Horse Talk by The Horse Review

Episode Summary Publisher and Host Lauren Abbott sits down with Kimbrell Hines, Senior Associate at Segal McCambridge, to discuss updates and changes to the USEF Rules and Regulations that took effect on April 1st. Kimbrell shares her insights as an equine attorney and offers practical advice for trainers, competitors, and equestrians navigating these updates. Key Takeaways Kimbrell's Journey into Equine Law Kimbrell shares her background, from growing up on a hobby farm in Tennessee to becoming an equine attorney. Her experience as a competitive equestrian shaped her passion for combining horses and her legal career. "There needs to be someone for horse people to go to who can offer guidance while recognizing how we do business in this industry." Common Pitfalls in Horse Sales Kimbrell emphasizes the risks of handshake deals in horse sales and the importance of putting clear agreements in place to avoid disputes. "Buying a horse is one of the most exciting moments for an equestrian, but emotions can run high, and sometimes things aren't thought out as clearly as they need to be." Overview of Key USEF Rule Changes Kimbrell breaks down the recent USEF rule updates, their implications, and why equestrians need to be aware of them. The discussion focuses on ensuring compliance at sanctioned events and understanding new regulations for trainers, competitors, and horse owners. Horses as Legal Property Kimbrell explains why horses, from a legal perspective, are considered property and how that affects sales, contracts, and disputes. "Unlike buying a car, purchasing performance horses involves higher risks, making proper documentation essential." Support our Show and Partners Subscribe to The Horse Review Magazine! Don't miss out on expert insights, equestrian health tips, and updates on the horse industry. Subscribe here for a full year of The Horse Review magazine! Shop for Your Equestrian Essentials Build your spring essentials and shop outdoor living at Tractor Supply Co.. Don't forget to check out spring sales on muck boots at Muck Boot Company. Links and Resources Learn more about the USEF rule changes and regulations affecting equestrians at [USEF.org]. Follow The Horse Review on social media for the latest equestrian news and updates. Rate & Review Enjoyed the episode? Leave us a review and share the podcast with your equestrian friends! Connect With Us Follow host Lauren Abbott and guest Kimbrell Hines for more insider tips and news from the equestrian world.

On this episode of Horse Talk we discuss how horses, just like us, face moments of stress and anxiety—whether they're preparing for an intense competition, learning during rigorous training sessions, or simply traveling to new surroundings. For horse owners and trainers, supporting their equine partners through these challenges is critical for their well-being and success. This episode dives deep into an innovative solution to this common concern—StressLess® Equine Calming Supplement. Developed by veterinarians and equine professionals, StressLess® is a natural supplement designed to help horses stay calm, focused, and perform at their best without compromising their composure. But what makes this product truly stand out are the real stories from those who've seen its impact firsthand. We're joined in this episode by two guests: Betty Ledyard, President and Founder of Centerline Distribution, the exclusive U.S. distributor of StressLess®, who shares the visionary ethos behind the product. Courtney Waskiewicz, an upper-level event trainer and brand ambassador for StressLess®, offers her personal experiences and the difference she's observed in using the supplement with her horses. Together, our guests share real life narratives and practical insights about how StressLess® is reducing stress in horses while fostering environments where they can succeed and thrive. Tune in to discover how this innovative and natural supplement is rewriting the approach to equine well-being and leaving lasting impressions on the equestrian community. Listen now to learn how to help your horse lead a stress-free, fulfilling life.

One of the fundamental concepts in riding is achieving straightness and balance, both for the horse and the rider. Hosts Lauren Abbott, Publisher of The Horse Review and Robyn Miller, Trainer and Owner of Conceptual Horsemanship, discuss how this doesn't come easily. "What many riders don't understand is that you and your horse have to go a little crooked before you can truly go straight." What does this mean? Every horse and rider has natural imbalances. A horse might naturally carry more weight on one side or struggle to bend equally both ways. Riders, too, often have asymmetries in their posture or strength. Tackling these imbalances means first acknowledging them and allowing some unevenness while working toward improvement. "Straightness doesn't mean your horse has to move like a ruler or look perfect from day one. It means finding out where the imbalances lie (in horse and rider), and gradually creating symmetry through patient, consistent work." Listen to this episode of Training Tips Tuesday, and kick off the New Year with foundations that will help you and your horse achieve balance and success in the New Year!  

Anxiety and stress are all too familiar for equestrians. Whether it's the fear of falling, self-doubt in your abilities, or just an off day, these feelings can impact your confidence and enjoyment in the saddle. In this episode, hosts, Lauren Abbott and Robyn Miller explore how to acknowledge, understand, and work through the fear and insecurities that might hold you back. From practical tips to mindset shifts, you'll discover tools to help you build resilience, regain confidence, and find joy in your equestrian journey again. If you've ever struggled with fear or self-doubt while riding, this episode is here to remind you that you're not alone—and that overcoming these challenges is entirely possible. Listen now and take the first step toward a calmer, more confident you in the saddle! 🎧

On this Training Tip Tuesdays conversation hosts, Lauren Abbott and Robyn Miller, discuss goal setting, and what to do on days when you or your horse are having a bad day. Is it ok to walk away from your daily riding plan, or should you power through to help get you to your overall riding goal? Listen to discover when it is ok to call it a day, or how to work through a challenging ride with your horse. Please support our show!  MERCH: Make sure you check out all the new designs at Horse Review and Hunt & Field Store! KERRITS: Equestrian Performance Riding Apparel from Kerrits offers everything you need for your rides. Select from the top riding pants, riding tights, winter riding pants, winter riding apparel,  clothes for your outdoor activities, equestrian clothing, and plus size equestrian clothing. Shop here today! MUCK BOOTS COMPANY: Muck Boots Company is dedicated to delivering boots and footwear that are 100% MUCKPROOF: remarkably protective, exceptionally comfortable, and totally waterproof, made with premium neoprene and rubber, and designed to brave every element. Check out all their styles for men and women here! SMARTPAK: SHOP Horse Tack, Supplies & Equipment here! The Smartpak staff of experienced riders tests, reviews and hand-selects the very best horse tack, and they work hard to offer the best price. With a wide array of english tack, you're sure to find everything you need to fill your tack trunk, be it bridles, bits, horse blankets, saddles, halters, saddle pads and beyond. Whether you're a dressage rider, eventer, hunter/jumper or just a casual rider, we have the tack you need.

On this Episode of Horse Talk, Host, Lauren Abbott, sits down with Carrie Kehring, Founder and President of the Board of Directors, and Kathryn McClain, MSW, MBA, Program and Partnerships Director with #WeRideTogether. #WeRideTogether is a nonprofit organization created to cast light upon the endemic issue of sexual abuse in youth and amateur sports. Their mission is to make the youth and amateur sport environment safer for all athletes. #WeRideTogether believes sports should be the safest and healthiest place for children and young adults to grow and flourish, and that every individual has the right to learn, play, and compete without fear of sexual abuse. They are committed to creating the radical change needed to fulfill that vision by addressing education and awareness, creating a safe place for survivors to find resources and share their voices, and eliminating the stigma around these necessary conversations. This was a hard conversation to have, but a much needed one. Abbott, Kehring and McClain did not just discuss sexual assault in equestrian sports, but in all sports. As women, mothers, daughters, sisters and as men, fathers, sons, and brothers, please share this podcast with your network of friends, colleagues and fellow parents of youth athletes.  The team at Horse Talk is passionate about this topic and our hope with this conversation is to help share resources with survivors to help their recovery, and guidelines trainers, coaches and team managers can set in place to help discourage grooming and the prevalence of sexual assault and abuse in youth and amateur sports. We hope you will listen, but most of all share with others. And please know, for anyone affected by abuse, you are not alone. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 Courage First Athlete Helpline: 888-279-1026 LGBT National Help Center: 888-843-4564 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233 National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-4673

Welcome back to Horse Talk! On this episode host, Lauren Abbott, Publisher of the Horse Review, talks with Melanie Sutton Shinault, Owner of Kindred Spirit Photography. Lauren and Melanie discuss the world of equine portrait photography and horse show photography. In this digital era Melanie discusses how she has evolved her photography business to not only include beautiful digital portraits, but also beautiful prints that are printed through her shop, and timeless videos of horse and rider in and out of the show ring. She also discusses how she has worked hard to find a balance photographing horse shows while riding and competing herself.  Make sure you're subscribed to the Horse Review YouTube Channel and wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for all the best highlights from the show, and equine related content to help you become the best equestrian and rider. Please Support our Horse Talk show: MERCH: Make sure you check out all the new designs at Horse Review and Hunt & Field Store! KERRITS: Equestrian Performance Riding Apparel from Kerrits offers everything you need for your rides. Select from the top riding pants, riding tights, winter riding pants, winter riding apparel,  clothes for your outdoor activities, equestrian clothing, and plus size equestrian clothing. Shop here today! MUCK BOOTS COMPANY: Muck Boots Company is dedicated to delivering boots and footwear that are 100% MUCKPROOF: remarkably protective, exceptionally comfortable, and totally waterproof, made with premium neoprene and rubber, and designed to brave every element. Check out all their styles for men and women here! SMARTPAK: SHOP Horse Tack, Supplies & Equipment here! The Smartpak staff of experienced riders tests, reviews and hand-selects the very best horse tack, and they work hard to offer the best price. With a wide array of english tack, you're sure to find everything you need to fill your tack trunk, be it bridles, bits, horse blankets, saddles, halters, saddle pads and beyond. Whether you're a dressage rider, eventer, hunter/jumper or just a casual rider, we have the tack you need.

We are back with Training Tip Tuesdays in 2024. In this episode hosts, Lauren Abbott, Publisher of the Horse Review, and Robyn Miller Owner of Conceptual Horsemanship and Trainer and Manager at Point Pleasant Farm discuss trouble areas listeners have had with their horses.  One topic covers the hard to catch horse while the other topic covers bringing a horse back into work from time off. Miller discusses how specific and non threatening ground work can help build trust and a better bond. She also discusses how consistency and patience will help pay off when you are dealing with a horse with anxiety or one displaying behavioral issues. Make sure you're subscribed to the Horse Review YouTube Channel and wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for all the best highlights from the show, and equine related content to help you become the best equestrian and rider. Please Support our Horse Talk show: MERCH: Make sure you check out all the new designs at Horse Review and Hunt & Field Store! KERRITS: Equestrian Performance Riding Apparel from Kerrits offers everything you need for your rides. Select from the top riding pants, riding tights, winter riding pants, winter riding apparel,  clothes for your outdoor activities, equestrian clothing, and plus size equestrian clothing. Shop here today! MUCK BOOTS COMPANY: Muck Boots Company is dedicated to delivering boots and footwear that are 100% MUCKPROOF: remarkably protective, exceptionally comfortable, and totally waterproof, made with premium neoprene and rubber, and designed to brave every element. Check out all their styles for men and women here! SMARTPAK: SHOP Horse Tack, Supplies & Equipment here! The Smartpak staff of experienced riders tests, reviews and hand-selects the very best horse tack, and they work hard to offer the best price. With a wide array of english tack, you're sure to find everything you need to fill your tack trunk, be it bridles, bits, horse blankets, saddles, halters, saddle pads and beyond. Whether you're a dressage rider, eventer, hunter/jumper or just a casual rider, we have the tack you need.

Welcome back to Horse Talk. We kick off Season II by sitting down and talking with Jamie Arnold, CEO and Founder of EC Pro and Russell Daws, President of EC Pro U.S. Jamie is an equestrian who founded the award-winning client, staff, and barn management software, EC Pro, in the U.K. in 2017. He had a mission to provide riding school and equestrian center owners with complete control over their business operations while giving customers the digital experience and modern convenience they expect. Six years later, Jamie is still enjoying being the CEO of EC Pro while also spending time in the barn, traveling, and being with his family.   Russell is a hands-on growth strategist with 25+ years experience aligning teams and processes across sales, business development, marketing, product and client success. As the President of EC Pro U.S., he is leading the expansion of the company to the States. Outside of work you can find Russell hanging out with his family, playing golf, working out, or watching sports.    EC Pro streamlines stable management by integrating bookings, financial tracking, and client coordination into one user-friendly platform. It's the comprehensive solution that simplifies equestrian professionals' administrative workload, freeing training and boarding barn facility owners to focus on delivering exceptional equestrian services and growing their business.   To learn more about EC Pro and EC Pro US visit https://www.ecpro.us   To start a free 45 day trial visit: https://www.ecpro.us/book-demo   Subscribe and share the Horse Talk Podcast with all your horse friends and subscribe to the Horse Review to receive monthly equestrian news, features, and happenings about the southern equestrian community. Subscribe Here!   Thank you to our partners EC Pro and EC Pro US.  

On this Episode of Training Tips Tuesday co-hosts, Lauren Abbott and Robyn Miller, discuss the importance of consistency with your horses. Not only is consistency important in training, but in handling our horses day to day. Whether you have two days out of the week you spend with your horse, or five, the consistent and intentional actions and training you put into your horse will help get you to your goals no matter the time you have dedicated. Make sure you're subscribed to the Horse Review YouTube Channel and wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for all the best highlights from the show, and equine related content to help you become the best equestrian and rider. Please Support our Horse Talk show: MERCH: Make sure you check out all the new designs at Horse Review and Hunt & Field Store! KERRITS: Equestrian Performance Riding Apparel from Kerrits offers everything you need for your rides. Select from the top riding pants, riding tights, winter riding pants, winter riding apparel,  clothes for your outdoor activities, equestrian clothing, and plus size equestrian clothing. Shop here today! MUCK BOOTS COMPANY: Muck Boots Company is dedicated to delivering boots and footwear that are 100% MUCKPROOF: remarkably protective, exceptionally comfortable, and totally waterproof, made with premium neoprene and rubber, and designed to brave every element. Check out all their styles for men and women here! SMARTPAK: SHOP Horse Tack, Supplies & Equipment here! The Smartpak staff of experienced riders tests, reviews and hand-selects the very best horse tack, and they work hard to offer the best price. With a wide array of english tack, you're sure to find everything you need to fill your tack trunk, be it bridles, bits, horse blankets, saddles, halters, saddle pads and beyond. Whether you're a dressage rider, eventer, hunter/jumper or just a casual rider, we have the tack you need.

On this episode of Horse Talk, Host, Lauren Abbott, talks with Fara Sudlow, Owner of Saddles N Such, about her major career transition from working in childhood cancer research at St. Jude Research Hospital to owning one of the best known equine tack shops in the region. Fara grew up with horses and returning to the horse industry as a equine business owner was a transition that she did not think would happen at first. Before moving out of the area she offered to purchase Saddles N Such and to her surprise she left the store to head home and tell her husband that they weren't moving, because she just bought a tack shop. Make sure you're subscribed to the Horse Review YouTube Channel and wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for all the best highlights from the show, and equine related content to help you become the best equestrian and rider. Please Support our Horse Talk show: MERCH: Make sure you check out all the new designs at Horse Review and Hunt & Field Store! KERRITS: Equestrian Performance Riding Apparel from Kerrits offers everything you need for your rides. Select from the top riding pants, riding tights, winter riding pants, winter riding apparel,  clothes for your outdoor activities, equestrian clothing, and plus size equestrian clothing. Shop here today! MUCK BOOTS COMPANY: Muck Boots Company is dedicated to delivering boots and footwear that are 100% MUCKPROOF: remarkably protective, exceptionally comfortable, and totally waterproof, made with premium neoprene and rubber, and designed to brave every element. Check out all their styles for men and women here! SMARTPAK: SHOP Horse Tack, Supplies & Equipment here! The Smartpak staff of experienced riders tests, reviews and hand-selects the very best horse tack, and they work hard to offer the best price. With a wide array of english tack, you're sure to find everything you need to fill your tack trunk, be it bridles, bits, horse blankets, saddles, halters, saddle pads and beyond. Whether you're a dressage rider, eventer, hunter/jumper or just a casual rider, we have the tack you need.  

On this episode of Horse Talk's Training Tip Tuesdays hosts: Lauren Abbott and Robyn Miller discuss training tools like a training flag and how it can be instrumental in training horses of all disciplines and breeds. Abbott talks about her personal obstacles with her Mustang horse that has been out of consistent work for two years and how bringing him back into work is going to be more challenging that she anticipated. Robyn discuss how introducing a flag to him to help desensitize his over reaction and to encourage him to be more accepting of moving foward in a positive way. She explains how this can also keep us safe while working on the ground and how to recognize red flags or potential problems before getting in the saddle. Make sure you're subscribed to the Horse Review YouTube Channel and wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for all the best highlights from the show, and equine related content to help you become the best equestrian and rider. Please Support our Horse Talk show: MERCH: Make sure you check out all the new designs at Horse Review and Hunt & Field Store! KERRITS: Equestrian Performance Riding Apparel from Kerrits offers everything you need for your rides. Select from the top riding pants, riding tights, winter riding pants, winter riding apparel,  clothes for your outdoor activities, equestrian clothing, and plus size equestrian clothing. Shop here today! MUCK BOOTS COMPANY: Muck Boots Company is dedicated to delivering boots and footwear that are 100% MUCKPROOF: remarkably protective, exceptionally comfortable, and totally waterproof, made with premium neoprene and rubber, and designed to brave every element. Check out all their styles for men and women here! SMARTPAK: SHOP Horse Tack, Supplies & Equipment here! The Smartpak staff of experienced riders tests, reviews and hand-selects the very best horse tack, and they work hard to offer the best price. With a wide array of english tack, you're sure to find everything you need to fill your tack trunk, be it bridles, bits, horse blankets, saddles, halters, saddle pads and beyond. Whether you're a dressage rider, eventer, hunter/jumper or just a casual rider, we have the tack you need.    

On this special tribute episode Lauren Abbott, Host of Horse Talk, shares details about the Retired Racehorse Project's Thoroughbred Makeover that took place in Lexington, Kentucky in October. Abbott discusses featured articles in the November issue of the Horse Review that cover a husband and wife team who competed in Competitive Trail, and a Junior Rider who placed in the finales top 5 in Show Hunter and Show Jumper. At time marker: 13:54 listen to a special Tribute to the Thoroughbred. Make sure you're subscribed to the Horse Review YouTube Channel and wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for all the best highlights from the show, and equine related content to help you become the best equestrian and rider. Please Support our Horse Talk show: MERCH: Make sure you check out all the new designs at Horse Review and Hunt & Field Store! KERRITS: Equestrian Performance Riding Apparel from Kerrits offers everything you need for your rides. Select from the top riding pants, riding tights, winter riding pants, winter riding apparel,  clothes for your outdoor activities, equestrian clothing, and plus size equestrian clothing. Shop here today! MUCK BOOTS COMPANY: Muck Boots Company is dedicated to delivering boots and footwear that are 100% MUCKPROOF: remarkably protective, exceptionally comfortable, and totally waterproof, made with premium neoprene and rubber, and designed to brave every element. Check out all their styles for men and women here! SMARTPAK: SHOP Horse Tack, Supplies & Equipment here! The Smartpak staff of experienced riders tests, reviews and hand-selects the very best horse tack, and they work hard to offer the best price. With a wide array of english tack, you're sure to find everything you need to fill your tack trunk, be it bridles, bits, horse blankets, saddles, halters, saddle pads and beyond. Whether you're a dressage rider, eventer, hunter/jumper or just a casual rider, we have the tack you need.

Horse Talk is back with another episode on Nutrition sponsored by our From the Experts sponsors and friends at Kentucky Equine Research! In this episode, Host, Lauren Abbott, and Guest, Katie Young, Ph.D, Equine Nutritionist with KER, get into all the main areas of selecting the right nutrition plan for your equine athlete. Katie breaks down different kinds of equine disciplines and exercises: aerobic verse anarobic, how they are different and how they each require different feed and fuel for horses. Katie also breaks down important minerals, vitamins, carbohydrates, and fats that are needed in equine feeds and how they each play a role in a horse's overall performance and peak condition.  Lauren talks about how balanced feeds have evolved over the last 20 to 30 years and how major feed brands have developed high quality feeds that make it easy to properly feed your performance horses. We will be back next week with our Training Tip Tuesday conversation with Co-Host and Horse Trainer, Robyn Miller, to breakdown horse training methods that help horses become the best versions on themselves, and discuss many points from this nutrition talk and how it is important in training. Make sure you're subscribed to the Horse Review YouTube Channel and wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for all the best highlights from the show, and equine related content to help you become the best equestrian and rider. Please Support our Horse Talk show: MERCH: Make sure you check out all the new designs at Horse Review and Hunt & Field Store! KERRITS: Equestrian Performance Riding Apparel from Kerrits offers everything you need for your rides. Select from the top riding pants, riding tights, winter riding pants, winter riding apparel,  clothes for your outdoor activities, equestrian clothing, and plus size equestrian clothing. Shop here today! MUCK BOOTS COMPANY: Muck Boots Company is dedicated to delivering boots and footwear that are 100% MUCKPROOF: remarkably protective, exceptionally comfortable, and totally waterproof, made with premium neoprene and rubber, and designed to brave every element. Check out all their styles for men and women here! SMARTPAK: SHOP Horse Tack, Supplies & Equipment here! The Smartpak staff of experienced riders tests, reviews and hand-selects the very best horse tack, and they work hard to offer the best price. With a wide array of english tack, you're sure to find everything you need to fill your tack trunk, be it bridles, bits, horse blankets, saddles, halters, saddle pads and beyond. Whether you're a dressage rider, eventer, hunter/jumper or just a casual rider, we have the tack you need.  

Host Lauren Abbott talks with Aimee Robinson, Content Marketing Manager for Valley Vet Supply. Abbott and Robinson discuss content creation, marketing, PR and best practices for equestrians and businesses to pitch story ideas to publications. They also discuss why content marketing helps develop credible brands and how it helps engage prospective clients and current customers.  Listen to learn more about ways to enhance your content marketing as an equestrian athlete or equine business. Subscribe to Horse Talk on any major podcast app, leave us a review and share with your horse friends. To subscribe to the Mid-South Horse Review visit: https://www.midsouthhorsereview.com/subscribe-1    

Training Tip Tuesdays is a conversation between host, Lauren Abbott, Publisher of the Horse Review and co-host and horse trainer, Robyn Miller of Point Pleasant Farm. Abbott and Miller discuss how your horse sees you and how your ride begins the moment you get your horse out of the pasture and the stall. They also discuss the importance of consistent ground work for your horse and how ground work preparation sets the tone for your ride. Listen to learn more about basic ground work, how your horse sees you, and the awareness we need as equestrians.

This episode of Horse Talks has us talking with Brittany Kasprack Coleman, Founder and President of Midsouth Chiropractic and of the ExEL Shows. We talked with Brittany about her work/ life balance as a Business Owner/ Chiropractor for humans and animals, her personal Grand Prix horses, and the success of the ExEL Shows. Tune in to learn more about how Brittany balances her days as a Grand Prix Competitor, a business owner, and her mission and passion for the ExEL Shows.

This episode of the Horse Talk Podcast covers everything horse owners need to know about Fall Laminitis, what it is, how to prevent, and how to manage. Join our From the Experts Conversation with Katie Young Ph.D, Equine Nutritionist with Kentucky Equine Research. Katie Young received her bachelor's degree from Missouri State University in biology, with minors in animal science and chemistry, and earned her doctorate from Texas A&M University in equine nutrition and exercise physiology. Her graduate research focused on mineral balance in resting and exercising horses, and the effects of fat-added diets on sweat production in working horses. Young was a member of the TAMU Equine Science faculty for several years during and following her tenure as a graduate student. Since leaving academia, she has spent nearly 30 years in the feed industry as an equine nutritionist, horse feed program manager, and business consultant for Farmland Industries, a large regional feed company, and then as technical equine nutritionist and horse feed product manager for Purina Animal Nutrition. She has extensive experience in horse feed formulation, quality control and production, customer service and communication, sales and sales training, marketing, and regulatory and labeling requirements for equine feed. She was highly involved in every aspect of product development and launches both at Farmland and Purina. She now works as a consulting equine nutritionist for Kentucky Equine Research, and also provides independent consulting services for horse owners and veterinarians.

Episode Description Are you looking to find deeper fulfillment in your equestrian journey, beyond the pressure of the show ring? This Horse Talk Reads episode explores the immense joy and benefits of non-competitive horse riding. We dive into how stepping away from competition can strengthen the horse and rider connection, turning everyday rides into meaningful adventures. Discover the mental health benefits of horseback riding, from stress reduction to building resilience. We provide practical horseback riding tips to cultivate presence, trust, and partnership with your horse. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or a casual rider, learn how to embrace the simplicity of the equestrian lifestyle, find joy in the journey, and make every moment in the saddle count. Key Topics Covered: Redefining Success: Shifting focus from external validation (ribbons and scores) to the internal rewards of a strong horse and rider connection. [02:22] Building a Deeper Bond: How removing performance pressure allows for richer communication and trust with your horse. [03:17] The Simplicity of the Ride: Embracing the freedom and mental clarity that comes from non-goal-oriented riding and trail riding benefits. [04:20] The Trail as a Classroom: Using trail riding to build confidence, adaptability, and problem-solving skills for both horse and rider. [05:09] Practical Tips for Meaningful Rides: Actionable advice, including mindful grooming, incorporating "hangout time," and unplugging to be more present. [06:48] Mental & Emotional Benefits: A look at the science behind why riding is therapeutic, helping to reduce anxiety and build emotional resilience. [09:17] Resources Mentioned: Read the original article: https://www.midsouthhorsereview.com/riding-without-the-show-ring-finding-fulfillment-in-everyday-rides Explore more content at www.thehorsereview.com Connect with Us: If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to Horse Talk Reads on your favorite podcast platform, share it with a fellow equestrian, and leave us a review. Your support helps us reach more horse lovers just like you. For more insights like this one subscribe to our premium digital monthly subscription here! For more Horse Tips, Insights and Stories visit us here!

Is your horse struggling with weight gain, strange fat deposits, or unexplained lameness? It could be more than just a few extra pounds. In this episode of Horse Talk Reads, we dive deep into Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS), a critical horse health issue that every owner should understand. We translate an expert article from Kyla Simplinski with UT-TSU Shelby County Extension into an easy-to-follow guide, breaking down the science behind EMS, the warning signs you can't afford to ignore, and the proven strategies to manage it effectively. Learn how to spot the early symptoms of this metabolic disorder, understand the link between insulin resistance in horses and the devastating hoof disease laminitis, and discover actionable tips for diet, exercise, and medical intervention. This episode is your essential resource for helping your horse live a healthier, happier life. In This Episode, You'll Learn: What is Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS)? We explain how EMS disrupts your horse's ability to process sugar, drawing parallels to type 2 diabetes in humans and highlighting its unique impact on equines. Key Symptoms to Watch For: Learn to identify the classic signs of EMS, from regional fat pads (like a "cresty neck") and abnormal hoof rings to more subtle clues like increased drinking, urination, and decreased stamina. The Science of Insulin Resistance: We demystify the concept of insulin resistance in horses and explain how chronically high insulin levels contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of laminitis. The Dangers of Laminitis: Understand why laminitis is a metabolic emergency often linked to EMS and why early detection is crucial to prevent irreversible hoof damage. Diagnosing EMS: Discover the veterinary tests used to confirm an EMS diagnosis, including the baseline insulin and glucose test and the oral sugar test (OST). We also explain why modern testing protocols no longer require fasting. Actionable Management Strategies: Get practical advice on the three pillars of EMS management: Diet: The importance of a low-carb, high-fiber diet, eliminating sugary treats, and testing your forage. Exercise: How to create a safe and effective exercise plan to improve insulin sensitivity, even for horses with active laminitis. Medication: An overview of common medications your vet might prescribe to support metabolic function. Episode Timestamps: [00:49] - What exactly is Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS)? [02:03] - Classic Signs & Symptoms: Identifying EMS Red Flags [03:11] - The Science Explained: Understanding Insulin Resistance in Horses [04:06] - The Critical Link Between EMS and Laminitis [05:01] - How Vets Diagnose EMS: A Breakdown of Blood Tests [07:47] - Management Solutions Part 1: Diet & Nutrition Tips [08:37] - Management Solutions Part 2: The Role of Exercise [09:20] - Management Solutions Part 3: When Medication is Necessary [10:09] - Long-Term EMS Management and Why Vigilance is Key Resources Mentioned: Read the full article by Kyla Simplinski with UT-TSU Shelby County Extension on our website: https://www.midsouthhorsereview.com/understanding-equine-metabolic-syndrome-in-your-horse Take Action: Early detection is your best defense against the serious complications of Equine Metabolic Syndrome. The next time you groom your horse, take a moment to check for the signs discussed in this episode. If you notice a cresty neck, abnormal fat deposits, or tenderness in their feet, don't wait. Contact your veterinarian to discuss your concerns. Keywords: Equine Metabolic Syndrome, EMS, horse health, laminitis, insulin resistance in horses, EMS management, cresty neck horse, equine metabolic disease, horse weight management, hoof health, equine nutrition. For more insights like this one subscribe to our premium digital monthly subscription here!