The Touch of a Mustang

What if pain isn't something to avoid—but a sacred doorway inviting you back to yourself?In this conversation, Baiba Wisse shares her journey from 15 years in corporate to discovering her sacred purpose through somatic movement and deep inner work. We explore how to reconnect with your inner wisdom, balance masculine and feminine energies, and give yourself what you didn't receive in childhood.Baiba's insight that "once the world loosens its grip on your soul, you start to see pain as an invitation" will shift how you view your healing journey.In This Episode: • Pain as a sacred doorway for transformation • How to reconnect with your inner wisdom through movement• Balancing masculine and feminine energies in healing • Giving yourself what you didn't get in childhood • Finding your purpose after burnout • Why your inner light is a beacon for othersBaiba is a somatic practitioner, podcast host of Life in Technicolor, and guide for those seeking to reconnect with their authentic purpose through embodiment and inner work.Connect with BaibaInstagramYouTubePodcastResources: Free 5-Minute Nervous System ResetGuided Journal on Emotional RegulationCoachingSupport the Podcast! Help us continue to create content supporting Mustang horses and the places and principles that lead to healing and freedom of mind.You are not alone. We are here to walk beside you.

In this episode, I sit down with Kat from KatjaCaptures to talk about the power of horses in art, and particularly in photography. Images of horses often stay with us long after we’ve seen them because of the way they resonate within us. Kat shares how she approaches photographing horses fully in their own state and how that impacts the presence felt in her photography. Katja's images exudes the peaceful nature of the horse when she enters their world instead of pulling the horses into hers. We also explore why these images can affect us so deeply. How something as simple as looking at a horse can shift your state, bring awareness to what you’re carrying, and help you move through struggles.This is a conversation about more than photography. It’s about presence, perception, and why horses— even through an image—have the ability to bring us back to a more peaceful state of mind. Connect with Katja: Website: https://www.katjajensen.comInstagram: https://instagram.com/katjascapturesCollector’s Club (newsletter & new work announcements): https://katjajensen.myflodesk.com/optin

In this episode, I talk with Kathleen Saucier, case manager and co-founder of Samson’s Strength Sustainable Veterans Project, about the work being done to support veterans through connection with horses.What started as a personal experience for Kathleen and her husband grew into something much bigger. We talk about how horses helped them navigate stress and life after service, and how that experience shaped the work they now do with other veterans.We also get into what’s really happening in these interactions. Not just that horses “help,” but why—how they influence the nervous system, increase awareness, and create opportunities to build skills for a healthier life.This conversation offers a clearer understanding of how horses can support mental health in a practical, grounded way—and why that matters for veterans working to find stability and move forward.This episode was produced in collaboration with #podcastathon where podcasters come together for a week and support a non-profit by sharing about them on their podcast. Samson's Strength Sustainable Veteran's Project is also participating in the Horses for Mental Health campaign, of which The Touch of a Mustang is also an ambassador for the organization. Connect with Kathleen: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sssvp.orgWebsite: ⁠sssvp.org⁠Instagram:  @samsonsstrengthveteransproject Support the Podcast:buymeacoffee.com/thetouchofamustanghttps://buy.stripe.com/8x2bJ26sOgLL0TegAJ77O00Please reach out if you are interested in being a sponsor for the podcast!

Building a nonprofit often begins with a powerful sense of purpose—but turning that passion into a sustainable organization requires more than good intentions.In this episode of The Touch of a Mustang, I sit down with Rob Harter, a nonprofit executive with more than 30 years of experience building and leading social impact organizations. Rob shares what it really takes to move from an idea driven by passion to an organization capable of creating lasting impact.We talk about the common pitfalls that cause many nonprofits to struggle—from leadership blind spots to mission drift—and the practical principles that help organizations stay aligned with the work they set out to do. Rob also shares insights from decades of leadership experience, coaching leaders, and hosting the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, which reaches listeners in over 170 countries.Whether you're thinking about starting a nonprofit, already leading one, or simply passionate about creating meaningful change in the world, this conversation offers a grounded look at what it takes to build something that lasts.If you care deeply about a cause and want to see that passion translate into real-world impact, this conversation will help you think more clearly about what it takes to build something that endures.Connect with Rob! Instagram: @nonprofitleadershippodcastFacebook: @Nonprofit Leadership PodcastLinked In: @Dr. Rob HarterYouTube: @Nonprofit Leadership PodcastSupport the Podcast:buymeacoffee.com/thetouchofamustanghttps://buy.stripe.com/8x2bJ26sOgLL0TegAJ77O00Please reach out if you are interested in being a sponsor for the podcast!

In this episode we enter the world of horse medicine and intuitive guidance with Chloe Elgar, a psychic medium and intuitive guide living on her ranch outside Austin. After more than a decade helping humans navigate their own healing journeys, Chloe created the life she had always envisioned—welcoming a magical herd of horses, including her mustang, Sahara.In this episode, we explore the evolving horse-human relationship, the transformative power of simply sharing life with horses, and the unique healing experiences that unfold when we honor horses as partners rather than tools. Chloe shares her approach to horse medicine, the magic of mustangs, and how deep connection—without riding—can open new pathways to understanding, growth, and personal transformation.Join us for a conversation about life, intuition, and the extraordinary lessons our equine companions can teach us along the way.Connect with Chloe!Website: www.channeledbychloe.com https://www.instagram.com/channeledbychloe/ https://channeledbychloe.substack.com/ Online Shop: www.nightwinggoods.comhttps://www.instagram.com/threespiritranch Support the Podcast:buymeacoffee.com/thetouchofamustang

Many of us who have spent time with horses understand that our time with them changes something about us. It's difficult to describe, to explain. Often, it's referred to as magic. I sit down with Dr. Leanne Nieforth who studies this very thing, to talk about what the research says. Do horses really help people and what is it that creates the change?Leanne Nieforth is an Assistant Professor of Human-Animal Interaction at the Center for the Human-Animal Bond at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Purdue University. With a PhD in Human-Animal Interaction, a Master of Science in communication, and a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science, she has a unique interdisciplinary approach to study human-animal interactions. Her rigorous research portfolio includes both quantitative and qualitative exploration, incorporating both theoretical and empirical analyses. She has applied these analyses to multiple populations of individuals and multiple species of animals. To date, she has 29 peer-reviewed publications with additional publications under review at high impact journals. She has also written five book chapters and multiple extension publications focused on human-animal interactions. She is dedicated to researching evidence-based approaches for developing safe and effective interventions and experiences that foster mutually beneficial partnerships between humans and animals. She also has more than a decade of experience as a certified practitioner by multiple equine-assisted services organizations. Outside of work, Leanne enjoys spending time with her daughter, husband, dog and horses.Connect with Leanne!Human-Animal Partnerships and Interactions (HAPI) Lab Website: https://vet.purdue.edu/discovery/nieforth/Personal Website: www.leannenieforth.comSupport the Podcast:buymeacoffee.com/thetouchofamustang

In this episode, we dig into the realities of horse rescue with Erin and Casey of Rescue Ranchito. What does it truly mean to rescue a horse? What happens behind the scenes after the excitement of a save from slaughter has passed? What does it entail to rescue an animal for life? We talk about the true costs of horse rescue, from the finances to the mental load. And of course, we visit about the powerful role Mustangs have played in the lives of these sisters. Rescue Ranchito, aims to transform America's Mustangs from at-risk rescues into cherished adventure partners. They step in to intercept Mustangs and burros before they enter the slaughter pipeline, countering potential trauma with a quiet period of rehabilitation and assessment. They don't believe in a one-size-fits-all timeline; instead, they design a unique training plan for every animal, remaining deeply hands-on to ensure they thrive. Their goal is not just to rescue them, but to prepare them—at their own pace—for a successful life in a loving home.Connect with Erin and Casey!Website: https://www.rescueranchito.org/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558132586013Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rescueranchito/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/ @RescueRanchito  Support the Podcast!https://buymeacoffee.com/thetouchofamustang

Sometimes, it's worth going for your dreams, even if they seem unreasonable and unwise from the outside looking in. In this conversation, I talk with Nicci Lynn an horse-loving entrepreneur, mom of eight, and Mustang enthusiast with a heart for America’s wild horses. She runs The Branded Bronc, a western-inspired apparel and embroidery business rooted in her love for the equestrian lifestyle. Nicole’s journey with mustangs, and with life, reflects a lesson she learned from her parents, who always inspired her to “just go for it!” Luckily, she married a man who not only has put up with, but has been supportive of her crazy dreams for the past 25 years. That mindset has carried her through raising and training wild-born horses, running a business, building and remodeling projects, and homeschooling her kids. She believes mustangs embody the same grit and resilience she strives to live by, and she’s passionate about sharing their worth and their stories to inspire others to step into challenges with confidence and heart.We dive into a conversation with Nicci about all it entails to jump into the world of wild horses while raising a large family and especially why it's not impossible if it's something you want and are ready to commit to. Connect with Nicci!www.TheBrandedBronc.comhttps://www.instagram.com/the_branded_bronc/

Luke Reinbold has spent the last twenty-five years learning about and becoming a better man because of horses. Beginning as a self-described impatient young man with an anger problem, horses have helped him learn a better approach to life. Luke has competed in Obstacle competitions, Ranch Horse, Versatility, Mustang makeovers, as well as making a living training horses and starting colts. Now Luke travels the country helping horses to be understood by teaching people to communicate in ways that both understand through clinics and his extensive video presentations on various social media platforms, totaling millions of views.In this episode, horseman Luke Reinbold shares his journey from a young boy fascinated by horses to a successful horsemanship professional. He discusses the importance of communication, patience, and learning from mistakes in training horses. Luke emphasizes the need for compassion and humility in both horsemanship and life, highlighting how personal experiences shape our understanding of these principles. The discussion also touches on the impact of social media on horsemanship and the importance of embracing imperfection in our journeys.Connect with LukeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/?ref=homescreenpwaYou Tube: http://www.youtube.com/@LukereinboldhorsemanshipSupport the Podcasthttps://buymeacoffee.com/thetouchofamustang

Jimmy Wiseman, trainer and owner of 3Y Ranch & Rehab, shares the story of a Mustang who changed more than just his training approach. This horse reshaped his perspective on life, patience, and connection. In this episode, Jimmy discusses the lessons he learned from the wild horse, how it influenced the way he works with all horses, and the personal growth that came from embracing challenge and trust.Listeners will walk away with insights on building authentic horse-human relationships, shifting mindset under pressure, and applying lessons from time spent with Mustangs to everyday life. Connect with Jimmy!https://www.facebook.com/jimmy.wiseman.9https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567685597310Support the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/thetouchofamustang

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Ashley Avis, director of Disney’s Black Beauty, filmmaker of Wild Beauty: Mustang Spirit of the West, and tireless animal advocate. We cover her inspiration behind these films and her current work with The Lost Horses Campaign to raise awareness about the horse slaughter pipeline in America.In this episode, Ashley shares:Her experience filming Black BeautyThe story and impact of Wild Beauty: Mustang Spirit of the WestThe realities of the horse slaughter pipeline and why advocacy mattersChapters:00:00 – The Journey Begins: Black Beauty and Its Impact02:46 – The Wild Horse Crisis: A Call to Action05:51 – Documenting Wild Horses: The Making of Wild Beauty08:52 – Legislative Advocacy: Using Film for Change12:07 – The Power of Storytelling: Connecting with Audiences14:49 – The Lost Horses Campaign: A New Initiative17:59 – Rescue Stories: The Reality of Kill Pens25:59 – The Journey to Rescue: A Happy Ending26:38 – Manipulation in the Horse Auction Industry27:48 – The SAFE Act: A Legislative Hope for Horses31:06 – Addressing the Misconceptions of Horse Overpopulation33:03 – The Equine Community's Responsibility34:17 – The Cost of Compassion: Euthanasia vs. Slaughter38:02 – Navigating Divisive Opinions on Horse Welfare41:39 – The Power of Collective Action for Horses42:56 – Rescue Stories: Healing Through Connection50:39 – Taking Action: How to Support the CauseSupport The Touch of a Mustang: https://buymeacoffee.com/touchofamustangConnect with Ashley:www.ashleyavis.comwww.wildbeautyfoundation.orgwww.winterstonepictures.comWILD BEAUTY: MUSTANG SPIRIT OF THE WEST available now:https://youtu.be/2rVD43mFrjUTags / Keywords: Ashley Avis, Black Beauty Disney director, Wild Beauty Mustang Spirit of the West, Lost Horses Campaign, horse slaughter pipeline, wild horse advocacy, animal rescue, equine advocacy, Mustangs, horse conservation

She did what most people only dream of! After six months on the trail, Patricia is back with us, full of stories from her epic adventure. Many of us lived vicariously through her, as she took on a daring journey from Mexico to Canada, with only a dog, a Quarter horse, and three Mustangs by her side. While we watched from our safe and comfortable homes, Patricia battled the cold, struggled to find water, encountered navigation challenges and the biggest of all, overcome any though of defeat. Patricia shares just what it was like being out on the trail, the beautiful kindness from strangers and the struggle to ensure her horses always took priority in challenging, and sometime shocking situations. And we learn just what it takes to travel alone, across the United States. These are stories not to be missed. If you dream big, but aren't sure how they could ever be reality--this episode is for you. Check out all the vidoes and more stories on Instagram:   / on_a_wild_mustang  And look for upcoming content when Patricia brings home and trains another untouched Mustang, utilizing what she learned living side by side in the wilderness with her Mustangs for 6 months.Check out our episode from before the trip!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m83I5TDj-Cw&list=PLd3n5_aoXC0_Xc6GD9rSntxPr0sH4skp3&index=16

In this episode, Shalyce shares her personal journey of fear, healing, and regaining confidence after an intense accident. Whether it followed a fall, a close call, or simply the weight of “what if,” fear around riding can creep in quietly—and take away the joy we once felt in the saddle.Through real experience and practical insight, Shalyce opens up about the moments she worked to over come fear and the small, intentional steps she used to rebuild trust with herself and her horse. If you’ve ever felt afraid to ride—or are helping someone who is—this episode offers understanding, encouragement, and tools for finding your way back into the saddle.

In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Cook — lifelong horseman, trainer, and founder of Dream Horse AZ — to explore how wild Mustangs are transforming lives in ways that are unreal.Raised in Colorado, Jeff’s connection to horses runs deep. What began as a natural gift for training and working with these animals evolved into a lifelong mission: to help people find healing and growth through the wisdom of the horse. Today, from his home base in Tucson, Arizona, Jeff and his daughter Christian operate Dream Horse AZ, where they train, show, and sell exceptional horses — and most importantly, facilitate profound breakthroughs for veterans and others through equine therapy.Jeff’s unique approach harnesses the untamed spirit of wild Mustangs to mirror human resilience, drawing striking parallels between their stories and those of the people he serves. Through patience, trust, and partnership, he’s witnessed countless stories of transformation — where fear gives way to strength, and trauma turns into hope.Whether you’re passionate about Mustangs, curious about the healing power of horses, or seeking inspiration for your own journey, this conversation is a testament to how purpose, and connection with Mustang horses can change lives.Connect with Jeff Cook:Website: dreamhorseaz.comInstagram: @dreamhorseazFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DreamHorseAZ

My Mustang journey has been one of the best experiences of my life. However, when I adopted my first Mustang, I had a lot of learning to do. In this episode I unpack some of the most significant things I've learned along the way--things that if I'd known when I started would have made things a lot easier. Whether you already have a Mustang or are just thinking of adopting one, this episode gives you insights into my experience. If you adopted a Mustang, what do you wish you had known?Connect with The Touch of a MustangInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/thetouchofamustang/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/TheTouchofaMustangTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thetouchofamustangWebsite:https://thetouchofamustang.org/Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/515129299959812

This episode is the first in a series of moving meditation—designed to be listened to while you're walking, driving, doing chores, or spending quiet time with your horse.You don’t need to sit still with your eyes closed to gain the benefits of meditation. In fact, movement can help the body process emotions, regulate the nervous system, and make it easier to stay present. This practice focuses on letting go of what's outside your control and finding acceptance with your world.There is no pressure to get it “right.” Just begin listening and let these words support you wherever you are.Connect with The Touch of a MustangInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/thetouchofamustang/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/TheTouchofaMustangTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thetouchofamustangWebsite:https://thetouchofamustang.org/

In this inspiring episode, Shalyce sits down with Addie Gonzalez—a ranch manager, soil scientist, and first-time Mustang owner whose wild horse changed everything.After years of chasing big dreams across breeding barns, NASA internships, and the ranchlands of Montana, Addie finally bought her first personal horse—a wild Mustang mare named Echo. What she didn’t expect was a whirlwind of fear, setbacks, and deep self-reflection. Echo was older than expected, completely feral, and dangerously reactive.But in just a year and a half, this once-unhandleable mare was racing down a skijor course, earning money and turning heads.Addie shares how she went from self-doubt to fierce trust, and how Echo mirrored her own internal transformation every step of the way. From sleepless nights to small wins that changed everything, this is the story of what happens when you believe in the impossible.Connect with Addie GonzalezInstagram: @eagonzalezmt#SkijorSuccess #WildHorseTeacher #MustangJourney #WomenInRanching #MindsetMatters #MontanaLife #HealingWithHorses #TouchOfAMustang #MustangMentorship #EchoTheMustang

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Shalyce Cluff sits down with the founders of Samson’s Strength Sustainable Veterans Project, Kathleen and David Flounders. Together, they share their extraordinary journey of turning pain into purpose—offering hope, healing, and purpose to veterans through animal-assisted and equine-based interventions.Kathleen, a seasoned mental health professional with over three decades of service, shares how her early research—“Depressive Symptoms and Self-Esteem in Children, Can Horses Help?”—sparked a lifelong passion for using experiential therapies to heal trauma. Her story is one of advocacy, innovation, and deep compassion, serving diverse communities including military families, first responders, and those navigating addiction, trauma, and homelessness.David, a retired Army and Navy Veteran, opens up about his deeply personal journey through PTSD, a suicide attempt, and the path to recovery through connection with wild Mustangs. Now the President of SSSVP, Dave shares how gentling wild horses became a metaphor for his own healing and how he now leads others in doing the same.Together, they’ve created a sanctuary—both physical and emotional—where Veterans can rebuild their lives alongside rescued Mustangs like Super Moose, Mustang Blaze, and The Goddess Artemis.This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of mental health, military service, and the life-changing bond between humans and horses.Connect with Dave and Kathleen and Samson's Strength Sustainable Veterans ProjectFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sssvp.orgWebsite:sssvp.orgInstagram:  @samsonsstrengthveteransproject #veteranHealing #EquineTherapy #MustangsForMentalHealth #TraumaRecovery #AnimalAssistedTherapy #TouchOfAMustang #MilitaryMentalHealth #VeteransMatter #HealingWithHorses

In this inspiring episode, we're joined by Ashley Dudas—also known as The Savvy Equestrian—a passionate Professional Horsemanship Instructor, Clinician, and Horse Development Specialist. With a strong foundation in Natural Horsemanship and years of experience developing young horses, Ashley has dedicated her life to helping equestrians build deeper, more meaningful connections with their horses.Through her innovative Savvy Equestrian Membership, Ashley supports students from around the globe with remote learning tools designed to enhance communication, trust, and understanding between horse and human—no matter the discipline or distance.Tune in as we talk about the philosophy behind true partnership, the unique needs of young horses, and how modern technology is creating new opportunities for horsemanship education. Whether you’re in the saddle or just starting your journey, this conversation is packed with wisdom to guide you forward.Connect with Ashley:Website: https://thesavvyequestrian.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_savvy_equestrian_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18xhAPkRaVYouTube: https://youtube.com/@thesavvyequestrianTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.savvy.equestrianThreads: https://www.threads.net/@the_savvy_equestrian_X (Twitter): https://x.com/SavvyEquine

In this episode, I’m joined by someone whose life has been shaped by horses from the very beginning. At just 13, she started working at a local horse rescue, gaining hands-on experience and witnessing both the heartbreak and hope that come with giving horses a second chance. She adopted her first horse at 14 and later bred her to a BLM Mustang stallion—bringing Whisper, her heart horse, into the world.Over the years, she faced anxiety, self-doubt, and the impact of an emotionally abusive marriage—challenges that affected both her and her connection with Whisper. After leaving that relationship and beginning her healing journey, she met her now husband, who helped her rebuild the bond she had with Whisper.In 2022, she lost her mom, and the following year, said goodbye to Whisper after 24 years together. She didn’t think she’d get another horse—until Willow, an untouched Mustang filly, entered her life. That unexpected connection sparked something new, reviving the passion she thought was gone.Now living in Montana with her husband, two dogs, and four horses, she runs a dog grooming salon and a handmade tack business called Two Bay Ranch Co. Through her work and her animals, she continues to walk a path of purpose, healing, and connection.Connect with Jaime:Personal Instagram: @my.dog.and.pony.showTwo Bay Ranch Co.: @twobayranchcoFacebook: Two Bay Ranch Co.