The Dressage Radio Show

The episode begins with highlights from the USDF Book Club panel, where Reese and Megan sat with author, Beth Baumert of When Two Minds Meet: The Mental Dynamics of Dressage. Together, they explore the powerful role of mindset, communication, and partnership in dressage — and what it truly means when horse and rider come together as one. Megan and Reese catch up with USDF President Kevin Reinig, who shares insights from the convention and offers a look ahead at what’s coming for USDF in 2026 and beyond, including key initiatives and future direction for the organization. To wrap up the episode, Reese and Megan sit down with Dr. Jane Manfredi for an important conversation inspired by her talk about endocrine disease and the equine athlete at the USDF Convention. Dr. Manfredi breaks down how hormonal health impacts performance, longevity, and overall well-being, offering valuable insights for riders, trainers, and owners alike. This episode brings together education, leadership, and horse health — all from the heart of the USDF Convention.Tune in and enjoy the ride with us!GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 784:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: USDF President Kevin Reinig | FacebookGuest: Dr. Jane ManfrediBook Club: Begin and Begin Again by Denny EmersonBonus Book: How Two Minds Meet: The Mental Dynamics of Dressage - Beth BaumertDressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, Chewy!Advertise on Horse Radio Network Podcasts!

This month is a little different for a couple of reasons – first, we do not have Ask the L question for the first time in a long time! Please, loyal listeners, send us your burning questions about showing, your tests, a specific movement or anything else that Aviva can answer in that segment!We introduce our new segment, Hometown Heroes – we are interested in hearing form our listeners about people in their world that have been a positive influence In their dressage journey. Even if they are not typical dressage people, send us your favorite hometown hero. We will select some of our favorites across 2026 and interview them!Aviva tells us all about her 5 day whirlwind tour of Israel, from the riders and horses to the amazing landscapes and the food – oh my goodness, the food! You can practically taste it through the recording!Stephany recaps her time at USDF Convention, including some potential rule changes that might affect you (we will know more after January!). We talk about the purpose and importance of Convention, reasons to go, and why it may be changing in the future.All in all, it is great to catch up with the ladies, and we encourage you to have a listen!As always, LIKE, share and subscribe to our podcast! We love hearing from our listeners, so here is how to get in touch...Dressage Today S6 E13 Show Notes:Connect with the Hosts: Email Aviva Nebesky (horsepenhillfarm@aol.com) | Email Stephany Fish Crossman (stephanyfish@gmail.com) | Plus, look them both up on Facebook!Connect with the Show: Website (DressageToday.com) | Socials (@DressageToday) Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | PinterestLink: TDF AuctionLink: Video Subscription SiteToday's Episode Brought to You By: Equestrian+

Reese and Megan dive into two inspiring conversations you won’t want to miss!  First, they sit down with author and dressage expert Beth Baumert to explore her book How Two Minds Meet: The Mental Dynamics of Dressage. Beth shares powerful insights on the rider–horse connection, mental clarity in the saddle, and how thoughtful communication creates harmony in training. Her perspective brings a whole new dimension to the dressage partnership.  Then, the conversation shifts to elite competitor Kristina Harrison, who joins the show to talk about her unforgettable experience riding in the first-ever U.S. Open for the sport of Dressage. Kristina walks us through the atmosphere, the pressure, the preparation, and what it meant to represent the sport on such an incredible stage.  It’s an episode full of inspiration, education, and stories that celebrate the heart of dressage.Tune in and enjoy the ride with us!GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 783:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Beth Baumert - Facebook Guest: Kristina Harrison Website |   Facebook  | InstagramBook Club: Begin and Begin Again by Denny EmersonBonus Book: How Two Minds Meet: The Mental Dynamics of Dressage - Beth BaumertDressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, Chewy!Advertise on Horse Radio Network Podcasts!

We kick things off with Marie Medosi, who shares her incredible experience riding with Carl Hester at the Harvest Dressage Masterclass held recently at Galway Downs. Next, we dive into a roundtable discussion with Lauren Chumley and Michael Bragdell, exploring insights on young horse development and training the next generation of trainers!GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 782:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Marie Medosi | Facebook | Website | InstagramGuest: Lauren Chumley - Website | Facebook | InstagramGuest: Michael Bragdell | Website | FacebookBook Club: Begin and Begin Again by Denny EmersonBonus Book: How Two Minds Meet: The Mental Dynamics of Dressage - Beth BaumertDressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, Chewy!Advertise on Horse Radio Network Podcasts!

It’s November, the month to be thankful.  Aviva and Stephany open the podcast with the things that they are thankful for in their worlds.  In the Ask the L segment, Aviva talks about the 2x coefficient on the tests, where it shows up, why it shows up and what it should tell you!  In this month’s episode, Aviva and Stephany speak with Jenny and Sara from The Dressage Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, tax-exempt organization, whose mission is to cultivate and provide financial support for the advancement of dressage in the United States. Jenny and Sara tell us how they each started with TDF, and the background of TDF as an organization.  We learn about all sorts of fascinating programs available to riders of all ages and levels, and how passionate TDF is about helping the sport of Dressage continue to bloom and flourish.  Jenny and Sara tell us how to go about looking at the various grants, applying for them and how the grants have made many people’s horse dreams come true!  We also get information on how to give back to TDF, with the various ways to donate.  It was a terrific interview with Jenny  and Sara, and their enthusiasm for helping Dressage riders of all levels was contagious! Take a listen, you might find yourself applying for a grant!As a side note – we did not get to share the big news about TDF’s upcoming online Auction, which starts November 23rd and runs through December 7th.  There are over 170 items for auction, from custom riding boots, clothing, lessons with various people, clinics, horse goods, books and more!  To give you an extra little boost to check it out, both Aviva and Stephany donated services to support TDF – go check it out and put a bid on something today!  To check out the TDF Auction:  http://www.32auctions.com/TDFAuction2025Dressage Today S6 E12 Show Notes:Connect with the Hosts: Email Aviva Nebesky (horsepenhillfarm@aol.com) | Email Stephany Fish Crossman (stephanyfish@gmail.com)Connect with the Show: Website (DressageToday.com) | Socials (@DressageToday) Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | PinterestLink: TDF AuctionLink: Video Subscription SiteToday's Episode Brought to You By: Equestrian+

The Dressage Radio Show – All Things US Dressage Finals!  It’s that exciting time of year — the US Dressage Finals are here! Reese and Megan dive into all things Finals with a great lineup of guests.  First, they chat with USDF President Kevin Reinig, who shares insights on this year’s event and the continued growth of dressage nationwide.  Then, Lauren Chumley joins the conversation to talk about her incredibly successful show — both for herself and her team. She shares her approach, highlights, and what makes the Finals so special.  Finally, Adult Amateur Mila Perry tells the inspiring story of her first-ever Finals experience, competing at Training & First Levels and becoming a Champion!Whether you’re headed to the show grounds or following from home, this episode captures the excitement, dedication, and community that make US Dressage Finals unforgettable. Tune in for motivation, stories, and insights from riders at every level!GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 781:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Mila Perry - FacebookGuest: Lauren Chumley - Website | Facebook | Instagram Guest: Kevin Reinig - Website | Facebook Book Club:  Begin and Begin Again by Denny Emerson Bonus Book: How Two Minds Meet: The Mental Dynamics of Dressage - Beth BaumertDressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, Chewy, and USRider!Photo credit: Mila Perry

Roz Kinstler, Chair of the USDF Youth Programs Committee and Region 2 Representative to the USDF FEI Junior/Young Rider Committee, discusses the growth of youth programs and the importance of mentorship in developing future dressage riders. Next, Bailey Cook, USDF Faculty Member and leader at Megan’s recent Teaching Seminar, shares her perspective on instructor education and the value of building strong teaching foundations within the sport.  Finally, Ashley Rand-Torres introduces her exciting new equestrian apparel line, Macha Sports, and talks about designing functional, stylish clothing that meets the needs of today’s riders.GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 780:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Roz KinstlerGuest: Bailey Cook - Website | FacebookGuest: Ashley Rand-Torres - Website | Facebook | InstagramBook Club:  Begin and Begin Again by Denny Emerson Dressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, Chewy, and USRider!

In this month’s episode, Aviva and Stephany catch up with each other, talking about their latest wins, losses and learns.  Stephany shares her experience at Regional Championships and Aviva shares some very exciting news about going to Israel!  In addition to these big moments, Stephany talks about her 2 latest articles that came out, one on DressageToday.com and one in print In Practical Horseman.  As the year is speeding by, they both thought it would be a good thing to simply stop and appreciate the time together, sharing with our listeners!  We didn’t forget your Ask the L Question, though! Stephany asked Aviva her thoughts on how to best use the time around the outside of the arena, both before and after the bell has rung. Aviva gave us great tips on what is ok, what should be avoided, and what to do if the horse has a “moment” as you are about to enter the arena!  All in all, it is a great smaller episode, and we hope you enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed recording it!Dressage Today S6 E11 Show Notes:Connect with the Hosts: Email Aviva Nebesky (horsepenhillfarm@aol.com) | Email Stephany Fish Crossman (stephanyfish@gmail.com)Connect with the Show: Website (DressageToday.com) | Socials (@DressageToday) Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | PinterestLink: Video Subscription SiteToday's Episode Brought to You By: Equestrian+

The Dressage at Devon Report!!  Reese & Megan bring you highlights straight from one of the most iconic dressage shows in the U.S. - Dressage at Devon. First, they chat with Susanne Owen Hurtt about her experience at Devon and her unique perspective as commentator!!   Then, they catch up with Stacy Brass, who shares her behind-the-scenes stories of what it's like to be a handler in the prestigious breed show.GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 779:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Susanne Owen Hurtt - Facebook | WebsiteGuest: Stacy Brass - Facebook | WebsiteBook Club:  Begin and Begin Again by Denny Emerson Dressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, Chewy, and Equestrian+!TIMESTAMPS:Susanne Owen Hurtt - 8:40Stacy Brass - 50:55

In this episode, Aviva and Stephany catch up about what they have been doing, including some interesting conversation about Stephany’s Fourth Level Freestyle with Dante. Aviva tackles a difficult Ask the L question from Cass about horses being behind the bridle in the show arena, and gives us some different things to think about in relation to that! In our interview, both of the ladies got to chat with Kathy, and it was more of the magic that makes her Kathy Connelly! We get a little more insight into some of the many hats Kathy wears around the Dressage world. Kathy also gives her take on what makes great students and horsemen, and helps us to remember why we started doing this in the first place! It is another magical time with Kathy, and we can’t wait for you to take a listen!As always, we are grateful to our sponsors. Remember, if you like what you hear, hit the Like button AND the Subscribe button, so you don’t miss an episode!Dressage Today S6 E10 Show Notes:Connect with the Hosts: Email Aviva Nebesky (horsepenhillfarm@aol.com) | Email Stephany Fish Crossman (stephanyfish@gmail.com)Connect with the Show: Website (DressageToday.com) | Socials (@DressageToday) Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | PinterestGuest: Kathy Connelly | Email Kathy (KathyConnellyavf@aol.com)Link: Video Subscription SiteToday's Episode Brought to You By: Equestrian+

GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 778:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Kate Poulin - Facebook | Website | Instagram |Guest: Caitlin HeinzGuest: Carrie Wilson - Facebook | WebsiteBook Club: 33 Strength and Fitness Workouts for Horses by Jec BallouDressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, Chewy, and Horse Radio Network!TIMESTAMPS: Kate Poulin Interview - 14:35Caitlin Heinz Interview - 34:58Carrie Wilson Interview - 44:34

Reese & Megan chat with participating instructor Karen Nielsen on the USDF Riding Seminar hosted at Megan's farm.  Then, it's all about the North American Young Champions! Alicia Berger on her winning the U25 division and Grace Christianson on being the 1st Champion in the inaugural Children's division.GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 777:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Mandy Endfinger - Facebook | InstagramGuest: Christina Morin- Graham Guest: Sienna Busking - Facebook | InstagramBook Club: 33 Strength and Fitness Workouts for Horses by Jec BallouDressage Radio Show: Website|FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, Chewy, and Horse Radio Network!TIMESTAMPS: 08:05 - Mandy Interview28:45 - Christina Interview 49:25 - Sienna Interview

Reese & Megan chat with participating instructor Karen Nielsen on the USDF Riding Seminar hosted at Megan's farm.  Then, it's all about the North American Young Champions! Alicia Berger on her winning the U25 division and Grace Christianson on being the 1st Champion in the inaugural Children's division.GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 776:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Karen Nielsen - karen@sidneyme.netGuest: Alicia Berger - aliciakberger@icloud.com | Facebook | InstagramGuest: Grace Christianson -jackpot183@aol.com | FacebookBook Club: 33 Strength and Fitness Workouts for Horses by Jec BallouDressage Radio Show: Website|FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, Chewy, and Horse Radio Network!TIMESTAMPS: Karen Interview: 28:09Alicia Interview: 38:13Grace Interview: 51:13

Intro and Ask the L – Aviva and Stephany catch up and talk about the heat and how they are each dealing with it. In the Ask the L segment, Aviva answers a question from Sarah about what to do if your horse does a flying change in a 2nd level test instead of the proscribed movement.Interview with Dr. Wendy Rice – Aviva and Stephany get to know Dr. Wendy, how she got to be a psychologist and how she decided to blend her career with her love of horses and riding. They cover a wide variety of reasons why and how imposter syndrome can come into someone’s life, where it originated from and who it can affect. Dr. Wendy gives some great tips for how to help yourself with this sometimes crippling thought process, and how to be your own best friend when it comes to success, both in and out the barn and the arena!Dressage Today S6 E9 Show Notes:Connect with the Hosts: Email Aviva Nebesky (horsepenhillfarm@aol.com) | Email Stephany Fish Crossman (stephanyfish@gmail.com) of SerendipityDressageConnect with the Show: Website (DressageToday.com) | Video Subscription Site | Socials (@DressageToday) Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | PinterestGuest: Dr. Wendy RiceToday's Episode Brought to You By: Equestrian+

Reese & Megan chat with Stacey Hastings on her weekend at Reese's for the first FEI 'A' Certification!  Next, up Megan met Megan Ward at a horse show this last weekend, the president of the Eastern Iowa Dressage & Eventing Association, who are the winners of the 2024 GMO Participation Award of the USDF Book Club!! Last, we are so exited to speak with the newest YR Individual Champion at the North America Young Rider Championships, Lexi Kment!GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 775:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Stacey Hastings - Website | Facebook | InstagramGuest: Megan Ward - Website |  FacebookGuest: Lexi Kment - FacebookBook Club: 33 Strength and Fitness Workouts for Horses by Jec BallouDressage Radio Show: Website|FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, Chewy, and Horse Radio Network!TIMESTAMPS: 7:50 - Stacy Hastings29:30 - Megan Ward41:20 - Lexi Kment52:28 - Book Club

Reese & Megan received an in depth Aachen Report from Patty Mayer from vaulting to dressage and juniors to the 5* Grand Prix!  Next, they chatted with Jenny Carol about the National Pony Cup!! And last, but not least we speak with Jessica Nilles on dressage rider fitness & health!GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 774:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Patty Mayer - Email: bailiwickhouse@gmail.com | FacebookGuest: Jenny Carol - Email: Jenny@dressageponycup.com | Website | FacebookGuest: Jessica Nilles - Website | FacebookBook Club: 33 Strength and Fitness Workouts for Horses by Jec BallouDressage Radio Show: Website|FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products,Chewy, and Equestrian+Photo Credit: Jessica Nilles

In this month’s episode, Aviva reflects on the weight of social media on our riding, how easy it is to criticize in the name of “critiquing” and how we can never know the full story just from a picture of a video. She and Stephany share their thoughts on how we can all be kinder, and as riders we can always work to be better, but that most people are out their doing their best every ride. Stephany shares her latest win with Dante and getting qualified for Regionals.In the Ask the L segment, Aviva talks about posting versus sitting in Training and First Levels. She discusses the various reasons behind what judges are looking for and how you can best help your horse with either choice.We have a word from our sponsor, EquestrianPlus, and then Stephany meets back up with Beth for round two of the bit discussion.This month, we dive deeper into some of the things Beth talked about last month, including metals, bit sizes and weight. They go on with the discussion to talk about double bridles - what the purpose is, when to try it, and how different curb bits work in the mouth. It was another fascinating dive into the world of bit fitting, and we are so happy that Beth could join us for a second chat!Again, If you have questions for Beth, please forward them to her directly, or send them to us so we can share them with everyone on a future episode! As always, if you like what we are doing, please like and share our podcast!Dressage Today S6 E8 Show Notes:Connect with the Hosts: Email Aviva Nebesky (horsepenhillfarm@aol.com) | Email Stephany Fish Crossman (stephanyfish@gmail.com) of SerendipityDressageConnect with the Show: Website (DressageToday.com) | Video Subscription Site | Socials (@DressageToday) Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | PinterestGuest: Beth Haist of TheHorseofCourse.com, Email Beth (beth@thehorseofcourse.com)Today's Episode Brought to You By: Equestrian+

Reese & Megan are joined by Patti Becker of Fireside Fit to discuss rider fitness!  Next, they are joined by Rebecca Rigdon and hear all about the World Breeding Championships in Verden, Germany!!GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 773:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Patti Becker - Facebook | Farm Facebook | InstagramGuest: Rebecca Rigdon - Website | FacebookBook Club: Collective Remarks by Anne GribbonsDressage Radio Show: Website|FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products,Chewy, Spalding Fly Predators for HorsesPhoto Credit: Lisa DeanTIMESTAMPS15:10 - Interview with Patti Becker30:22 - Interview with Rebecca Rigdon

Reese & Megan are joined by Delia Nash of KY Performance Products to discuss equine asthma and their new product, Airwise! Next, they chat with FEI judge, trainer, and competitor, Anne Gribbons about her wonderful book, Collective Marks! Last, they chat with Angela Carter about her dressage journey with amazing Percheron partner, Romeo!GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 772:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Delia Nash, | Facebook | KPP VetGuest: Anne Gribbons | Facebook | InstagramGuest: Angela Carter | Facebook |Book Club: Collective Remarks by Anne GribbonsDressage Radio Show: Website|FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products,Chewy, Spalding Fly Predators for HorsesTime Stamps:11:18 – Delia Nash25:52 – Anne Gribbons59:51 – Angela Carter

Aviva and Stephany catch up about Stephany’s recent horse show experience and how Dante is now an official 4th level horse! They also talk about one of Stephany’s cows coming home, and the new babies…In the Ask the L segment, Aviva talks about switching the whip during a class, the do’s and don’ts of that. We also talk about when you are allowed to carry a whip in a class and when you cannot!We speak with Beth and learn about how she got involved with horses, how she ended up in the tack selling business and how she got so smart about bits! Beth gives us valuable information on the different “levels” of bits – what to use when starting horses, why and when you could switch bits, and what the different rings affect in the horse. We talk about the different metals and why you would use one over another. Beth gives us great information about why the Baucher is not the bit it used to be and why the French Link is no longer a legal bit to show in. She talks about fitting bits, the ins and outs of horses’ mouths and why different bits “help”. It was a fascinating conversation, and one that we will be continuing later this summer!If you have questions for Beth, please forward them to her directly, or send them to us so we can share them with everyone on a future episode! As always, if you like what we are doing, please like and share our podcast!Dressage Today S6 E7 Show Notes:Connect with the Hosts: Email Aviva Nebesky (horsepenhillfarm@aol.com) | Email Stephany Fish Crossman (stephanyfish@gmail.com) of SerendipityDressageConnect with the Show: Website (DressageToday.com) | Video Subscription Site | Socials (@DressageToday) Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | PinterestGuest: Beth Haist of TheHorseofCourse.com, Email Beth (beth@thehorseofcourse.com)Today's Episode Brought to You By: Equestrian+