the age of fifteen. In 2017, she received the Lionel Guerrand-Hermes Trophy from the United States Equestrian Team and has continued a successful career ever since. Additionally, Chloe has spent significant time training with world-renowned Markus and Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum in Germany and has been on the U.S. team with the one who first set her on a horse, Lauren Hough. Coming from a family of equestrians, Chloe, alongside her uncle Chester Weber, are co-presidents of Live Oak International- the largest international-level combined driving and show jumping tournament in the country. Owned by the Weber family, Live Oak International welcomes the leading drivers, riders, trainers, coaches and owners from Europe and North America. Listen in!
Melanie Peterson-Ramey is a successful insurance and equine real estate agent who has been put in charge of curating the iconic WEF Sport Horse Auction. Each year, WEF Hosts the Sport Horse Auction which is a collection featuring horses from the distinguished VDL Stud, the official Number 1 KWPN breeder of Grand Prix horses. The WEF Sport Horse Auction has been the most successful auction in North America since 2013. As auction coordinator, Melanie makes sure everything in the auction goes off without a hitch, working with the VDL team, show staff and media teams. This auction presents a rare opportunity for athletes and investors to view and bid on a world-class selection of show jumping superstars, all in one place. Listen to the breakdown here!
Alise Oken is the owner and operator of Hi Hopes Farm currently located in Wellington, FL for the winter months competing at WEF. Since taking over her family's farm in 2015, Alise spends her time focusing on sourcing quality young horses and developing them for future sales and top sport. She’s had a great start to her WEF Season, recently winning n the CSI2* at WEF 7. Alise has worked with many prominent equestrians including Laura Kraut and Nick Skelton, Peter Lutz, and Norman Dello Joio, learning invaluable lessons of horsemanship inside and outside of the ring. Additionally, Alise has also spent four summers competing in Europe based at Emile and Paul Hendrix’s farm in the Netherlands. Listen in!
Anna Hallene is the owner and trainer at Glenwood Farm, a top-level full service training barn. She specializes in a thoughtful and individualized approach to the training of hunter, jumper, and equitation horses and riders. After a successful junior career in all three rings, Anna began her professional career with her training program that emphasizes proper horsemanship and flatwork, clear communication between horse and rider, and on fostering confidence through positivity and consistency. She continues to focus on creating happy, healthy horses and riders, all while navigating a chronic illness. Listen in!
Spencer Brittan based in Wellington, Florida and spends time catch riding horses at shows and farms in the area. In addition to freelance riding and training, he also keeps horses at Dany and Erika Michan's farm on Jumper Road, directly behind the show. The farm is just a short walk away from the WEF showgrounds, perfect for the busy weeks of the show season. Spencer has worked under top stables such as Beerbaum Stables and has gained experience in the ring up to the CSI5* Grand Prix level. With multiple Grand Prix wins, and a long time in the sport of Show Jumping, Spencer created Royal Oak Equestrian as a stable for clients as well as freelance riding services.
Grace Debney is a young, talented show jumper originally from England where she first started her riding career. Grace has already had several notable wins including the 2021 Dover Saddlery USEF Hunter Seat Medal Final. In 2022, she won two five-star classes- the first one at WEF and the second at Traverse City Horse Show. Grace’s 2023 season is already off to a great start since she recently jumped to 2nd place in the U25 Grand Prix this past weekend at WEF aboard her horse, Jesprit H.S. Listen in!
Courses and Cocktails is a fun, inspirational Instagram account run by two adult amateur riders who "Spend WAY too much money to jump their horses over colorful sticks." With almost 14k followers, the account follows Gwen and Alice as they ride and compete their horses while keeping it real and down to earth. Alice and Gwen enjoy showing both the good and bad of what life with horses is truly like in addition to working normal jobs. Listen in!
Welcome to another Solo Episode with Bethany Lee! Today we're talking about our favorite week of the year, Hunter Week! This week kicks off Week Six of Wellington International and we are so excited for the braids, the famous Hunter Spectacular, and everything in between. Join Bethany on the Showgrounds as she unpacks what it takes for riders to make a hunter round look effortless. Be sure to also follow along over at @ushunterjumper for an Instagram Takeover with our host. Listen in!
Kate Kosnoff has worked as a freelance writer and editor for Noëlle Floyd and Horse Nation and later was inspired to carve out her own successful career in the horse world as an equine photographer. Kate began taking photos in 2018 which has now blossomed into a successful photography career known as Kate at The Ingate. In 2021 Kate created In Gate Goods, a sister brand of equestrian-inspired stationery and accessories featuring her photography. Additionally, Kate shares her experiences in the equestrian world through her blog, where she talks about self love and mental health.
Kate's iconic photo of Laskano, owned by Isalou Inc., and ridden by Jimmy Torano, taken during #WEF’s World Championship Hunter Rider Week was chosen by Wellington International as the 2023 Winter Equestrian Festival Souvenir Program Cover.
Abby Funk, Campbell Brown, and Emma Hechtman join the podcast as our team winners for the recent candy themed Great Charity Challenge. The Great Charity Challenge was created in 2009 to assist non-profit organizations located in and serving Palm Beach County. Through the support of the equestrian and local community, the GSS has distributed almost $18 million to 294 Palm Beach County nonprofits. During week five of WEF, The Great Charity Challenge is hosted with many fun features including creative costumes, fun makeup, and raising money for those in need. This year’s theme of Candy World aims to inspire the community to “Build a Path to a Sweeter Future for our Palm Beach County neighbors in need” – we truly believe that everyone can #BeTheChange. Listen in!
You may know her from her previous business The Fit Equestrian, but today Lauren Mahr combines her passion for horses and fashion into FitEq. Since the start of her new business, Lauren has focused on creating equestrian apparel that is equally comfortable, stylish, and sustainably made. Every design goes through a rigorous development process to make sure the fit is perfect and the garment can last for years. FitEq is making waves by being committed to educating customers about ways they can engage in sustainable shopping practices. Listen in!
Welcome to episode 300! Today we are joined by Ian Millar and Amy Millar of Team Millar Brooke to discuss the value of experience in the sport. Ian Millar, known by the nickname "Captain Canada" is an icon in international show jumping. The most decorated equestrian in Canadian history, Ian's record-breaking career has set the bar for its numerous achievements and unparalleled longevity. Ian has appeared in more Olympic games than any other athlete in any sport, with a total of ten Olympic appearances. Winning his first medal in 2008 at age 61, Ian set a record for the oldest show jumper to stand on the podium at the Olympics. In 1996, he was inducted into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame with his longtime partner Big Ben, only the second horse to ever receive the honor. Both Ian and Big Ben have since been inducted into the Jump Canada Hall of Fame. Ian has earned nine medals (including two individual Golds) in nine Pan American Games, more than any other show jumper in history.
Ian's daughter Amy Millar made her Olympic debut August of 2016 in Rio and currently holds twenty-five Grand Prix career wins to date. Following her father’s footsteps into the jumper divisions and finding her own niche, Amy Millar was born into the sport, but hard work and raw talent has propelled her to the top level. In 2017, Amy was crowned the Canadian Show Jumping Champion at the Royal Winter Fair and throughout 2018 and 2019 Amy has collected numerous Grand Prix podium finishes and has continued to represent Canada in Nations Cup competition.
Anne Caroline Valtin is the Executive Director of the Great Charity Challenge. The Great Charity Challenge was created in 2009 to assist non-profit organizations located in and serving Palm Beach County. Through the support of the equestrian and local community, the GSS has distributed almost $18 million to 294 Palm Beach County nonprofits. During week five of WEF, The Great Charity Challenge is hosted with many fun features including creative costumes, fun makeup, and raising money for those in need. This year’s theme of Candy World aims to inspire the community to “Build a Path to a Sweeter Future for our Palm Beach County neighbors in need” – we truly believe that everyone can #BeTheChange. Listen in!
JustWorld International is a not-for-profit organization that transforms the lives of children in impoverished communities around the world. In this episode we are joined by the Project Manager for JustWorld, Bracy Fuentes, as she explains JustWorld International's exciting gala being held tomorrow in Wellington, Florida!
For the past 20 years, the annual JustWorld Gala has provided critical funding to support education and nutrition programs for children around the world. These programs, and JustWorld as an organization, continue to receive recognition by third-party validation services for a commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility. The Annual JustWorld Gala historically brings together more than 700 guests from the global equestrian community. Together, for one night, guests enjoy gourmet food, an open bar, surprise entertainment and dancing – not to mention the most diverse and exclusive live and silent auction items up for bid. All proceeds go directly to the daily operations to help fracture the cycle of poverty for nearly 10,000 children.
JustWorld International is a not-for-profit organization that transforms the lives of children in impoverished communities around the world. In this episode we are joined by the Project Manager for JustWorld, Bracy Fuentes, as she explains JustWorld International's exciting gala being held tomorrow in Wellington, Florida!
For the past 20 years, the annual JustWorld Gala has provided critical funding to support education and nutrition programs for children around the world. These programs, and JustWorld as an organization, continue to receive recognition by third-party validation services for a commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility. The Annual JustWorld Gala historically brings together more than 700 guests from the global equestrian community. Together, for one night, guests enjoy gourmet food, an open bar, surprise entertainment and dancing – not to mention the most diverse and exclusive live and silent auction items up for bid. All proceeds go directly to the daily operations to help fracture the cycle of poverty for nearly 10,000 children.
Zara Boyd is British rider and fashion student splitting her time between studying in NYC and riding in Wellington this winter. After taking a few years off from riding since recovering from an eating disorder, Zara is back and excited to ride in her first season at WEF with her horse, Oreo. Zara is joined by a supportive group of trainers from Lionshare farm and is excited to see how far she can go in the low amateur division. In her spare time Zara enjoys sharing her riding adventures over on TikTok as @zarzeebee amongst her 54K followers. Listen in!
Darragh Kenny is an Irish show jumper with over 200 wins to date. He is ranked eighteenth in the Longines Rankings as well as top sixty-five in the FEI Jumping World Cup standing. Based out of Oakland Stables in Wellington Florida and Meijel, Netherlands, Darragh has represented Team Ireland in both the Olympics and FEI World Equestrian Games with numerous achievements and countless accolades. In a sport where points are most important for overall ranking, Darragh explains his different approach to showing only the essential weekends in order to make sure both him and the horse are getting adequate rest for best performance. Listen in!
We all know the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center and here to chat with us today is Lenore Brown, Director of Sponsorships for the recent rebranding of PBIEC, Wellington International. Lenore has worn several hats in the industry including working as a groom for Lionshare Farm, being veterinary assistant, and the President for Phelps Media Group. Since its announcement in March, Wellington International has already dedicated millions towards its improvement and is estimated to be complete in 2026. Listen in as Lenore shares more about some changes we will see in the coming years for Wellington!
We all know the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center and here to chat with us today is Lenore Brown, Director of Sponsorships for the recent rebranding of PBIEC, Wellington International. Lenore has worn several hats in the industry including working as a groom for Lionshare Farm, being veterinary assistant, and the President for Phelps Media Group. Since its announcement in March, Wellington International has already dedicated millions towards its improvement and is estimated to be complete in 2026. Listen in as Lenore shares more about some changes we will see in the coming years for Wellington!
Alex Granato is a professional show jumper from Salt Lake City, Utah who owns and operates Mad Season LLC, a hunter/jumper show barn based out of Wellington, FL and Lexington, KY. Alex has represented the U.S. in Nations Cup competition and won over 50 Grand Prix events across the United States. This past weekend for WEF Premiere Week Alex was part of the men's winning team for the Winter Equestrian Festival’s $75,000 "Battle of the Sexes" an event the men’s team has won 3 times in 14 years! Listen in for the break down!
Tanner Korotkin is a Wellington native who grew up surrounded by equestrians. His father, Alan Korotkin is an equestrian and owner of Castlewood Farm. Tanner began riding at 11 years old and instantly fell in love with show jumping. After a successful junior career, Tanner immediately went pro. He worked with Shane Sweetnam for a time, but has now returned to his family’s Castlewood Farm to build his own program and produce more sale horses. Tanner has been on a roll with his mount Quinn 33 and is ready to continue that success into WEF 2023.
Jack LaTorre is an FEI Dressage Rider and Founder of Equibody Fitness, a program aimed for helping riders use fitness to improve their riding. Jack found that his tightness in the saddle was impacting his riding, so he set out to find a solution using his background in fitness. After creating a program that corrected some of his issues, he decided to share his knowledge with the help of Equibody Fitness. Jack works with riders of all disciplines. Based in Wellington for the winter, Jack will be riding and helping others all through the 2023 season. Listen in!
Giavanna Rinaldi is a young professional building her career as a successful rider. After an impressive junior career, Gia moved to Germany where she studied under Helena Stormanns for 4 years. Since returning to the states, Gia is building her resume and recently competed in (and won) her first 5* Grand Prix at Spruce Meadows this past summer. Gia will be spending the winter in Florida, continuing to show off her string of horses and hopefully adding some sale horses to the mix. Listen in!
It's that time of year again! Introducing our sixth annual holiday lookbook featuring so many amazing equestrian brands. Sign up below to catch all the latest styles and deals handpicked by Bethany herself and get an inside look on the making of this year's holiday picks. You're just one click away from enjoying this free curated online magazine. Happy shopping!
myequestrianstyle.com/lookbook/
Erin Williams is a well-known social media influencer with over 4.3 million followers on TikTok, over 603,000 followers on Instagram, and 723,000 YouTube subscribers. Aside from her platforms Erin is a proud Dressage rider and owner of Black Heart Equestrian as well as Kobe Swim. More recently Erin has become the host of her very own podcast called "Unbridled with Erin" which shares both her business and equestrian style of life. Listen in!
Based out of Balmoral Farm, located in West Los Angeles, CA and Agoura Hills, CA, Traci, and Carleton Brooks have both had a lifetime experience with horses. With an extensive teaching and training background and a keen ability to match horses and riders, Traci and Carleton share an extensive appreciation for the sport. In addition to their training skills, this dynamic couple is also well-known for their high standard of horse care and attention to detail. Together, they’ve trained and produced numerous National Champions such as Penn Square, Ragtime Cowboy, Triton Z, Wish List, Sleepwalk, Virtue and Corallie. Traci and Carleton have trained horses and riders to numerous championship shows such as The Pennsylvania National Horse Show, The Washington International Horse Show, The National Horse Show, Devon, Junior Hunter Finals, and International Derby Finals. Listen in!
Read More: balmoralfarm.com
Vivian Yowan is a friend and member of the Hesslink Williams LLC team with her own business, Saddle Ridge LLC. Vivian studied at SMU where she was also a part of the equestrian team on campus and today has many accomplishments under her belt from over the years. Starting from the ponies to her junior year, Vivian has competed in the jumpers, hunters, and equitation ring as a professional and developing professional. Vivian has won not only at Devon, but in Indoors, North American Junior and Young Rider Championships - Individual Gold, and more. Listen in!
Mary Elena Moran is a certified mounted police instructor who received her master’s degree in Criminal Justice-Police Administration from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Mary Elena specializes in natural horsemanship, police horse training, and rescue transformations and is a Level 3 Harmony Horsemanship Instructor. Additionally, Mary Elena is a certified practitioner of Equine Facilitated Learning modalities: Natural Lifemanship with a Trauma Focus and Equine Experiential Education. Her passion lies in transforming rescued horses to be police horses as ambassadors of the ultimate rescue transformation. In transforming these rescued horses, Mary Elena has learned that the greatest gifts from the horse have been life lessons in leadership, confidence, kindness, and self-awareness.
Cherie Hammer is the Development Director for the National Center for Equine Facilitated Therapy. NCEFT is dedicated to helping children, adults, and military Veterans with special needs reach beyond their boundaries through equine-assisted therapies, education, and research. For over 50 years, NCEFT has tapped into the profound rehabilitative power of the human-horse relationship to facilitate healing to thousands of Bay Area children and adults (ages 2-85+) living with physical, cognitive, and neuromuscular disabilities, as well as mental health conditions. This amazing program delivers thousands of program sessions every year, benefiting over 300 people. Listen in!
Michael Bragdell is a USDF certified instructor and serves as the Training Director at Hilltop Farm, a Maryland based sport horse facility that features breeding and training at the top level. Originally from Sweden, Michael has created a name for himself in developing young horses, having twice won the USEF Four-Year-Old National Championships and three USDF Dressage Final Championships on horses he started himself. Michael is a USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold medalist soon to be heading to the 2022 USDF Dressage Final Championships this November! Listen in!
Dr. Christina Rahm is an author, scientific researcher, and Chief Formulator for The Root Brands. After battling Lyme disease in her twenties, and multiple bouts of cancer to the present day, Dr. Rahm has worked on her health through academic, professional, spiritual, emotional, and instinctive discoveries she has made at every stage in her life while working with more than 80 countries. As a graduate from Cornell and Harvard Universities in Nanotechnology, Pharmaceutical Management, Nutrition, Education and Philosophy, as well as a Master of Science, Dr. Rahm has helped so many people on the path to living a healthy lifestyle. Read more at drchristinarahm.com!
Kaitlin Hurley is an equestrian and developer of Equine Performance Identities (EqPI), a personality test designed specifically for the equine industry. EqPI is adapted from a scientifically validated, behavioral self-assessment for people, which is an extremely effective tool in the "corporate world" for matching people with jobs, building teams and relationships, fostering engagement, and self-development. With EqPI, Kaitlin hopes to bring the value of behavioral assessments to the equine industry to create a world where every horse thrives because they are understood at an individual level. Listen in!
Brandon Phillips is a professional polo player and the founder of Polo for Life. After being diagnosed and beating cancer at 14, Brandon has combined his love for polo with his mission to help others. Polo for Life is a non-profit organization that helps pediatric cancer patients and their families to provide financial assistance before, during and after treatment. Since its inception, Polo for Life has raised over $2.2 million to help those going through pediatric cancer. Listen in!
Catherine Winter is a lifelong equestrian and creator of Ride Equisafe. After picking up eventing, Catherine began her quest to find an air vest which proved to be easier said than done. This led her to create Ride Equisafe, a company focused on educating riders about safety equipment and helping them select products that are right for them. Through her mobile pop-up shops and “say yes to the vest” in-person events, Catherine is committed to helping riders stay safe. Ride Equisafe carries a variety of brands so that each rider who works with Catherine can find the product perfect for them - regardless of which brand that is. Catherine has recently expanded Ride Equisafe to include apparel that is safety-equipment compatible so that riders can look great + perform while staying safe.
Carlotta Montanari is an Italian visual artist and founder of Four Legs On Set. As a producer with over 20+ years of experience in the production industry, Carlotta has tons of familiarity with performing as an actress and working with horses on set in the entertainment industry. Combining her love for rescue horses in the film industry, Carlotta has worked with notable brands such as: Harley Davidson, Kendall Jenner, Beyoncé, Kim Kardashian, and so many more through her Premiere Licensed Horse Rental Company based out of Los Angeles, CA. Listen in!
Spy Coast Farm specializes in the breeding and development of top-quality performance horses in disciplines including the hunters, jumpers, and equitation sports. Joining the podcast once again we have the owner of Spy Coast Farm, Lisa Lourie, as well as her team Emily Ashton and Dr. Modesty Burleson. Spy Coast primarily excels in their approach to reproduction, training, competition, and sales, but additionally offers rehabilitation and fitness services including an Equine Education Center in the heart of Lexington, KY. Be sure to go back and listen to our first episode with Lisa [EP 32]. Listen in!
Being in the middle of Indoors season, we thought it would be appropriate for our host, Bethany Lee, to share her guide on how to stay dry and comfortable while dealing with all types of weather during a weeklong horse show. With everything from what shoes to wear to how much water you should drink, Bethany has you covered with a complete horse show survival guide in this Solo Episode as well as a shopping list guide on our website! Listen in!
Amanda Gomez is a professional show jumper, located at Rising Star Equestrian in Norco, CA, where she specializes in thoroughbred aftercare and competition. Working with OTTBs started as a lifelong passion for Amanda since her late father, Garrett Gomez, began his award-winning career as a jockey. Today Amanda enjoys competing in the Thoroughbred Makeover held each year at the Kentucky Horse Park as well as West Palms, HITS, and show series at Desert International Horse Park. Listen in!
Katrina Coldren is the owner and president of The Clothes Horse, an original company that has been manufacturing horse blankets and other barn uniform necessities in the same building since 1993. Started by Edith Friedman, The Clothes Horse is famous for crafting everything from tack room drapes to trunk covers with quality and classic design. Listen in!
Catherine Haddad is a professional Dressage rider with an impressive resume at the top levels of the sport. Having competed in 2 FEI World Cup Finals, numerous top placings in Nations Cups, CDI5*, and other top Grand Prix competitions, Catherine has earned gold medals from both the USDF and the German Federation. Catherine spent over 20 years riding and training in Germany before returning to the US to continue her training and breeding businesses based out of Florida and New Jersey. Today, Catherine is a Co-Owner, Founder and Head Trainer of NorCordia Horse Sales which focuses on bringing together the perfect partnership between horse and rider. Listen in!
Catherine Haddad is a professional Dressage rider with an impressive resume at the top levels of the sport. Having competed in 2 FEI World Cup Finals, numerous top placings in Nations Cups, CDI5*, and other top Grand Prix competitions, Catherine has earned gold medals from both the USDF and the German Federation. Catherine spent over 20 years riding and training in Germany before returning to the US to continue her training and breeding businesses based out of Florida and New Jersey. Today, Catherine is a Co-Owner, Founder and Head Trainer of NorCordia Horse Sales which focuses on bringing together the perfect partnership between horse and rider. Listen in!
Anne-Sophie Milette runs Europa Horse Agency, a company based in Belgium that helps buyers find their perfect match through a wide network of stables and breeders from Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany, and France. Anne-Sophie grew up on a horse, starting her first regional show jumping competition at the age of eleven. Born in Quebec, Anne-Sophie spent her winters in Florida learning from some of the best of the sport including the Millar family and Peter Leone. Listen in!
Anne-Sophie Milette runs Europa Horse Agency, a company based in Belgium that helps buyers find their perfect match through a wide network of stables and breeders from Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany, and France. Anne-Sophie grew up on a horse, starting her first regional show jumping competition at the age of eleven. Born in Quebec, Anne-Sophie spent her winters in Florida learning from some of the best of the sport including the Millar family and Peter Leone. Listen in!
Nina Fedrizzi is an equestrian, travel, and lifestyle writer based in Upstate New York. She began her career at Travel + Leisure and is a former senior editor at NF Style. Nina is an equestrian columnist for Robb Report, a regular contributor to Noëlle Floyd, Horse Network, and The Plaid Horse. Her work has been featured in Endless Vacation, This Old House, Smithsonian, and Wynn Magazine. She holds a master’s degree in journalism from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. Nina loves to write about all topics in the equestrian industry, including her experience as an adult amateur working towards her riding goals while enjoying time with her young family.
Nina Fedrizzi is an equestrian, travel, and lifestyle writer based in Upstate New York. She began her career at Travel + Leisure and is a former senior editor at NF Style. Nina is an equestrian columnist for Robb Report, a regular contributor to Noëlle Floyd, Horse Network, and The Plaid Horse. Her work has been featured in Endless Vacation, This Old House, Smithsonian, and Wynn Magazine. She holds a master’s degree in journalism from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. Nina loves to write about all topics in the equestrian industry, including her experience as an adult amateur working towards her riding goals while enjoying time with her young family.
Since the beginning of time, horses have been incorporated in society's way of transportation, recreation, and fashion. In this solo episode Bethany Lee breaks down some iconic moments in both mainstream and high fashion that highlighted the true elegance and power of the animal we all love, horses. From western fringe to english leather, equestrian fashion continues to take the runway stage and everyday styles. Listen in!
Since the beginning of time, horses have been incorporated in society's way of transportation, recreation, and fashion. In this solo episode Bethany Lee breaks down some iconic moments in both mainstream and high fashion that highlighted the true elegance and power of the animal we all love, horses. From western fringe to english leather, equestrian fashion continues to take the runway stage and everyday styles. Listen in!
Sam Walker is an International Show Jumping athlete and proud member of the Canadian Equestrian Team. In 2018, Sam won the ASPCA Medal Maclay at the age of sixteen on his horse, Waldo, and when he turned eighteen Sam made his 5* Nations Cup debut. After training with Missy Clark and John Brennan at North Run for several years and having both of his parents (Dee and Scott Walker) as professional trainers, it is no secret that riding is in Sam's blood. Despite starting his professional career just as the pandemic hit Sam has continued working hard for what he loves. Listen in!
Sam Walker is an International Show Jumping athlete and proud member of the Canadian Equestrian Team. In 2018, Sam won the ASPCA Medal Maclay at the age of sixteen on his horse, Waldo, and when he turned eighteen Sam made his 5* Nations Cup debut. After training with Missy Clark and John Brennan at North Run for several years and having both of his parents (Dee and Scott Walker) as professional trainers, it is no secret that riding is in Sam's blood. Despite starting his professional career just as the pandemic hit Sam has continued working hard for what he loves. Listen in!
Charlotte Jacobs is a professional show jumper who comes from a long line of equestrians. Since her successful career as a junior, especially in the equitation and junior jumpers, Charlotte continued living out her dream as a rider after her family encouraged her to follow her passion. Today, Charlotte continues to work out of her family's farm North Star Sport Horses. Listen in!
Charlotte Jacobs is a professional show jumper who comes from a long line of equestrians. Since her successful career as a junior, especially in the equitation and junior jumpers, Charlotte continued living out her dream as a rider after her family encouraged her to follow her passion. Today, Charlotte continues to work out of her family's farm North Star Sport Horses. Listen in!
Sara Carlisle is a FEI rider and trainer based out of Lythrum Farm In Acton Massachusetts, and Wellington Florida. She recently earned her USDF Gold Medal on her horse Knight who she got 7 years ago for $1 due to extreme behavioral problems. Volunteer work has always been incredibly important to Sara, and she has been working with rescue animals her whole life. Sara is a board member with her regional GMO, the New England Dressage Association, volunteers weekly helping train horses at The MSPCA, and teaches an after-school humane education program that teaches students how to be a responsible and caring citizens an animal owners. Listen in!
Sara Carlisle is a FEI rider and trainer based out of Lythrum Farm In Acton Massachusetts, and Wellington Florida. She recently earned her USDF Gold Medal on her horse Knight who she got 7 years ago for $1 due to extreme behavioral problems. Volunteer work has always been incredibly important to Sara, and she has been working with rescue animals her whole life. Sara is a board member with her regional GMO, the New England Dressage Association, volunteers weekly helping train horses at The MSPCA, and teaches an after-school humane education program that teaches students how to be a responsible and caring citizens an animal owners. Listen in!
Brian Moggre is a 20-year-old show jumper who started his own business, Major Wager LLC, at the age of eighteen. Born and raised in Flower Mound, Texas, Brian has spent his whole life surrounded by horses and puts continuous effort and passion into his work. From catch rides during his junior years to competing for the United States Equestrian Team, Brian is a well-rounded horseman and always puts his horses first. Brian has worked with many names in the Showjumping world such as: McLain Ward, Laura Kraut, and Nick Skelton. After recently competing in the World Championships at Herning, Denmark, Brian is continuing to live out his competition dreams and produce top quality horses. Listen in!
Brian Moggre is a 20-year-old show jumper who started his own business, Major Wager LLC, at the age of eighteen. Born and raised in Flower Mound, Texas, Brian has spent his whole life surrounded by horses and puts continuous effort and passion into his work. From catch rides during his junior years to competing for the United States Equestrian Team, Brian is a well-rounded horseman and always puts his horses first. Brian has worked with many names in the Showjumping world such as: McLain Ward, Laura Kraut, and Nick Skelton. After recently competing in the World Championships at Herning, Denmark, Brian is continuing to live out his competition dreams and produce top quality horses. Listen in!
Kathy Baar is a USDF Gold Medalist, Author, Horse Development Specialist and Natural Horsemanship Instructor. She has been studying and teaching Natural Horsemanship for over 20 years, combining the happiness of the horse with the results needed for competition and Horse Development. Along with her husband, John, the two focus on developing horses into partners out of their farm Raising The Baar located just outside of Lexington, KY. Through different forms of cross training such as: ground driving, cow working, liberty, dressage, and even trail riding, Kathy excepts all levels and breeds to her farm. Everyone who participates can gain something from the Foundation to Performance training available.
Emily Bentz is a friend and fellow Equestrian Workshop attendee who recently launched her own business May Babes. Emily's business is best known for her revolutionary new product of riding leggings, maternity leggings, and breeches with built-in underwear. Being the first of its kind, the built-in underwear and gusset combination add a unique, modern, and innovative twist to how you wear leggings and breeches. In this episode we discuss how Emily's idea came to be as well as her gratitude for those who've supported her small business. Listen in!
You may previously know her from one of our first episodes when she discusses the creation of Pony App, but now Lucy Davis joins the podcast once again to talk about her brand-new venture, Prixview. Lucy is an American Show Jumper and entrepreneur who has been to the Olympics from a very young age and is now taking a strong approach to the equestrian business side of her career by designing a unique fantasy gaming platform for the equestrian world! Similarly, to fantasy football, gamers can place real bets on current shows and beyond. Listen in to learn more!
Collier Wimmer is the creator of Three Wishes Freestyles and has been partnering with amazing horse and rider combinations since 2011 to create extraordinary freestyles that have shown and won at both Regional and National Championships, international CDI's, CPEDIs, and Nation's Cups. Three Wishes Freestyles offers 2-day freestyle intensives for those wanting to learn about this exciting part of dressage and start work on their own musical freestyle, and Collier can even meet clients over phone call or zoom meetings. In addition to her knowledge in music theory, Collier is a lifelong equestrian with 15+ years of immersion in dressage, the youngest ever in the Winston-Salem area to receive the highest medal and ribbon from the Royal School of Choir Music, and a nationally ranked competitive dancer.
India Parker-Smith was born and raised in Sussex, England with a passion for being active as a way of life. After taking a trip to Argentina and falling back in love with riding, India decided to combine her love for horses with her passion for fitness to create Chukka Wellness, a fitness company dedicated to helping equestrians become twice as Supple, Stable, and Strong in the Saddle. India has worked with players such as Agustin Arellano (Listen to Episode 255), Ellesse Jordan Gundersen (Episode 54), the Thai Polo Team, Rebecca Walters, and more! Listen in!
Chad Oldfather is an author, father of two horse-crazy girls, and the ultimate horse show dad. After experiencing different sides of the horse industry once his daughters "caught the bug", Chad Oldfather shares his perspective on how to be the best horse show dad for his daughters in his book A Man Walks into a Barn. This book navigates how to deal with the ups and downs of youth sports, finances, parental guidance, the horses themselves, how to be the best parent you can be and everything that comes with it. Listen in!
From the beginnings of the equestrian sport in the United States, African Americans made significant contributions to the horse industry. In racing, the first thirteen winning jockeys of the Kentucky Derby were Black men. These contributions and so many others were made. They were and still are ranchers, jockeys, trainers, grooms, breeders, competitors and so much more. This history has been hidden, dismissed, and denied and erased from history. It is time to acknowledge and celebrate African American equestrians.
Patricia Kelly is the founder of Ebony Horsewomen, a mission to level the playing field for inner-city youth and give them access to the same opportunities, resources, equine-based programming, and equine-assisted therapy as their suburban counterparts. Patricia lives out this dream with a one-of-a-kind, urban riding center in Hartford Connecticut. Since 1984, Ebony Horsewomen has served their community’s youth, families, adults, and military veterans through equine-assisted psychotherapy, therapeutic riding, and a variety of youth programs. Listen in!
Lucy Katan was an international dressage groom for eight years, representing Team Great Britain at European and World Championships. Lucy is the founder of the British Grooms Association and the International Grooms Association (IGA), a professional platform for grooms working internationally in FEI Disciplines. The IGA exists to support members throughout their career as a groom, providing support, advice, and education to all working in the industry. The support provided by the IGA includes guidance on employment rules, answers to commonly asked questions on recruitment, and provides a toolkit for grooms working freelance. Listen in!
Warning The topics discussed in this episode may be sensitive for some listeners as it pertains to sexual abuse and misconduct. Here at the Equestrian Podcast we believe every equestrian should have the opportunity to share their story and discuss topics that aren’t brought to light as often as they should in the equestrian industry. We believe that while some topics may be harder to talk about, it is important that we bring education and awareness to the fact that sexual abuse is not something to be taken lightly.
Susan Mihalic is an editor, turned author and creator of debut novel Dark Horses. The book follows Fifteen-year-old equestrian prodigy Roan Montgomery who has only ever known two worlds: inside the riding arena, and outside of it. After getting a "late start" in writing, Susan was able to unleash her imagination at the age of 59 and is already working on her next book. When she’s not writing, Susan can be found riding her horse on the mountain trails in and around Taos, NM, where she has made her home since 1995.
Sean Jobin is a Canadian International FEI Grand Prix rider and owner and head trainer of Double Clear LLC. Based out of Ocala, FL, and Columbus, OH, Sean is currently ranked top 12 in Canada and top 375 in the world. Sean has been working his way up the ladder to the highest Grand Prix riding level as an FEI5* rider. In 2019 he became the Baker Award winner, and currently competes against the world's top riders as participant for the Major League Showjumping Circuit. When he's not competing, Sean works with clients and horses from around the world for training and sales purposes.
Lehua Custer is a USDF gold, silver, and bronze medalist as well as a trainer and judge. Originally from Hawaii, Lehua was introduced to horses by her empathic and equally equine-loving mother. She was encouraged to ride well and become a true horsewoman. Lehua moved to California to pursue a Bachelor’s in Psychology and grad school at Pepperdine University. While in California, Hilda Gurney took Lehua under her wing, and one lesson turned into a decade long opportunity as an assistant trainer at Keenridge. After living in California for 20 years, she moved her business to Wellington, Fl, in 2019 to fully commit to her invitation to join the US Development Program with goals of representing the US in international sport. She is available year round in Wellington for bespoke coaching and training packages, and offers local and off-site clinics and virtual lessons as requested.
lehuacusterdressage.com
Agustin Arellano is currently on TEAM USA for polo and will be competing in the Federación Internacional de Polo (FIP), known as the polo Olympics. He has been officially announced as one of 8 top players on the USA Team who will compete in the XII FIP World Polo Championship. Agustin is a 3rd generation polo player, as his father is Julio Arellano, who is notably was one of the highest-rated polo players in America. His mother, Meghan Arellano, worked alongside his father to train the horses throughout his whole career. At the age of nine, Agustin realized he wanted to pursue a career in polo after his father won the triple crown, the three-26-goal tournaments in Wellington that hadn’t been won in decades. Agustin has already won more than 20 cups as a professional polo player, including the Texas and Kentucky Open. In addition to polo, Agustin shares a passion for wildlife conservation and models for an agency in his spare time. Listen in!
Rebecca Hart has been a part of the equestrian sport since 1998. Born with a rare genetic disease called hereditary spastic paraplegia, a progressive impairment that causes muscle wasting and paralysis from the middle of the back down, Rebecca found her love for horses and soon got involved with the Paralympic movement at a regional competition in Atlanta, Ga, during which she decided to aim for international competition. Now Rebecca is a 4-Time Paralympian (Beijing, London, Rio, Tokyo) Bronze medalist, a World Equestrian Games Silver and Bronze medalist, and recently named to the 2022 US Para Dressage World Championships. Listen in!
Annie Henderson is the Executive Director of the Equitarian Initiative, a global program that supports local communities and animal caregivers to deliver basic and advanced veterinary care to working horses, mules, and donkeys of the developing world that represent 90% of the world's horse population. The mission for Equitarian Initiative is to sustainably improve the health and welfare of working equids for families around the world who depend on these animals for trade, commerce, and transportation. Located in areas with less access to farm equipment and motor transportation, these families rely heavily on working equids as part of their livelihood, making veterinary care essential for both the animal and owner's survival.
Gleneayre Equestrian Program is an equine facilitated learning opportunity and working student program that provides a hands-on, experience-based learning environment for people in difficult situations, including children, families, and military personnel. The Gleneayre Equestrian Program is centered around equine facilitated mental health and uses the powerful connection between horses and people to teach, learn, grow, and heal. With the help of Gleneayre Equestrian Program Founder, Ellen Healey and Executive Director, Bill Rube this program is able to thrive and support people through caring for horses.
Rob Jacobs (R.L. Jacobs) wears many hats within the industry but is probably best known for being a USEF "r" rated judge and a columnist for popular equestrian media source, Sidelines Magazine. Rob is also a well-known rider/trainer at Aleron Show Stables in Seattle, Washington, and is a USHJA certified trainer assisting in the development of individual talent. Rob has developed a talent for patiently bringing along horses & riders and helping them excel in the Hunter, Jumper, and Equitation rings. His attention to detail and passion for the sport is evident in his teachings. Listen in!
Ann Souders is a Community Engagement Coordinator for the Mustang Heritage Foundation, a non-profit, educational campaign focusing on raising awareness, providing education, and increasing the placement of wild horses and burros. Established in 2001, the Mustang Heritage Foundation maintains a goal of decreasing the number of wild horses and burros in BLM (Bureau of Land Management) holding facilities, by increasing the number of successful adoptions and placements into private care. The Mustang Heritage Foundation has a few programs to encourage the training and care of wild mustangs, including the Extreme Mustang Makeover, a training competition with a purpose to showcase the beauty, versatility, and trainability of American mustang. Listen in!
Bill Rube is lifelong equestrian who has experience of all levels in the sport. Bill is currently Executive Director of the Gleneayre Equestrian Program, which offers Equine Facilitated Learning, Equine Facilitated Mental Health, and a unique Working Student Program for driven youth to match with horses in order to learn more about horse care and responsibility. Aside from his experience with Gleneayre, Bill has worked with USHJA to emphasizes the history of equestrian sport. After several years taking a break from the saddle, Bill started riding again during the pandemic and returned to the show ring as well once he realized it was something he needed in his life. Listen in!
Pat Parelli is a living legend who began with creating a natural horsemanship program in 1982 with a purpose to improve the relationship between humans and horses. Pat's program is famous for promoting the concept of love, language, and leadership and has been nothing short of effective ever since. In 1984, Pat began teaching clinics, and eventually coined the name Natural Horsemanship in 1991. Pat Parelli has been featured in over 1,000 magazine articles and has had the opportunity to present privately for the Queen of England, President Reagan, Tony Robbins, Gene Autry, and Tom Selleck.
Jonathon Millar and his wife, Kelly Soleau-Millar are accomplished equestrians based at Millar Brooke Farm in Perth, Ontario. Operating a busy training and sales business, the couple competes throughout North America and Europe, and recently opened new facilities in Wellington, FL. Jonathon has made quite a name for himself in the jumping ring and is the son of Canadian showjumping legend, Ian Millar. Kelly is a competitive Grand Prix rider who represented the United States in December of 2015. Together they are unstoppable. Listen in!
In honor of Equitation Month over at @USHJA, we are celebrating alongside the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association in launching the We Are U.S. Hunter Jumper Campaign! For the month of June we will be hosting both a professional and junior rider to discuss all things Equitation Month.
Archie Cox is a well-known trainer and judge for some of the top Hunter/Jumper shows across the country. Currently based out of Southern California, Archie works with many different clients and horses in training at his very own Brookway Stables. Archie is highly regarded for one of his top wins back in 1985 as he became the first male rider in over ten years to win the United States Equestrian Team Gold Medal. Join us over at @ushunterjumper on June 24th for an Instagram Live Q&A with Archie Cox and Alexander Alston.
In honor of Equitation Month over at @USHJA, we are celebrating alongside the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association in launching the We Are U.S. Hunter Jumper Campaign! For the month of June we will be hosting both a professional and junior rider to discuss all things Equitation Month.
Alexander Alston is a junior rider from Ohio with experience in all three rings, and major success in the equitation ring. Alex trains with Missy Clark at Northrun Stables, and in 2021 he won the USHJA Gladstone Cup Equitation Classic aboard his horse Campreoll. Alex was fifth at medal finals last summer and his team won bronze at Young Riders. Finishing out his junior career, Alex has big aspirations to move up in the rankings and continue doing what he loves. Listen in as Alex's shares how to execute the perfect equitation round and join us over at @ushunterjumper on June 24th for an Instagram Live Q&A!
Lisa Veltri is a fashion industry veteran and founder of Veltri, a brand responsible for versatile, functional backpacks and accessories which are responsibly made with sustainability in mind. Veltri began in the summer of 2021 as a collection carefully crafted with a luxury sensibility, and thoughtful purpose in mind. All products use the highest quality recycled and vegan materials because environmental awareness and animal rights are at the forefront of all decisions. For Lisa, the goal is to responsibly provide high-end products with the style that an active consumer desires! Being a mom of a daughter who rides, Lisa understood the assignment when it came to spacing and what every rider needs to be able to pack ringside.
Andie Sue Roth is an active Pony Club member and a C-2 certified member in Horse Management, Dressage, Traditional Eventing and Western. Aside from her activities in Pony Club, Andie Sue is currently pursuing her riding career in Dressage, and recently she completed her USDF Bronze Medal with her trainer and former guest, Lisa Hellmer. After being adopted from China at just fifteen months old with a severely deformed leg and foot at birth, Andie Sue's leg was amputated below the knee once she got to the United States. At two years old Andie Sue was able to get her first prosthetic leg for walking, and with the help of her surgeons was able to get a prosthetic leg for riding as well.
Andie Sue has her sights set on competing in the 2024 Paris Paralympics.
Zac Purton is a professional jockey based in Hong Kong and is a member of one of the most prestigious clubs in racing, the Hong Kong Jockey Club. With over 120 wins and 581 rides under his belt in the 2021-2022 season, Zac has been making big moves in the racing industry ever since he got started. Growing up in Australia, Zac decided he wanted to become a jockey at the young age of fourteen and today he celebrates his 1,400th Hong Kong win with $166,008,615 stakes won. Listen in!
Lissa Bachner, a legally blind rider, has been ranked among the country's leading amateur equestrians with one of the most incredible stories to date. When she was three, Lissa was diagnosed with Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and Uveitis. By the time she was thirty, Lissa had lost her left eye and most of the vision in her right eye. Regardless of her lack of vision, she continued to ride and compete at show jumping's highest level in the hunter ring. Lissa has been ranked among the top 20 amateur riders four times and has led the country twice ranked as the nation's top Adult Hunter Rider. In 2007, Lissa was the top Amateur Owner Rider, and to this day she is the only legally blind equestrian in American who jumps horses over 3'6" fences. As an author, Lissa has been able to share her inspiring story about the horse who changed her life and the incredible bond they shared. Listen in!
Dr. Barbara Anne Murphy is the Head of Equine Science at UCD, and creator of The Equilume Light Mask. Prior to her PhD in Veterinary Science from the prestigious Gluck Equine Research Center in Kentucky, she completed a BSc in Equine Science at the University of Limerick. Having worked for both Coolmore and Darley, Dr. Murphy has spent much time within the Thoroughbred industry and is an expert in the field of Equine Chronobiology. Dr. Murphy regularly speaks at international veterinary conferences and contributes frequently to equine publications in relation to the influence of light on equine reproduction and performance. As a native of West Cork, Dr. Murphy drives the R&D component of Equilume, constantly striving to find new, innovative ways to improve health and performance in horses.
Sharon White is an international CCI5 three-day eventing rider, trainer and Level 4 USEA ICP Certified Instructor based at Last Frontier Farm in Summit Point, West Virginia. With over 25 years of experience as a professional equestrian, Sharon is a well-respected and dedicated horsewoman who always seeks to do her best by the horses first. Sharon has 10 visits to the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event (formerly known as Rolex Kentucky) with five different horses. She has also traveled overseas to contest CCI5 events at Lühmuhlen (France) and Les Etoiles de Pau (France) as well as CCI4* events at Boekelo (Netherlands) and Hartpury (United Kingdom). If you're ever looking for Sharon out on the cross country field, you can be sure to see her sporting the color orange. Listen in!
Introducing The 3 Stride podcast! A newer addition to our space where three equestrians share a little since of humor! Hosted by three adult amateurs who love horses and sharing their experiences is Laura Fernandez, VP- Head of Industry at top audio/tech company SiriusXM, Julia Hanssen, who works in advertising as Account Manager on one of the most iconic brands Ykone, and Molly Heroy, who runs a successful e-commerce + mobile tack store Tack of the Town. Just like all of us, they share one important thing in common: the passion for horses and the sport. Be sure to check out @the3stridepodcast and keep up with all of their personal accounts @julia_hanssen, @lauragailfernandez, and @mollheroy.
Wayne Grafton is the Chairman and CEO of arguably the most iconic horse show in the United States, the Devon Horse Show. The Devon Horse Show and County Fair is the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed horse show in the country and this year will be held Thursday May 26th- Sunday June 5th after being canceled last year due to USEF restrictions on spectators. Internationally recognized as one of the premier equestrian events in the country, the Devon Horse Show draws top competitors from around the world and continues to reflect the traditions and lifestyles of the locals. Wayne has served as Chairman and CEO of both DHSCF, Inc and the Foundation for five years. Wayne is involved on a day to day basis for all aspects of operations, finance and facilities.
In honor of Jumper Month over at @USHJA, we are celebrating alongside the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association in launching the We Are U.S. Hunter Jumper Campaign! For the month of May we will be hosting both a professional and junior rider to discuss Jumper Month and the differences between each competition zone.
Anne Kursinski is a five-time Olympic athlete, and a two-time Olympic silver medalist in team jumping who has been a part of forty-seven nations cup teams and three World Equestrian Games representing the United States. Anne is passionate about the promotion of the sport, and serves as a USHJA Clinician, member of the USHJA and USET Executive Committees, and USEF Board of Directors. In 2017 she was inducted into the Show Jumping Hall of Fame and has made her name known across the equestrian world.
cover photo by: @noellefloyd
In honor of Jumper Month over at @USHJA, we are celebrating alongside the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association in launching the We Are U.S. Hunter Jumper Campaign! For the month of May we will be hosting both a professional and junior rider to discuss Jumper Month, including an Instagram Takeover hosted by yours truly, Bethany Lee. We will be talking with both a junior and professional rider to answer listener questions, and sharing a prize giveaway you won’t want to miss. Tune in over Instagram on May 20th at 6pm Eastern Time over at @ushunterjumper to join us! Follow along on social media using #WeAreUSHunterJumper
Hailey Royce began her riding career in dressage, and at the age of nine quickly transferred over to the jumper ring. Hailey won her first Grand Prix in partnership with her horse, Sonic Boom, and the two have been succeeding ever since. Riding for North Run stables, Hailey joins the podcast to talk about her junior career competition moments, including her team winning gold at the USHJA Platinum Jumper Championships.
Cait Luca known as @cowgirl.cait, is the founder of horse rescue service 501(c)(3) Lucky Break Rescue and Corral West Horse Adventures. With her classy tagline “Save a Horse, Ride a Rescue” Cait's mission for Corral West Horse Adventures is to rescue at-risk, slaughterhouse pipeline, auction, kill pen, and owner surrender horses by giving them a new life under proper care and training. The entire herd at Corral West is made up entirely of rescued horses that are now used to take out-of-town visitors on trail rides to catch a glimpse of all the west coast has to offer. In this episode we share the value of female entrepreneurship, responsible breeding, the realities of horse rescue, and what we can do to better help these horses.
Lisa Hellmer is a USDF Bronze and Silver medal trainer and Silver USEF Para Dressage coach who provides quality, personalized dressage training for all types of horses using a cross training approach. Based in Ocala Florida, Lisa runs LCH Equestrian with her sister out of their new family stable, Sunflower Hill Farm, where she is currently in the process of developing her own Grand Prix horse. Lisa was recently appointed the USEF Para Dressage Development Coach where she is continuing to help riders accomplish their riding goals. Listen in!
Chester Weber is the most decorated driver in the United States. His numerous accolades have yielded prestigious recognition throughout the world. Raised in Ocala, Florida, Chester started driving competitively at a young age, under mentor Jimmy Fairclough. In 2008, Chester made history by becoming the first American to win an Individual Silver Medal in the Four-in-Hand FEI World Driving Championships. He won Royal Windsor (GB) CAI3* two consecutive years, receiving personal congratulations from Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. Chester is a 18-time U.S. Equestrian Federation Four-in-Hand National Champion, and regularly ranks in the top 3 for FEI world rankings. He has won 4 silver medals at World Equestrian Games, and a historic team gold in 2018 at the WEG in Tryon. Listen in!
Lauren Sprieser is a Grand Prix Dressage rider who trains and competes on her very own horses. Starting from when she competed in the U25 National Championships, Lauren has been winning on horses that she brought along herself with great success including eight that have made it all the way to the Grand Prix level. In addition to riding and teaching her own students, Lauren is an avid blogger and writer for popular equestrian magazines such as The Chronicle Of The Horse, Dressage Today, and Practical Horseman. Listen in!
Rachel Lavelle is the creator of the first ever equestrian color cosmetics brand, Blue Ribbon Beauty. Filling a gap in our industry, Blue Ribbon Beauty features two different eyeshadow palettes and lipsticks for riders who want to look their best in the show ring. Having disciplines in our sport where makeup is incorporated as part of our show uniform, we thought it would be fitting to not only introduce this fun new brand, but also discuss how makeup influences our world of equestrian sport and how makeup varies from show ring to show ring.
Jill Tweedy is the Founder and CEO of the luxury equestrian luggage, handbags and accessories brand, Tucker Tweed Equestrian. With over ten years in the business, Jill has developed one of the first ever lines of discipline-specific equestrian purses, backpacks, wristlets, and more by using several prototypes and collaborating with other likeminded equestrians. The fine leather is not only beautiful, but has been put to the test in development and is ensured to last for years to come. We all share a common theme by loving horses, and having uniquely curated products that let us express that love and start a conversation is something very special. Listen in to hear about how this amazing brand came to be, the importance of our local tack shops, and some news about an exciting new product on the way!
Augusta Iwasaki is a top Junior rider in the Hunter/Jumper discipline, and is arguably the best Junior rider in her sport. Growing up with huge success in the Pony Division and now in the Junior Hunters, Augusta joins the podcast to talk about the highs and lows of being a Junior rider as she finishes out her last year. Also be sure to join us for an Instagram Takeover where our host, Bethany Lee will be joined by Augusta Iwasaki and Amanda Steege to answer listener submitted questions on April 29th at 6pm EST over at @ushunterjumper!
Motherhood is no easy task, but Lucy Courchaine does it while carrying out her dream job of developing both horse and rider for the sport of dressage. Lucy runs her own business, Sapphire Sporthorses, which brings "Dressage For Every Athlete" to life through a variety of services: Training-board, coaching, recovery from injury and more. Lucy is a Grand Prix dressage rider herself based out of Westchester, NY and Fairfield County, CT. In this episode we discuss how Lucy continued to fit riding into her life while being pregnant and how she got back to horses full-time after giving birth. Listen in!
In honor of Hunter Month over at @USHJA, we are celebrating alongside the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association in launching the We Are U.S. Hunter Jumper Campaign! For the month of April we will be hosting a few different top hunter riders to discuss hunter month and what it means to differentiate a normal hunter round from a 90s score-winning class.
Up first, we have professional hunter rider Amanda Steege joining the podcast. Amanda has several top hunter championships under her belt including, the World Championship Hunter Rider at the Peter Wetherill Palm Beach Hunter Spectacular in 2021, High Performance at Capital Challenge in 2021, and was named the USHJA World Championship Hunter Rider in the Pro Challenge. Amanda continues to thrive on her horse Lafitte De Muze, owned by Cheryl Olsten, and together they are quit the force to be reckoned with. Listen in!
This month we are focusing on all things Hunters, including an Instagram Takeover hosted by yours truly, Bethany Lee. We will be talking with both a junior and professional rider to answer listener questions, and sharing a prize giveaway you won't want to miss. Tune in over Instagram on April 29th at 6pm Eastern Time over at @ushunterjumper to join us!
Darragh Kenny is an Irish show jumper with over 200 wins to date. He is ranked eighteenth in the Longines Rankings as well as top sixty-five in the FEI Jumping World Cup standing. Based out of Oakland Stables in Wellington Florida and Meijel, Netherlands, Darragh has represented Team Ireland in both the Olympics and FEI World Equestrian Games with numerous achievements and countless accolades. In a sport where points are most important for overall ranking, Darragh explains his different approach to showing only the essential weekends in order to make sure both him and the horse are getting adequate rest for best performance. Listen in!
Based out of California, Nick Wagman is a member of the U.S. Dressage Olympic Team and recently rode in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics on his horse Don John (DJ). Nick joins the podcast to share both the highs and lows that come with being a competitive rider dealing with previous injuries and show anxiety. Nick has proven to show resilience by overcoming any and all setbacks by continuing to do what he loves through hard work and vulnerability. Nick has represented the U.S. overseas in FEI Dressage Nations Cup competitions, including in Geesteren, the Netherlands, and in Compiegne, France as part of the bronze-medal winning team.
Lindsay Hunter is an equestrian interior designer who loves mixing intentional and inspirational elements to create warm, inviting spaces to “live, love and play". You might have seen her work featured in Horse Illustrated, Stable Style, EQluxe, or Polo Lady Magazine. Lindsay offers everything from full-service interior design to home furnishings with a classic equestrian inspired look through her company Hunter Design. Not only does Lindsay create the perfect interior setup, but she also sells her very own home decor products through Modern Equestrian Shop, a combination of antique and modern products that bring the equestrian lifestyle into your home. Listen in and get inspired to redecorate!
Cian O'Connor is a 42-year-old multi-medallist and one of Ireland’s longest-serving team members. He competes at the very top level of international showjumping across the globe. Having ridden in his first Nations Cup for Ireland at the age of 19, Cian has gone on to achieve a remarkable record in selections for the Irish team, with 128 appearances to date under his country’s flag. An Olympic individual Bronze medal-winner at London in 2012, Cian has maintained a high level of success, and in 2017 added a European Gold team medal and a European individual Bronze medal to his record. In June 2021, Cian was nominated for selection by Horse Sport Ireland for Team Ireland’s Showjumping team for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics where he was partnered by the Irish-bred Kilkenny who finished 7th overall.
Kate Redmond is from the Pilbara region of Western Australia where she spends time taking her four horses to the beach and documenting her riding adventures via Instagram. When she's not letting her horses run free on the beach, Kate enjoys competing in Eventing. In this episode Kate shares about her riding goals, her encounters with a group of dolphins, life in Australia, and more. Listen in!
Dr. Barb Blasko is a clinical professor of emergency medicine at Riverside Community Hospital in Riverside California, as well as the founder of ShowMD where she provides onsite urgent care and concierge medical services for the equestrian community. With over thirty years of experience in the equine word, Dr. Barb understands the best ways to support riders being a competitive rider herself and by the use of her available medical station. The ShowMD station includes several medical amenities such has diagnostic tools, lab services and more. Listen in!
Here to share the importance of body clipping and how best to clip a horse that would benefit from clipping is the "Super Groom" herself, Kristen Abano. Kristen is a former Vet Tech who left her job in 2020 to create Centerline Equine Clipping where she provides clipping and grooming services across South Florida. Kristen has FEI level grooming experience and can help horse owners with everything from clipping clean ups to full service grooming for horse shows or photoshoots. With her veterinary background and use of the best equipment on the market, Kristen is able to also help older horses or horses suffering from Cushing's Disease, Anhidrosis, and other health problems. Listen in!
Hayley Iannotti is an Auburn Equestrian alumni who currently works out of her childhood barn, Carriage Hill Farm under the leadership of Jane Fennessy. With a very successful junior career, Hayley earned titles in the hunter, jumper, and equitation rings, and claimed Champion of THIS Medal Finals in 2014 and 2015. Hayley also earned a top-25 finish at USEF Medal Finals, and won South Florida Medal Finals and ribboned in Under-25 Grand Prix’s. Spending 2015-2019 on the Auburn Equestrian team, Hayley earned herself 3 National Championships and 2 SEC championships. Since joining the Carriage Hill Farm team Hayley has continued to help the instructional program that trains riders competing at an international level. Listen in!
Catherine Brock is an amateur equestrian who wanted a better way to track her riding activities and hold herself accountable for adding intention and purpose to every ride. This idea sparked the launch of Prospeqs, “the original video ride journal app” that allows riders, trainers and coaches to store videos, make notes, and chat about rides. Videos can be tagged and categorized for sharing and review and the app allows you to keep all your riding videos in one accessible place! Prospeqs lets riders improve performance, owners to document progress, and trainers to keep track of students and horses. Listen in!
The Secretariat Center provides education and training to former racehorses with a goal for moving towards new careers. Located within the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, the Secretariat Center teaches specifically about the assets and virtues of the remarkable Thoroughbred breed. In addition to supporting its horses, The Secretariat Center also provides educational opportunities from high school through college for volunteers and for public groups. Joining the podcast today we have Executive Director Shelley Mann on to share all the ins and outs of rehoming OTTBs. Listen in!
Kim Graves is the Head Groom for professional Show Jumpers, Kent Farrington and John French. A few weeks ago she had a horse win Best Turned Out at the WCHR Peter Wetherill Palm Beach Hunter Spectacular, which is arguably one of the greatest honors for a Hunter Groom. Caring for some of the nicest horses in the country, Kim understands the importance of keeping horses calm, clean, and ready for their peak performances at the show. Listen in and hear about the professionalism of grooming for some of the best athletes and horses in the hunter ring!
Eden Kloetzli is a multi-passionate entrepreneur who notably shares her adventures on TikTok as The Millennial Farm Manager. Eden spends the majority of her time running her own property management company called E.K. Farm Services which provides support to farmers by assisting them with licensing and other farm centric tasks within agriculture. Eden also works out of her family's farm Foxfire Farm, and is a member of her local Hunt Club where she rides as a Fox Chaser. Listen in!
Tom Pierce and Nat Mayrath join the podcast together as the CEO and the Head Producer of StreamhorseTV. Their mission is to build an inclusive community where horse enthusiasts can join together to expand their horizons in equine sports and culture, and they celebrate the horse as the beloved common thread. Recently the company acquired EQuine AMerica Magazine and they have been making huge waves in the equestrian media industry ever since. With strong backgrounds in horse culture and media business ventures, both Tom and Nat have so much experience and hope to broadcast even more knowledge about equestrian events for not only horse lovers but the general public as well. Listen in!
Alex Papantoniou is the CEO of FormaHoof, a patented, liquid fit moulding process creates a non-invasive, three dimensional, protective and supportive overlay on the horse’s hoof. FormaHoof delivers immediate results, assisting farriers in the fight against a multitude of hoof-related disorders, from Laminitis and White Line Disease to Hoof Cracks, High-Low Syndrome and Foal Limb Deformities. The FormaHoof Advance Polymer (AP) material mimics the way that a natural, healthy hoof operates and has been designed to flex as healthy hoof does, so the horse feels immediate relief and improved comfort. To learn more about the benefits of this amazing technique visit formahoof.com and Listen in!
To continue off of our Solo Episode with Bethany all about equestrian fitness and Bethany's personal journey for staying healthy, Ethan Lee joins the podcast once again to discuss different health and nutrition guidelines for tracking macros, healthy eating, gym time, and more! Whether you're looking to start eating cleaner foods, or maybe you just need some tips on where to start in your fitness journey, this episode is for you.
Be sure to listen to- Solo Episode- Equestrian Fitness with Bethany Lee to hear how it all started!
Jedd Johnstone is a 3*** Eventer who overtime transitioned into becoming an equine photographer, content creator, and social media manager based out of Australia. As a professional running his business The J'Taime (named after one of his horses), Jedd really hones in on the subject matter of his photos, making them very clean and straightforward. Working in many different spaces and lighting, Jedd joins the Equestrian Podcast to share some of his creative techniques that make the perfect photo. Listen in!
Dr. Sam Fielding, DAOM, LAc. Joins us once again to expand our conversation about how to best navigate our feelings, insecurities, and mindset. Dr. Fielding is an Ivy league educated Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, and is also the author of High Performance Secret. She is the visionary behind the transformation of women all over the country, from depression, anxiety, debilitating migraines, even late stage cancer to living an abundant vibrant life beyond their wildest dreams. In addition to being a mother of two, Dr. Fielding is a wife, competitive equestrian, skier, runner, and artist. Making the unseen tangible and clear to others in ways that helps uncover what is blocking them from healing and living their fullest lives is Dr. Fielding’s specialty. Be sure to also go back and listen to the original episode- 133!
Charlie Moorcroft is a professional trainer and conservationist who runs the Moorcroft Conservation Foundation, a non-profit organization which teaches children and adults about global conservation issues, and inspires them to make a difference and raise funds to support collaborative organizations. Alongside his partner, Geoff Teal, Charlie has taught many young riders such as Lilly Ward, Syd Shulman, Gwyneth Babington, and Elle Boyd. Listen in!
Join us for another Solo Episode where host, Bethany Lee, shares her personal fitness journey. From going to the gym to riding in the saddle, from weight lifting to meal prep, Bethany explains her personal goals that may also help you better understand fitness points you may not have heard of before. Listen in to learn about calorie surplus, bulking up, calorie deficit, and everything in between.
Peder Fredricson is a Swedish Olympic Show Jumper currently ranked as the number one FEI show jumping competitor in the world. After numerous wins, including a gold medal in Team Jumping at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Peder joins the Equestrian Podcast to talk about his experiences competing as a fifth generation rider, his team of horses, and his background in riding. Listen in!
The Equestrian Workshop has brought equestrian business women together for 3 meetings so far, and each of them have been held at 3 different lovely locations. Here to talk about the 3 things she's learned from the workshop is our host, Bethany Lee. In this episode you will hear about how Bethany started the Equestrian Workshop with Leah Kaufmann of Dapplebay, and how they came together to create a space for women in the equestrian industry to collaborate on their business ventures. Listen in!
Jay Hart is the operator of a private security service Gold Shield Industries which protects both large corporate executives and high profile individuals in Wellington, Florida. Jay has vast experience in team building, leadership, and general security which have been featured in numerous nationally recognized publications. Having a background in serving for the mounted police patrol as an officer, Jay even went so far as to compete in the Police Olympics, and later began securing client horse farms in Wellington. Listen in!
Hannah Klinedinst is a fellow Hunter/Jumper rider who saw a need in the equestrian space for riders to be able to buy and sell equestrian items in a simple way. This idea sparked Equestrian Closet, which is essentially a Poshmark created specifically for equestrians. This space offers tack, apparel, and assesoires across the board for men, women, and children of all ages. You can even filter your specific needs down to discipline, size, and more! Hear from the Founder herself about everything Equestrian Closet has to offer, as well as how she started a company in the middle of the pandemic.
Raphael Macek is a renowned photographer who specializes in a wide range of equine photographs. In 2007 Raphael graduated with a Masters of Fine Art degree in New York City. In the years that followed, he published his work in countries such as Germany, Belgium, Spain, Brazil, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States of America. In 2009 he photographed on safaris in Africa, particularly in Tanzania and Kenya. Over the course of his career, Macek has become known for his unique ability to capture the beauty of his animal subjects along with their emotions and the essence of their nature. Horses of different breeds from around the world have served as Macek’s top models. The artistic view expressed in his work has been recognized worldwide in important art exhibitions, private showings, and publications. When he's not busy running a photoshoot, Raphael is teaching photography workshops around the world sharing his skills and knowledge to those willing to learn.
To learn more visit: raphaelmacekworkshops.com
Geoffrey Woolson is an American Actor, Member of the U.S. Vaulting Team, FEI Senior Bronze Medalist, Content Creator, and Artist living in Los Angeles, California. His career has taken him from an amateur horseman and photographer to a World Champion Medalist and professional content creator. Initially beginning as a novice in both worlds of equestrianism and content creation, he has always found interest in honing his own skills to be the best he is capable of and to help others to do the same. After 17 years of work Geoffrey has managed to help people all around the world in the arts of equestrian vaulting and media content creation to grow and achieve their aspirations. He has also worked with some of the top mentors in both fields and gained valuable insight and teachings that continue to assist him and those he works with. Listen in!
credit: geoffreywoolson.com
Jenny Giraldin is a fellow equestrian, friend, and all-around horse lover. She grew up riding on equestrian teams, and later went on to ride at Kansas State, but after realizing the financial costs of riding Jenny decided to a break before finding her dream horse. Riding alongside Bethany at their mutual barn in Jacksonville, Florida, Jenny joins the podcast to discuss how to balance work with riding as well as how to budget in order to make your goals a reality. Listen in!
We all know the importance of keeping our saddles clean, but do you know all the ins and outs of how best to protect the leather? Join us for another Solo Episode with Bethany Lee where we will go over all the best tips and recommendations by our favorite saddle brands including: CWD, Voltaire, Devoucoux, and more! Listen in as we discuss the best saddle care products to use and answer listener submitted questions.
Kristen Darragh, BVM&S, is one of the top equine veterinarians on the East Coast who specializes in Hunter/Jumper horses, and today she joins the podcast to unpack all of our questions on flexion tests. Kristen is a native of Orefield, Pennsylvania, where she grew up competing in the jumper divisions. After completing her undergraduate studies at Lafayette College in 2011, Dr. Darragh attended the University of Edinburgh to complete her veterinarian education graduating in 2015. Kristen then moved on to joining the Miller & Associates Team where she now works for some of the top horses in our sport. Listen in!
credit: miller-dvm.com
Tricia Booker and Julie Winkel are both riders, trainers, and current USEF R-Rated Judges with decades of experience working in our industry. Both sharing a passion for helping riders find the good in their rounds, Tricia and Julie have written a book which highlights demystify the subjective process of judging hunters, hunter breeding, and equitation titled Judging WTF (Want The Facts?) Use code: EQPODCAST10 on inkhorse.com for 10% off when you purchase the book!
Julie Winkel is one of the first United States Hunter Jumper Association Certified Trainers and has trained and shown hunters and jumpers to the top levels, nationally and internationally. She has many grand prix show jumping wins as well as hunter championships throughout her career and continues to compete today. Julie has also designed courses and judged the ASPCA Maclay Finals, the Dover/USEF Medal Finals (on multiple occasions), the Platinum Performance/USEF Talent Search Finals-West and the New England Equitation Championships.
Tricia Booker owns and operates Cameron Green Media LLC and is an award-winning editor, writer and photographer. As the editor of the United States Hunter Jumper Association’s In Stride magazine (2010 to present) and former editor/staff member of The Chronicle of the Horse (1991-2010), Tricia has traveled the country and world taking photographs and covering equestrian competitions for more than three decades. Listen in!
credit: judgingwtf.com
Scott Cieslar is the owner and founder of Mad Barn, a company that specializes in nutrition and gut health for horses, which is such an important aspect to the foundation of why we do this sport. For the love of the animal, and everything to do with the performance part of this sport, let's discuss some important components of equine nutrition! Listen in!
Carson Kressley is a well known television host/actor, writer, and producer, who made is original debut in Queer Eye for the Straight Guy as well as Dancing with the Stars and RuPaul's Drag Race. However, you may not know that Carson is also an avid equestrian in the world of showing American Saddlebreds. Since buying his first saddle for $700 as a boy, Carson's love for the horse only grew, and he eventually became a farm owner himself, as well as an active board member of the American Saddlebred Horse Association. Carson has always had a traditional eye and respect for the captivating art of Saddle Seat riding, but especially for the charisma of the Saddlebred. Listen to the story here!
Brianna Noble is the founder and owner of Mulatto Meadows, an equestrian business dedicated to expanding the accessibility of riding and horsemanship to communities historically excluded from the equestrian world. Bri is especially passionate about introducing horsemanship and riding to youth of color and economically disenfranchised populations. Riding both Western and English disciplines, Brianna brings so much knowledge and versatility to her program, Humble by Mulatto Meadows. Humble is an after-school equestrian program that immerses underprivileged communities in all aspects of ranch life from riding and horse socialization, to husbandry and barn maintenance. In this episode Brianna shares about how she creates a foundation of confidence around the stable, on horseback, and in everyday life. Listen in!
credit: mulattomeadows.com
Lindsey Ardmore is the owner and creator of The Automated Vet, a business that works alongside veterinarians to help automate their businesses by generating more clientele, receive better income, and live a more organized life. With award winning systems and processes that have saved thousands of hours and created hundreds of thousands of dollars, the work that Lindsey has put into creating this business is truly remarkable, and is something the equestrian world has needed for a long time. Listen in as we talk about the importance of healthy work lifestyle habits, our cherished veterinarians, and more!
It's that time of year again! No, we're not talking about Christmas. Applications for the 3rd annual Equestrian Workshop are now open, and this year we are inviting you to white sands Destin, Florida! To kick off the start of a new year, you will have the option to join us January 6-9 at a gorgeous Airbnb, along with other likeminded female equestrian entrepreneurs to elevate business strategy utilizing IG & build tight-knit community both online and IRL. Want to learn more about this amazing opportunity? Listen in as marketing and digital expert Leah of Dapplebay ,and social media guru Bethany of My Equestrian Style join forces and discuss Equestrian Workshop 2022!
Workshop Applications: equestrianworkshop.com | @equestrianworkshop
The 5th Annual Holiday Lookbook is live! Diving into another solo episode, host Bethany Lee reveals some of her hidden secrets and editing tips on how she created her iconic Lookbook. This year we visited the beautiful World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida for all of the holiday lookbook photos, and in the episode we discuss some of the coolest spots to check out at the venue. Featuring brands such as Aztec Diamond Equestrian, The Modern Horse, Redingote, JIV Athletics, and more! You might just have to check out the lookbook yourself. Listen in!
Margie Engle is an American Show Jumper with numerous achievements including being awarded the American Grand Prix Association Rider of the Year for over ten times. Margie has been setting records since the beginning of her career, including when she jumped a world-record-high jump over seven feet in 1987. After being a part of the U.S. Olympic Team, Pan American Games, and the World Equestrian Games, Margie earned the privilege of being inducted into the U.S. Show Jumping Hall of Fame earlier this year. With so much experience under her belt, it's no wonder that Margie has become a standing pillar in the history of show jumping. Listen in!
Welcome back to another solo episode where we will discuss the different types and uses of one of the oldest tools worn by equestrians, spurs! How do you know which spurs are right for you? Do different horses need different spurs? What are the dos and don'ts? These are all great questions that we will be answering right here in the episode! I will also be mentioning some of my favorite products to help with spur rubs, as well as some of the rules and regulations enforced by U.S. Equestrian. Let's dive in!
Robert Dover has earned more honors than any other U.S. Dressage rider as he has competed in over six Olympic Games earning four medal wins in 1992, 1996, 2000, and 2004. Robert has also been in seven World Equestrian Games, and served as a technical advisor for the U.S. Dressage Team from 2013 to 2018. Under his leadership, the U.S. Dressage team was able to return to the podium at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio where the team won a bronze medal. Then again in 2015, Robert coached the dressage team to a gold medal at the Pan American Games. Robert has no doubt made a name for himself in the dressage ring and recently he has published his book, The Gates To Brilliance. Listen in!
As we are currently in the middle of Indoor season for Hunters, Jumpers, and Equitation riders, we thought it would be fitting to talk about a little Indoors 101 and answer listener submitted questions! Who better to help us cover this topic than the tricolor winner himself, Geoffrey Hesslink! Listen in and hear Geoffrey and Bethany discuss what it takes to qualify for indoors, all of the different events at each location, and how to thrive at Indoors. Also be sure to go back and listen to episode 25 to hear from Geoffrey when he first joined the Equestrian Podcast!
John French has consistently been one of the top hunter riders in the country, and has earned some of the most prestigious awards in the hunter ring. In 2012, John was awarded the WCHR Lifetime Achievement Award and has held the title of World Champion Hunter Rider over four times. Additionally, John has been awarded the title of west region USHJA Hunter Derby Rider of the Year annually since 2016, and in 2020 he was inducted into the National Show Hunter Hall of Fame. Recently John has joined forces with Olympic Show Jumper, Kent Farrington, and together they have been making waves in the equine industry. Listen in!
Jessica DiCostanzo is a rider and Co-founder of the online platform, Equivont. As an active member of the California horse show circuit, Jessica combines her love for both dressage and jumping as an Eventer with both a USDF Bronze and Silver Medal. In addition to eventing, Jessica was able to use her background in marketing to create Equivont, a one stop shop that includes everything an equestrian could need from upcoming horse events to products you can buy and even horses for sale. Listen in!
Lauren Reischer is not only an equestrian, but such a positive leader and influencer who is paving the way to create equestrian sport inclusive for all riders. After being born with cerebral palsy, Lauren was introduced to therapeutic riding at a very young age and has stuck with it ever since. As she continued her riding career, Lauren was able to join the equestrian team at Brown University and later on even became captain of the team. Lauren now works for the Special Olympics New York where she is working on a few different projects and advocating for special olympic athletes within the equestrian world. Listen in!
Melanie Smith Taylor is a rider, author, and clinician who became one of only two riders to ever win the Triple Crown of Show Jumping (the American Invitational, the International Jumping Derby, and the American Gold Cup). It's no secret that Melanie is a true icon at best as she is also the only rider to ever win the entire Triple Crown on the same horse. While she has so many achievements and interests within the equestrian world, Melanie as a rider and trainer is also interested in veterinary medicine and course design. As if she hasn't done enough already, Melanie has also attended eight Olympic Games as an analyst with NBC Sports. Listen in and hear this incredible story.
cover photo by: Lawrence Nagy
Warning The topics discussed in this episode may be sensitive for some listeners as it pertains to sexual abuse and misconduct in equestrian sport. Here at the Equestrian Podcast we believe every equestrian should have the opportunity to share their story and discuss topics that aren't brought to light as often as they should in the equestrian industry. We believe that while some topics may be harder to talk about, it is important that we bring education and awareness to the fact that sexual abuse is not something to be taken lightly.
Carrie Kehring recently started the #WeRideTogether Champaign which highlights the much needed awareness and education champaign about sexual abuse and misconduct in equestrian sport based on her family's own experience. We Ride Together partners with the Horse Network and has been sweeping the nation, raising awareness, and coming out with a series of PSAs of in-depth stories of different individuals within the equestrian industry who have experienced sexual abuse. Listen in.
Kendall Gath is an equestrian business woman who competes at the Grand Prix Show Jumping level for Uruguay in the United States. In addition to riding, Kendall is also the creator of a revolutionary online platform that allows you to offer your horse for sale while attending any horse show across the country. The Equine Platform app is a truly genius idea as it allows users to see a wide variety of horses that might be available at the current show they are attending. Buyers and sellers can communicate directly, and all professional listings are prioritized. Listen in and hear Kendall's story.
Carl Hedin joins the Equestrian Podcast to share his story as a fellow equestrian influencer and professional in the industry. As one of the top equestrian influencers over in Europe and the founder of Eques Management, Carl is someone Bethany has looked up to for a long time now. Whether it be about asking for advice or getting some inspiration, Carl has so much experience when it comes to all things equestrian. Carl is based out of Sweden and has been successful in the dressage ring for some time now with his expertise in promoting and training young horses. His true passion highlights the bond between horse & rider and the true partnership that comes with it. Visit our website to watch a live recording of the interview with Bethany and Carl!
Nic Rolden joins the Equestrian Podcast to give us an inside look on his showcase coming up this weekend at Equitana USA! Learn about all things polo, running an equestrian lifestyle business, and what its like to be a fourth generation polo competitor. Nic has been passionate about polo since the beginning, and currently he is captain of the American Polo Team. Based out of Wellington, FL Nic is constantly looking to expand the sport for a wider audience and making polo more available to those interested. Listen in!
Ronny Riemer is best known as the hilarious "German Riding Instructor" who is able to combine the intricate knowledge of riding with some lighthearted fun. Ronny works out of his training program RCR Equestrian Inc. where his specialty is the production of sale horses and organizing custom trips to Europe for his clients to be able to purchase horses. In this episode Ronny gets up close and personal with his story and the tough lessons he has come to learn from competing. Get the opportunity to watch Ronny at work by attending Equitana USA, coming up this year at the Kentucky Horse Park!
Event Director Meghan Margewicz joins the podcast once again to talk about Equitana USA! This much anticipated event is happening October 1st-3rd 2021 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY and is the largest horse expo in the world. Filled with shopping, clinics, and many learning opportunities, it's the event you won't want to miss. Meghan has been riding since the young age of seven and has continued to learn about the sport while owning a couple different horses, participating in Pony Club, and even working with trainer, Jenni Mcallister. Using her background in horses, Meghan has brought Equitana to the U.S. and is here to breakdown the entire event for us. By joining the event you can expect clinics from Phillip Dutton, Laura Graves, Sally Batton, and so many other great professionals. Listen in!
Karen Rohlf is a rider, trainer, clinician, podcast host, and author of the book Dressage Naturally. She pretty much does it all, but Karen is best known for her unique riding style in how she has found a way to combine decades of experience in classic dressage with natural horsemanship. This year Karen will be teaching in Equitana USA at the Kentucky Horse Park where you can get the chance to watch and participate in one of her clinics about learning the classical lateral movements that prioritizes relaxation and balance. Listen in to learn more about her story and get all the details of the event!
Sydney Collier is a true force to be reckoned with as she has been riding since the age of seven while also being diagnosed with a rare disease called Wyburn-Mason Syndrome. Despite facing health challenges throughout her life, Sydney pushed for her equestrian aspirations earning a spot in the U.S. Para Dressage Team at the age of sixteen. In 2014, Sydney was the youngest competitor at the World Equestrian Games in France, and later on at the age of eighteen she won the U.S. Para Dressage National Championships. Sydney was also the youngest member in the equestrian portion of the 2016 Rio Paralympics for Team USA. This story is so inspiring and you can hear all about how Sydney has learned to keep doing what she loves, how she met her sponsor, Georgina Bloomberg, and more!
McLain Ward is easily one of the best known riders in the show jumping ring to date with his accomplishments winning Team Gold in the 2008 Olympics, Team Silver in 2004, and just getting back from Tokyo this year where they won Team Silver. In 2017, McLain was ranked #1 in the world in the Longines FEI World Rankings, and has won numerous championships even since the age of fourteen when he became the youngest rider to win the United States Equestrian Federation’s Show Jumping Derby. He only gets better every year as he continues to work out of Castle Hill Farm in Brewster, NY and Wellington, FL. Listen in and get the full story here!
Sally Batton is a complete power house when it comes to equestrian disciplines across the board. As a horse trainer, rider, and clinician, Sally has traveled all over the world teaching her skills, and for 35 years she has been an IHSA varsity coach for Dartmouth College. Sally is also the founder and president of the Athletic Equestrian League, and has a soon-to-be published book about being an athletic equestrian and having strength in the saddle. Listen in as we chat with Sally about the importance of education, getting a professional certification, teaching clinics, and more. Also be sure to join Sally at Equitana USA 2021!
Gabby Strigel grew up riding at her home base in Durham, NC where she started catch riding ponies, and later competed on a stallion in the professional Hunter and Hunter Derby divisions instead of the Junior Hunters or the Equitation. Gabby has traveled all over the country, and now all over the world working with trainers such as Jack and Harden Towell, Liza Boyd, Jill and Sydney Shulman. Now as a duel citizen, Gabby recently competed at the FEI European Championships for juniors as part of the team for Denmark. At the young age of eighteen, Gabby is already paving the way for a promising career and moving up in the rankings. Listen to her story here!
For all of our fashion lovers out there, Matilde Urdinola is the co-founder of the street to stable style brand YAGYA, and a true icon at best. You may already recognize some of the Yagya statement pieces shared through My Equestrian Style (in fact they’re hard to miss with such chic appearance and technical fabric design). Yagya is built to last and is specifically made for riding. We can’t get enough of these pieces. In this episode you will hear about how Matilde started her own clothing line, follows her passion, and her love for horses. Listen in!
Lindsay Douglass has not only made huge accomplishments as a rider, but also as a force in the equestrian business world. As as Stamford graduate, West Coast Junior Rider, and North American Youth Championship Silver Medalist, Lindsay has moved up in the rankings as an adult competing at the FEI level alongside Olympic Rider, Lucy Davis. Lindsay currently competes on her mare Butterfly Tibri Z (Butterfly) and the two have been unstoppable since Lindsay's college years. Next to riding Lindsay is also the co-founder of Pony App as well as startup equestrian business Corro. Listen to the story here!
Solid Citizen Equestrian founder Megan Cameron-Muscarella is a horse girl, fit model, fashion consultant and now on her 3rd capsule of her own equestrian line. She strives to find the perfect fit with every piece she creates and always uses the best materials without her customers breaking the bank. We became instant friends after she attended the first Equestrian Workshop in 2020 and she has hit the ground running with Solid Citizen. Listen here to get the whole story!
Kim Pickel has been a horse girl since day one. Based in the Netherlands, Kim has a ton of experience working with young horses and developing them for clients. Kim is especially known for helping clients in the United States import horses from Europe, as well as assist riders who wish to travel and live out the European experience by training in the Netherlands. Kim offers many different services and in this episode she shares everything from how she got started to where she is today. Listen in!
Martha Jolicoeur is one of Wellington's top real estate agents and has managed to combine her passion for the equestrian world with a successful professional career in selling top Wellington realty. You've probably heard of her sponsored jumps in arenas at WEF, or maybe her history as a top junior rider growing up training under to expertise of George Morris. Earning titles such as Best Child Rider at the Pensilvania National and numerous WEF circuit championships, Martha worked her way up riding internationally at the Grand Prix level under olympians Ian Millar and Norman Dello Joio. With her background in riding at the top level, Martha believes in helping the perfect candidate find the right property that fits their needs in the equestrian space. Listen in!
Elizabeth McCowan has been a full-time horse show manager for over a decade. With experience managing a few different disciplines including over one hundred Hunter/Jumper shows, Elizabeth has pretty much seen it all. In gaining so much exposure to horse showing, Elizabeth has even written a book called "Horse Show Manager's Guide" which gives advice to those who wish to have more knowledge for the career. Elizabeth is currently the sales manager for the boot sock and accessory shop Dreamers & Schemers. Listen in!
Lindsay DiTullio, also known as Lyra V, is a recording artist and equestrian who shares a love for rescuing horses, creating music, as well as producing freestyle dressage tracks. When she is not in the studio, Lyra V can be found at the stables. This "Pop Rock Equestrian" owns two dressage horses (KFPS Royal Friesians), and three rescues - an Arabian, a Draft, and a spirited Thoroughbred.
LYRA V's ongoing project is creating a documentary film accompanied by an original music score to raise awareness for the many Summer Camp Horses that are sent to slaughter each year. This is a project inspired by her slaughter-bound Arabian mare "Kalila" and Amish Driving horse "Hank". Listen in!
Read More: poprockeq.com
Bethany Lee welcomes her husband Ethan Lee on the podcast to share their story and answer some of our questions on how the couple, named B.ethan.y (haha), met, got married, and paid rent by starting a wedding photography business. Ethan is a real estate investor and house flipper by day, but is maybe better known as the photographer for My Equestrian Style. Ethan Lee has created content for hundreds of equestrian brands. Five years ago, the two started My Equestrian Style which has since become one of the most popular Equestrian lifestyle accounts. Listen in to hear about Ethan‘s favorite camera gear and his top photography tips for capturing the perfect angles of horse and rider!
To follow the Lee’s house flipping journey: @leehouseflips
See Ethan's photography: myequestrianstyle.com and @myequestrianstyle
Warning The topics discussed in this episode may be sensitive for some listeners as it pertains to sexual abuse and misconduct in equestrian sport. Here at the Equestrian Podcast we believe every equestrian should have the opportunity to share their story and discuss topics that aren't brought to light as often as they should in the equestrian industry. We believe that while some topics may be harder to talk about, it is important that we bring education and awareness to the fact that sexual abuse is not something to be taken lightly.
Courtenay Baber, MS, LPC, CSOTP, is a licensed professional counselor and is trained in acceptance and commitment therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, and animal-assisted therapy. Courtenay, along with her mother Carolyn, have published a book Recollections: A Journey of Courage and Abuse sharing Carolyn's mental journey healing from sexual abuse with the help of animal-assisted therapy with horses. Since Carolyn's passing Courtenay was not only able to finish her mother's book, but also help others who share similar stories. Courtenay offers online therapy sessions, equine-assisted learning, equine sports coaching, and more through her program Gray Horse Counseling, LLC. Listen in!
Have you been thinking about attending the Equestrian Workshop Chicago, but wanted to learn a little bit more about what all it entails? This episode is for you! We are so excited to announce the next upcoming Equestrian Workshop taking place July 15-17th in Chicago, IL! Due to a high volume of interest locally, the Equestrian Workshop added a Local Ticket option for attendees who will commute to the daily sessions. This means they have a few more spots available in the house!! Here to chat in this episode are co-founders Bethany Lee and Leah Kaufmann, as well as two previous workshop attendees, Dani Conway and Jess Parr, who share their experiences with us. Listen in as we answer questions, talk about last year’s workshop, discuss this year’s location, and more!
This team of three is made up of a mother, rider, and trainer who have come together to make Genevieve Rohner the youngest Classified National Para-Equestrian in dressage. Genevieve has been competing since the age of 5, but quickly became discovered by Hope Hand, president of the United States Para-Equestrian Association, at the age of 7. Genevieve is the only competitive Para-Dressage rider in Utah, and she is aiming to compete in the 2024 Paralympic Games. Listen in!
Welcome to another solo episode with our lovely podcast host, Bethany Lee! In this episode Bethany answers listener submitted questions about jumping exercises, MES, the podcast, and everything in-between. Let's chat!
For anyone who submitted a question via voice memo- the winner of the My Equestrian Style stirrup pouch will be announced very soon!
Nicholas Dello Joio was born in Bedford, NY and grew up in Wellington, Florida. Although Nick has two equestrian parents, it was not until the age of 14 that he decided to take up riding. Now as a grand prix rider at the age of 30, he has quickly climbed up the ladder to success, following in his father’s footsteps. In 2009, Nick won his first grand prix, the $25,000 EMO Grand Prix at the Atlanta Fall Classic I, and just one week later scored another win in the $25,000 EMO Grand Prix at the Atlanta Fall Classic II. His career has only gotten broader since then. Listen in and hear about how Nick is riding today!
credit: nickdellojoio.com
As a husband and wife duo, Shayan Richet and Desiree "Maile" Lavilla are amazing horsemen who have developed equestrian skills from training horses to trimming feet, and providing horses with the best quality care out of Thailand. In this episode the couple shares some amazing stories on how they met and started their business during the pandemic. Listen in!
Ashley Avis is an American screenwriter, director, and producer who recently wrote, directed, and edited the modern day adaptation of Anna Sewell's classic Black Beauty, streaming on Disney Plus as of 2020. Ashley has lots of experience in film as she has produced over 100 commercials and branded content as well as four feature films. In this episode you will hear how Ashley combines her passions for both film and horses. Be on the lookout for her next up incoming documentary Wild Beauty: Mustang Spirit of the West. Listen in!
Julie Young is the founder and chief executive officer of The Modern Horse, an online equestrian lifestyle subscription service that is known for its flagship product, the Bit Box. The Bit Box includes a selection of products across fashion, beauty, wellness, home, and tech, providing customers with new products each season to help curate their own equestrian lifestyle. With a background in riding, sales, and even vaulting, Julie has lots of experience within the industry and is a great example of how to create a business from passion within the equestrian space. Listen in!
credit: themodernhorse.com
Sarah Maslin Nir is an American Journalist for The New York Times and has been for nearly a decade. Sarah has covered many different stories, but one she is most known for granted her to be a finalist in the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for local reporting on the working conditions of nail salon workers. With her most recent book, Horse Crazy, Sarah has touched the hearts of many people who share the same obsession for a lifestyle that surrounds such a remarkable animal. Listen in as Sarah shares her stories of navigating life as a reporter.
Dennis Thompson is the owner of Gypsy Gold which is home of America's first Gypsy Vanner Horses. Originally from Indiana, Dennis is most known for importing 16 of the first Gypsy Vanner horses to North America along with his wife Cindy. Together Dennis and Cindy are also the founders of The Gypsy Vanner Horse Society. Listen in and hear their story of how they got to where they are today breeding some of the finest Gypsy Vanner horses!
Ariana Sakaris has lots of experience in the art of dressage, liberty, and horsemanship training. Some of Ariana's achievements include being awarded Reserve Champion with her mare “Mermaid” in the Open Division of the 2017 Midwest Horse Fair Star Search Competition, as well as with her mare “Wild Heart” in the 2017 Kentucky Extreme Mustang Makeover. Ariana has given demonstrations at the National Mounted Police Colloquium and has been a clinician at the Midwest Horse Fair. She has also participated in performances alongside her mentors at events such as Breyerfest, the Denver Stock Show, and the U.S. Dressage Finals. Listen in!
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Carole York is both a writer and equine message therapist who spends most of her time running a nonprofit organization called Putting in the Magic that exists to provide a healing service for small rescue ponies, using a range of different healing modalities both on and off site. Originally from South Africa, Carole is currently based in Co Waterford, Republic of Ireland where she provides a safe place for abandoned and neglected ponies to get the proper care they need before they are eventually rehomed. Listen in!
illian Kreinbring is a specialist in biomechanics for both humans and horses especially when it comes to the two working together. With a vision to train and ride horses in accordance with sound functional anatomy and posture principles, through her business JK Inspired, LLC, Jillian's goal is to balance the natural and anatomic forces within and between the horse and human for healthy movement and vital longevity. Jillian offers online video programs through Equitopia as well as in-person clinics. Listen in!
Daniel Stewart is an international equestrian coach, clinician, motivational speaker, and sport psychology coach who helps riders overcome mental blocks in the saddle as well as understand the model of fitness for the saddle. Using all of his expertise, Daniel is the owner of Pressure Proof Academy, an online coaching program with weekly video programs, riding clinics, equestrian athlete camps, and so much more. As of today Daniel has a new book coming out through Trafalgar Square Books called Bolder, Braver Brighter. Listen to his story now!
Jen Marsden Hamilton is an internationally renown equestrian coach based out of Canada who has been teaching for over forty five years. Jen has traveled all over the world helping train horses and riders improve their performance in the show jumping ring. Recently Jen has come out with a new book called Stride Control, available for purchase through horseandriderbooks.com, where she shares all of her insights about improving adjustability through a jump. Jen has tons of riding experience, and even George Morris named her "a teaching icon". You're going to want to listen to this one!
Brad Heath is the owner of Double D Horse Trailers who has made it his mission to create the safest trailers on the road for you and your horses. Brad has designed some incredible features on his trailers that you won't find anywhere else in the United States, including the SafeTack design for the rear tack room. The SafeTack design allows the rear tack room on the slant load trailer to swing out whenever you are loading your horse! This feature not only gives you more space, but prevents your horse from feeling claustrophobic when stepping on and off the trailer. Brad's trailers are truly unique and in this episode he explains all of the advantages of designing your own horse trailer. Listen in!
Nina Hammarström is the owner of AthletEQ, a training program that encompasses the overall health of riders whether they are in or out of the saddle. With a mission to create synergy between exercise, diet, and wellbeing, Nina offers tailored training programs that have benefited top riders such as Jessica Springsteen, Emily Moffitt, and Adrienne Sternlicht on their fitness and nutrition goals. AthletEq helps your training method be specific, developed, and efficient just as our training methods for our horses are. In addition to being a fitness coach, Nina also specializes as an equine nutritionist working with some of the worlds leading sport veterinarians and performance horses. Listen in!
Nicola Philippaerts is a successful Belgian Show Jumper with some big shoes to fill after his father, Ludo Philippaerts, who was also a big name in the show jumping industry. Nicola also rides alongside his twin brother Olivier Philippaerts and together they landed arguably one of the biggest sponsorships in the horse industry with H&M. Listen in!
Aletia Reilingh is a top level dressage rider and world class farrier who teaches under the FormaHoof Academy educating horse owners and equine professionals the importance of hoof care. Aletia first became a farrier in Canada and later received a certification from Germany with many years of experience through attending University, Farrier School, and being a working student. Listen in and learn about how to become an official horseshoer as well as how to help horses with laminitis and other such hoof issues.
Parlanti International is one of the best known equestrian riding boot brands out there, and we are thrilled to have both the president and CEOs of the brand on the podcast to talk about all things Parlanti as well as how they introduced the brand to the United States. Combining business experience with horses, both Alan and Francesco had a vision to grow Parlanti and expand the company in a way that made the integrity of riding boots desired by so many equestrians and non-equestrians alike. You might not find a better boot out there. Listen in and learn about the many different boot styles to choose from as well as the structure and design of Parlanti riding boots.
Archie Cox is a well known trainer and judge for some of the top Hunter/Jumper shows across the country. Currently based out of Southern California, Archie works with many different clients and horses in training at his very own Brookway Stables. Archie is highly regarded for one of his top wins back in 1985 as he became the first male rider in over ten years to win the United States Equestrian Team Gold Medal. Listen in and hear about all the steps and experiences it takes become a judge, as well as what the judge is looking for while in the ring.
John Haime is the president of New Edge Performance, a former professional golfer, author, and a top human performance coach. As a Human Performance Coach, John prepares performers to be their very best by helping them tap into the elusive 10% of their abilities that will elevate them to the top. This is something that anyone with a target craves and John Haime knows how to get performers there. John closes the gap for performers in business, professional and amateur sports and entertainment elevating them from where they currently are to where they want to go. Listen in as we talk about John's new highly praised book, Ride Big!
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Adrienne Marciano is the designer and brand owner of Ruespari, an equestrian apparel brand that specializes in belts for the modern equestrian. What started out as just one belt that Adrienne designed herself soon grew into a worldwide known company. These belts are not just your typical everyday wear, they're also a fashion statement made of fully durable elastic that will last for many rides to come. Recently partnered with Nordstrom, Ruespari continues to expand and create new products that every rider can appreciate. Adrienne shares all the exciting insights on the expansion right here in the episode, as well as her experiences riding with Kevin and Dianna Babington. Listen in!
Karl Cook has been a part of the equestrian industry his entire career with over 30 FEI wins in the last decade. Starting from a young age, Karl grew up riding with both his mom and sister and quickly became a live-long learner for the sport. Karl has experience with many different levels of competition horses as he works out of his breeding farm, Pomponio Ranch Stallions. Recently Karl has used some of his most helpful learning techniques for strategic riding through the Noëlle Floyd Equestrian Masterclass and constantly uses teachable moments through his walking and talking IGTV videos on Instagram. Hear from the best, and listen in!
Nicole Lakin is a huge innovator in the equestrian space as she is the creator of BarnManager. After seeing a need in the industry, Nicole was able to start a company based off her personal experience and the rest is history. BarnManager is an online software and app that allows equestrian professionals and managers to better organize their horse's care. The program allows you to keep all of your organized data in one place and end the paper trail to stay on top of records, appointments, competitions, and more. Access all records and information from anywhere, anytime. Listen in!
Allison Kavey is an international CDI Grand Prix rider who has a successful career both in bringing horses through the levels from breaking through the FEI and rehabbing problem horses. She is a committed teacher, patient trainer, and her work is defined by her genuine affection for horses. She enjoys working with students from various disciplines and is happy to help any student who genuinely hopes to improve her riding and understanding of her horse. Listen in!
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Madison Wiles-Haffner is a Corporate attorney and horse lover with tons of knowledge when it comes to equine law. In this episode we're going to give you some helpful tips when it comes to drafting bills of sale, lease agreements, and SBA loans during the pandemic. Listen in as Madison shares logistics of what you should have in place as a horse owner, if you're looking to buy or lease a horse, or if you own a horse property.
Metta Larsen and Dr. Jenny Susser are both equestrian professionals who along with Sinead Halpin Maynard, have created C-6 Equestrian, a program that encompasses “How Women Do It” and harnesses the power of women to create a new transformational space for women and their horses. In a collaborative effort, they challenge old perspectives and invite women to explore a greater connection to their energy, skill sets, and confidence to enhance personal journeys with themselves and their horses. Listen in!
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Ryan Beckett is a professional real estate broker and founder of BitRealty. Having been in real estate in his hometown of Wellington, FL since 2004, Ryan is one of the area's premier brokers. His specialties include luxury homes, condos, equestrian properties, and land. Before building his own successful private luxury brokerage, he was partner and co-founder of Equestrian Sotheby's International Realty, a franchise he sold his shares of in 2016. He is a licensed broker in Florida, New York, and California. You may also recognize Ryan from The Bachelorette and Bachelor in Paradise. Listen in!
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Alexa Schwitzer has focused her junior career mainly on the hunters and has occasionally dabbled in the equitation ring. With incredible results, qualifying for the Pennsylvania National Horse Show, The Washington International Horse Show, and the National Horse Show, Alexa has been bringing home championships in some of the biggest venues on the east coast: The Winter Equestrian Festival, Old Salem Farm Spring, Vermont Summer Festival, HITS Saugerties. It wasn't until Alexa was aged out when she began her career as a jumper rider. Now, having an incredible string of top international show jumpers, Alexa works under the guidance of Daniel and Mark Bluman, competing at some of the largest FEI venues such as Spruce Meadows, Winter Equestrian Festival, and Great Lakes Equestrian Festival. Listen in!
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Dr. Sam Fielding, DAOM, LAc. is an Ivy league educated Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine. Dr. Fielding is also the author of High Performance Secret, and the visionary behind the transformation of women all over the country, from depression, anxiety, debilitating migraines, even late stage cancer to living an abundant vibrant life beyond their wildest dreams. In addition to being a mother of two, Dr. Fielding is a wife, competitive equestrian, skier, runner, and artist. Making the unseen tangible and clear to others in ways that helps uncover what is blocking them from healing and living their fullest lives is Dr. Fielding's specialty. Schedule a consultation online today and listen in!
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Jay Golding has worked with horses since he was very young, and has operated a large breeding farm as well as run a large hunter and jumper barn. On his many yearly trips to Europe to seek the next great horse, Jay came to know BoneKare®. The product is so popular with breeders and equestrians in Europe that Jay decided to bring it to the United States, as he saw the results and wanted to use it on his own horses. Jay then pursued bringing the product to the U.S. and became a distributer for the United States. Jay believes in BoneKare® and product is now FDA-approved, patented, and has personally helped his horses. Listen in!
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Ashlee Bond is and American/Israel show jumper who competes for Israel and is well known for her speed in the ring. In 2019, Ashlee won the olympic qualifiers along side her team in Moscow which gave Israel a spot in the 2020 (now 2021) summer Olympics. Ashlee is making history, as this is the first time Israel has earned a spot at the olympic level for equestrian sport. Get to know Ashlee and learn about her techniques for developing young horses in this inspiring episode about working hard and discovering your passion.
Jessica Jo "JJ" Tate is a successful dressage rider and creator of Team Tate Academy, an online portal that allows fellow riders to learn classical equitation principles. Curated for every rider, Team Tate Academy is easy to understand, includes video and workbook learning, and is a USDF accredited online academy. Get to know a little bit more about Jessica and her story by listening now!
Jennifer Burger is the president of The National Horse Show as well as one of the founders of Brandywine Horse Shows. Jennifer has so much experience in the equine industry, as she has been a part of some of the country's biggest and most prestigious horse shows. Being a horse owner herself, Jennifer understands the passion equestrians share for the sport and the joy that comes from equestrian competition. Listen in!
Erin Brown, known as The Concrete Cowgirl, began her riding career at the Fletcher Street Stables and has competed on the Mid Atlantic circuit for nearly 30 years in both the hunt seat and stock seat riding disciplines. Brown is a graduate of W.B Saul High School of Agricultural Sciences, with a major in Equine Science. She has extensive experience managing stables and is a strong advocate for riding programs serving her local communities. Brown is also an active representative on the USEF Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion External Thought Leaders Group and contributed to the development of the USEF DEI Action Plan. For the past seven years, Brown has worked for the Police Departments Mounted Patrol Unit in Philadelphia. Listen in!
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Catherine Tyree is one go those horse girls who, one might say "caught the bug early on in life". Horses were a huge part of Catherine's junior career, and she continued to shine professionally as an adult. Some of Catherine's wins include: a second place finish in the 2016 HITS Saugerties million dollar Grand Prix, a third place finish in the hundred $30,000 Longines FEI World Cup President's Cup at the Washington International horse show in 2019, as well as several top ribbons in Nation's Cups, WEF, Hampton Classic, and more! Recently, Catherine joined the major league show jumping A.I.M. United team that kicks off this May! Listen in!
Christian Lowe is a professional leather repairman and owner of his company, Christian Lowe Leather Care. Christian is an expert when it comes to caring for all equestrian leather goods, but especially saddles. Having tons of experience working with some of the top saddle brands around the world, Christian has curated his own line of leather care products that work well for routine upkeep and for those saddles that need a little extra care. Listen in!
Molly McDougall is the Outreach and Leadership Manager for JustWorld International, a nonprofit organization that transforms the lives of children in impoverished communities around the world.
The equestrian sport is fortunate to be filled with so many who can make a difference in this world. And at a time when that difference is more important than ever, JustWorld International is how we as equestrians can change the world. Eighteen years ago, JustWorld started as a way for riders from around the world to continue to do what they love while riding for a cause. Now, thousands of riders have come together to raise funds and awareness for education and nutrition programs that assist more than 9,000 children who desperately need the help. Listen in and learn more!
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Robert is a world class farrier with many decades of experience in equine podiatry and hoof care and has worked and consulted in some of the most prestigious equine organisations and centres around the world. After experiencing first-hand the wide range of hoof problems and lameness issues that horses can face, many of which are exacerbated by traditional shoeing, Robert started working on a concept that would provide a supportive, effective and non-invasive solution. Robert consults on technical applications of FormaHoof.
Dr. Rob Franklin, DVM DACVIM has a lifetime of experience in equine medicine. He runs his own vet clinic in Texas and is the Vice President of the American Association of Equine Practitioners. One of the coolest things about Dr. Franklin is his passion for humanitarianism and giving back to equestrians and humans all around the world. Can't wait for you to listen to this one!!
Kathleen Downs is the director of marketing and the Western United States distributer for O3 Animal Health, a patented oil supplement company that includes five products designed to provide essential fatty acids for the horse's diet. All of O3's products are certified organic, none GMO, and cold pressed to deliver the best possible nutrients for your horse. Listen in and find a special promo code created just for our podcast listeners!
Armand Leone is an equestrian athlete dedicated to fair play, safe sport, and clean competition. Leone is currently serving as the Chairman of the Conduct Committee for the United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA). He was formerly Vice-President of the High Performance Sport division and Director for the United States Equestrian Federation from 2004–2013. He has also been a member of many committees and special task forces on governance, safety, drugs and medications, trainer certification, and coach selection. In addition to being an athlete, Armand is a business professional with expertise in healthcare and equestrian law and with strengths in strategic analysis, business development, and operations. Leone is an owner at Armand Leone JR, MD, PC, where he serves as an experienced health care and biotechnology strategy and risk management professional. Listen in!
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Nicholas Bourdon is the creator of an online management tool called Artemis Equestrian Club. Used as an App and online space, Artemis is a platform that allows equestrians to find boarding facilities, equine photographers, manage horse records, schedule lessons, and so much more. The idea is to have everything an equestrian could need in one helpful place so that you can spend less time on your phone and more time with your horse. Listen in, and learn more about what Artemis has to offer.
Thomas G. Struzzieri is the President and CEO of HITS Incorporated, the largest Hunter/Jumper horse show production company in the United States. Tom has locations across the U.S. including Chicago, IL, Culpeper, VA, Ocala, FL, and Saugerties, NY. Tom has created a huge range of opportunities for any kind of competitor through the M&S Insurance League to encourage and enhance the competition level of children and adult H/J riders. With experience serving on the Board of Directors of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) as well as its Competition Management Committee, Tom has plenty of expertise under his belt to create the most professional show circuits. Listen in!
Patricia Da Silva wears many hats in the equestrian industry as she is the woman behind Heels Down Media and ecogold saddle pads. In this episode, Patricia shares some of her best media ideas and ways to best connect with your business community. Whether it's a new approach to social media or a way to connect as a group, Patricia knows how to find a niche in marketing. Listen in!
Best Playing Pony LLC was established in January of 2019, and provides professional horse grooming and exercise riding services in New Jersey. Owner Kelly Gross has been riding and working with horses for over 10 years, and is a graduate of Centenary University with a degree in Equine Studies: Business Management. Although Kelly does have experience in a variety of disciplines, such as hunters, jumpers, dressage, and trail riding, polo is her specialty. Listen in!
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Carrie Scharbo is the founder of traditional equestrian and lifestyle brand, William Grace. What started out as a love for family and horses soon became the brand that allowed Carrie to combine both her passions into one business. Carrie continues to spend lots of time at the barn with her horses, along with her daughter, Ava who also competes and shares a love for riding. Listen in and hear the whole story in this great episode centered around family!
Lily Rhodes has grown up with horses since she was a little girl and has since dabbled in dressage, hunters, and more. After losing her arm in an ATV accident at the age of 14, Lily continued her love for riding as a Para Dressage rider and is now on the equestrian team for the University of Lynchburg, IHSA Zone 4, Region 2. Listen in as Lily shares her story and breakthrough to getting back in the saddle.
They say horses are in your blood, and that they are, especially for Groom Tote founder Gretchen. Gret is often found at the barn spending countless hours with her 4 legged loved ones. Gret shows her equine partners on the AQHA All-Around circuit. Gret strives to create a brand and company that is rooted in the American Dream. Her prayer is to cultivate a brand for confident equestrians to share in our passion! She cares about trend-forward sustainable products that can transition to and from the barn. Her dream is to empower women and strive to create a community that gives back. Gret has an extensive background in building business, brands and partnerships across many industries. Her drive for growth, success and fun have lead her down the path to create Groom Tote! Listen in!
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To wrap up our 2020 season, we have USA Pan American gold and silver medalist dressage rider Sarah Lockman! Starting out her career in Pony Club and moving up to working with a large import sales program in the U.S. (which you can hear more about in the episode) Sarah has followed her dreams since she was a little girl. Sarah has also worked with many young horses throughout her riding career including two of her upper level horses. Listen in!
Kate Wallace is a rider and horse owner who spent a great deal of time learning how to help the physical health of her horse. Kate believed in helping her horse from the inside out and with a great deal of help from veterinarians and doctors, Kate did just that. Kate's passion for helping horses soon transitioned into becoming part owner of massage, education, and rehab company, Unbridled Equine. Get ready for the #TheComeback!
Beezie Madden is a American Olympic Champion Equestrian in show jumping with two olympic gold medals, one silver in team jumping, as well as an individual bronze. Beezie was the first woman to pass the $1 million mark in earnings for show jumping and in 2004, Beezie became the first woman and the first American rider to reach the top three in the Show Jumping world-ranking list. Along with many other record breaking wins, some of the most noteworthy ones include but are not limited to: FEI World Cup Finals Champion in Gothenburg, Sweden, King George Gold Cup at Hickstead with Cortes’C’, and the $200,000 Budweiser American Invitational in Tampa. It is no wonder that Beezie is so highly recognized that she became the only woman to be a four-time USEF Equestrian of the Year. To hear more about Beezie, listen in!
Guenter Seidel is a dressage rider who helped the United States win bronze in team dressage in the 1996, 2000, and 2004 Olympic Games. In 2006, on the first day of competition, Guenter was the highest scoring American rider at the World Equestrian Games in Aachen Germany. On the same day, Guenter also helped the U.S. Olympic Team win a Bronze medal. Guenter has been known for his riding skills across the globe and has successfully shown horses through numerous international competitions. Listen in!
Alexandra Cherubini is founder and president of EquiFit, a Massachusetts-based company which designs and manufactures technologically advanced products for top riders and horses throughout the world. After graduating from Bates College, Alexandra found a way to combine her career with her love of horseback riding by creating EquiFit’s first product, ShouldersBack™ which was just the beginning. EquiFit has become the leading equestrian brand for providing products that protect the horse while in the show ring. Listen in and hear how she got to where she is today.
Catie Staszak is a multimedia sports journalist, the CEO of Catie Staszak Media, Inc., and the color commentator and journalist for the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ North American League. Staszak completed her third full season on the NAL in 2020 and has announced at showjumping events across the globe. In 2018, she moderated at the FEI Sports Forum in Lausanne, Switzerland, and in 2019, she was named a Chief Liaison Officer for Olympic Broadcasting Services at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. A competitive equestrian of more than 25 years, Staszak combined her two greatest passions into a career after graduating at the top of her class from the University of Miami with a degree in broadcast journalism in 2014. She has appeared on FEI TV, New England Sports Network, Toronto Sports Network, and IMG, among other channels worldwide. Listen in!
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Pamela Flanagan is an attorney, pony rescuer, and polo player for the U.S. Polo Association. As a professional, Pamela has played polo across the globe including but not limited to the United States, Mexico, Argentina, and Guatemala. In addition to polo, Pamela has a great passion for rescuing, and has been able to combine the two by giving horses a fresh start in the successful polo world. Listen in and hear some inspiring stories!
Emma Ford originated from North Devon England and was brought up in the hunt field with her dad as Master of the Foxhounds. Emma was raised surrounded by horses. She grew up in the Pony Club system, receiving her “B” designation and culminating with jumping at the Horse of the Year Show in 1991. After completing her Baccalaureate of Science at the University of Wales she moved the the United States to follow her passion with horses. After managing Adrian Iorio’s advanced event horses for seven years in Boston Massachusetts, she moved on to manage Phillip Dutton’s barn in West Grove Pennsylvania. She has groomed at almost every 4 star event in the world, and has been a member of the U.S. Eventing Team at multiple Olympic, World, and Pan American Games. Listen in!
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Originally from Seattle, Carly Anthony grew up riding with her mother Cara Anthony and equitation master Karen Healey. After accruing numerous wins and honors in the Equitation division, including a gold medal in the USET Final, she was recruited to compete for the University of Georgia Equestrian Team. There she received a national title, numerous All American honors, and a degree in business management. Since graduating, Carly turned professional and went on to work for Olympians Eric Lamaze and Ben Maher in Europe and world renowned horse dealer Neil Jones. Listen in!
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Julia Tops is the daughter of Canadian Show Jumping Team veteran Tani Zeidler and Jan Tops, Olympic gold medalist for The Netherlands. Like her parents, Julia excels in the world of show jumping. Balancing riding with her studies, Julia currently competes with India Blue ZF, one of the first products of the Zeidler Farm breeding program, and Delacroix AS, an Oldenburg gelding that joined Julia’s string in June of 2018. Given her drive to succeed as both a competitor and a student, leading equestrian apparel company, Kingsland, selected Julia to be its first sponsored junior rider in North America in 2013. Listen in and hear more about Julia's story!
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Jane Savoie is a dressage competitor, coach, author, and so much more. Having worked in the industry for many years, Jane has been long-listed by the USET with several horses, and has won nine Horse of the Year awards and three National Freestyle Championships. Some of Jane’s noteworthy accomplishments include being reserve rider for the Bronze medal winning Olympic dressage team in Barcelona, and being the 1996 and 2004 Olympic dressage coach for the Canadian 3-Day Event Team in Atlanta and Athens. As someone who believes attitude is everything, Jane has influenced many riders with her training techniques and positive outlook on life. Listen in!
Kristian Roberts is one of the most accomplished athletes on the U.S. Vaulting Team with wins including the 2018 USEF/AVA National Vaulting Championships Male Gold division which he's won six times out of seven years. Kristian spends the majority of his time and knowledge teaching as a clinician to others who share the same passion for vaulting. Having suffered a traumatic leg injury that abruptly ended his season in 2016, Kristian got on the road to recovery and came back stronger than ever. Listen in and hear his story!
Cheryl Olsten is an author, philanthropist, and owner of successful show hunter, Lafitte De Muze. Cheryl's horse is highly regarded for having his winnings donated to the EQUUS Foundation helping horses in need. Lafitte is also part of the inspiration behind Cheryl's lastest book release Big Wishes for Little Feat. Cheryl's book has touched the hearts of many with her inspiring tale of a horse that overcomes challenges and a girl who never stops believing. Listen in, and hear about Cheryl's experiences as a freelance writer, horse lover, and publisher.
Natasha Althoff is an Australia grand prix dressage rider and founder of Your Riding Success, a business that helps riders master their talents in the saddle through online training videos for client accsesability everywhere. Not only does Natasha ride, but she also hosts her own podcast and youtube channel, in addition to being an author and blogger. You can read all about her story over on her website, yourridingsuccess.com. Listen in!
Laurie Berglie is a self-published author of equestrian romance series, Where The Bluegrass Grows, Taking Off, and Kicking On. Having a background in horses, Laurie has created books that every true equestrian will love no matter what riding background or discipline. You're going to want to add some books to your reading list after you hear this episode. Listen in!
At the young age of twenty, Vanessa Creech-Terauds is an accomplished Canadian FEI Dressage Rider for Team Leatherdale. Growing up around horses, Vanessa learned the ropes from her mother, Diane Creech, who is also a professional rider/trainer for Leatherdale Farms. In 2016, Vanessa qualified for the FEI Young Rider Division and the FEI Junior Rider Division at the North American Junior & Young Rider Championships in Parker, Colorado. Listen in!
Anne Kursinski is a five-time Olympic athlete and a two-time Olympic silver medalist in team jumping. Anne has been a part of forty seven Nations Cup teams, and three World Equestrian Games representing the United States. With skills as an accomplished rider and trainer, Anne has had the opportunity to create resources and videos to teach riders all over the world at many different levels. Some of her lesson videos are accessible through the Noëlle Floyd Equestrian Masterclass as well as US Equestrian. Listen to the episode and hear her story!
photo by: The Plaid Horse Magazine
Visconte Simon Cocozza has a background in both dressage and jumping and is the author of his book, Core Conditioning for Horses. From his stable in Normandy, France, Simon became the first non-French national to earn the Brevet Professionnel and become a Trainer and Examiner for the La Fédération Française d'Equitation (FFE) and now coaches bio-mechanically sound training techniques internationally. Listen in!
Phillip Dutton is a six-time olympian and is easily one of the top eventers in the world. Very active on the U.S. eventing circuit, Phillip won the USEA Leading Rider of the Year title in 1998, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2012. In 2005, he was also named the number one FEI World Eventing Rider. He completed the 2016 season ranked number two in the world. In 2017 he finished 4th & 8th at the Land Rover Kentucky 4* and was ranked number 4 in the world. Listen in!
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Wren Blae Zimmerman has sights set on making the USEF Show Jumping Ranking list, becoming the first blind show jumper to compete at the top level, and eventually competing in the Paralympic Games. Wren’s mission is to change the perception about what the blind and visually impaired are capable of through raising awareness, understanding, and acceptance of visual impairment and blindness. To hear more about her story, visit her website at wrenblae.com
No magic- just hard work, consistency, and love for the sport is the winning combination for extremely successful North Run trainer, Missy Clark. Missy has been an integral part of the hunter/jumper community. With the help of her training program, North Run has produced a massive list of successful of Grand Prix and Nation's Cup Riders.
Long time Hunter/Jumper trainer, rider, and large R-rated judge Geoff Teall joins The Equestrian Podcast to talk about all things horse showing, practice, finding the right distance, and more. As a member of many equestrian boards and committees such as USHJA, US Equestrian, American Hunter Jumper Foundation, and the Maclay Equitation Committee, Geoff has great advice for anyone looking to advance in the saddle. Listen in!
Janet Jones is both a brain scientist and horse woman who knows how to work with the horse's brain instead of against it. Recently Janet came out with her new book, Horse Brian Human Brain, which talks about the connection between how horses learn and perceive information. Janet's research on human brain function won UCLA’s Gengerelli Distinguished Dissertation Award in 1989, and since then she has written for many popular horse magazines and scientific journals. Listen in!
Melina Poole-Minnillo is a horse mom who loves her heart horses, Caraszini & Missy. From a young girl showing a couple times a year, to an adult amateur living out her dream, Melina is nothing short of what compassion and drive look like. Melina has always put her horses before the sport and her story is a great example of always believing in your dreams even during the difficult times. Listen in!
Laura Kraut is a member of the U.S. show jumping team, a seasoned international competitor and an Olympic champion. Her successful international show jumping career gives her a wealth of knowledge and the ability to coach juniors and amateurs to the highest level of global competition. Laura utilizes her hands-on experience to identify and develop prospective show jumpers to their full potential.
credit: laurakraut.com
Becky Gochman is a horse lover, adult amateur, and brains behind your home away from home, Farm Stand (as seen on the Wellington circuit showgrounds). In this episode you will get to know Becky and hear about horses who have impacted her as well as how she impacts young riders through the Gochman grant. Listen in!
Laura became an insurance agent in 1990. She founded Connaway & Associates Equine Insurance Services, Inc. in 1992. Connaway & Associates specializes in insuring horses and horse farms in the United States, Canada and Europe. The agency has grown to one of the largest insurance agencies of its kind in the United States. Listen in!
credit: connaway.net
Dr. Marilyn Connor is a DVM for Palm Beach Equine Clinic. Originally from the just north of Dallas, Texas, Dr. Connor completed her undergraduate education at Texas A&M University and graduated with honors with a Bachelors of Science in Biomedical Science with minors in Chemistry and Business. In 2014, Dr. Connor returned to Texas A&M University to complete her veterinary education at their College of Veterinary Medicine. If you're interested in learning more about the equine veterinary world, this episode is for you!
credit: equineclinic.com
The National Horse Carriers Association has been around since 1964 and specializes in horse transportation as well as safety and overall health of the horses being transported. In this episode you will hear from two different team members of the National Horse Carriers Association who will answer all your questions about horse transportation guidelines, how to select a horse carrier, and so much more. Listen in!
Jordan McCabe is the founding director & brand designer of Aztec Diamond Equestrian, one of the most iconic and leading equestrian lifestyle and apparel brands on today's market. Growing up in a working class background with no extensive experience in business or textiles, Jordan started the brand from the ground up at the age of 17 when she saw a niche in the market for the products she wanted to create. In partnership with her mother, she has turned her childhood passion for design and show jumping into a leading global equestrian fashion brand. Listen in and get inspired!
credit: aztecdiamondequestrian.com
Lenore Phillips is the Vice President for Phelps Media Group, a company that offers clients extensive experience in branding, consulting, organizational leadership, photojournalism, news-writing, graphic design and numerous other areas. With connections across the equestrian industry, Lenore's professional career includes working for top professional riders, managers and veterinarians by sharing their stories. Listen in, as Lenore shares all Phelps Media has to offer!
Tigger Montague is the founder and formulator of BioStar, a whole-food nutrition company empowering horse and dog owners with 100% authentic supplements. Putting the horse's health first, BioStar has every product from immune support to hoof care and even treats and books. Tigger developed BioStar after curating supplements for her own horse, and after seeing very positive results, a vision for helping more horses was seen. Listen in and hear how Tigger did it!
Emily Moffitt's love of horses began at a very young age. Her competitive riding career followed shortly thereafter with her first European tour beginning at the age of 14. Her tenacious spirit and will to win have continued throughout her career, with European young rider gold, the Aga Khan trophy with team GB in Dublin, and 3 GCL titles under her belt. The combination of her desire to improve and her natural talent have allowed her to continue to rise in the sport.
credit: podenfarms.com
After meeting each other in China as kids, Rachel and Harriette began brainstorming to create an amazing equestrian apparel business. Combining the idea of everyday athletic clothes and horses, they have created their company, Hart Outfitters. Hart Outfitters is a 21st century contemporary fashion and athletics brand that prides itself in being an international apparel brand, with international team members from all over the globe. Listen in, to hear how these young girls made their childhood dream come to life!
Wellesley Equestrian is a USA based family owned business striving to provide the highest end grooming tools, stable equipment and personalized gifts. Wellesley Equestrian is known for their custom brush sets and grooming boxes! Carolyn started this brand from her own experiences as an equestrian who always was getting her brushed mixed up with others at the barn. With the holidays right around the corner, make sure you check out Wellesley Equestrian's custom brush sets, riding crops, saddle pads and more for the perfect gift for your trainer, groom, or friend! Also special thank you to the TackHack for sponsoring this episode!
Colton Woods is an evolving horseman who is dedicated to teaching his students a progressive horsemanship approach built on practical application and understanding of the horse on a mental, physical, emotional and spiritual level. To Colton, horsemanship is not just a way to train a horse, but it is everything we do with our horses and in our own lives. Colton and his wife, Maredith, own and operate Colton Woods Horsemanship based in Lexington, Kentucky. They serve the their clients through their online educational opportunities, the Heart of Horsemanship Podcast, teaching clinics around the United States, training horses and teaching lessons.
credit: coltonwoodshorsemanship.com
Beatrice de Lavalette is the most critically injured survivor of the Brussels Airport terrorist bombing on March 22, 2016. As rider from the age of three, Beatrice has never given up. Five months after suffering massive internal injuries, second and third degree burns, a spinal cord injury, and the amputation of both lower legs, she was back on her beloved mare, Delegada X. Her courage and grit helped her return to school in September 2016, compete in her first para-equestrian show in April 2017, and graduate on time with her class in June 2017. Beatrice's story is one that will inspire all. Listen in!
credit: uspea.org
Dianna Babington has been part of Kevin Babington, LLC since its inception in 1992. She dedicates her time to young riders competing in both the pony hunter and equitation ring and the jumper ring. Dianna has a foundation in the hunters from her childhood when she trained with Gary Kunsman at Four Seasons Farm. As an adult she has ridden under Kevin Babington's guidance in the jumpers for over 20 years and has trained with many other professionals including Nona Garson, Rick Francher, Albert Voorn, John Ledingham and George Morris. Listen in!
credit: kevinbabington.com
Nancy Jaffer is a columnist for her own website, as well as editor for the book Riding for the Team from the US Equestrian Team Foundation, and is sponsored by leading equestrian book and video publisher, Trafalgar Square Books. Nancy has interviewed some of the top equestrian athletes in our sport today and has covered the most popular equestrian events. From the FEI World Equestrian Games all the way to the Olympics, Nancy has written about it all. Listen in, to hear her story!
Stacia Klein Madden stands out as one of the most successful and dedicated trainers of young, developing show jumping talent in the United States. She was a top junior rider from Indiana winning the 1987 ASPCA Maclay Finals and placed in both the AHSA Medal Finals and the USET Finals East. After turning professional in 1988 she started training out of Beacon Hill Show Stables in North Salem, New York. Listen in!
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Hannah Selleck owns Descanso Farm, a top quality hunter/jumper barn that produces excellent sport horses within the United States. Descanso Farm specializes in both breeding and training programs, and is based out of California. In this episode Hannah shares her accomplishments during her junior years as well as what life looks like moving forward as a competitor and businesswoman. Listen in!
Quentin Judge runs Double H Farm, a successful training and sales show jumping barn based out of Wellington, FL/Ridgefield, CT, with his wife, Cayce. Quentin has worked with many top professionals such as McLain Ward, Rodrigo Pessoa, and Jan Tops to name a few. In 2012, Quentin made his Nations Cup debut at CSIO2*-W Buenos Aires, where he helped the U.S. Team win Gold, and has had many notable wins since then! Quentin has truly paved the way for himself and his career, and in this episode he shares just how he did it. Listen in!
Jennifer Gates, daughter of Bill Gates, is a successful show jumper and works out of her International Show Jumping Stable, Evergate Stables. Jennifer began working with horses at the age of 6 in the hunter/jumper world, she now competes on the global circuit at the top of the sport. In addition to riding, Jennifer is a full-time medical student in New York City and is an avid book reader. In this episode we asked Jennifer to answer listener submitted questions about all things lifestyle as well as her personal horses, and she delivered! Listen in!
Meet Daniel, Ilan, Steven, and Mark of Bluman Equestrian! Bluman Equestrian is a team of four brothers who turned their love and skill for the sport into a family business. Bluman Equestrian works with a wide range of riders in both Wellington, FL and North Salem, NY. In this episode you will hear from all four brothers about their background in riding as well as how the team made their family dynamic successful in the equestrian world. Listen in!
Jennifer Wood is the beauty and brains behind The Equestrian Business Women Summit, Jennifer Wood Media, and Jump Media LLC. Jennifer began her lifelong love for the equestrian sport after competing in the hunter/jumper discipline at the age of seven, and later combined her skills in the business world with her love for horses. Jennifer is known for promoting some of the best equestrian events and companies in North America. By creating resources that strengthen the sport's networking capabilities, Jennifer’s companies support many professionals and businesswomen in various areas of the industry. Listen in, to hear her story!
Sloane Coles is a professional show jumper representing Team USA, and is the owner and operator of Spring Ledge LLC. In 2019 Sloane made her debut at the Nations’ Cup CSIO5* Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ tournament. As a junior, Sloane had a very successful career earning titles in the hunter, equitation, and show jumping rings. After training with many top professionals including John and Beezie Madden and Johnny and Kitty Barker, Sloane has had lots of exposure in the professional world of show jumping. Listen in!
Liz Ehrlich is the founder and CEO of Equine Elixirs, a supplement company that focuses on all-natural, horse show safe, innovative products to help horses feel and perform their best. Liz first developed Ulceraser, a forage based gastric health supplement when she couldn’t find an effective product for her own horse. Since that time, Equine Elixirs has released several other extremely successful products, including Positude, an all natural hormone balancer for mares, geldings, and stallions, and has become one of the leading supplement companies trusted by top professionals and programs including, Mclain Ward, Margie Engle, Georgina Bloomberg, Beacon Hill, Sweet Oak, Scott Stewart, and Tori Colvin to name just a few.
Karen Polle is a professional show jumper for team Kinoshita. Born in Tokyo and raised in New York City, Karen has aspirations to compete in the 2021 Olympic Games representing Japan. In this episode Karen answers listeners submitted questions about all things Wings and everyday life at the barn, as well as her favorite moments of her career. Listen in!
Jane Fennessy is the owner and head trainer of Carriage Hill Farms, a premier Hunter/Jumper barn that offers training, sales, horse camps, and two Interscholastic Equestrian Teams for both Jr and High School Students. Emmanuelle Greenberg and Erika Jakobson are both longtime clients of Jane's and grew up in the lesson program at Carriage Hill Farms. Listen in to hear their stories!
Jane Fennessy is the owner and head trainer of Carriage Hill Farms, a premier Hunter/Jumper barn that offers training, sales, horse camps, and two Interscholastic Equestrian Teams for both Jr and High School Students. Emmanuelle Greenberg and Erika Jakobson are both longtime clients of Jane's and grew up in the lesson program at Carriage Hill Farms. Listen in to hear their stories!
Mavis Spencer is a professional show jumper, ambassador for US Equestrian, and all around equine enthusiast. Having worked under some incredible professionals including Neil Jones and Kent Farrington, Mavis has lots of experience working with different horses and trainers. Mavis currently works alongside Georgy Maskrey-Segesman, Chelsea James, and Kilian McGrath on training and sales for Whitethorne LLC. Listen in to hear how she got to where she is today.
Co-Founders Allison Malenfant and Connie DeMaio work together in creating the best technical outerwear pieces for equestrians through their brand, Redingote Equestrian. Having both grown up with horses, Allison and Connie understand the equestrian's need for clothing to stay warm, dry, and organized no matter the weather or circumstance. Listen in to hear how they developed this amazing jumpsuit.
Taylor Hall is the owner and founder of The Tried Equestrian, a store that not only sells tack and equestrian apparel for less, but lets you consign in a personal way. Having a passion for helping both horses and people, Taylor has always involved herself in different aspects of the horse world including SPCA, Junior Compton Posse, and more. Listen in to get a behind the scenes look at The Tried Equestrian.
Lauren Garvey is the founder of The TackHack, a space that has all of the best tack, apparel, and accessories for less! Having understood the equestrian world from a young age, Lauren's goal for The TackHack is to provide your favorite equestrian brands at discounted prices so that you can focus on your passion for horses without the pressure of buying expensive products. The TackHack team is located near Traverse City, Michigan, down the road from Great Lakes Equestrian Festival, but they carry products from all around the world! Listen in to hear all about it!
Stacy Westfall is a renowned trainer and all around horsewoman who specializes in reining. In 2006, Stacy was named world champion at the American Quarter Horse Congress freestyle reining competition riding bareback and bridleless aboard Whizards Baby Doll (Roxy). In the same year, Stacy was invited as the first woman to ever compete and win the Road to the Horse competition. With many other notable wins, Stacy now spends the majority of her time riding, running a podcast, and teaching alongside her husband Jesse Westfall out of their barn in Ohio. Listen in to hear Stacy's whole story and how she became who she is today.
Erin Ochoa has been with Days End Farm, a nonprofit equine rescue program, for fifteen years and is currently chief executive officer. Having started out as a farm manager, Erin quickly fell in love with Days End and their mission of not only rescuing and rehabilitating horses that are suffering, but prevent abuse and neglect through education and community outreach. Listen in to hear more about this amazing program!
Andrew Welles is an international show jumper who specializes in training, sales, and competition at the highest level of the sport. Andrew competed at the FEI Nations Cup in 2009, representing the United States both in Austria and Portugal. He also represented the U.S. at the 2018 Spruce Meadows Masters, and the 2019 FEI Jumping Nations Cup. Helping young riders move up to the U25 and grand prix divisions, Andrew is extremely goal oriented and strives to work backwards from these specific goals of himself as well as his clients. Listen in!
Meghan Margewicz started riding at the young age of seven and continued to learn about the sport while owning a couple different horses, participating in Pony Club, and even working with trainer, Jenni Mcallister. Using her knowledge of the industry, Meghan is now the event director for the number one equestrian expo in the world, Equitana USA. In this episode we discuss all things about the event and all things equestrian. Listen in!
Laura Graves is an American dressage rider representing the U.S. Dressage Team. With many mentionable wins including broze at the 2016 Olympics, 2nd in the World Cup Final Grand Prix in 2017, and double silver medals at the World Equestrian Games in 2018. In the same year, Laura became the first American dressage rider to be ranked No. 1 in FEI World rankings at Tryon, all the while still with her horse Verdades whom she started as a yearling. Listen in to hear Laura's story.
Ellesse Gundersen (Jordan) is a recognized international dressage rider that has competed in some of the biggest arenas and shows around the world including the FEI World Cup Finals 2018, FEI World Equestrian Games 2018 and several international CDIs where she has placed, won and represented Team Philippines. Based in Wellington, FL, Ellesse continues to pursue a career in international level sport while running a boarding, training and sales program and teaching around the US.
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Piper Klemm is publisher and editor-in-chief of The Plaid Horse Magazine as well as co-host for the magazine's podcast, The Plaidcast. Having not come from a horse family background, Piper has certainly made a name for herself as she is also an author of the novel series Show Strides, and a professor at St. Lawrence University. Listen in as Piper shares her journey on developing one of the most popular magazines in the hunter/jumper world.
Dani Conway is a nutritional practitioner as well as an equestrian athlete helping women ditch the diet, loose weight, and gain energy in order to improve equestrian sport performance. In this episode Dani shares her story of how she developed a healthy lifestyle and became CEO of Nutrition the Natural Way. If you're looking for tips on improving your health, this episode is for you.
Erin Lane is the co-founder and editor in chief of Equestrian Confidential Magazine as well as the producer for the ever-growing Noëlle Floyd Equestrian Masterclass. In addition to film production, Erin also rides as an adult amateur show jumper and polo rider. In this episode Erin gets real about staying connected to the horse world and the sacrifice it takes to do the sport we love. Get ready for an upfront perspective on how our passion for the horse not only connects us to other equestrians, but shapes our lives for the better.
Want to know the best way to care for your riding boots, tack, and other equestrian leather products? In this episode I talk with Nick Collins, co-owner of Pacific Saddlery Repair, about some of the top tricks and components to look out for when keeping up with regular leather care maintenance. Nick has been in the business for over twenty years, and is here to give the best advice when it comes to tack repairs. Listen in!
Georgina Bloomberg is an accomplished professional show jumper based in New York City, N.Y., North Salem, N.Y., and Wellington, Fla. Bloomberg represented the United States Equestrian Team at the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto, Canada, where she earned a Team Bronze medal.In addition to a successful equestrian career, Bloomberg has co-authored four young adult novels about the equestrian show circuit, The A Circuit, and is well known for her philanthropic efforts, particularly for her extensive animal welfare work and for founding The Rider's Closet in 2006.
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Emmie Strommen is the creator and founder of the space that celebrates horse girls. With her strong riding background and understood passion for horses, Emmie designed Calling All Horse Girls for any girl who has, or wishes to have, a connection with a horse. Whether you're a lifelong equestrian, new to the industry, or just want to talk about horses more, this episode is for you! Welcome to the conversation.
Kristy Lake is the owner and creator of the popular equestrian boot sock brand that is Dreamers & Schemers. With her expressive patterns to choose from and even the option to customize your own, Kristy has created the trend that stands out above all else. Get ready to get spunky and be yourself because in this episode Kristy and I discuss just that! Listen in.
Stephanie Danhakl is an adult amateur hunter rider paving the way for other like minded riders with her success and passion for the hunter ring. Having started in dressage at the young age of 11 and moving forward to jumping at the age of 13, Stephanie began training with none other than top hunter/jumper trainer Archie Cox. Listen in to hear her story!
Daisy Farish is a talented young rider with wins including USEF Finals, Junior Hunter Finals, FEI North American Youth Championships, and much more. While growing up with horses as her main focus, Daisy is an amazing example of what talent and a little hard work can do. Daisy began showing competitively at the age of 6 and from there has had tons of exposure and practice in the ring. Listen in hear how she developed her craft as a rider.
"Adrienne Sternlicht moved through the pony and junior hunter divisions to turn into a serious competitor on the international grand prix circuit. Although her first passion was riding, she took a break during high school and returned while attending Brown University. In 2016, Sternlicht began her partnership with Cristalline and started to train with U.S. Olympic double gold medalist McLain Ward. In May 2017, Sternlicht made her Nations Cup debut with Cristalline at the FEI Nations Cup™ CSIO4* Coapexpan in Mexico, where they helped the U.S. team win the silver medal."
Credit: usef.org
The brand Alexa Fairchild is a lifestyle project with a strong streetwear vibe channeled through statement pieces that inspire freedom of expression, individuality and the pursuit of adventure. Working together as a family, Alexa and Erin Fairchild are Co-Managing Directors fusing their love for fashion and horses creating a cultivated, street-creed collection. Listen in to hear how they do it!
Britaney Courtney is the owner and CEO of the creative marketing agency that is Meraki Creative Group. With clients from all over the world including Australia, Europe, and North America, Britaney has made quit a name for herself. On top of running her business Britaney also devotes a huge amount of time to developing her young mare Penelope. Listen in to get the inside scoop on the importance of branding your equestrian business and how best to promote it.
Neil Jones of Neil Jones Equestrian is an expert in selling top quality show horses. With connections in Europe, California, Kentucky, and Florida, Neil is able to import and develop only the best horses in the United States. Neil has had many successful horses as well as top riders come through his program such as Cassio Rivetti, Edwina Tops Alexander, and Molly Hay. Listen in to hear how Neil and his team run the business.
Giana Terranova is an adult amateur rider, horse owner, and equine photographer of Giana Terranova Photography. In the busyness of balancing her photoagraphy career with showing, Giana knows how to make the best of both using her good work ethic and passion for the sport. If you are looking for a life filled with horses as both a career and a hobby (or maybe you already do) this episode is for you!
Have you ever felt insecure about riding? Or maybe you're struggling to get back in the saddle after taking some time off? Whatever your insecurity, you are not alone! In this solo episode, host Bethany Lee shares her insights on how to ride to the best of your abilities as well as different resources you can use to improve your riding and knowledge of the horse world.
Jay Duke is a former Canadian Equestrian Team member, well-known clinician, and founder of the virtual lesson platform, EquiVault. Along with these titles, Jay is a course designer for Canada and was also named the leading male rider at the Spruce Meadows North American tournament back in 1994. In this episode, Jay addresses the importance of continuing to further your rider education when you know you're in it for the long haul. Listen in!
Brittany Fraser is a Canadian Dressage rider ranked 73rd in FEI Dressage. She has ambitions to compete in the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, and has already competed in many top dressage competitions including the 2018 World Equestrian Games at Tryon. Brittany was the first rider to compete at the FEI Pony level in Nova Scotia. She is known for competing on her horse "All In" which she claims is the horse that brought her to international fame. Listen in to learn about what it takes to get to the top level in dressage.
Reese Koffler-Stanfield is a International Dressage Rider and owner of Maplecrest farm. Working as a trainer and clinician, Reese focuses on developing quality sport horses in all phases of training and competition. When she's not riding, Reese is a co-host on the Dressage Radio Show. Listen in to learn about how Reese kept her focus to get where she is today.
Jordan Payne is an equine osteopath who travels across the country to treat a variety of horses from many different backgrounds and disciplines. If you're interested in horse mobility, this is the episode for you! Listen in to gain a deeper knowledge of the overall body function of horses as well as how to maintain it from the inside out.
Luke Gingerich is a competitor in both reining and ranch versatility, but specializes in liberty horsemanship. With his two horses Rio and Chloe, Luke travels across the country as a clinician teaching liberty training demos. Luke also does online video coaching for those wishing to further their knowledge in training. Listen in to discover more about how to train horses with a different approach before running straight to the saddle.
Hope Glynn is a rider, clinician, judge, horse show mom, trainer, and ultimate barn babe. With knowledge in all of these areas, Hope believes in the importance of keeping education as a top priority in order to be successful as an equestrian. Listen in as Hope shares not only the truth about what it takes to do well as a professional in the horse world, but also how to be a role model to other riders in the industry.
Lisa Lourie is the owner and brains behind the premier operation that is Spy Coast Farm. With her keene eye to seek out nice horses, Lisa specializes in breeding and the development of top quality sport horses. In this episode you will learn not only about how Lisa started her business, but also about Spy Coast's breeding facilities, rehabilitation center, and everything in between!
Lauren Mahr is a young self-starter in the equestrian world. With her business The Fit Equestrian, Lauren believes in the importance of a healthy lifestyle through nutrition, fitness, and cross-training. With guides for all these areas Lauren can bring organization to any gym to barn schedule. Listen in to hear how Lauren got her business started and how she promotes her brand for healthy living.
Katie Hawkins is the president of her company Unbridled Equine LLC and specializes in personalized equine massage therapy. In this episode Katie shares the many benefits and areas of equine massage as well as how to read the horse through touch in order to improve their overall performance. Listen in to hear how this hard working girl made a career for herself in the middle of going to school, raising a family, and riding horses.
Kelli Cruciotti is an amazing rider with sights set for the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. Kelli is one of the youngest competitors to win some of the most prestigious awards within the world of showjumping and is quickly moving up in the rankings. In this episode Kelli shares what its like growing up in the Hunter/Jumper world, being a trainer's kid, and how she turned professional at such a young age.
Jesse Westfall is a renowned trainer and excellent horseman. Both a coach and judge for the NRHA, Jesse specializes in reining, but works with many horses and riders from a variety of disciplines. Whether he's training his own bloodline of horses or teaching lessons to other students, Jesse always keeps the horse's well being in mind. Listen in to hear more about why rider education is crucial to developing a great horse.
John Haime is the president of New Edge Performance, a former professional golfer, author, and a top human performance coach. In this episode John shares the importance of mental health not just for equestrians but all athletes across the board. Listen in as we discuss how to cope with different levels of stress, confidence issues, and other things we as equestrians handle in and out of the barn on a day to day basis.
Nicole Schlutz of Nicole Schlutz Photography is a fantastic photographer with a true understanding of equine photography as an equestrian herself. Get to know how she worked with The Book and then transitioned into a commissioned equestrian photographer specializing in horse/rider portraits, equine portraiture, and horse show photography.
Geoffrey Hesslink is a well-known hunter/jumper rider as well as the owner of Geoffrey Hesslink LLC. His story of how he found his success is so inspiring and will encourage any horse lover with big aspirations to keep working diligently toward their goals.
Host Bethany Lee shares all of her top tips of strategic packing for horse shows (or even just a simple weekend getaway), especially on a suitcase budget.
Be sure to check out myequestrianstyle.com/packing-podcast for the free packing guide and itinerary template for all of your packing needs!
Founder of Dapplebay, Leah Kaufmann is a multi-passionate and big-picture visionary. In this episode we discuss her real and raw thoughts on combining passions with business and the difference between the two. Leah tells it like it is. Listen in!
Interested in cross training? Learn how boxing can help you reach your goals in the saddle with Fight:Fit Wellington! Patrick Parsons shares his tips on how to get in top shape for riding and living a healthy lifestyle.
The IG account "Milton Menasco" has been buzzing in everyone's ears and newsfeeds in the equestrian instagram space this year! I had to get a closer look of how Milton Menasco began and the lovely lady (yes, LADY) behind MM. Alli Addison is a force to be reckoned with and in this episode we talk about the need for unapologetic positivity and inclusivity in the industry. Listen in!
Top vaulting athletes Mari Inouye and Ali Divita share their expertise on Vaulting 101 as well as their transition to riding at WEG to starting their own equestrian-specific fitness program, "Mind Body Vault."
Host Bethany Lee welcomes a new season after summer vacation and talks through the steps of brainstorming, dreaming and making your dream job a reality.
Isha and Raina Swani are among the top junior riders in the nation. It takes a lot of dedication and planning to work through their schedule and in this episode they talk all about the pro's and con's of balancing life as a junior hunter rider. This is a really fun episode because I got to interview the girls in-person (at home in Jacksonville, FL) after I gave them their daily riding lessons!
Host Bethany Lee has her first solo episode to talk about her story of how she went from young rider to professional trainer and the girl behind My Equestrian Style and the Equestrian Podcast... as well as the insecurities along the way. Stay until the end for 3 tips to overcome young professional comparison and unrealistic standards!
Mike Tomlinson, DVM, MBA is a top vet who participates in a vast variety of disciplines around the world. We wanted him on the podcast to chat about horse shows, drugs and WEG... have a listen!
Alyssa Cleland talks about how she was born with Paraxial Tibial Hemimelia which caused her right tibia not to develop. Her life and her riding career are so inspirational; you're going to love this episode!
Alan Davies is the world's most famous Super Groom! Best known for the iconic dressage duo: Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro. Alan talks chats about his crazy life as a professional groom and what that all entails; including what products he uses and how he learned all of his best secrets!
Britt Sabbah is a pony eventing rider, US Equestrian Ambassador and Noelle Floyd's Influencer of the Year all while being a new mom! This lady can do it all- so I wanted to find out just how. Listen in to find out!
Chris Sorensen is the owner and head trainer at Sorensen Stables based in The Netherlands and Wellington, Florida. In addition to an international show jumping competitor and trainer, Chris is an expert at sourcing and producing high-performance hunter, jumper and equitation horses. Listen in to gain loads of knowledge in the hunter/jumper world. Chris will be on again in a later episode to answer any questions that stemmed from this episode. You can submit a question at www.myequestrianstyle.com/episode/chrissorensen.
Anna Buffini is a top U25 Dressage rider who goes after her dreams hard. She has won The Young Rider National Championship and the North American National Championship Team Gold in 2014, won 1st and 2nd in the U25 Grand Prix National Championship in 2016 and won the U25 Nations Cup Team Gold and Freestyle in 2017. Listen in as we go through her journey!
Karina Harris talks about what a "middle-sized" equestrian is, what it's like to be one, and the pressure she feels from society and loved ones to change her appearance. She also discusses how she is able to balance riding, a job, and her blog.
Kira Plymire is a professional rider, trainer, and model who is also getting her business degree. Listen, as she describes how she was able to break into the equestrian industry as a young professional!
Nick Granat explains the specific road to success as an acclaimed Course Designer in his 30s!
Taylor Oxley explains how she landed positions as a working student for several top riders.
Helen Pollock is the beauty and brains behind equestrian fashion and lifestyle blog, Life Equestrian. Listen to her tips on emotional health and balancing a full time job and a blog!
Max Corcoran, super groom extraordinaire, talks about her busy life and the best tricks of the trade.
Lucy Davis shares her journey as a Showjumper in the Olympics and as Co-Founder of the Pony App.
Laine Ashker chats about her incredible horses and how her and her mom find and train her top level show horses.
Boyd Martin uncovers his story of how he became a top Eventer, with business tips and riding tricks throughout!
Noelle Floyd talks about her journey from small personal blog to her multi-faceted empire, noellefloyd.com.