Equestrian Voices
Equestrian Voices dives deep into the emotions, lives, stories, and everything we don't talk about when it comes to life as an equestrian. Join our host, Caroline Culbertson, for vulnerable, different, and sometimes hilarious chats with riders from all backgrounds. We want to get the 'human' out of horse people. Thanks for being here.
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Why Play Is Key for Building “Try” in Your Horse, and How to Do It with Tik Maynard
03/26/2024
Why Play Is Key for Building “Try” in Your Horse, and How to Do It with Tik Maynard
When you picture adding “play” into your horse’s training, what comes to mind? Do you imagine your horse chasing around a large ball or nosing carrots out of a container? Or maybe you see your horse trotting joyfully behind you as you run? The fact is, play can look like a lot of different things, but it doesn’t have to be any of the above. Play’s purpose is to teach your horse how to “try”–and in the process, both horse and trainer achieve a cooperative partnership. Equestrian Masterclass instructor (and newly minted Road to the Horse Champion!!!) Tik Maynard is a horsemanship and upper-level eventing coach who sees ‘play’ not as a series of exercises, but as a beneficial mindset. In the final episode of Equestrian Voices, Tik and Caroline discuss why play is crucial to horse training and how to incorporate it into daily interactions. They also cover: The difference between anxiety and playfulness in horses, and why it’s easy to confuse them. Using the social rules of play to ensure both you and your horse are winning the game. Bringing play and thoughtfulness into daily activities like leading your horse. What play is not–drilling, a chore, or hard work! Why it’s important to slow down and take a puzzle-solving approach. Rewarding softness and effort during play. Adding play into our training can teach us to be better observers, facilitate better communication, and reignite our passion for horses. If you loved this episode, watch for Tik Maynard’s latest Equestrian Masterclass, which launches in May. This is our final episode of Equestrian Voices. Thank you, thank you, thank you for being here.
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It Doesn't Have to Feel This Stressful: What Your Nervous System Has to Do with Performance, with Natalie Hummel
03/12/2024
It Doesn't Have to Feel This Stressful: What Your Nervous System Has to Do with Performance, with Natalie Hummel
Why do competitions make our hearts hammer, mouths go dry, and hands tremble? We may never get nervous riding at home, but as soon as we step into that show ring (or clinic, or in front of peers, or riding a difficult horse), it can feel like something primal just takes over. As it turns out, that is exactly what’s happening. Competition (whether you’re actually at a show or not) is deeply rooted into our biology and the presence of it can cause our bodies to fight, flight, or freeze. Certainly not the modes we want to be in when we’re trying to remember a course, or relax our tense horses. Thanks, evolution. The good news is that our nervous system doesn’t have to hinder us, in fact, it can help us. But it takes some work, and some information. Natalie Hummel is a high performance coach specializing in nervous system regulation. In this episode, she and Caroline discuss how we can improve our results by creating our own sense of safety and expanding our capacities for stress and pressure. They also cover: The three different nervous system states and why some of them make learning new things biologically impossible. How to process uncomfortable emotions like fear, shame, or anger, so you can get back to a performance state. Why shame and feelings of “not enoughness” may be holding you back, even if you’re not aware of them. Why overworking, perfectionism, and knowledge-seeking, are actually avoidance strategies. How to recognize ineffective coaching. Thank you to our sponsors, and .
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Toplines: Spotting Pain, Dysfunction, and Myths that Need to Be Busted with Ansley Bevan
02/27/2024
Toplines: Spotting Pain, Dysfunction, and Myths that Need to Be Busted with Ansley Bevan
Muscle tension and underdevelopment are a precursor to injury, making topline development crucial to keeping horses healthy and sound. Elasticity through the back allows horses to move freely, support riders, and meet our performance expectations. So why do so many performance horses have underdeveloped muscles and signs of discomfort? Unfortunately, a lack of knowledge, overlooking pain symptoms, and the absence of species-appropriate care keeps many horses in constant tension–but we can change that. In this conversation, Caroline is joined by licensed equine bodyworker and educator Ansley Bevan, who shares her knowledge of equine biomechanics and identifying pain to sustain a healthy topline. They cover a wide range of topics and solutions, including: Assessing your horse’s topline by observing them in motion and palpating their muscles. Signs of pain you may have missed. Why poor saddle fit can cause atrophy and compensatory movement. Whether nutrition has a role in topline management. What is species-specific care, and why it’s critical for supporting the horse's natural movement and digestive system. How to rehabilitate the topline with saddle fit, groundwork, and movement. If you love this podcast and want more visual demonstration, Ansley’s course on assessing and rehabilitating the topline will be available on EquestrianMasterclass.com on March 4, 2024.
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Tempo, Pace, and Rhythm: It’s Not Just Semantics. With Hunter/Eq Judge Rob Van Jacobs
02/13/2024
Tempo, Pace, and Rhythm: It’s Not Just Semantics. With Hunter/Eq Judge Rob Van Jacobs
“More impulsion!” Most of us have heard our coaches cry – usually accompanied by a hearty clap or imitation of riding forward. But what does ‘impulsion’ actually mean to you, your trainer, or the judge scoring you? By listener request, we’re breaking down riding terms that have mystified riders for years. Caroline is joined by Rob Van Jacobs, a USEF “R” Rated judge for hunters and equitation. As a judge, trainer and rider, Rob interprets the differences between rhythm, tempo, pace, and speed not as semantics but as part of a show ring strategy. Understanding these terms can improve your communication as a rider or trainer, and influence your decisions moving forward. For instance, knowing ‘tempo’ can help you select which show rings your horse can thrive in and offer important considerations for buying horses. We’ll also cover: Why pace is more helpful than speed in the jumper ring The difference between natural vs. created impulsion What “hacking” actually means and how it relates to recovery and fitness How to make a good first and last impression on a judge (yes, judges do notice if you forget to pet your horse!) Caroline and Rob also dive into some hot topics like whether or not judges need to have equivalent riding experience to the classes they are judging and where we may need to draw the line on draw-reins.
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It’s 4:30 AM and Your Goals are Calling, with Paralympian Amelia White
01/30/2024
It’s 4:30 AM and Your Goals are Calling, with Paralympian Amelia White
Amelia White was just 18 years old when she was the victim of a traumatic car accident that changed her entire life. A university student and active eventer, Amelia suddenly found herself out of school, out of the saddle, and in ongoing surgeries. Despite doctors’ best efforts, Amelia was left with a permanent disability that required her to change her goals and aspirations. In this inspiring episode, Amelia sits down with Caroline and reflects on her journey that took her from lying in a hospital bed, to achieving her Master’s, to trotting down the centerline at the Paralympic Games. Amelia’s ambition, sense of humor, and dedication are nothing short of extraordinary, and you won’t want to miss her insights on: How focusing on what you can control can help you through traumatic or difficult times. Why mental health detriments may come years after an accident. Her initial resistance to becoming a para-rider. Why Olympic success does not guarantee an easier path. How to balance a career with your equestrian ambitions. What personal sacrifices it takes to make it to the top. Support our show by supporting our sponsors: - Luxury apparel for equestrians (use code noellefloyd15 at checkout!) - Equine Insurance Services - go to equestrianmasterclass.com/voices for $50 off an annual membership!
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How to Change a Spooky Horse into a Thinking Horse, with Josh Nichol
01/16/2024
How to Change a Spooky Horse into a Thinking Horse, with Josh Nichol
There’s no taking the spook out of a horse. As prey animals, horses will always want to run away first. Combine this fact with modern breeding programs that produce lighter, more responsive horses and many of us may find ourselves riding with a pounding heart and sweaty palms, fearing that inevitable spook. But a spooky horse isn’t a problem; it’s the symptom of a problem that starts with your relationship. Josh Nichol has helped countless of riders develop healthy partnerships with their horses through his method of Relational Horsemanship™. He joins Caroline for a thought-provoking conversation about how meeting your horse's needs can forge deeper connections, encourage softness, and reduce spooking. They also cover practical and key techniques like: Meeting your horses’ self-preservation needs with mind, space and pressure. Encouraging a horse to think with pressure and softness. Using mindfulness to manage your reactions to your horse. Recognizing where a horse stores tension in their body. Understanding the difference between masculine and feminine energy in horse training. Why doing own own internal work can strengthen our partnerships Support our shoy by supporting our sponsors:
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Evolve Your Student/Trainer Relationship, with Annette Paterakis
01/09/2024
Evolve Your Student/Trainer Relationship, with Annette Paterakis
Thinking about all the ways our sport needs to evolve can be overwhelming. When there are so many organizations, individuals, and stakeholders we want to inspire change in. However, evolving the sport doesn’t need to start at the top. It can start with you right now; with your mindset as a rider or trainer. Annette Paterakis is a mindset coach for equestrians and the author of “Winning Habits – How Elite Equestrians Master the Mental Game.” Annette helps all levels of riders, including Olympians, build confident, consistent, and powerful mindsets and behaviors. In this episode, Annette and host Caroline speak about the student-trainer relationship and how introspection and vulnerability can move us closer to our goals. They also dive into: The mental difference between top riders and everyday equestrians (spoiler alert: it’s not as much as you might think!) What is the student’s responsibility, and what is the trainer’s Practical tips for getting the most out of the student/trainer relationship (whether you’re the student or the trainer). How the relationship should shift from ‘parent/child’ model, to ‘adult/adult’ and become more reciprocal Our most important responsibility as riders Support our show by supporting our sponsors: - Luxury Equestrian Apparel - Empowering Equestrians Everywhere
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Rewind the Year With Us! 5 Favorite Moments of EV from 2023
12/26/2023
Rewind the Year With Us! 5 Favorite Moments of EV from 2023
It was a record-breaking year for Equestrian Voices, as we won two more awards (W3 Awards) and topped the Goodpods chart. We couldn’t have done it without you, our listeners! From the entire EV team - THANK YOU. To celebrate this remarkable year, host Caroline Culbertson is rewinding 5 favorite moments of the pod in 2023 with colleague and longtime media friend, Sally Spickard. Many of you will already know Sally Spickard–you’ve definitely read her content before. Sally has written over 4000 equestrian articles, currently produces Equestrian Masterclasses for NOELLE FLOYD, and is the co-publisher of Eventing Nation. Sally and Caroline are breaking down our most memorable moments in 2023, including: How more equestrians can embody athletic identities to match the fitness expectations we have for our horses How we can merge honoring our horses’ best selves with our own ambitions What it means to be confident in the saddle, and how self-awareness and self-dialogue can get you there How we can begin to repair our relationships with our horses and with ourselves Listening to this recap will ensure you don’t miss some of the most powerful, transformative moments of the year. Not only can these clips uplevel your riding, but they can enhance the way you relate to your horse, yourself and the sport.
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Why Michael Pollard Quit the Sport at the Height of His Career
12/12/2023
Why Michael Pollard Quit the Sport at the Height of His Career
Michael Pollard had what most of us could only dream of - a meteoric rise in the discipline of Eventing (including winning a Pan Am Games team Gold Medal in 2011), a string of talented horses, a strong non-horse business that supported his riding career, and a supportive group of sponsors, friends and family. But then, to the surprise of many, Michael retired from the sport in 2016, selling all of his horses. He went from spending most of his time training and riding, to not sitting on a horse for several years. In a strikingly candid conversation, host Caroline Culbertson sits down with Michael to get the story behind this difficult decision; the events that led up to it, the immediate aftermath, and how he’s come back to the sport now as not only a different rider, but also a different person. This special, not-to-be-missed discussion also touches on many taboo, yet common, aspects of horse sport, including: A frank dialogue about addiction, and how it nearly derailed his entire early riding career Financial strain of competing, especially at the top level Addressing the holes in your training Dealing with the loss of a horse (and in Michael’s case, multiple horses at once in a devastating trailer accident) Balancing riding with family, and the tough calls that are made along the way How to allow yourself to be OK with changing paths while deciding what truly matters in your life Why taking a break from horses doesn’t have to be a thing you avoid doing at all costs 3 little things to do if you’re getting back into riding after a break
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Why a Hot Bran Mash Doesn’t Keep Your Horse Warm, and other Blanketing Myths Busted with Dr. DeBoer
11/29/2023
Why a Hot Bran Mash Doesn’t Keep Your Horse Warm, and other Blanketing Myths Busted with Dr. DeBoer
As the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, the time comes once more for the biggest decision of the winter: Do you blanket your horse, or not? And, which one? (Heavy, medium, medium-light, neck or no neck?!) Some riders put a sheet on at the slightest sign of a chill, while others keep their horses bare regardless of outside conditions. And of course, there are the temperature charts that pop up each year, which are meant to apply hard and fast rules to blanketing, but never actually seem to. In this episode of Equestrian Voices, host Caroline Culbertson sits down with Dr. Michelle DeBoer of the University of Wisconsin, who has a PhD in Animal Science and whose research delves into this singular question of horse ownership. In their extremely informative discussion, they discuss all things blanketing, and some of the ancillary topics blanketing invariably brings up, including: Thermoregulation, and how horses use it to keep themselves warm (and how clipping alters that process) Why thinking that if you’re cold, then your horse is also cold, is incorrect How breeds, body size, and age should affect your blanketing choices Why a hot bran mash doesn’t actually help keep our horses warm (though it does warm our hearts!) Whether or not blanketing early in the season means you have to continue to blanket all season What outside factors to take into consideration when thinking about blanketing besides just the weather To learn more about Dr. DeBoer's work, check out her You can read a summary of the Norway study referenced in this episode
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Can We Help Horses Heal from Trauma and Grief? Using Physical Touch to Heal Emotional Wounds with Good Shepherd Gabriel
11/14/2023
Can We Help Horses Heal from Trauma and Grief? Using Physical Touch to Heal Emotional Wounds with Good Shepherd Gabriel
Horses are well known for their power to heal. The positive feelings we have after spending time with our horses are, after all, one of the main reasons why we ride, and equine therapy is used to treat a wide range of physical and mental health challenges. How often, though, do we think about the flip side of the coin - how do our actions help, or hinder, our horses’ mental and emotional well being? How can we as horse lovers be more in tune with the spiritual needs of our partners, and show up for them in a state that disrupts their natural way of being as little as possible? How can modalities like bodywrok help our horses heal when they need it? This week, host Caroline Culberston sits down with Gabriel Gandzjuk, better known as , to discuss his work healing horses with both mental and physical injuries in their lives mainly through shiatsu massage and acupressure. Their deep conversation also delves into: What “healing for horses” means, both physically and mentally How horses process touch, and how it figures into his work The ways in which horses process grief, and how we can support our horses when they experience it Pain and stress behaviors in horses from the perspective of a practitioner who grew up outside of the horse world and didn’t come to them until adulthood How you can support your horse spiritually, physically, and emotionally
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Changing Your Goals, Finding a New Horse, and “My-horse-itis” with Chelsea Canedy
10/31/2023
Changing Your Goals, Finding a New Horse, and “My-horse-itis” with Chelsea Canedy
You’ve just left the barn after another frustrating lesson, and you don’t know what to do. You know that your horse is more than capable of achieving the goals you’ve set for your riding, but in your heart, you also don’t feel like your horse is having fun in the process. How do you go about deciding when it’s time for a new direction for both you and your horse? What are the feelings that come up during the process, and once the decision is made, how do you move forward with a new partnership? In our latest Equestrian Voices episode, host Caroline Culbertson sits down with Equestrian Masterclass instructor Chelsea Canedy to talk about all of this and more, as Chelsea shares her first hand experience of selling her long time partner, Albert, and transitioning to a new (and very different) mare, Lila. They also discuss: Evaluating your goals as a rider Deciding whether or not those goals line up what your horse enjoys doing Getting a handle on your ego as it relates to your partnership with a horse (new or otherwise) Finding your own, unique joy as a rider Integrating a new horse into your life The emotions wrapped up in purchasing a new horse, and selling an old one If this episode resonates with you, Chelsea Canedy has a new Equestrian Masterclass training program available now that walks you through the first 30 days with a new horse, or gives you tools for a "relationship reset". Go to www.equestrianmasterclass.com/newhorse to purchase the bundle for $27.
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Is the Forward Seat Still Relevant? Peter Wylde on Rider Style, Feel, and Evolution of Position
10/10/2023
Is the Forward Seat Still Relevant? Peter Wylde on Rider Style, Feel, and Evolution of Position
Americans are known for their smooth, forward positions on the horse, so much so that it became known as the ‘American Forward Seat’. But how has it evolved over the years as our light, sensitive Thoroughbreds have blended with the heavier horses of Europe? Does it still provide the same effective foundation today as it did before, or is it less relevant today? In this episode, Caroline sits down with Olympic Gold Medalist and former top show jumping rider, Peter Wylde. Peter, whose depth and breadth of experience also includes coaching top eventing like Boyd Martin and Liz Halliday Sharp, digs into all of the above questions, and so much more. The amount of knowledge covered in this special episode is truly astounding, and includes topics such as: How the American “Forward Seat” originated, and how it’s blended with the European style of riding to create a more modern, effective version The effects of globalization of the sport on rider position Why modern course design has had a direct impact on how riders position themselves in the saddle A list of riders who Peter believe are excellent riders to study and emulate Defining what “riding style” actually means and encompasses The role that confidence plays in developing (and keeping) a positive riding style The differences in both environment and rider culture between top 3 Day Eventing and Show Jumping competitions. The nuances of coaching elite level riders It’s worth noting that if you like what you hear, Peter Wylde has an Equestrian Masterclass that’s all about how to become an effective, smooth rider. You can get $50 off an annual membership by going to Support our show by supporting our sponsors!
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What It’s Really Like to Run a Horse Rescue (All Seated in a Barn & Storeybrook Farm)
09/26/2023
What It’s Really Like to Run a Horse Rescue (All Seated in a Barn & Storeybrook Farm)
We’ve all seen the pictures: the emaciated horse who looks ancient, but in actuality is in their prime, their coat dirty and their eyes dull. We’ve all also had the desire to just hook up our trailer (or commandeer one) and take them home to a better life. Unfortunately, few of us have the resources or the means to follow through on that impulse - so how do we go about helping all of the horses who are in dire need? And what are the lives like of the people who do follow through and take the one (or in one of our guest’s case…more than one) horses back home - what do they want everyone to know about their lives and organizations? What do they really need from us to succeed and keep their doors open? In this episode of Equestrian Voices, host Caroline Culbertson sits down with Tahlia Fischer from and Olivia Alcorta from . In their candid, heartfelt, conversation, Caroline and her guests discuss many of the seen (and unseen) aspects of the horse rescue world, including: How they came to each run horse rescues. The common misconceptions about rescues that people carry with them. The day to day reality of what it takes What horse rescues can (and cannot) provide for the horses they receive. An open kimono discussion about vet bills, and the overall costs of running an organization that regularly brings horses back from the brink. Most importantly, how you can best help these critically important organizations in their work. - Innovative equestrian equipment driven by research and technology. Use discount code "voices" at checkout for 5% off. - Maker of the ultimate riding glove and the smartphone-carrying saddle pad. - Personalized coverage with competitive rates for equine mortality, major medical & surgical coverage, and more. - Empowering equestrians everywhere. #1 in digital equestrian eduction in North America. Go for $50 off an annual membership.
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Why Doesn’t Riding Have An Athletic Culture? Embracing Rider Wellness with Ifa Simmonds
09/12/2023
Why Doesn’t Riding Have An Athletic Culture? Embracing Rider Wellness with Ifa Simmonds
When you go to a horse show, you can see riders diligently warming up their horses prior to competition, making sure their partner is both mentally and physically ready for the task ahead. But you rarely (if ever) see those same riders warming themselves up before they mount up, making sure they are just as prepared. Why is there such a vast disconnect between horse preparation and wellness and rider self-care, and how is it affecting our sport? On today’s podcast, Caroline is joined by Ifa Simmonds of . Ifa’s Equestrian Fitness Academy (EFA) is a holistic online program with categorized fitness training, nutrition, and mindset programs geared to improve riders from the inside out. The program's signature system helps riders in the 4 pillars equestrians often look to improve upon (Stability, Suppleness, Strength & Stamina). He also believes in a holistic approach to fitness - not just lunges and crunches. In their wide-reaching, thoughtful discussion, Caroline and Ifa touch on many topics around fitness and wellness in the equestrian world, including: What it truly means to be an “Athlete” - and how to determine if you are one (or not) If there is an Athlete’s Culture in equestrian sport (or not) The concept of “wellness” and what it fully means Consistency, and how to use it effectively The difference between intention and action, and how it affects our riding Habits, and how early adoption can help ingrain helpful ones (and not-so-helpful ones!) Trigger warning - body weight, and how Ifa feels it does or doesn’t correlate to performance Rest, recovery, and how to think about both as part of your overall performance and fitness
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Amy Skinner: “If you don’t understand pressure, you’ll be forced to overuse it.”
08/29/2023
Amy Skinner: “If you don’t understand pressure, you’ll be forced to overuse it.”
There are many ideas about what good training looks like with horses. We imagine a well-trained horse as one who is able to perform its job at a high level, and view subsequent competition results as a validation of correctness. But what if that same horse can’t be mounted without being held, or has trouble loading onto/unloading off the trailer? Can we still say the horse is well trained if it’s not able to navigate the world around it with confidence? These questions, and so many more, are explored in our latest podcast episode, where Caroline sits down with Amy Skinner of Amy Skinner Horsemanship to dig into what “good training”, pressure, and horsemanship means in the equestrian industry. Amy Skinner is a highly sought after trainer and rider who gives clinics around the country, as well as being the author of two books around her training methods and unique background in the sport. She specializes in “problem” horses and helping horses and riders find better connections. Centering her philosophy around Classical Dressage and postural rehabilitation, Amy is a unique voice with deep insights into horses, training, and life in general. In their intimate (and funny) conversation, Caroline and Amy discuss a wide variety of topics, including: The concept of “pressure” and how it plays into the lives of both horses and humans Why competition results aren’t always the best litmus test for good training Where we fall short in training our horses, and how we can become more self aware of our own gaps Appropriate training levels for young horses, and why our hyper competitive space can break horses down early The concept of a training “bank account”, and how our actions either pull from it, or deposit into it Why horses who are trained solely through pressure and pain responses will never be truly safe.
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Understand Your Competitive Drive So That It Doesn’t Work Against You (Or Your Horse)
08/08/2023
Understand Your Competitive Drive So That It Doesn’t Work Against You (Or Your Horse)
For most of us, competition is a large part of why we choose to ride, and also for most of us, we allow this drive to steer our behavior without really giving it too much thought. But science shows that our competitive drive is not a mystery. In fact, learning about this powerful force behind our motivation can help us shape it towards positive, growth-minded outcomes, and avoid the potential negative consequences it can also bring. In our latest episode of Equestrian Voices, host Caroline Culbertson sits down with Dr. Stephen Garcia, a professor in the Graduate School of Management at UC Davis and an expert on the psychology of competition, judgment, and decision-making. They discuss: Why you feel competitive with some people, and not with others. What to know about your own competitiveness when you’re involving another party (in our case, the horse) to reach your own goals. Why some high performing athletes are also some of the most arrogant ones Growth Mindset, and how it can be a positive force when paired with a competitive drive Looking at those who outperform you with admiration sometimes, and other times with envy (and the potential outcomes of each viewpoint)
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4 Ideas to Make Show Jumping More Engaging (and Why That Matters)
07/25/2023
4 Ideas to Make Show Jumping More Engaging (and Why That Matters)
While many riders need no excuse to tune into a livestream to watch the top show jumping athletes of our day duke it out at the FEI level, there are a lot of people who consider themselves sports enthusiasts who are nonetheless pretty lost when they try to watch the upper levels of the sport. Let’s not even start on how many of our friends and family would politely decline an invitation to a 5* Grand Prix viewing party. They would rather spend the weekend watching a football or basketball game - two sports of many that draw far more eyeballs and dollars despite (in our opinion) not being half as exciting to watch. So what’s the disconnect between the top levels of FEI show jumping and the meager sponsorship and viewership that it rakes in? In this podcast, sport scientist Dr. Tim Worden and grand prix rider Sean Jobin – both of whom have an interest in the sport’s long term health and future – bring forth their 4 ideas for bringing in more funding for the top showjumping competitions, as well as more people viewing them. In this podcast, Caroline, Sean, and Dr. Worden discuss: Proposed updates to the FEI ranking system, and why they would benefit horses, riders, and spectators Making horse purchase prices available to the public, and why it would increase interest in watching them go How better analytics could engage new fans of the sport Updating the current FEI class structure (and why the current structure might not be the best for the sport in the long run) Why it matters that show jumping become more interesting for the fans that watch it The challenges that come with prize money not increasing in proportion to the expense of the sport What do you think? Email us - , DM us on social, or call us and leave us a voicemail: +1 (236) 428-7868
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“Age Is Not A Disease”: Considerations for Caring for Aging Horses with Dr. Katie Sheats
07/11/2023
“Age Is Not A Disease”: Considerations for Caring for Aging Horses with Dr. Katie Sheats
There are stereotypes for just about everything when it comes to the horse world, and aging horses are no exception. We picture a hard keeper becoming increasingly thin over time, or maybe we imagine a recently retired athlete going out to a big pasture with a herd of other horses and immediately feeling content. But just like with every stereotype, these perceptions do not tell the full story, and can actually be harmful in the long run to our equine partners. In this episode, we dive into all things Golden Oldies. We aim to clarify the physiology behind the equine aging process, and debunk some common myths in the process (spoiler alert - not all old horses struggle with weight loss!). Our guest this week is Dr. Katie Sheats, an assistant professor of Equine Primary Care and a specialist in Equine Internal Medicine at NC State College of Veterinary Medicine. In addition to specializing in the care of older horses, Dr. Sheets also owns two senior horses in their 30s who live in her backyard. In short, she has an immense amount of both clinical and real-world experience when it comes to this topic, and she has an accordingly vast amount of knowledge to share. Here are just a few of the topics Caroline and Dr. Sheats discuss in this week’s episode: What causes aging in horses? It’s more than just the passing of time... How weight plays into horse health as they age How teeth condition and gut health factors in older horses Tips and tricks for good preventative care Common chronic illnesses in older horses (and how you can get the jump on them far before your horses turn Sr.) Arthritic and orthopedic issues in older horses Deciding when to retire your horse, and what that retirement might look like for them (it’s not always just a big field and no work!) How to navigate the difficult decisions and conversations that one must face as horses near the end of their life
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The Horses, Breeding, and Evolution of Show Jumping with Helena Stormanns
06/27/2023
The Horses, Breeding, and Evolution of Show Jumping with Helena Stormanns
There’s no question that the show jumping horses of today are different from the horses of 30, even 20 years ago. As courses continue to get increasingly technical and fast, breeders are producing increasingly athletic horses to match…or is it that cause/effect relationship the other way around? And what about the horses who are bred to jump 1.60, but either through a bad start or through genetics (or both), never reach that level - can a horse bred for a top Olympian still be rideable enough for the everyday amateur? To help us answer these questions (and so many more), we turn to Helena Stormanns, one of show jumping’s most respected coaches, horse-rider matchmakers, and breeders who was a top rider herself. In addition to talking about show jumping breeding today, and how it’s changed from the breeding of yesterday, Helena and Caroline also dive into: How Helena thinks about breeding for, or selecting horses for, the elite pro versus the amateur rider Show jumping stallions and breeding lines that Helena personally loves, some proven and some quite new New horse-rider partnerships, from the POV of both the rider and the horse Bits, and how they factor into developing a young horse Why no one is doing enough flatwork Helena’s views on The Olympics and the role BigEq plays in developing riders for top levels of show jumping sport Why buying a horse “off the rack” is never the good idea it can sometimes appear to be
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Symmetry, Strength, and Optimizing the Rider's Seat
06/13/2023
Symmetry, Strength, and Optimizing the Rider's Seat
There’s so much more to your seat and symmetry in the saddle than meets the eye. It’s not just about good equitation or looking pretty in the saddle. Your horse’s health, musculature, and soundness are profoundly impacted by your balance while you ride. Also, it’s just plain miserable to constantly be fighting your own position while you ride. If you’re constantly focusing on just turning your toes in, or not falling off the left side of your horse, there’s little hope to be effective and clear with your aids, thereby growing your partnership with your horse. But, here on Equestrian Voices, we have good news! One, there’s a lot you can do out of the saddle to fix position issues that you’re having in the saddle. (Yes, in this regard, you truly can become a better rider from your living room!) Two, most problems with seat and position come down to 3 main symmetry issues, and we talk all about them in this ep. We’ve turned to Maeve Sheridan MCSP, owner/operator of . Maeve is a highly specialized physiotherapist - for both people AND horses - with over 20 years of experience treating musculoskeletal disorders and sports injuries. Caroline and Maeve tackle: The three main symmetry issues (front to back, side to side, and rotational) and how they manifest both in and out of the saddle How asymmetry in the saddle greatly affects your horse (and how it can sometimes lead to injury) The main muscles involved in producing symmetry in your own body - spoiler alert, it’s not your core. Basic exercises you can do out of the saddle to strengthen your sense of symmetry in the saddle How your own anatomy affects body position in the saddle (all rider’s who turn out their toes, this is for you..) How saddle fit and design helps (or hurts) how symmetrical you can be in the tack You can also check out for more exercises and information on how to strengthen your own seat.
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Asking the Hard Questions: A Conversation with Noëlle Floyd
05/30/2023
Asking the Hard Questions: A Conversation with Noëlle Floyd
If you’re listening to this podcast, then you probably know the name of the company producing it: Noëlle Floyd. What you might not know, though, is that this is also the name of our CEO and Founder. Noëlle started her namesake business as a personal blog meant to detail her career and experiences in the world of show jumping, and since then it’s become what you know today - a hub for media, discussion, and education, now in its 11th year. Caroline Culbertson sat down with Noëlle to talk about the evolution of the industry and sport as she sees it, and the hard questions she’s had to ask herself along the way. This special behind-the-scenes look at the evolution of Noëlle Floyd also dives into: Noëlle’s experience as a working professional in the show jumping world What she learned when she stepped away from being on the competition "hamster wheel" How the tone has shifted in the horse world (mostly for the better) The concept of “social license” and how it fits into the equestrian space The role and responsibility of the media in horse sport A candid conversation about grief The balance of life and horses, and how to navigate that tension
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Deep Dive: Understanding Kissing Spines
05/09/2023
Deep Dive: Understanding Kissing Spines
Your horse is cold backed and unpredictable at the mounting block. Under saddle, he goes around inverted, and can sometimes even kick out or spook suddenly. One of your friends casually says, “Maybe he has Kissing Spines,” and your heart skips - you’ve heard of it before, and know that it’s definitely not good. Kissing Spines disease in horses has been increasingly diagnosed in recent years, and can even be a reason why some people pass on a horse during a pre purchase exam - but we know more about diagnosing, treating, and managing this condition than we ever have. In this conversation, Dr. Kara Brown helps us break down the in/outs of this disease, as well as what you should be worried about (and what you shouldn’t) if your horse is diagnosed with it. Along with listener questions, Caroline and Dr. Brown discuss: The anatomy of the back, and how it relates to Kissing Spines What we know (and don’t) about what causes this condition The grading system vets use to assess severity How to properly palpate your horse’s back The best (and most recent) diagnosis methods Surgical and non-surgical treatment options Longer-term management and strengthening methods The book referenced with regard to rehabilitation and strengthening: A bit about Kara Brown, VMD, DACVSMR: Dr. Brown attended veterinary school at the University of Pennsylvania and completed specialty training (including a fellowship in Large Animal Cardiology and Ultrasound and residency in Equine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation) at the University of Pennsylvania, New Bolton Center. She is also a diplomate of the American College of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation and will be joining the faculty at the University of Pennsylvania in July. She has a special interest in complex poor performance in the sport horse, and has published research on varied topics within this subject.
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Bitting Roundtable: Liza Towell Boyd, Liz Halliday-Sharp, Betsy Steiner, and Stephanie Brown-Beamer
04/25/2023
Bitting Roundtable: Liza Towell Boyd, Liz Halliday-Sharp, Betsy Steiner, and Stephanie Brown-Beamer
If you’re a regular to the Equestrian Voices podcast, you know that bitting is a subject we return to time and again. This is because bits have such a dramatic impact on a horse’s happiness and performance - and it’s an area we still have so much to learn about! So we decided to come back to this topic, this time bringing together top professionals from the Hunter/Jumper, Eventing, and Dressage disciplines to discuss how their ideas about bits and bitting developed over the course of their careers, and to see if there were any common threads between disciplines that could shed some new light on how to approach bitting for our own horses. During this roundtable, our four special guests also focused on how bitting differs (and is more often the same) between different areas of our industry, as well as misconceptions/pitfalls for each specific concentration. We also talk about how education plays such a huge role in choosing bits for our equine partners, and where we might be falling short as an industry in that area. GUESTS: Liza Towell Boyd Liz Halliday-Sharp Betsy Steiner Stephanie Brown-Beamer Additional resources: [LISTEN] [LISTEN]What’s Your Horse Trying to Tell You About His Bit? () () If you want to do some more exploration on your own, head to the (not sponsored) and nerd out on the topic of bits and bitting. Your horse will appreciate it!
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(Part 2) Creating Openness and Growth in the Horse/Rider Relationship
04/11/2023
(Part 2) Creating Openness and Growth in the Horse/Rider Relationship
When it comes to riding, more often than not the focus is placed on the horse - what are they doing, how are they feeling, what can we improve with them, etc. But we all know that the horse is only 50% of the equation - the other 50%? You: the rider. So why does it always feel like focusing on yourself, especially out of the saddle, is somehow selfish or irrelevant in terms of your time and effort? In the second of this two-part podcast, host Caroline Culbertson continues her conversation with Dr. Paul and Justin Haefner of to discuss the human part of the equation. Specifically, how being self-actualized and self-regulating can have a wildly positive influence on how our horses respond to us (and their environment) both on the ground and while being ridden. During this continued conversation, Caroline, Dr. Paul, and Justin also discuss: Why investing in yourself as a self actualized person is also an investment in your riding. The mix of patience and process in the horse/rider relationship. How truly powerful it can be when a trainer claims both their place and their competence in the larger industry. The way in which disintegration can exacerbate moments of fear or tension in the saddle, and how to overcome it. The Polyvagal Theory (we’re getting very technical and we love it!) and how it applies to riding. The difference between a “brilliant” horse and a horse that just doesn’t self regulate very well. How a horse’s job is more than what it does in the ring, and why that’s important to keep in mind. Why every rider has a responsibility to be aware of their ability (and their horse’s ability!) to self regulate in a given situation.
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Creating Openness and Growth in the Trainer/Student Relationship (Part 1)
03/28/2023
Creating Openness and Growth in the Trainer/Student Relationship (Part 1)
If you’ve ever taken a riding lesson, you know that it goes something like this: Your trainer stands in the middle of the ring giving you instructions, and you’re on the horse trying your darndest to follow those instructions precisely. It works… kinda. But bridging that gap between your trainer’s instructions and feeling/understanding can be challenging. Additionally, it can put the rider in a mindset of listening to the instructor which can, in turn, tune out the horse. So why does it continue to be pretty much the exclusive teaching method? Is there more to know when it comes to developing an effective back and forth between trainer and student? In the first of this two-part podcast, host Caroline Culbertson sits down with Paul and Justin Haefner of to discuss the many aspects of the student/trainer relationship, and how it can potentially change for the better into something more dynamic and fluid. Paul Haefner, PhD. is a licensed clinical and sport psychologist with more than 30 years of professional experience. His son Justin Haefner is a professional trainer who comes from a background in vaquero style natural horsemanship and specializes in the training and handling of young performance horses. Together, Dr. Paul and Justin help people create powerful opportunities for riders to transform their relationships with themselves and their horse in large and small ways. During this powerful conversation, Caroline and our guests discuss: The difference between knowing your subject matter and effectively teaching it. Why it's important to be aware of the many sensory inputs you experience while riding. Why understanding learning styles (and having trainers understand them, too!) can play such an important part in rider development. The gap between seeing a skill and experiencing a skill, and how to bridge it. Teaching “feel”, and why it’s critical to develop this skill sooner than later. The difference between doing something successfully and doing something well. Why the “Mean Trainer” should be a thing of the past. How trainers can think about their students seeking education outside of their barn.
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Do We Need More Toughness, or More Softness? With JJ Tate
03/14/2023
Do We Need More Toughness, or More Softness? With JJ Tate
Most riders desire to develop a horse who is a happy, willing participant in whatever task or discipline they’ve set out towards. But where the training narrative used to revolve around making sure the horse knows who’s the boss, newer methods value give and take and making sure your horse is heard in the conversation. The balance of toughness vs softness in riding has never been more at the forefront of discussion. We want our horses to respect boundaries and listen to our requests (especially for safety’s sake!). We also want our horses to learn from a place of mutual respect and understanding, not fear and retribution. The line isn’t always an easy one to walk, especially when preparing a horse for a results-focused competition. To help walk us through this landscape, we talk with top International Grand Prix Dressage rider JJ Tate. JJ has been competing at the highest levels since her junior years and has vowed to herself to train without shortcuts, with integrity and principles that are aligned with how horses think, move, and learn. She runs a USDF University Accredited online program called so anyone can access her expertise regardless of where they live, and was also mentored by the great Charles de Kunffy (she shares with us some of the wisdom she’s learned from him along the way, which is particularly special). In this broader conversation, JJ and host Caroline Culbertson discuss hardness and softness in training, and why it’s possible (maybe even necessary) to have both. They also dive into: The concept of “rider merit,” and how it should be assessed beyond just the competitive accolades a rider achieves What is “horse sport” really about, and what universal qualities does it share with other sports? Riding as character growth for both horse and rider The sort of rider you need to become to have the horse volunteer for you, and why it’s something we should all strive for How science is backing up the classical methods that have always worked Why being clear with your horse is actually in the long run being kind The “Growth Mindset” and how to achieve it as a rider How methods of horse training in the EU differ from methods in the US, and how both have their strengths and weaknesses
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Archie Cox on Generational Knowledge, Tradition, and Trainer Responsibility
02/28/2023
Archie Cox on Generational Knowledge, Tradition, and Trainer Responsibility
You hear it all the time: “Young riders today don’t know about horsemanship.” “Kids today just want to get on and ride.” “There are no more barn rats.” These complaints point to a larger potential issue of losing generational knowledge. Is it something we, as horsepeople, should be concerned about? To help us answer this question, we turned to Archie Cox, owner and head trainer at Brookway Stables. Along the way, our broad conversation covered a lot of ground that should hopefully make us all feel a little better about the future, and a little more empowered about how we can all become better horsemen. Archie has been immersed in the horse world his entire life, and has operated Brookway Stables for 23 years. During that time, he’s coached numerous horses and riders to national titles and wins at the biggest shows in the country, and remarkably through it all, he’s kept the same manager, farrier, and vet. His daily routine revolves around starting early (as in 3am!), staying consistent, and keeping things simple - all of which he says contributes to his amazing success in the industry. In the conversation, host Caroline Culbertson and Archie discuss: Whether riders in 2023 know as much about horse management as riders in 1983 The role of “tradition” and its connection to safety and function How passion acts as the driving force for those who seek out knowledge Social media, and why it’s such an important tool in horse education Archie’s two C’s: Consistency and Curiosity How to find your “flavor” of riding, and why the industry needs all types of riders The responsibility of trainers in teaching horse management as well as riding
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What Makes a Good Vet (& How to Be a Good Client)
02/14/2023
What Makes a Good Vet (& How to Be a Good Client)
Vets are one of the unsung heroes of horse sport. Horses are unfailingly creative (and effective) at hurting themselves; from a mystery lameness to a sudden colic to every type of laceration you could dream up, a day that goes by without some sort of injury is a good day by default. Because of this, having access to a good vet is a critical part of horse ownership, but the criteria for what makes someone a “good” vet is cloudy at best. How responsive and available should your vet be? What sort of equipment should they use? Is it better to work with one vet, or a team of several, and how do you go about putting that team together? And just how late is too late to text them? In this episode, host Caroline Culbertson sits down with equine veterinarian Dr. Lauren Schnabel (who is, by all accounts, a Good Vet) to try to get some clear answers to these questions. Dr. Schnabel is the Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at NC State University, and has over 20 years of equine clinical experience, and over 15 years of both equine and human research in the field of Sports Medicine. They discuss: How important are credentials? Hands-on experience? Personality/bedside manner? What else? Rules of communication for the client/vet relationship Questions to ask when screening a new vet How to handle mistakes when they happen The steps to creating a good “team” for your horse, and who should lead that team The best way to break up with your vet, should that step need to be taken How important equipment and diagnostic tools are when choosing a vet What if a vet has a troubling “red flag” in their past?
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Let’s Talk About That Helmet Study
01/31/2023
Let’s Talk About That Helmet Study
If you ride horses and have been on the internet in the past two months, chances are good you’ve heard about “that” helmet study -- specifically, the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab’s Equestrian STAR Helmet Rating Project. On the plus side, we learned that a fancy helmet wasn’t necessarily any safer than a basic, no frills (and much less expensive) helmet when it comes to protecting against brain injury and concussion. On the not so plus side, many of us suddenly found ourselves with lower scoring helmets and no clue what to do next. We had questions that we hadn’t seen answered yet - not just about the study and its findings, but about helmets in general. Host Caroline Culbertson sat down with Dr. Barry Miller and Sydney Moriarity to tackle things like: What should the average rider take away from this study? How do riding helmets compare to helmets in other sports? What does Sydney, a rider herself, make of these findings and how could it inform our helmet shopping approach? What about helmets for different disciplines and levels? (Yes, there are differences!) Dr. Miller joined the VA Tech Helmet lab in 2018 as their Director of Outreach and Business, and was a part of the study from start to finish. Sydney Moriarty received her BS degree in Neuroscience from VA Tech and brought her first hand, practical experience to the table as an accomplished rider in the Hunter/Jumper discipline. In this discussion, we also dive into: The study’s methodology, and what the STAR rating means What was so surprising about some of the outcomes High Energy Impact vs Low Energy Impact falls, and why each type plays a huge role in helmet construction and safety How hair length and style plays into helmet fit and safety (spoiler alert, long hair is ok!) Why you probably shouldn’t put your helmet in the dishwasher… How helmet companies are responding to the study, and what next steps for the sport might be If you would like to see the full study, including the methodology, please head to the official results and documentation page. of how the final Equestrian STAR Ratings was determined by Dr. Stefan Duma.
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