Horse Industry Podcast

Heather and Marley love Pie. Like, legit, they love their new adventures with their new horse, “We Love Pie!” Lynn and Regina loved hearing about the ins and outs of the hunter/jumper world. In this episode, Heather talks about her experience as a pleasure horseperson who went to the hunter/jumper segment of our industry. Heather and Marley are testing the waters and succeeding in this whole new horse world. Hair nets, daily horse baths with soap, daily tack cleaning, no showmanship classes, no trip to the show office on arrival, unique show class order, and on and on are the new norms in their horse show world. We’re all the same as horse people. And yet, our worlds can be so totally different! It’s fun! Listen in to learn more : (12:11) Equestrian Grooming and Attire Expectations (20:02) Horse Show Culture and Standards (26:29) Hunter Jumper World Expenses and Expectations (32:27) Unique Horse Show Rotation System

We all know that one dog year is equal to 7 human years. But how does it work with our horses and ponies? This week, Regina, Lynn, and Heather are together discussing horse-years-to-human-years. You’ll discover why our gangly 2-year-olds remind us of awkward human pre-teens! Regina also shares the Top 10 oldest horses on record. Did you know that a horse named Old Billy was 62 years old when he died? Can you believe that? Fun Fact: Regina’s parents still have a pony born on their farm in 1988. Netherland Roamer will be 36 years old in 2024, so she needs to be added to the list! Listen in to learn more :  (00:04) Aging in Horses and Herd Socialization (11:30) Starting Young Horses (17:32) Horse Age and Maturity Levels (24:14) Oldest Horses on Record Links: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_Billy https://yearsinhumanyears.com/calculator/horse-years-to-human-years/ https://horseyhooves.com/horse-years-human-years-chart/ https://www.besthorserider.com/horse-years-vs-human-years/#google_vignette https://www.oldest.org/animals/horses/ https://horsevills.com/world-oldest-horses/ https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/70449-oldest-horse-ever https://www.horseandman.com/people-and-places/39225/03/05/2016/ https://great-american-adventures.com/is-magic-the-horse-still-alive/  

In this episode, Regina speaks to Emily Fields. Emily is an Instructor, Barn Manager, and Program Director at the Cheff Therapeutic Riding Center. The Cheff Center was founded in 1969 as the first therapeutic riding center built especially for the purpose of serving those with special needs in North America. The Cheff Center’s efforts were groundbreaking and they continue to set the bar for creating an environment of horses helping people. As they discuss the various facets of equine assisted services, Emily shares the ins and outs of what the Cheff Center offers. In short, the Cheff Therapeutic Riding Center serves riders of all ages who have physical, emotional, or cognitive disabilities. But it’s so much more than that. It’s transformational. It’s life changing. Two of Regina’s retired show horses joined the Cheff Center in 2023. Regina is so proud of both Blue and Rosie as they’ve embarked on this amazing second career. After listening to this episode, we hope that you consider supporting the Cheff Center (or any therapeutic riding center near you) with your qualified horse, your time, and/or financial contributions. Keep up the GREAT work, Cheff Center! SUMMARY  Listen in to learn more :  (00:04) Understanding Therapeutic Riding & Equine-Assisted Services (11:45) Managing Burnout (17:24) Equine Therapy Programs and Challenges (24:51) Donating Horses to Therapeutic Riding Links:  https://www.cheffcenter.org/  Keywords  Equine-Assisted Services, Therapeutic Riding, Horse Companionship, Human Health, Physical Improvements, Cognitive Improvements, Emotional Improvements, Burnout, Instructors, Four-Legged Therapists, Horse Welfare, Cheff Center, Culinary Arts, Horse Industry, Equine Therapy Programs, Challenges, Donating Horses, Second Career,

How do you grow a 4-H equine program from 60 kids to 157 kids in two years? That’s the question Regina poses to Melissa Gordon, the Superintendent of Michigan’s Monroe County 4-H Horse and Pony Program, because Melissa and her team did it! That’s a 162% increase in enrollment. That’s unbelievable. And that’s the kind of enrollment increase that our industry needs!  At a time when there is much discussion across the industry about declining youth numbers and barriers to entry (check out our April 22nd episode called “Preserving the Dream for the Next Generation with Emily Ream and Karen Waite”), Melissa’s story is one about innovation, dedication, and open conversations. Melissa and her team have introduced innovative programs like the Equestrian Development Program, a leveling program, a Mini-Yearling Challenge program, a Stick Horse Project, and a Breyer Horse Project. Listen to find out more! If you want to feel inspired about the possibilities for introducing youth to equines, you’re going to love this episode. Here’s a final exciting update….. the Monroe County 4-H Horse and Pony Program just closed enrollment for next year… and enrollment jumped again—to 190 participants! Listen in to learn more :  (02:59 - 04:55) Boosting Youth Participation in Equestrian Programs (06:33 - 07:44) The Power of Strong Team Support (09:15 - 10:54) Leveling Up Young Equestrians (14:28 - 15:36) Equestrian Showmanship and Wisdom (16:54 - 18:10) Long-Term Impact of 4-H Program (21:46 - 22:50) Standardbred Yearling Showmanship Program (35:39 - 36:35) Funding and Support for Youth Programs Links:  Check them out on Facebook - Money County 4H Horse and Pony

In this episode, Kathy Simmers, author of Jump the Moon and Posey’s Problem: A Pony Tale, joins Regina to discuss the true stories behind her heartwarming books. Kathy also gives us a preview for her new book about Pickles, another real-life pony! Kathy’s journey as an author began after her daughter’s beloved lesson pony, Me Too, was sold out from under her at a horse show. Years later, as an adult, Kathy’s daughter set out on a quest to find the long-lost Me Too and, finally, bring her beloved pony home. Kathy knew that this remarkable story about Me Too needed to be told and Jump the Moon was published. Just like Jump the Moon, Posey’s Problem: A Pony Tale is based on a real pony. As we all know, when a kid outgrows their pony, the pony is usually sent off to another kid. The pony doesn’t have a choice. Kathy wondered, “What is it like from the pony’s perspective?” As Kathy says, Posey has left a piece of her heart with each kid. This episode - and Kathy’s books - will touch your heart.  Link: https://www.readjumpthemoon.com/ Listen in to learn more :  (07:28 - 08:09) Beloved Pony's Impact on Family (09:57 - 11:21) The Plight of Show Ponies (15:57 - 17:04) Inspiring Message of Not Giving Up (23:00 - 24:16) Kathy’s Emotional Investment in Characters (26:09 - 27:28) Interpreting the Girl With Long Hair Links:  Children's Picture Book | Jump The Moon (readjumpthemoon.com)

This episode is about entry points into the horse industry: what they’ve been, what they are now, and what they could be. Regina and Heather speak with Emily Ream and Karen Waite. From Ream Performance Horses, Emily Ream is a horse trainer with a long history of successfully working with youth and amateurs from 4-H shows to World Shows at the breed show level. Both guests bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the topic of entry points into our horse industry. Karen, from Michigan State University, is an Academic Specialist and director of the Undergraduate Education Department of Animal Science. In her role with Michigan State University Extension, she coordinates the Adult Equine Extension program and is the Director of Leadership Development for My Horse University.  In addition, she oversees the Youth Equine Extension program and is active with eXtension Horse Quest.  Emily, Karen, Regina, and Heather discuss what they see in the industry. One of the key challenges they discuss is the demands of being a student-athlete and managing their horse show responsibilities with coaches’ expectations. Also, where do we send those interested in getting to know horses? Should amateurs be able to judge? How do we get youth involved in 4-H, in open horse shows, in equine-focused summer camps, and so on? You are not going to want to miss listening to this episode! Do you have an idea that you can share? We all have to be part of finding the solution to the decreasing numbers in the horse industry. Thank you to Emily Ream and Karen Waite for joining us and having this critically important discussion! Good news… this is not the end of this discussion. We plan to return to this regularly.  Listen in to learn more :  (08:53 - 10:07) Decline in Horse Population Trend (13:53 - 14:48) Athletics and Agriculture (18:43 - 19:41) Seeking Opportunities in the Horse Industry (22:17 - 23:26) Hands-on Horse Experience for Beginners (30:47 - 32:08) Youth Equestrian Program Growth (38:38 - 39:47) Youth Interest in Equestrian Careers (44:58 - 46:54) Inspiring Small Steps for Industry

“Some days, you’re the windshield. And some days, you’re the bug.” In this episode, we get to know Coltin Crystal, who is part of the CCC Show Horses team. Idaho-raised and Idaho-based, the “wild barrel racer child” rodeoed throughout his youth, spent some time jumping horses and finally found his niche with the all-rounders. Coltin talks about his ups and downs as a trainer and the big moments in his career. He also shares his further plans with Heather. At the end of the interview, Coltin shares some excellent advice that everyone should take to heart! You’ll want to request more episodes with Coltin when the interview is done!  Listen in to learn more about :  (09:52 - 10:38) Diverse Specialization in Equine Training (17:10 - 19:09) Hunter Shows and USCF Experience (22:09 - 23:14) Learning From Everyone (30:17 - 31:26) Youth Quarter Horse Show Enrollment Trends

Did you know it’s against the law to lasso a fish on horseback? You may get fined for riding an ugly horse. It’s against the law for a horse to sleep in a bathtub? Who proposes these crazy horse laws, and what is the rationale?   Regina, Lynn, and Heather discuss bizarre horse-related laws in this fun episode that makes you wonder, “WHY?!”   Ultimately, the co-hosts propose their own “horse laws” that should be written and enforced. What law would you like to suggest?  To learn more about:  (12:44 - 13:28) Lasso Fishing Challenge for Listeners (15:56 - 17:12) Origin of Maple Syrup Discovery (20:22 - 21:35) Donkey in Bathtub Sparks Law (28:54 - 29:40) Strange Laws in Colorado and Ohio Links -  https://www.cowgirlmagazine.com/silly-horse-laws/ https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/we-found-weird-laws-about-food-from-every-state/ http://www.idiotlaws.com/its-illegal-tofish-from-horseback/ https://newrider.com/threads/strange-horse-laws.118441/ https://charlestonanimalsociety.org/nokillscshelter/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/4-CITY-OF-CHARLESTON.pdf https://www.nytimes.com/1975/12/05/archives/ordinance-on-horse-diapering-stirs-debate-in-charleston-sc.html https://charlestondaily.net/weird-south-carolina-laws/ http://equerry.com/html/fun/eq_humor-shl.htm https://www.horseandman.com/horse-stories/in-arizona-it-is-illegal-to-have-your-donkey-sleep-in-a-bathtub/05/23/2021/ http://patrickmackezyk.weebly.com/arizona-itrsquos-illegal-to-have-your-donkey-sleep-in-a-bathtub.html http://equerry.com/html/fun/eq_humor-shl.htm

Hey There!  It's time to talk about Hay!  If you're a horse owner, then this topic is likely very near and dear to your... pocketbook? In today's episode, Heather sits down with Mitch and Taylor Fabus of Fabus Farms in Ovid, Michigan, to talk about the hay business from the farmer's perspective.  We all know how important hay is to our animals, but what can we do to have a good relationship with our hay farmer to ensure the best for our horses?  We'll discuss how even knowing, or not knowing, what size trailer can fit into your driveway can significantly impact your hay farmer's day.  Mitch Fabus shares the science behind hay growing and discusses how different chemicals, weather, and equipment affect hay growth and prices.  Before you get upset over how much you pay for that next wagon load, listen to this episode and walk away with a greater understanding and appreciation for your hay farmer! To learn more about:  (02:05 - 03:28) Farm Self-Sufficiency and Bedding Choices (09:35 - 11:23) Selecting Grass Varieties for Hay Fields (13:18 - 14:13) Horse Feed Preference (17:47 - 18:48) The Science of Growing Hay (21:54 - 22:47) Pricing Policy for Agricultural Products (25:00 - 25:50) Value Over Price in Agricultural Sales (29:44 - 31:29) Managing Weeds in Alfalfa Fields (35:41 - 37:40) Monitoring Horse Hay Safety (39:29 - 40:44) Measuring Hay Moisture Content (53:05 - 54:00) Effective Hay Delivery and Storage Tips

In this episode, Regina introduces Lynn and Heather to koumiss (aka kumis, kumiss, kumys)! What is koumiss, you may wonder? Well, it is none other than fermented mare’s milk! Yup. That’s correct. Koumiss is a light alcoholic beverage. It has been described as both sour and sweet. Those who love its taste consider it refreshing! Regina shares her research on koumiss and its availability today. (Disclaimer: we do not encourage you to run out to the barn and take a sample from one of your lactating mares).  Perhaps you’ll be fortunate enough to take a swig of koumiss someday. If you do, you must share what you think! To learn more about:  (10:12 - 11:49) The History and Culture of Koumiss (21:41 - 23:05) Kyrgyzstan Promotes Traditional Koumiss Tourism

In this episode, Heather interviews Terri Delbridge -- And what a story Terri has! Terri is a carded Arabian judge. She’s been in the center of some of the biggest show pens in the fine horse world, like the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show. Yet, not everyone knows the challenges she’s faced. Terri survived a flesh-eating bacterium that resulted in a 4-month stay at the University of Michigan with a 1% chance of survival. She has endured 20 surgeries and a mountain of physical challenges. She’s persevered through it all with a positive outlook. Terri feels that one of her most significant contributions to the industry is her “eye” - she discusses what she sees from the judge’s perspective at the center of the show pen. First impressions are essential. Terri continues to persevere as a judge and coach. As she continues to travel the country, she says she learns something from everyone she works with. Terri is an inspiration for us all! To learn more about this episode: (03:37 - 05:17) Early Beginnings in Horse Training (08:17 - 09:54) Specialization in Horse Disciplines (16:16 - 17:09) Busy Show Season Ahead (26:29 - 27:50) Diverse Horse Industry Conversations

This episode is crappy. It’s crappy because it’s all about manure. Horse manure. It smells perfect for Regina, Lynn, and Heather but not so much for others. The co-hosts each have their manure management system (Regina won’t stop singing the praises of her Millcreek Spreader). Yet, manure disposal can be a complicated topic for some horse owners. No matter what, it’s something that we all must deal with. Today, we have equipment and knowledge. In the past, large cities like New York had a real problem. Lynn shares her research and, subsequently, traumatizes Regina and Heather with the realities of manure management of yesteryear. To learn more about this episode: (00:15 - 00:49) The Scoop on Horse Poop (03:27 - 05:23) Memories of Horse Show Trailer Smells (13:28 - 14:28) Memories of Weekly Stall Cleaning (19:37 - 20:47) Urban Sanitation in the Past (25:07 - 26:30) New York City Drainage Engineer Reforms

In this episode, Regina sits down with  Traci Bousman. Traci has been the year-end amateur champion with PtHA for the last few years with her special partner, Snoopy (AKA Vested Sensation). However, she had one big goal for 2023. Traci wanted to win the all-around title at the 2023 Pinto World Championship show.  However, on the night of June 17, Tulsa, Oklahoma, was ravaged by storms with winds of over 100 mph. The Pinto World Championship show was in full swing at Tulsa Expo Center and was forced to cancel before finishing all events. Feeling disappointed but grateful that everyone stayed safe, Traci and Snoopy left Tulsa, pivoted, and set their sights on winning the all-around at the Color Breed Congress. Mission accomplished! Throughout the year, Traci weighed the pros and cons of retiring Snoopy. With nothing left to prove and after a hugely successful CBC, Traci decided it was time for Snoopy to enjoy 2024 and beyond as a retired boy. With the decision made, Traci announced that she was starting an exciting new chapter for herself. Traci is embarking on a new career as a clinician and coach. Traci is ready to share her knowledge. And our industry will be better for it! Congratulations to Traci Bousman and Vested Sensation on a long and highly successful career! Happy retirement, Snoopy! To learn more about this episode: (08:11 - 09:02) Storytelling Influence and Importance  (11:22 - 12:29) Cocaine Kingpin's Influence on Horse Industry  (14:41 - 15:36) Future Interviews With Rita Cundwell (26:28 - 27:22) Changed Perspective on Horse Show Experience  (30:32 - 31:32) Memorable Quarter Horse Show Victory Celebration  (35:17 - 36:13) Memorable Horse Show Moments 

Three years and six months ago, Lynn was referring to the podcast as “that blog thing that Gina wants to do.” Now, the team is celebrating their 3rd ANNIVERSARY! In this episode, Heather asks Regina and Lynn to reflect on how it all started. One thing is clear, the HIP team’s work derives from a strong appreciation and passion for the industry. What’s unique about their podcast is that it is all-encompassing in the industry, not just stock horses, hunter/jumpers, cutters, or driving minis. It’s not just about showing, or judges, or trends. It’s about a wide range of topics and lived experiences. It’s about all things equine. There is something for everyone. The co-hosts are grateful to have captured the stories they’ve documented and are eager to record the stories they have yet to tell. The co-hosts talk about where they’ve been, the projects they are working on now, and their big goals for the future. You’ll hear the enthusiasm in their voices as they discuss their podcast and the legacy they are leaving in the industry where they have spent their entire lives.  To learn more about this episode: (08:11 - 09:02) Storytelling Influence and Importance  (11:22 - 12:29) Cocaine Kingpin's Influence on Horse Industry  (14:41 - 15:36) Future Interviews With Rita Cundwell (26:28 - 27:22) Changed Perspective on Horse Show Experience  (30:32 - 31:32) Memorable Quarter Horse Show Victory Celebration  (35:17 - 36:13) Memorable Horse Show Moments 

This week on the podcast, Heather discusses her first-hand experience with hosting winter clinics at her farm. Based on her desire to keep learning, she recognized a need in the industry and decided to fill it. The clinics she’s hosted have provided DYI-ers access to local trainers who may otherwise be unavailable. Heather’s clinics have sold out. The co-hosts also discuss the pros/cons of clinics, the lure and expense of private lessons, whether trainers should feel obligated to work with others outside of their client list, and an exploration as to how we can start funneling new people to our stock horse industry. They all agree that strong youth programs are the foundation of the future of the equine industry. The question is, “Where can exhibitors or  prospective equestrians go to gain or expand their knowledge?”  To learn more about this episode:  (03:44 - 05:17) Trail Clinic Sparks DIY Movement  (07:15 - 08:55) Importance of Hosting Horse Clinics  (11:07 - 12:03) Clinics for Industry Advancement  (15:02 - 16:08) Improving Showmanship Skills and Challenges  (21:07 - 22:20) Sarah Simons' Impact on Showmanship  (27:10 - 28:06) Horse Showing Industry Niche Perception  (32:56 - 33:55) Youth Sports and Society's Influence 

The foal you’ve been dreaming about and planning for has lost its mother. A foal can become an orphan for a number of reasons, but there is one certainty: an orphaned foal is fragile, and time is of the essence.  In this episode, Lynn interviews Bronwyn Watts of ColdSpring Nurse Mares of Ocala, Florida. ColdSpring Nurse Mares provides an ethical solution in the nurse mare industry, providing a second career for mares who are no longer broodmare sound or are at an age where they cannot carry their own foal. The nurse mares at ColdSpring love their babies and set the foals up for success in whatever they are destined to be—no bucket babies or throw-away foals.  This episode will leave you cheering for Bronwyn, her precious mares, and the foals that need them. To learn more about this episode :  (05:48 - 06:48) Discovering the World of Nurse Mares  (10:05 - 11:46) Nurse Mare Farms and Empathy (21:19 - 22:16) Bonding With Orphaned Foals  (27:26 - 28:41) Managing Colostrum and Matching Mares (37:51 - 39:28) Reservations and Scenarios for Nurse Mares  LINKS ColdSpring Nurse Mares, LLC

Pre-purchase exams. It’s hard to know what to do… where to do it, and when to do it! What’s the financial risk you’re willing to accept? Are you getting these PPEs done to decide whether you’ll buy the horse, or are you paying for a PPE with an eye towards effective maintenance after the purchase? Heather, Lynn, and Regina share their experiences, concerns, and rationales for why they did/did not order a PPE on the horses they purchased. Always remember: Buying the horse is the least expensive part of ownership. To learn more about this episode :  00:14 - 00:42) Risks of Showing Horses Without PPE (08:20 - 09:20) Discovering and Maintaining Horse Health  (11:25 - 11:47) Veterinary Charges and X-Rays  (16:49 - 17:56) Buying Young Horses and Health Considerations  (21:45 - 23:15) Challenges in Pre-Purchase Horse Exams  (28:42 - 29:34) Retired Show Horse Finds New Career 

A few days after interviewing Vicki Croghan Pflasterer about growing up in the family that owned the versatile paint stallion Fawago King, the stallion was named one of the 2024 APHA Hall of Fame inductees. Regina couldn’t believe her good fortune to capture the story of Fawago King at such an exciting time.  Fawago King, a “sweetheart of a stallion,” was a 1971 sorrel overo stallion best known as a prolific sire of all-around performers.  He was owned and loved by the family of Donald and Carolyn Croghan of Schuyler, Nebraska. As their daughter Vicki shares, owning a horse like Fawago King changed their lives for the good. Source: Frank Holmes' book, "Paint Horse Legends: More Than Color" (Vol. 2) To learn more about this episode :  (00:05) - The Legacy of Fawago King (07:37) - Horse Personality and Life Discussion (13:23) - Horse Show Experiences Across Generations (19:25) - King's Best Traits and Funny Stories

In this installment of the Horse Industry podcast, hosts Regina, Lynn, and Heather delve into the complexities of juggling marriage and a passion for horses. They explore the challenging yet rewarding task of balancing these two significant aspects of their lives. While Lynn enjoys a somewhat smoother experience, thanks to her equally horse-enthusiastic partner Kevin, who also plays the role of driver for distant horse shows, Regina and Heather navigate a more solitary equestrian journey, separate from their partners. To learn more about this episode :  (00:05) - Horse Industry Podcast and Personal Experiences (10:09) - Navigating Life With Horses (22:26) - Appreciating Non-Horse Person Spouse

As shared in Frank Holmes' book, "Paint Horse Legends: More Than Color" (Vol. 2), Flying Fawago had a profound impact on the American Paint Horse Association through his show record and the accomplishments of his offspring. Regina shares her research on this amazing stallion who always wanted to be a good boy.  To learn more about this episode :  00:05) - The story of Flying Fawago (11:45) - Flying Fawago’s journey in Canada  (18:51) - Exploring Bloodlines and Winning Titles