The Equestrian Connection

Sara is a certified professional in Equine Myo-manipulative Functional Therapy (EMFT), and the only person in Italy certified in Level 1 Neuro Fascial Conditioning™ and Rib Entrapment Syndrome Therapy™. She is also certified as an EQ Practitioner in emotional intelligence and self-awareness, and is studying to become an NLP Practitioner. Sara’s desire to combine self-awareness techniques with working with horses stems from the desire to seek clear and profound communication with the animal and find balance together. On this episode, we chat about EMFT, neuro-fascial conditioning, rip entrapment, how bridle fit can affect the horse’s fascial nerves and skull, and more. Connect with Sara: Website: https://www.saequine.it Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saequinetherapy

Audrie Anthony’s passion for horses and competition began at only eight years old in her hometown of Miami, FL. Audrie discovered her drive to work with dangerous horses early on as she saw a lack of compassion and understanding for these horses. Even before her 20th birthday, Audrie had taken dozens of free or unrideable horses into the competition ring. She competed these horses in the Little Wood, WEF, USEF, USDF and US Nationals & Regionals, winning High Points, Year End championships, Regional and Nationals titles. Audrie found developing her own breeding program as a way to give every foal a chance that many of her unruly competition horses never had. After studying pedigrees, genetics, and equine markets, Audrie developed a system of genetically selecting stallions and mares for producing an elite athlete that is sane, sound and talented, while also being ahead of the sales and competition markets. Audrie is currently competing as an Adult Amateur and breeding Hanoverian Warmbloods, while finishing her PhD at Purdue University. Connect with Audrie: Website: https://www.bocoystables.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bocoystables/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BocoyStables/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audanthony

Sarah-Katrin Bourdeaux lives near Munich, Germany. After completing a degree in art history and archeology, she first worked in event management before moving into freelance marketing. The idea for her first book, “Do Puddles Eat Ponies,” came after years of writing a blog about her two horses and their experiences with day-to-day training, dressage, and horse shows. Blending humor, creativity, and an eye for detail makes her writing unique and authentic, and adored by fans all over the world. Sarah also shares her knowledge as a self-publisher with other aspiring authors in her online courses, which you can find on her website. Connect with Sarah: Order the Book (North America): https://trafalgarbooks.com/products/do-puddles-eat-ponies Website: https://www.sarahbourdeaux.de/ Instagram (English): https://www.instagram.com/sarah_bourdeaux_author/ Instagram (German): https://www.instagram.com/sarah_bourdeaux/

This is a replay of our classic episode, originally recorded and aired in early 2023. Alizée Froment is a former international Grand Prix rider turned show performer, now known for her artistic and beautiful performances, bitless riding, and horse-first philosophy. Alizée has six courses with us on the wehorse platform, with everything ranging from bitless riding to liberty training to flying lead changes. On this episode, we chat about having individual programs for each horse, the benefit of bareback pads, pre-and-post-ride care routines, transitioning to bitless, mastering the basic of groundwork and liberty training, and more! You can connect with Alizée at: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alizeefroment/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alizee.froment

Elisse Miki is the founder of Equilibria Therapeutics, a multi-disciplinary therapist, educator, and one of the leading voices in the field of equine craniosacral therapy. Elisse holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, is a Registered Massage Therapist, and has advanced training in osteopathic manual therapy, with over 20 years of experience working with both human and equine bodies. Through her business, Equilibria Therapeutics, she offers not only hands-on sessions for horses but also certification programs, continuing education, and mentorship for equine professionals and bodyworkers. In this episode, we explore what craniosacral therapy actually is, why assessment matters before diving into treatment, and the many ways the horse’s body holds and tells their story. Connect with Elisse: Website: https://www.equilibriatherapeutics.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eqtherapeutics/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqtherapeutics/

Linda Hauck has been passionate about Eventing and Thoroughbreds since she started riding at the age of 14. Linda was a member of the Jr. Ontario 3-Day Event Team, achieved “A” Level in Pony club, and was sponsored as a top junior to train in Virginia with Olympian Torrance Watkins. By 1990, she was competing in Eventing at the Advanced level, and in 1991 she obtained her Thoroughbred Trainers racing license. In addition, Linda has Level 3 Technical Delegate in Eventing and she is an Equine Canada Level 2 competition coach. The bottom line is, Linda has many thousands of hours watching and riding horses! Since then, Linda has created multiple patented products, including the Spursuader and the Comfort Girth which continue to be the flagship products of Tapestry Equine. In this episode, we’re discussing the importance of correct girths, being willing to ask questions about gear, and how she decided to invent her own. Connect with Tapestry Equine: Website: https://tapestryequineproducts.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tapestryequineproducts Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TapestryEquineProducts/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUNR5V6KgzJgAQ5yEo9lreA/videos

John Haime is one of the leading Performance Coaches in high level sports and works regularly for some of the world's top show jumpers and eventers (as well as everyday, young riders in all disciplines).He is also the author of the popular best-selling book, “Ride Big” – a guide to confidence in equestrian sport embraced by equestrians at all levels. John’s experience ranges from working with some of the world’s leading athletes in the major professional sports leagues, regularly coaching leading C-level executives in Fortune 100 companies, and he has education in psychology, neuroscience, emotional intelligence, communication and executive coaching. In this episode, we’ll be discussing the impact and importance of confidence in equestrian sport, the purpose of a Performance Coach, and how you can go from Riding Small to Riding Big. Connect with John Haime: Website: https://equestrian.johnhaime.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnhaimeequestrian/ Order “Ride Big” the book: https://trafalgarbooks.com/products/ride-big The Pressure Guide (FREE DOWNLOAD): https://mailchi.mp/newedgeperformance/peakperformance

In this episode, Pat Parelli talks about his extraordinary journey in the horse world – from his beginnings as a rodeo cowboy, through reining with mules, to the development of his own training program in natural horsemanship. Parelli pursues the goal of making people better horse people – with a deeper understanding of horse behavior and needs. His methods have found over a million followers in more than 70 countries, but they also attract criticism. In this interview, he explains what lies behind his approach, how it has developed over the years, and what he believes is truly important when dealing with horses. A fascinating episode about attitude, communication, and the challenge of breaking new ground in horse training.

Pat Retzlaff is the co-founder of Mozambique Horse Safari and the book “One Hundred and Four Horses”. In this conversation, Pat shares how he and his family were forced to leave their farm in Zimbabwe during a time of political upheaval—and how they made the bold and brave decision to rescue and relocate over 100 horses across borders. We talk about the challenges they faced, what it took to rebuild their lives in Mozambique, and how that experience led to the creation of a unique safari company that offers unforgettable horseback experiences along the stunning Mozambican coastline. Whether you’re a traveler or someone navigating big life transitions—this episode has something meaningful for you. Connect with Mozambique Horse Safari: Website: https://www.mozambiquehorsesafari.com/ Order the Book: https://www.amazon.com/Hundred-Four-Horses-Mandy-Retzlaff/dp/0007477562?sr=8-1 Support the Horses: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/support-the-horses-of-mozambique-horse-safari Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mozambiquehorsesafari/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/africanhorsesafari/

Natalia Graf-Anders is the founder and CEO of Sync Equestrian, a U.S.-based equestrian apparel brand established in 2019. The company is known for designing performance wear that caters to diverse body types, aiming to make every rider feel confident and powerful. In addition to her work with Sync Equestrian, Natalia leads Sync Academy, where she offers programs focused on transforming one's financial mindset and business growth strategies. Drawing from her personal journey of overcoming financial struggles, she emphasizes the power of shifting subconscious beliefs to achieve abundance. Originally from Germany, Natalia has built a multi-million dollar brand in the U.S., combining her passion for equestrianism with entrepreneurship. Connect with Natalia: Sync Equestrian Website: https://syncequestrian.com/ Sync Academy Website: https://www.sync-academy.com/ Natalia’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliaornatascha/

If you are a woman who loves horses, if you love a woman who loves horses, if you are the parent of a girl, or the child of a woman who loves horses—this book is for you. Author Karin Winegar does the deepest dive yet into the nature of horse craziness, that incurable attraction and joy so many of us feel in the presence of horses. Karin’s latest book, “Horse Lovers: Unpacking the Female Fascination,” asks the question: Why are girls and women so very often horse lovers? Karin Winegar was born horse crazy in Albert Lea, Minnesota and never got over that stage — she even took her horse to college with her. She graduated from Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota and attended graduate school in English literature at the University of Minnesota. Her freelance work has appeared in publications ranging from The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal to Practical Horseman, Cowboys & Indians, Conde Nast Traveler and Sailing magazine. Karin's work has won Lowell Thomas Awards for both investigative reporting and for maritime journalism. She has won numerous awards in the equine industry including two AQHA Steel Dust Awards and the U.S. Equestrian Award. In this episode, we’re chatting about her latest book, Horse Lovers: Unpacking the Female Fascination. Connect with Karin: Website: https://www.karinwinegar.com/ Website: https://www.horsefeedpress.com/ Order the Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Horse-Lovers-Unpacking-Female-Fascination/dp/0578125234/ Order the Book on Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/p/books/horse-lovers-unpacking-the-female-fascination/cad3dc22ce4bc90a?ean=9780578125237&next=t

Yasmin Stuart is a renowned Equine Physiotherapist and Trauma Informed Horse Trainer based in the UK. In 2016, Yasmin completed her Level 6 Diploma in Equine Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation and has since gone on to study a variety of different bodywork and training methodologies which now underpin her practice. Over the course of her career, she has developed an extensive understanding of behavioural science, posture and biomechanics of which she applies to every horse that she works with - giving her success with even the most complex of cases. Yasmin prioritises a consent-based approach within both bodywork and training sessions, whereby she works with the horse's nervous system to promote homeostasis. It is this approach which promotes relaxation, opening a doorway into the horse's body - the results being long-lasting emotional and postural changes. Alongside travelling the UK for in-person 1:1 sessions and internationally for clinics, Yasmin also offers a range of online learning resources which include courses and monthly webinars on different topics which support an integrative approach to horsemanship. Connect with Yasmin: Website: https://www.yasminstuartequinephysio.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminstuartequinephysio/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yasminstuartequinephysio

Tara Glidden is a passionate advocate for veterinary professionals and their well-being. With 22 years of experience in the veterinary field, Tara has worked in various roles, from veterinary assistant to registered veterinary technician. Their journey led them to Zoetis, where they spent 8 years in the companion animal division as an industry specialist and strategic account manager, gaining a deep understanding of both clinical practice and industry support. Now serving as the Director of Wellbeing and HR for 8 independently owned veterinary practices, Tara is dedicated to creating a workplace culture that supports both personal and professional growth. As a certified yoga, mindfulness, meditation, and breath instructor, they integrate these practices into veterinary medicine to help teams navigate stress and burnout. This episode is for those who work in animal support roles and also for horse owners (and animal owners in general) to perhaps see things from other perspectives when communicating with their animal support teams. We dive into their unique perspective on veterinary well-being, leadership, and the evolving landscape of the profession.

Lorre Mueller is a registered Equine Osteopath, graduating from the Vluggen Institute for Equine Osteopathy in September 2014. Lorre has also been a certified Masterson Method® Practitioner since 2010. Lorre was an instructor, mentor, and coach for the Masterson organization for several years. She has also trained in myofascial release. In this episode, we chat about osteopathy, TMJ and how imbalances in the mouth can affect movement as well as the connection between teeth and feet, self-healing, and the importance of relaxation for release. Connect with Lorre: Website: https://trinityequineservices.com/

Madison Shambaugh, also known as “Mustang Maddy,” from her work with wild horses, can be found roaming amongst her beloved horse herd in the ancestral lands of the people of Sun Mountain where she spends much of her time tending her herd of milk goats & sheep, making cheese, tanning hides, and engaging in land based craft and lifeways. While the focus of her work has shifted in recent years, she continues to work with horses–primarily rescues and mustangs with significant trauma who have “failed” conventional training programs. Maddy continues to work with people who wish to deepen the horse-human connection and is devoted to teaching methodologies that honor the diverse ways in which we come to inhabit knowledge that go beyond our minds and the intellectual realms. Maddy is also a weaver of words and a student to the craft of storytelling. She currently shares her writing in Demeter, the Wild Rose, & the Raven, a publication that examines the intersections of animal-human relations, psychology, sociology, and ecology. Her wider devotion is to play some small part in the restoration and repair of our relations with our more-than-human kin, in particular the hooved and cloven-footed ones. They are her greatest teachers and source of guidance and inspiration. Connect with Maddy: Substack: https://demeterthewildroseandtheraven.substack.com

Beccy Smith is the CEO and founder of Holistic Reflections CIC & Holistic Equine. She is an independent equine podiatrist and barefoot trimmer, equine body worker, consultant, therapist, wellness coach, equine facilitated learning practitioner, Reiki master, and healer. Beccy has over 30 years of equine industry professional experience and is a highly proficient and respected holistic equine podiatrist. She is qualified in advanced equine podiatry and her body work qualifications include being a SCENAR-cosmodic therapist, Equine Sports Massage therapist, a Heart Math Coach, and Lazaris Nerve Release Method Practitioner, and she considers herself an independent lifelong pupil of the horse. Connect with Beccy: Website: https://www.holisticequine.co.uk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beccyatholisticequine

Amelia Newcomb is a USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medalist. She has trained and competed close to 50 horses in almost 500 competitions, and has trained several horses that she started as youngsters all the way up to the Grand Prix. Her online platform, Amelia Newcomb Dressage helps to develop a trusting and confident relationship between horse and rider. Using elements from both natural horsemanship and classical dressage, Amelia creates a holistic approach to dressage training that adapts to fit the needs of each individual horse and rider. Starting with basic groundwork and progressing to the Grand Prix, Amelia emphasizes trust, understanding, and relaxation for both horse and rider. Connect with Amelia: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amelianewcombdressage/ Website: https://amelianewcombdressage.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AmeliaNewcombDressage Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ameliasdressageclub

Steffi Spielhaupter is an Equine Scientist and Holistic Horsewoman. With a Bachelor's and Master's in Equine Science, Steffi has dedicated her life to helping horses and their humans build deeper, more meaningful connections. Her goal is to support you on your individual journey of conscious horse-human connection and personal growth, training your eye for the subtle shifts in not only your horse’s, but also your own, state. Steffi’s passion is working with the fine nuances of your horse's soundness (physical, emotional, mental and spiritual states) and helping you distinguish between them, always considering the health of your horse's nervous system in the process. Since founding Science for Soundness in 2014, Steffi has worked with horse enthusiasts across the globe, using science and heart to guide them out of survival mode and into a space of trust, safety, and genuine partnership with their horses. Connect with Steffi: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scienceforsoundness Website: https://scienceforsoundness.com/ Inner Circle Membership: https://scienceforsoundness.thinkific.com/bundles/innercircle

Baylee Summer is a marketing and business strategist expert, dedicated to helping the equestrian industry. She works with ethical horse trainers and helps them create, launch, and sell out online programs, so they can work less while making more profit and impact. Her goal is to help them create profitable businesses by leveraging social media. In this episode, we discuss what horse trainers are missing with their marketing, why leaving social media or outsourcing it to someone else isn’t always a good idea, why large followings aren’t important, what to do when you don’t know what to post, and so much more. PS: Baylee created a FREE download for you to kickstart your 2025 social media marketing! Download it here: https://baylee-summer.mykajabi.com/ultimate-guide-to-social-media-marketing Connect with Baylee: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bayleejoysummer/ Baylee’s coaching program, Ethical Trainer Alchemy: https://baylee-summer.mykajabi.com/eta-609553a3-5234-4d1e-a2bb-8c746f04010b

Jochen Schleese, the founder of the internationally recognized saddle company, Schleese. Jochen is a former member of the German young rider’s 3-Day Event team, and qualified for the European Championships in 1984. Unfortunately, he had to retire his horse due to lameness, which abruptly ended his riding career. Years later, through research Jochen discovered his horse’s lameness was caused by damage to the scapular cartilage from an ill-fitting saddle. This was the catalyst for Jochen’s life-long mission to prevent saddle related damage for all horses. In 1985, Jochen became a certified Master Saddler, and throughout his work, he later discovered that many female riders struggle with pain and health issues from riding in saddles designed for male riders (due to pelvic and anatomical differences). Now, Schleese Saddlery Service is the world leader in anatomically appropriate saddles, which can be fit and adjusted according to the biomechanics of movement and the development of the horse, through personal on-site or online saddle fit evaluations. Connect with Schleese: Website: https://schleese.com/ Saddlefit 4 Life: https://saddlefit4lifeacademy.com/