Amateur Hour: An Equestrian Podcast: Recent Episodes
Amateur Hour Podcast
Adult amateur equestrian friends discussing topics relevant to the hunter, jumper, eventing, and overall equestrian world. This podcast covers our thoughts and opinions on everything from lifestyle tips and tricks to controversial findings and rulings within the sports governing bodies.
Hi friends!
First episode of 2022 - woo!
We hope you enjoy our completely unedited banter about finding Kelly a new horse.
We apologize in advance about how many times we all use the word "like'.
In this episode, the crew discusses their years and reminisces about the past three years with the podcast.
Kelly and Claire get to chat again with Melissa Hubbard, the CEO of Kerrits, on this minisode. They discuss the inner workings of a company that is familiar to every equestrian. Everything from how new designs come to be to what kind of testing process they go through. Melissa shares insider information about what makes the company tick and even tells them about her personal favorite items. You'll also never guess what product was first sold by Kerrits!
Welcome to our Holiday Gift Guide Episode for 2021! Hard to believe the holidays are right around the corner. Join Claire, Kelly, and Olivia to learn more about some amazing gifts for the upcoming season! Stay tuned for an exciting giveaway on our Instagram.
Join the crew as we talk listener submitted (anonymous) horse scam stories. Some will make you laugh and some will make you shake your head. Thanks to the sponsors of this episode, Meredith Collie Paper, Kerrits, Voltaire Design, and Ecogold.
Taylor and Olivia welcome Emily Oatis, Head of Merchandising from Corroshop.com to AHP! Learn all things Corro, from BTS, their main mission, and new exciting products to come. Head over to our Instagram for a Corro giveaway!
Jim Masterson of the Masterson Method joins the crew to discuss everything about his interactive method of equine bodywork from how it started to how it helps horses today. Jim shares some wonderful insights about reading horses' behaviors and how his method truly helps to develop a deeper bond with our horses.
In this minisode, Claire and Kelly interview Amber Furdell, founder and owner of Equestrian AF Apparel about her company, the process behind her brand, and her horses.
Back in 2019 the crew dished on everything horses and now it's back by popular demand! They share their hottest tips for show prep and day of routines. Who do you think preps the most meticulously and who flies by the seat of her pants? Listen to find out!
Taylor and Olivia chat with saddle expert Clo of Voltaire Design and cover listener submitted questions ranging from saddle fit to how sponsored riders are chosen!
Ever had a moment where you felt the need to be "brave" with your riding through a tough situation? The crew discusses getting brave. We also dive into whether or not we would be able to buy a horse sight unseen. Hope you all enjoy!
In this minisode, Claire and Taylor talk to Melissa Hubbard, CEO of Kerrits, about horses, clothes, and the importance of size inclusivity.
In this episode, Kelly, Olivia and Taylor chat with international five star eventer Ema Klugman! From her take on this years Land Rover Kentucky 3DE to keeping her horses happy, fit and sound, we LOVED this guest interview and hope you do too!
On this minisode of Amateur Hour, Claire and Kelly chat with Forest Franzoi, the owner and creator of Herd of Zebras. Listen now to hear about how joining the herd is about so much more then just equestrian apparel, and stay tuned until the end for a great discount code!
Omega's, Selenium, Vitamin E, oh my! Olivia and Kelly welcome Certified Equine Nutritionist Dr. Kelsey Nonella Ph.D, P.A.S., from Horse Guard onto the podcast. Dr. Kelsey is an absolute wealth of knowledge regarding Equine Nutrition and Horse Guard products. Make sure to use code "AHP15" for 15% off your purchase at www.horseguard.com.
In this episode of Amateur Hour the crew 'interviews' Claire, and gets the scoop on her Ocala show experience. Claire showed at both WEC and HITS, and we pepper her with questions about her experience, the costs involved, and which one she ultimately preferred.
Joined by FEI 4* dressage judge Kristi Wysocki, the crew discusses listener submitted questions about everything from dressage training and judging, to breeding and evaluating young sport horses. The best part? Kristi unravels the mystery behind the flying change!
In this episode the gals of Amateur Hour dive into the pros and cons of boarding horses vs keeping at home - a special thank you to the members of the Amateur Equestrian Collaborative Facebook group who shared their thoughts on this topic as well!
Huge thank you to Riding Warehouse for sponsoring this episode. Be sure to tune in as the crew discusses their resolutions for 2021. Some of them expected- and others will be a total surprise!
Seriously, grab a drink and popcorn because this is a funny one. In order to follow along with this episode, it's important to watch Karl Cook's "Walking and Talking: Equitation" on IGTV. The crew discusses our thoughts on the importance of the equitation and horsemanship. This is our final full-length episode of 2020 and we want to send a HUGE thank you to all of our listeners and sponsors. We couldn't do this without you!
Join Taylor and Kelly as they chat with Jill Tweedy, the woman behind the beloved Tucker Tweed brand. The girls go much deeper than discussing the gorgeous leather handbags and their namesakes - Jill's story is truly remarkable and a joy to listen to. Which Tucker Tweed bag do you have on your holiday wishlist this year? It's almost impossible for us to pick a favorite!
Hey everyone! Welcome to our 2020 Holiday Gift Guide Episode! Sit back, relax, and get your pen and paper ready to add many items to your Christmas/Hanukkah list. The gals speak about our favorite items from incredible companies. Big thanks to Dreamers and Schemers, Grey Horse Candle Co., Cavali Club, The Tack Hack, Corro Stories, Ruespari, Remarkable Leather Goods, Tucker Tweed, Vestrum, and Voltaire Design. Make sure to check our Instagram for a huge giveaway! Happy Holidays, everyone!
Claire does a call with an animal communicator and the gang discusses their opinions and experiences with the supernatural realm.
In this Minisode, sponsored by Riding Warehouse, Claire and Kelly interview the head of customer service to learn about the inner workings of the company and great holiday sales.
The ladies of amateur hour dive into life with Melina of MPM Sporthorses! From importing her horse off of a video and a gut feeling to recently turning pro - we loved hearing all about what life currently has in store for Melina and her crew.
Olivia and Kelly get to chat with Emily Oatis about all things Vestrum, a luxury Italian apparel line. They get the details on what sets Vestrum apart from other equestrian brands, what products are most popular, and which ones deserve more of the spotlight. Listen to the end for a special promotion just for Amateur Hour listeners!
In this episode, the crew discusses the pros and cons of importing a horse from Europe. Professional rider, trainer, and USEF “r” judge Elizabeth Blaisdell joins briefly to offer advice.
In this episode of Amateur Hour the crew discusses all things showing in the era of COVID, everything from which shows have been cancelled to personal experiences at recent shows. Taylor & Claire tell all about their COVID showing experience, and everyone weighs in on whether or not shows should be happening at all during a pandemic.
Kelly and Claire chat with Carly Prosser- the creator of the seasonal equine subscription box Cavali Club. Carly delves into what inspired the box, how she creates each curation, and the wonderful discovery of the female entrepreneurial spirit in equestrian small businesses. Make sure to listen to the end for an exclusive discount code on the Fall Box, which is sure to be a home run!
Taylor and Olivia welcome Shawna A Simmons of SAS Equine Photography. Shawna is an award winning, Washington D.C. based traveling equine lifestyle photographer. Shawna's photos can be found on the cover of the 2020 WEF Prize List, Sideline's Magazine (7 times!), and many more. "You always receive twice as much as you give." - SAS. For booking: contact info@SASequinephotography.com or DM SASequinephotography on Instagram.
In this episode the crew answers more listener submitted questions. Plus, there is an exciting surprise.
The crew catches up on summer plans, and discusses their latest must-have products from Riding Warehouse.
In this episode, the crew interviews Amateur rider and Boutique Warmblood Sporthorse Breeder, Anneliese Kannow from Three Wishes Farm, in California.
We are so excited to welcome owner, founder, and designer of Ruespari, Adrienne Marciano to the show! Sit back, relax, and learn all about Adrienne's start with riding, inspiration for Ruespari, new products, and how the brand came to be. Have a great ride!
Hi everyone, this is our second upload attempt after having some technical difficulties. Thank you to everyone who took time to send us questions in on our Instagram page (@amateurhour_podcast)! We had so many questions sent in that we will be doing a part II later on this summer. Have a great ride!
The ladies of Amateur Hour ask renowned trainer & judge Archie Cox listener submitted questions from what he looks for in the show ring to what makes a great amateur horse. There are a few recording technical difficulties regarding the sound quality, but stick with it because we promise it's worth it!
Hey friends! Another bonus quarantine episode here. On this episode of Amateur Hour, the crew discusses the USHJA AO/AA cross-entering rule and how to maintain a sense of community during quarantine. One last thank you to the sponsors of this episode. Stay safe and healthy everyone!
Amateur Hour is pleased to present our guest host, Claire Darnell! A member of the USEF Dressage Development Program, Claire is a USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medalist and recipient of the USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Freestyle Bars. She has competed in 11 USEF National Dressage Championships and has won USDF Regional Championship titles through Grand Prix, in addition to USDF Horse of the Year titles.
Bonus episode! This episode contains useful information regarding COVID-19, thanks to Dr. Lynn Taylor, MD., Jennifer Wilson, PA-C, and Sarah Bachor, PA-C. The other half of this episode is freeform in hopes of a few moments in a day not worrying about COVID-19. Stay safe and healthy everyone!
In this episode of Amateur Hour Kelly & Claire quiz their husbands on common equestrian phrases and ask them what it's like to be with a "horse girl". You won't want so miss the battle of the significant others!
This episode of Amateur Hour is brought to you by Riding Warehouse. A perfect one stop shop for all of your 2020 horse showing needs. On this episode, the crew discusses our favorite show gear for rider and horse. Stay tuned until the end for a super secret Riding Warehouse discount code!
In this episode, the crew discusses the volunteer culture at three day events and what to do with horses that need a new job. Also, Claire, who has a degree in English, is unable to get out the word “ proverbial.”
On this minisode, Claire and Olivia interview UVEX sponsored rider, Leah Lang-Gluscic. They discuss UVEX products as well as eventing at the top levels.
On this episode of Amateur Hour the ladies asked equine veterinarian Dr. Melissa Mitchell of Flower Mound, TX, listener submitted questions. We learned a ton from her and hope you do too!
Join Claire & Kelly as they get the inside scoop on The Tack Hack, a unique online consignment shop where you get Black Friday prices all year long. Listen carefully for an exclusive discount code!
In the first episode of 2020 the teams gets heated when discussing possible future rule changes. Tune in to hear the discussion, and decide for yourself which rules changes you think should be passed!
WARNING: There is a curse word in this episode and discussion about drug use.
On this episode, the crew discusses the Depo Ban, the Canadian equestrian team potentially not getting to go to the Olympics, and the Olympic Rule change
Racehorse trainer Laurie McDowell answers listener submitted questions, touches on the news coming out of Santa Anita as well as the call made on Maximum Security at the Kentucky Derby.
On this minisode Taylor and Kelly host RW staffer Josey who gives the girls a rundown on all the best winter finds at Riding Warehouse. Everything from winter boots, to breeches, to jackets, you won't want t miss all the tips Josey shares!
Is it already November? Yes. Are we still in the Halloween Spirit? Of course we are! Listener submitted spooky stories that give you goosebumps. Disclaimer: You do not have to disclose if there was a murder in a house that is being sold. Now that is the biggest spook of all. Enjoy! Thank you to the wonderful sponsors of this episode: Riding Warehouse, Dreamers n Schemers, and Grey Horse Candle Co.
In this episode, the crew discusses how they fit riding into their super adulty schedules and discuss their Instagram origin stories.
Join the crew as the team hosts a child and adolescent psychiatrist to help answer listener submitted questions regarding mental health in equestrians. Everything from how to deal with show ring nerves to the effect of equestrian culture and apparel on body image is addressed.
The crew gets together to discuss some of their favorite new tack and apparel items from Riding Warehouse. Be sure to listen for a special discount code!
In this episode, the crew discusses the benefits and common myths behind equine insurance as well as certain stressors that can come with changing barns.
In this episode the girls discuss the importance of proper bitting technique and the pros and cons (along with their own personal experiences) of clinics.
In this episode, the crew discusses where in the world they'd like to ride and moving up levels.
In this episode, the crew discusses safety around horses and the processes they took in purchasing a horse. Wear your helmet!
In this episode, the crew discusses bringing along green horses, how to handle a long break, other disciplines they’d love to try, and, of course, bowel trowels.
Join Taylor and Kelly as they talk to the creator and owner of The Fit Equestrian about all things fitness and nutrition. We justify your love of carbs, as well as sharing tips for setting goals and staying motivated.
In this episode, the crew discusses their favorite horsey movies as well as talking about myths and facts about keeping horses cool in the heat.
WARNING: this episode has some “mature” foot content.
In this minsode sponsored by Riding Warehouse the crew spills about some of their favorite products from fly sheets to boots to an arsenal of grooming supplies. Also hidden inside is a limited time promo code to save you money on your next RW order, but listen soon because it won't last long!
The crew answers more listener submitted questions seeking advice.
Due to technical difficulties, we had to cut quite a lot of Claire’s dialogue. We apologize for these changes.
Claire and Taylor interview attorney and fellow ammy rider Jackie Loyd on the ins and outs of Safe Sport.
In this episode, the crew responds to listener submitted requests for advice. Don’t worry, it’s EQier than it sounds!
In this episode, new information about bananas is presented. Will the banana come out on top, or is it’s reign as king of potassium over? The crew also shares listener submitted and personal accounts of what they want their trainers to know about being an amateur, as well as personal and listener submitted riding fails.
In this minisode of Amateur Hour, Kelly & Olivia go behind the scenes at Riding Warehouse, an online equestrian retailer. They interview Sonya Bengali, the marketing and communications director, getting the scoop on everything from the most popular products, to how to get the best deals!
In this episode the crew discusses often overlooked- but important- rules for barn safety while sharing personal and listener submitted stories of accidents and close calls at the barn. The crew also reflects on the need for kindness and transparency on social media, including the importance of setting a good example with popular platforms.
In this minisode Taylor gives a quick breakdown of CBD: what it is, what it claims to do and what you need to know from a legal standpoint. Please note: if you have any questions about the legality of CBD in your state, check out your state laws online at http://ncsl.org. Always consult a vet prior to purchasing or administering CBD or any natural supplement to your animals.
In this episode, the crew discusses the Land Rover Kentucky Three Day Event and what they like and don’t like about shows. And a lot about poop. Keep listening to the very end for a surprise serenade.
The Inclusion Episode
On this episode, the crew discusses the value of amateurs to the equestrian sport and the importance of inclusion in equestrian advertising.
Please remember to leave a review! And, check out our website at www.amateurhourequestrian.com/shop where you can buy our new shirts!
On this episode, the crew discusses controversial rules, such as the mileage rule and age limit classes. They also discuss bringing along green horses, and Claire successfully segues the conversation to talking about her daughter.
Don’t forget to follow the podcast on Instagram at @Amateurhour_podcast and check out our website: amateurhourequestrian.com.
In Ask Me Anything Part 2, the crew answers more listener submitted questions, such as what type of high school kid the horses would be. The crew also weighs in on the crop and spur debate and discusses having a forgiving mindset.
Please remember to subscribe and leave a review! Also, check out the new website https://www.amateurhourequestrian.com/
On this episode of Amateur Hour, the crew mixes things up by doing an Ask Me Anything style format where they respond to listener submitted questions. They discuss everything from which Olympian they would most like to lesson with to what one thing they would change about their horses if they could.
Please remember to subscribe and leave a review! Also, check out the new website https://www.amateurhourequestrian.com/
In this episode, the crew discusses listener submitted topics about flatwork routines and body image. The crew also discusses favorite saddle brands and plays a very serious game of horsey Never Have I Ever.
Please remember to subscribe and leave a review! Also, check out the new website https://www.amateurhourequestrian.com/
Our first minisode! Claire and Taylor read some “horsey fail” listener submissions, share their own personal fail stories and laugh... a lot. WARNING: contains slightly adult language and may not be suitable for younger listeners.
Happy Valentine’s Day from Amateur Hour! In this episode all about love, the crew tells their horsey love stories, discusses balancing time with their human loves and their horse loves, and talks about making social media a loving place for yourself and others. You’ll laugh. You’ll cry. You’ll leave feeling all lovely-dovey (maybe— don’t hold us to that one).
Also, check out our new website: https://www.amateurhourequestrian.com/
In this episode, Kelly and Claire interview Sissy Wickes, a R USEF judge and editor of The Plaid Horse Magazine. Of course, they ask the most important question currently facing hunter riders: how do judges really feel about burgundy show coats. They ask some other important questions too, including many listener submitted questions.
Are you an anxious ammy at shows? Cool! Us too! In this episode, the crew discusses dealing with show ring nerves, show day routines, and most embarrassing show memories. You’ll never look at a Starbucks banana the same way again! The crew also gives details for the big Instagram giveaway.
On this episode of Amateur Hour: An Equestrian Podcast, the crew discusses their New Year's resolutions, how they handle budgeting for their horses, and everyone's riding goals for 2019. Remember to subscribe and leave a (good) review!
The Crew:
Claire- @mdadultammy
Taylor- @theecequestrian
Kelly- @hunky_hanoverian
Olivia- @remarkablemare
Jordan- @westphaliandreamer
Warning: Santa and his existence are discussed in this episode! You may not want to listen with young children around
Note: Jordan incorrectly claims Santa Baby is in Mean Girls, but she meant Jingle Bell Rock. We have already chastised her for this mistake. It was certainly not fetch.
On this episode of Amateur Hour: An Equestrian Podcast, the crew discusses their holiday traditions, must have items to stay warm on those cold winter riding days, and ways to keep horses engaged when you're stuck in small (or in Claire's case, large) indoors. Remember to subscribe and leave a (good) review!
The Crew:
Claire- @mdadultammy
Taylor- @theecequestrian
Kelly- @hunky_hanoverian
Olivia- @remarkablemare
Jordan- @westphaliandreamer
Meet the crew of the podcast! Claire (@mdadultammy) who lives in Maryland and shows in the adult amateur hunters with her horse, Pluto. Taylor (@theecequestrian) who lives in Connecticut and shows in the AO hunters with two of her horses. Kelly (@hunky_ hanoverian) who lives in Texas and shows in the adult amateur hunters with Rio. Olivia (@remarkablemare) who also lives in Maryland and events in the beginner novice and and novice divisions with her homebred mare, Juliet. And, Jordan (@westphaliandreamer) who lives in Wisconsin and rides her three horses in all three rings. The group discusses important (and less important) USEF Rule Changes.