Ask An Expert: Horse Care and Riding Advice

Equine insurance can be confusing, but knowing your options means you’re better prepared when the unexpected happens. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine insurance agent Heidi Wardle explains the different types of coverage available, what they include, how to navigate the claims process, and how to protect everything from your horse to your tack and equipment. Episode Highlights: 2:30: The different types of equine insurance, who each policy is best suited for, and how to choose the right coverage 11:15: Common equine insurance misconceptions 15:30: What major medical typically covers and key exclusions to watch for 31:00: How the claims process works, how to prepare ahead of time, and common mistakes that can lead to denied claims 41:00: Coverage options for tack, trailers, and farm property 48:45: Expert advice for first-time horse owners shopping for equine insurance Meet the Expert, Heidi Wardle Heidi is a lifelong horsewoman who began her career as a professional rider and trainer before transitioning into the equine insurance world in 2017. She now works with clients across disciplines to protect what matters most, from major medical and mortality to liability, farm, trailer, and tack coverage. Heidi brings a rider’s perspective to her work, combining industry knowledge with firsthand experience. She continues to compete her off-the-track-thoroughbreds, Cold Spice and Generalist in the sport of eventing. Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.  Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Keeping your horse’s training fresh and engaging can be the key to higher performance and happier rides. In this episode of Ask an Expert, accomplished dressage trainer Lisa Helmer discusses the benefits of cross training and shares practical ways to add variety, fitness, and fun into your routine. Episode Highlights: 4:00: What cross-training really means, how it fits into a program, and why it matters for both performance and mindset 19:30: Lisa’s favorite cavaletti exercises and easy ways to blend them into flatwork 45:30: One small weekly training change that can make a big difference 47:00: Common cross-training misconceptions and how to spot the physical and mental benefits Meet the Expert, Lisa Hellmer Lisa Helmer is a lifelong horsewoman and USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medalist. A graduate of Johnson & Wales University with a degree in equine business management and riding, she trained young horses at the Hanoverian Verband in Germany, where she developed a passion for cross-disciplinary training. She later worked for international Grand Prix rider Pam Goodrich before starting her own business, LCH Equestrian, in Ocala, Florida. Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.  Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Horses have their own language, and learning to listen opens the door to a deeper, more compassionate connection. In this episode of Ask an Expert, animal communicator Alexa Linton shares how you can better understand your horse’s experiences, tune into their needs, and support them through tools like animal communication, bodywork, and mindful presence.    Episode Highlights:    10:30: How animal communication works in practice  9:20: Simple exercises for tuning in and strengthening communication with your horse  36:00: Situations that are more challenging for horses than we often realize  39:30: How horses experience loss, absence, and changes within the herd  47:00: Supporting horses through long-term rehabilitation and extended restMeet the Expert, Alexa Linton  Alexa is an osteopathic practitioner with more than 20 years of experience in kinesiology, manual therapy, and energy work. Based in Duncan, BC, she blends science, intuition, and a deep love for horses into everything she does-from her one-on-one intuitive work to her popular programs like the Whole Horse Apprenticeship and her long-running podcast The Whole Horse.Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.  Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

The walk is often underestimated, but it has the power to transform both horse and rider, improving balance, communication, and overall well-being. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Diana Waters, founder of The Power of Walk, explores the principles behind slow walk work, the benefits you can expect, and practical approaches for incorporating it into your training.    Episode Highlights:    7:00: The short-term and long-term benefits of focused walk work, and how it supports overall training development  8:45: The difference between a slow walk and a lazy walk, and where intentional walk work fits into a horse’s training schedule  14:00: How walk work is adapted to address different challenges, and how it improves posture, strength, and muscle tone  21:30: An overview of Diana’s program, including timeline, key exercises, and end goals  47:45: A simple, practical walk-focused challenge listeners can try with their own horse    Meet the Expert, Diana Waters  Diana Waters is a BHS-qualified instructor, Enlightened Equitation Teacher, and Equine Assisted Psychotherapist. She developed Slow Walk Work after discovering how profoundly a gentle, grounded approach could change everything for the horse and the human. What began as a personal journey with a “lazy” horse soon became a method she now shares with horse owners worldwide. Today, she teaches this method to riders around the world through The Power of Walk course and online community, helping horses and humans become more relaxed, confident, and balanced.  Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.  Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Daily care decisions play a bigger role in your horse’s long-term health than many owners realize. In this webinar, Dr. Erica Lacher breaks down the five issues she sees most often in her practice, explains the everyday habits that have the biggest impact on soundness and wellbeing, and shares practical, vet-approved strategies you can start using right away. Whether you’re a lifelong horse owner or just getting started, you’ll come away feeling more confident, prepared, and proactive about your horse’s care.    Episode Highlights:  17:15: Mistake #1: Calling everyone but the veterinarian   21:30: Mistake #2: Spending hard-earned money on supplements  26:15: Mistake #3: Poor quality farrier work  28:30: Mistake #4: DIY wound care  33:40: Mistake #5: Skipping routine care  46:00: Real-world case Q&A    Meet the Expert, Dr. Erica Lacher  A graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Erica Lacher is the owner and lead veterinarian of Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic in Newberry, Florida. She has a particular interest in helping sport horses have long, successful careers and helping owners learn how to make that happen. When she's not at the clinic, Erica competes her own horses in the jumper ring and co-hosts the podcast Straight From The Horse Doctor's Mouth with Justin Long.  Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.  Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Your horse is affected by the footing with every step they take, which makes arena design and footing choices more important than many riders realize. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Dickie Osborne dives into the fundamentals of arena construction, explains common pitfalls, and offers advice on evaluating and improving the footing at home and at shows.  Episode Highlights:  5:00: Why footing matters for horse soundness and performance, and how to recognize good vs. bad footing  8:00: The key steps to building a quality arena, including material selection and proper proportions  17:10: How to choose the right footing, and how footing needs differ by discipline  31:00: Evaluating footing at competitions, what to look for when you arrive, and how to decide if a venue is worth returning to  47:00: Differences between indoor and outdoor arena construction, and how often a well-built arena should be retested and reevaluated  Meet the Expert, Dickie Osborne  Dickie has been a horse owner since childhood and built his first arena more than 30 years ago. After a long career as an excavation contractor, he combined his construction expertise with his lifelong involvement in horses to become a leading authority on equestrian arena design and footing. He is the founder of Precision Equestrian Arenas and Precision Arenas Academy, and he builds and consults on arena projects across the country.  Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.  Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Learning to set effective goals as an equestrian is challenging, especially with so many factors outside your control, but in this episode of Ask an Expert, Dr. Tyler (Held) Murray shares a fresh approach that balances physical, technical, and mental development for lasting performance gains. She explains practical strategies for goal-setting, overcoming setbacks like injury, and the importance of curiosity and reflection for continuous improvement.  Episode Highlights:  9:30: How goal setting looks different for equestrians compared to other sports  14:00: Common goal-setting mistakes riders make, and why goal setting matters  18:20: What effective goal setting looks like, including good vs. bad goals and pivoting plans  37:30: How to reflect on a goal and move forward after it’s complete  49:00: Resources and tools for identifying personal values    Meet the Expert, Tyler Held  Dr. Tyler (Held) Murray is a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) with a Doctorate in Sport and Performance Psychology. Tyler blends high-level equestrian experience with performance mindset training. She is a semi-retired professional 5-star groom for Jennie Brannigan and is also the Master 1 Purple Belt Jiu Jitsu World Champion. If her personal accomplishments are any indication, her approach to performance mindset works.Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.  Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Unlocking peak performance often comes down to mastering your mental game, yet understanding where to begin on that journey can feel overwhelming. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Natalie Hummel joins Jessa to break down the essential components of self-mastery, from nervous system regulation and ego work to emotional mastery, and explains how these areas directly impact riders in and out of the saddle. She shares the roadmap for ongoing personal growth, describes what separates high performers, and offers actionable practices for listeners ready to step into their full potential.  Episode Highlights:  13:00: How this work directly applies to riding and performance  33:45: Common roadblocks riders face during this process, and how to work through them  51:20: Personality types that tend to excel with this work, and which ones may find it more challenging  53:40: Practical advice for riders who want to start doing this type of work    Meet the Expert, Natalie Hummel  Natalie Hummel is a transformational life coach who helps equestrians and other athletes overcome mental and emotional barriers to elevate their competitive performance. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Wellness from the University of Louisville, and she has served as head research assistant in the learning and performance lab during her time there. She has also earned a Wellcoaches certification and Mastery Coach certification, bringing evidence-based strategies and real-world perspective to her coaching work.  If you’d like to learn more about Natalie Hummel’s Limitless Academy, visit the link below. https://nataliehummelcoaching.com/limitless/  Equestrian Mastermind Season 3, Episode 1 drops January 22. Find it in the In Stride feed and follow the show so you don’t miss new episodes.  Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.  Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Retraining an off-the-track Thoroughbred can be one of the most rewarding journeys, but navigating the first steps can leave even experienced riders searching for answers. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Aubrey Graham shares her expertise on retraining off-the-track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs), discussing key first steps in their transition, common misconceptions, and mistakes riders make. She also offers practical advice for sourcing OTTBs and highlights what makes Thoroughbreds special to work with. Episode Highlights: 13:40: Common misconceptions about OTTB’s and what it will take to shift perceptions in today’s market 18:00: The first steps Aubrey takes when transitioning an OTTB from the track to a successful show horse 37:20: How Aubrey sources OTTBs, including the key traits she looks for when evaluating a potential prospect 45:00: The most common mistakes riders make when working with OTTBs, and how to avoid them Meet the Expert, Aubrey Graham With more than 30 years of riding experience, Aubrey is known for her work with young, green, and challenging horses, with a particular passion for retraining off-the-track Thoroughbreds. She is also an accomplished event rider, having competed through the Preliminary level of eventing. Aubrey is the founder of Thoroughbred Logic, an educational platform featuring weekly articles on Horse Nation, along with masterclasses and clinics held nationwide. She has also partnered with the Retired Racehorse Project to develop educational programs for the Ride iQ app. Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.  Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Preventing injuries is essential for keeping performance horses healthy throughout their careers, but understanding what truly helps can feel overwhelming. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine surgeon and sports-medicine veterinarian Dr. Maureen Kelleher breaks down the most common discipline-specific injuries, why hoof balance and shoeing are core to soundness, and how owners can make informed decisions about warm-ups, footing, and useful (vs. unnecessary) therapies. Episode Highlights: 9:00: The most common injuries seen in dressage, eventing, and show jumping horses and whether certain issues are discipline-specific or shared across all three 13:30: The percentage of injuries that could be prevented through training, recovery routines, and daily care, plus key best practices for injury prevention 41:00: The risk-benefit tradeoffs of protective boots and standing wraps 53:50: Technologies Dr. Kelleher supports for maintenance and rehab, and which popular therapeutic treatments may not be worth the time or money Meet the Expert, Dr. Maureen Kelleher Dr. Maureen Kelleher earned her DVM from UC Davis in 2006, then completed an internship at Pioneer Equine Hospital. She spent several years in private equine practice in California, focusing on sports medicine, lameness, diagnostic imaging, and acupuncture. She became a certified veterinary acupuncturist in 2010 and earned Diplomate status with the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. She joined the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center in Leesburg, VA, where she worked with medicine, surgery, and therapeutic-farrier teams to provide advanced care for performance horses. Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.  Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Staying on top of vaccinations is one of the most effective ways to protect your horse’s long-term health, but knowing what to give, when, and why can feel overwhelming. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine veterinarian Dr. Erica Lacher breaks down how to make confident, informed decisions about your horse’s vaccination plan. She explains how to assess risk, how environmental factors influence what’s needed, and what signs to watch for if your horse has an adverse reaction.    Episode Highlights:  3:00: Dr. Lacher’s overall approach to vaccinations and how owners can stay informed about what their horses need  15:30: Key environmental factors that influence which vaccines are necessary  25:45: How veterinarians choose between vaccine brands and why it matters  39:30: How vaccinations support herd health and reduce risk at shows and boarding barns  45:30: What to do if your horse experiences a reaction, plus warning signs of a more serious issue    Meet the Expert, Dr. Erica Lacher        A graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Erica Lacher is the owner and lead veterinarian of Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic in Newberry, Florida. She has a particular interest in helping sport horses have long, successful careers and helping owners learn how to make that happen. When she's not at the clinic, Erica competes her own horses in the jumper ring and co-hosts the podcast Straight From The Horse Doctor's Mouth with Justin Long.  Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.  Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Effective bit and bridle fitting supports not only communication but also your horse’s long-term comfort and performance. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine physiotherapist and biomechanics specialist Kailyn Pupa breaks down what riders should know about bit and bridle fitting, how to recognize good (and poor) fit, and the small adjustments that can make a big difference in your horse’s way of going. Episode Highlights: 8:30: What to look for and prioritize when choosing a bit and bridle fitter 16:30: Clear signs your horse is in the right bit and bridle 36:00: Bridle styles and design features riders should generally avoid 38:00: Common signs of discomfort or poor bridle fit in older horses 48:00: How to determine the correct bit size and height for your horse Meet the Expert, Kailyn Pupa After completing her graduate degree in equine physiotherapy at Writtle University in the U.K., Kailyn Pupa founded Bullseye Equine to support sport horses and their riders through expert biomechanics work and independent bit and bridle fitting. She previously groomed and managed at the five-star level and now works between Wellington, Florida and Central New Jersey. Specializing in hunter/jumper, eventing, and dressage, Kailyn focuses on optimizing both performance and long-term comfort through precise, detail-oriented care. Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com. For Black Friday, use code FRIDAY35 to get 35% off your first month or your first year. Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Understanding your horse isn’t about finding a magic button - it’s about clarity, communication, and confidence. In this episode of Ask an Expert, recorded on October 7th, 2025, Dr. Shelley Appleton shares how science, horsemanship, and self-awareness can help you bring out your horse’s best. Episode Highlights: 12:00: The most common issues Shelley sees in the horses she works with 15:30: How she approaches working with riders and the challenges they bring 23:40: The rider tendencies that often limit progress (and how to fix them) 34:00: How to help a horse with poor boundaries or buddy sour behavior Meet the Expert, Dr. Shelley Appleton Dr. Shelley Appleton began her career as a university academic and pharmacist, researching how people develop expertise and think critically. A pivotal moment with her own horse sparked a personal mission to understand how horses learn and how riders can communicate more clearly. That mission soon grew into helping friends, then students, and ultimately riders around the world. Less than a decade later, she left her 25-year academic career to found Calm Willing Confident Horses, where she teaches riders how clarity, curiosity, and communication create genuine partnership. Through clinics, coaching, and online education, she helps riders transform frustration into confidence, for themselves and their horses. Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.  Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Join the waitlist for Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Equine posture offers valuable insight into a horse’s comfort, balance, and overall well-being. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Shelley Thomas explains what your horse’s posture is telling you and how noticing small changes early can support their long-term health and happiness. Episode Highlights: 4:00: What equine posture entails and why it is important to pay attention to it 7:45: What the ideal posture looks like and how riders can assess their horses' posture 29:30: What to do with the information gathered from assessing posture 50:15: How nutrition plays into posture and the indicators that a horse may need a different nutrition plan Want a free downloadable worksheet on how to assess your horse's static posture? Check out Shelley's website! Meet the Experts, Shelley Thomas Shelley Thomas is a Certified Equine Rehabilitation Practitioner through the University of Tennessee. She is also a Permitted Equine Therapist for FEI competitions, a certified movement performance coach, a Precision Nutrition Level 1 coach, and a Master Reiki practitioner. In addition to her equine work, she holds a degree in psychology and a master’s in physical therapy from the Mayo Clinic and has over 20 years of experience as a human physical therapist. Having ridden through Preliminary eventing and Fourth Level dressage, Shelley brings firsthand knowledge of sporthorse demands to her busy practice, where she treats both horses and riders in-person and virtually. Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.  Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Join the waitlist for Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.

Emotional self-regulation is a foundation of effective training for both horses and riders. In this episode of Ask an Expert, father-and-son team Dr. Paul T. Haefner and Justin Haefner break down how emotional regulation influences learning, confidence, and the partnership in the saddle.    Episode Highlights:   8:00: How a horse’s ability to self-regulate impacts training, and clear strategies to help horses learn emotional control  20:00: A step-by-step approach to helping young or anxious horses work through regulation challenges  30:00: What human dysregulation looks and feels like to a horse, and how it affects the partnership  36:00: Practical tools riders can use to expand their window of tolerance, especially around nerves and fear of falling  Meet the Experts, Paul T. Haefner, PhD and Justin Haefner    Paul T. Haefner, Ph.D., is the founder of Riding Far, LLC, where he combines over 35 years of clinical psychology with his love for horses. Through sport psychology, psychotherapy, and neurolinguistic programming, he helps riders and trainers build confidence, overcome self-doubt, and improve performance. He also contributes to research in human-horse interaction through organizations like the Horses and Humans Research Foundation.  Justin Haefner joined Riding Far, LLC in 2018, bringing expertise in vaquero-style horsemanship, classical dressage, and equine bodywork. With a strong foundation in starting young horses and a passion for mindful training, Justin emphasizes developing strength in mind, body, and spirit. He continues to study with top instructors and is committed to making a positive impact in the equestrian world.    Brought to You By Ride iQ                  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.                  Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).            Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! 

When the temperature drops, your horse's health needs a thoughtful approach to keep them comfortable and thriving through the winter. In this episode of Ask An Expert, renowned equine vet Dr. Lisa Casinella joins us to reveal the essential winter care practices every horse owner should know. From diet adjustments to blanket selection, Dr. Casinella shares actionable advice to make winter stress-free for both you and your horse.Episode Highlights:10:30: Must-have items for a winter emergency kit (when a vet isn’t available).25:30: Seasonal diet and supplement changes after pasture grass disappears.37:00: How to select the right blanket based on weather and hay access.39:30 : Solutions for horses prone to weight loss in winter.44:00: Indoor vs. outdoor winter care: pros, cons, and when to blanket.Meet the Expert, Dr. Lisa CasinellaDr. Lisa Casinella is a leading equine veterinarian based in Ocala, FL, with over 25 years of experience in performance horse care, including as the Official USEF Team Veterinarian. She brings deep expertise in both sport and racehorse health, with a holistic approach that includes acupuncture.Brought to You By Ride iQ              This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.                  Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).              Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! 

Catching soft tissue injuries early can make all the difference. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Dr. Carol Gillis explains how to recognize early signs, take preventative steps, and guide your horse through a successful recovery. Episode Highlights: 4:00: Ways riders can help prevent soft tissue injuries 17:30: Approach to icing legs and cold hosing 20:30: What an initial assessment of lameness or a suspected injury looks like 27:00: When to involve a veterinarian if an issue is suspected 29:30: Modalities that tend to be the most and least effective for treatment Meet the Expert, Dr. Carol Gillis Dr. Gillis is a graduate of the University of California Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. After earning her degree, she developed a sport horse practice and became one of the first equine veterinarians to perform ultrasound examinations on the equine musculoskeletal system. She returned to UC Davis for an equine surgery residency and then obtained a PhD in equine tendon and ligament pathophysiology. At the same time, she also established the equine ultrasound service at UC Davis and created courses and wet labs to train veterinary students, residents, and veterinarians on how to perform and interpret ultrasonographic examinations. Dr. Gillis is the author of over 50 scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals, as well as the book Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery, which has become THE definitive reference book on the topic. She has presented her research on equine sports medicine topics both nationally and internationally. Brought to You By Ride iQ              This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.                  Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).                   Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! 

Cross-country schooling should be both productive and safe. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Leslie Law and Lesley Grant Law share their expertise on how to get the most out of every schooling session and set yourself up for success.  Episode Highlights:    6:30: How often to school cross-country at different levels  14:30: Avoiding pressure on a single schooling session  17:30: Setting up cross-country exercises without a field or jumps  45:00: Tips for determining if you’re in the right bit  50:30: What to include in a cross-country warmup at competition    Meet the Experts, Leslie Law & Lesley Grant Law  Leslie Law is a British 5* event rider and the individual Olympic gold medalist at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens. He is the USEF Eventing Team Chef d’Equipe and High Performance Manager. Previously, Leslie served as the USEF Eventing Developing Rider Coach, and he is ICP Level IV certified.  Lesley Grant Law is a Canadian 5* event rider. She served as the Rider Representative for the 2005 and 2006 Canadian Eventing High Performance Committee and is involved in the Athlete Development Program.  Leslie and Lesley are based in Ocala, FL, where they run Law Eventing, a successful training and coaching business that competes at the top levels of the sport.  Brought to You By Ride iQ                  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.                  Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).              Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! 

Every rider wants their horse to look and feel like a champion. In this episode of Ask an Expert, world-class groom Emma Ford shares her top grooming and barn management secrets, developed through years of working with some of the best riders in the world.  Episode Highlights:   5:30: Defining great leadership as a groom and barn manager 16:20: Essential barn management must-haves 21:00: Preparing horses for travel 26:30: Show grooming tips for a polished look 31:50: Helping horses manage stress in new environments 47:00: Best practices for post–cross country care   Meet the Expert, Emma Ford  Emma grew up in North Devon, England, through Pony Club and the hunt field, earning her B certification before moving to the U.S. to pursue a career with horses. She managed advanced event horses for Adrian Iorio for seven years and later managed Phillip Dutton’s barn in Pennsylvania. Emma has groomed at nearly every CCI5* in the world, as well as the Olympic, World, and Pan American Games, and has also worked at top show jumping and dressage competitions. She is co-author of World Class Grooming, World Class Braiding, and Horsemanship and Grooming, and teaches grooming clinics worldwide.  Brought to You By Ride iQ                This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.               Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).             Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! Book Links: World Class Grooming World Class Braiding  Horsemanship and Grooming 

Equine biosecurity is often overlooked, yet it impacts horses everywhere they go and in everything they do. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Dr. Holly Helbig explains what biosecurity means, why it matters, and the simple steps owners can take to keep their horses safe. Episode Highlights: 6:30: Defining equine biosecurity and why it matters 9:00: The common equine diseases vets monitor closely 21:30: Preventative measures owners can take at home and at shows 25:30: How vets respond when a horse shows symptoms at a show 40:00: Best practices for quarantining horses 43:30: Key vaccines to include in any equine biosecurity plan Meet the Expert, Dr. Holly Helbig Holly Helbig, DVM, is the owner of Hawthorne Hill hunter/jumper boarding and training facility and Hawthorne Veterinary Clinic in Dublin, Ohio. A graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, she is a licensed FEI veterinarian, an accomplished rider and trainer, and has served as the official veterinarian at top competitions including the World Equestrian Center, the Kentucky Horse Park, and Brave Horse. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Helbig is a Veterinary Technical Advisor for Zoetis, supporting equine vets nationwide and contributing to innovative equine health solutions. Brought to You By Ride iQ                  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.                  Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).              Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! Links:Equine Disease Communication Center