Do you ever feel resistance to doing the things you want to do, or love to do? Specifically with horses?In this episode, I share a story about how I overcame resistance recently, and how it sneaks up in so many different places in life. I share how I've been learning to overcome resistance, and strategies to keep going.I share how it's important to focus on our why behind what we do. I talk about how it's important to use those gifts and things that bring us joy.
Do you ever have an all or nothing mentality? Where if you can't do something 100%, then you might choose to not do it at all? I know I do. This has recently been brought to my attention, and it's fascinating how it applies to both our horsemanship and motherhood. In this episode, I talk about how that "all or nothing" mentality has affected me, and what I've done to help overcome it. I talk about how 15 minutes is golden, and how to use a sticker chart to encourage yourself in achieving goals. Welcome to season 2 of the podcast. After a summer break, it feels good to be back. Stay tuned for more! Blessings!
Have you ever been told, as a mom, "Oh you're so busy!" Or, "You've got your hands full!" Or perhaps you've come to a mom's group, and the topics seem to focus on how hard and chaotic motherhood can be? You come away feeling more drained than encouraged. In this episode with writer, speaker and mama to 7, Monica Geyen shares how we can practically tell the truth about our children, from a biblical perspective, to combat that temptation to complain about our children. This episode is full of scripture and truth. It's encouraging and uplifting. A perfect episode for Mother's Day weekend!Mentioned in this episode:*Four truths mentioned in scripture about how the Lord sees children*Practical advice for encouraging other moms in our journey of motherhood together*How influence plays a part (what we pay attention to grows)*How to be like Jesus with our children. "Come." And much, much more!This episode is to be paired with an article that Monica wrote for Desiring God. You can find it here: https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/tell-the-truth-about-childrenYou can also find more by Monica Geyen on her website here: https://www.monicageyen.comHappy Mother's Day from Mama in the Saddle!More about Monica:Monica Geyen is a lawyer turned homeschooling mother and writer. She is married to Chad, and the delighted mother of seven, ages 12 down to 7 months. From a Hindu background, Monica was drawn to the Lord through Pastor John Piper’s sermon series at Bethlehem Baptist Church on Romans and hearing the gospel from her now-husband, Chad. Over the last 20 years, God has cultivated in Monica a heart for encouraging missional living. After her transition to being a stay-at-home mom, Monica discipled law students through InterVarsity and began to teach the Bible to her children and women at Bethlehem. She has served for 14 years as a small group leader alongside her husband Chad, who also serves as an elder. She currently writes for Desiring God, continues to love to teach God’s Word, counsels couples alongside Chad, and speaks on various topics, including missional living, marriage, and motherhood. Monica loves read alouds with her family, embarking on new adventures, playing outside, and dreaming up fresh plans with the Lord, Chad, and her children about how to live as a family on mission.
Are you struggling right now with feeling mom guilt as an equestrian? Maybe you're struggling with beating yourself up? If either of those are true, then this podcast episode with Kacey Cleary will be a refreshing encouragement for you. We also discussed:*Goal setting as an equestrian mom*Dreams*Restarting as an equestrian mom in the horse world*Starting with horses for the first time as a mom*Expectations with horses as a mom*and much, much more!On this episode, I am joined by Kacey Cleary. This is her bio:"I’m the creator behind Joyful Equestrian, my online space dedicated to being a resource for amateur equestrians. Beyond the blog, I’m a wife and a homeschooling mom to my energetic six-year-old son, Colton. We're also excitedly expecting our second child soon! Horses have been a pivotal part of my life since childhood, profoundly shaping who I am. I have an Associates degree in Equine Industries and an MA riding instructor license. I got certified in the past with the ARIA and have spent years riding, training, and teaching. After a break from my blog to focus on family, I'm back to working on Joyful Equestrian once more, though scaled back quite a bit. My goal is to help riders find joy in their equestrian journey and grow in all aspects of horsemanship."Check out Kacey's blog: https://www.joyfulequestrian.comLooking for a devotional that walks through the fruits of the spirit with horses? I wrote one, and it's available on Amazon. Check it out by clicking here.Or search "Stable Truths" on Amazon.
I am so honored and excited to have Adele Shaw back on the podcast this week! As before, our conversation was impactful and encouraging. We discussed so many good topics pertaining to horsemanship and motherhood. I asked some of the following questions: 1. What is a favorite memory (or memories) as a mom and horsewoman? 2. How have you had little kids/babies while having horses? 3. What would you say to a woman who said she thought she would be selfish for wanting to pursue horses while being a mom? 4. What motivates you to keep going when there are tough days? Are there specific phrases you use, or reminders? 5. Explain R+, and how you’ve used it with horses, and even kids! 6. What would you say to a mom who is afraid to try, because she is afraid of making mistakes?
Listen in on this amazing conversation! Mentioned in this episode: 1. How horses (caring for them, riding them, being with them) can help our teens 2. How horses help us bond with our children 3. How horses can be a amazing family experience 4. How to be flexible across all the seasons of motherhood 5. Creating goals as a family, with our kids, with our horses. Megan's Bio: Meg McInnes is a passionate equestrian and hobby farmer. Based in the suburbs of Salt Lake City, UT, she and her family share their lives with cows, pigs, chickens, and horses. They’ve even adopted and trained two mustangs! Meg and her family love spending time together outdoors, especially trail riding in the stunning mountains of Utah. She's also an active member of the "WANNA BE COWGIRLS" riding group, where she enjoys exploring new trails with friends. Currently, Meg is focused on developing her two-year-old American Quarter Horse. With the guidance of a skilled trainer, she’s working towards creating a versatile all-around companion. Beyond her equestrian pursuits, Meg has a successful 20+ year career in the transportation industry. She’s been married for 25 years and is a proud mother of three, who share her love for animals.
Adele Shaw is an internationally recognized certified equine behavior consultant and horsemanship mentor, focused on creating a positive relationship between horse and human through science-based training and care practices. Drawn to horses labeled as “trouble makers” and “lost causes” from an early age, Adele has always had a passion for understanding the “why” behind behavior and a deep desire to help horses find their way back to wellness. This whole horse approach examines the horse’s environment, lifestyle, and physical and mental soundness to ensure that the horses are not simply surviving, but truly thriving in their life and relationship with their human caretakers. As a teacher, Adele is supportive and understanding of both horse and human, and tailors her lessons to provide the most personalized, accessible, and ethically minded coaching possible. Her approach goes beyond method: by offering flexible training and care systems, the wellbeing of the horse and the empowerment of the student always remain the primary goals. In addition to her hands-on work with specialized rehabilitation cases at her ranch in Texas, Adele maintains an active role in the equestrian community through her clinics, online programs, courses, blog, podcast, and social media outreach. As she connects with students across the globe through The Willing Equine. Mentioned in this episode: *It's not about balancing horsemanship and motherhood. It's more a juggling act, with glass and rubber balls. *Being an amazing and kind caregiver to your children and horses. *How working with horses directly influences our motherhood, and vice versa *Goal setting in small, manageable steps. And much, much more! Such a rich conversation. You can connect with Adele Shaw on her website or any of her social media sites, links are below: https://www.thewillingequine.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thewillingequine/ https://www.youtube.com/thewillingequine https://www.tiktok.com/@thewillingequine https://www.facebook.com/thewillingequine
On this podcast I welcome my first podcast guest, Riece Morris! Riece Morris is a certified life and Equus Coach, equestrian, and mother of 5 based in Northern California. Her coaching practice focuses on helping women set and achieve goals, improve relationships, and find delight in every season of life. She has a special passion for equine assisted coaching, where she facilitates healing and growth using horses as guides. Riece’s horsemanship journey has focused on liberty, Western Dressage, and bridleless riding. Finally, and most importantly, her greatest joy in life is her family, including her husband of 22 years and her five children, who range in ages from 6 to 20. Discussed in this podcast: -The importance of being kind to yourself and not beating yourself up as an equestrian mom -A day in the life of an equestrian mom -Experimenting, goal-setting and living within seasons -Changing your mindset -Managing emotions well -Dreaming -Dealing with Mom Guilt as an equestrian mom And much, much more! I am so excited about this conversation. You are in for a treat! You can find Riece Morris on her website: www.riecemorris.com Also mentioned: The Resourceful Rider program with Stacy Westfall: https://courses.stacywestfall.com/p/riding-bundle Follow me on my blog: www.stabletruths.wordpress.com
Have you ever experienced a dream, and it did not unfold the way you originally thought?In this episode, I chat with Yvet Blokesch, of the Feather Light Academy, about her experience into motherhood while being an equestrian and horse trainer. We discuss topics around:*Pregnancy while having horses*Processing and adjusting when unexpected things happen*Setting realistic goals while being a mom with horses *Treasuring every moment spent with our horses and children, choosing to stay in the present with them and not be distracted.*Acknowledging hard days, but being able to see the big picture.*How to have and hold to your opinions with horses and children*Choosing one thing that makes you happy and do it, even a little bit, every day. Also tune in to hear what she said are three skills she’s cultivated while being a mom and horsewoman. It is absolute gold.What an encouraging conversation this was! Find out more about Yvet here. The Feather Light Academy: https://featherlightacademy.com/about-yvet/
I have heard that one of the missing pieces in our lives today (whether with our children, our horses, our training schedules, work, etc.), is the recognition and need for rest. I am not talking about plopping on the couch with your phone to scroll after the kids go to bed, but true rest, the kind God calls us to in His Word. In this episode, I chat with Master Naturalist, teacher, and podcast host, Eryn Lynum, about the beautiful and necessary gift it is to rest. She has recently written a new Bible Study called, “The Nature of Rest,” which we reference throughout the conversation. I have recently been going through the study myself, and have enjoyed it immensely! In our conversation, we discuss the following questions: What is God’s pattern of rest in Scripture and how can it transform our lives?Is Sabbath relevant and realistic in today’s modern world? How did Jesus model rest for us?As moms, how can we practically prioritize rest in the midst of busy days with children?What would you say to those who equate rest with idleness or laziness? What would you say to a woman who struggles with guilt when resting?How can we practically experience more rest in our days, weeks, and seasons?How can staying in the wonder of the Lord and His creation help us rest more?What does abiding with God look like and how can it lead to more rest?In addition, we talk about actual examples of rest in creation, through hummingbirds, bears, bees and more. Eryn also shares practical advice on how to rest, remembering that a little goes a long way. Also, we marveled at how God’s design works, that we are created to work from a place of rest.Here are the links mentioned in the episode: Eryn Lynum's Website: https://erynlynum.com"The Nature of Rest" Bible Study: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Nat Theo Podcast: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo*Note, my kids love this podcast! "Rooted in Wonder" book: https://a.co/d/1U9o1hDFamily Sabbath Guide: https://erynlynum.com/familysabbath
Have you ever stopped to be amazed at the wonder it is that we get to work with horses? And that they are willing to be trained to do such amazing things for us? I train my horse in a reward based way, and so when I work with him, I "mark" the maneuver I want by releasing cues, or a treat, lots of scratches in his favorite places, or a bit of everything. It is amazing how willing he is to repeat the same maneuver for more encouragement and reward!In this episode, I talk about how encouragement is such an amazing tool in our horsemanship and motherhood. I tell a few personal stories about how encouragement has blessed me, when I was a child. I also talk about how we don't need to rush with our horses and with our children. We can go slow and steady. See the big picture. Take deep breaths. They're still learning, and we are too. It's all for God's glory, and our joy. I also mention my conversation with Monica Geyen from last week quite a bit in this episode ,so be sure to check it out here. Blessings!
Are you in need of a dose of childlike wonder and gentle encouragement to pursue your passion for horses while being a mom? Then tune into this amazing episode where I talk with Maddy Whitford about staying in the wonder, how horses teach us major life lessons (especially in parenting!), and much, much more. Maddy Whitford is an experienced horse trainer and horse behavioral expert based in Kulnura, Central Coast NSW, Australia. Maddy and her husband work as a team starting horses under saddle and helping ‘problems’ horses thrive. Maddy is passionate about listening to horses, using compassionate methods to problem solve difficult behavior. Maddy loves teaching people how to help their horses and with her experience has developed methods to bring out the best in the horses she trains and let them shine. Her philosophy is, "Kind methods creating lasting results”. The horse’s emotional and physical wellbeing is always prioritised and kind, compassionate methods are used for happy horse and human partnerships, focused on safety, kindness and success. Mentioned in this episode:*How to respond to feelings of selfishness and guilt when pursuing horses as a mom.*Being kind to yourself.*How being with horses makes us better moms!*Why it is important to dream as a mom and equestrian. *How to manage time in order to make time to ride/be with your horse*You don't need to ride to make progress and enjoy horses.*Stay in the wonder* Encouragement for moms who are thinking of giving up their dreams of horses. "Don't sell your saddle yet, mama."*Enjoy your horses, enjoy your children.And much more!Maddy Whitford can be found at her website here: https://whitfordequestrian.comShe is on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. On her website, Maddy offers a monthly subscription to her library of educational videos. In addition, she writes on "Ask Maddy", answering a broad range of horse-related questions.
Are you a horse crazy mom who has taken some time off from horses, but keeps feeling that niggling urge to get back into the equestrian world? Or maybe you're a mom who has loved horses her whole life but has never had the chance to be around them, and you feel like perhaps it's never going to happen? Well if that's you, then this podcast is going to be a huge encouragement for you, and is a must listen. In our conversation, Adele and I talk about all things restarting in the horse world, and starting for the first time. We discuss practical steps, and walk through a detailed way to find a solid trainer who can help you, and the importance of learning. We also discuss staying in the wonder of our horses and kids, and slowing down to enjoy them both. Links mentioned: We mentioned Adele's online course several times in the episode. Check it out here: https://www.thewillingequine.com/academyFind Adele's info here:Website: https://www.thewillingequine.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewillingequine/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/thewillingequineTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thewillingequineFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewillingequinethird conversation together! Check out our first two conversations in the links below:Part 2: Setting Up for Success
After an amazing conversation on Cycle Syncing with Katie Klein a couple weeks ago, I thought I'd follow up with another episode with more details on how I have been doing cycle syncing with my horse training and my goals with my horse. Each phase of our cycle gives us amazing opportunities to stay in the childlike wonder of loving horses, and of loving our children well! Mentioned in this episode:*How to sync each "season" or phase of your cycle with your horse training. *How to rest with your horse, and still make progress.*How a little goes a long way.*A new goal I just set for myself! I signed up for the virtual Tevis Cup Challenge, to ride 100 miles in 100 days! Join me!Links mentioned:Maddy Whitford of Whitford Equestrian: https://whitfordequestrian.comTevis Cup Virtual Challenge: https://runsignup.com/Race/CA/Auburn/TevisCupKatie Klein's Ebook on Cycle Syncing: https://littlehouselearningco.com/products/homeschooling-with-hormones-ebookMy Conversation with Katie Klein: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mama-in-the-saddle/id1767896751?i=1000700250932, or on Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/elizabeth-do-carmo0/episodes/Cycle-Syncing-A-Conversation-with-Katie-Klein-e30ep9e/a-abrg9eu
I end each episode of this podcast with, "Stay in the Wonder." But how can we do this practically? In this episode, I talk about something I've been doing to help me stay in the wonder with both my children and my horses, all to the glory of God. 1. Grab your phone's camera. 2. Take pictures of your life, paying special attention to the smallest details. Soap bubbles. Your horse's eyelashes. Your child's giggle. 3. Create an album either in your phone or a physical album to document your wonder moments. 4. Look back and praise the Lord, thanking Him.What we focus on grows. So when we train our brains to look for the moments of wonder, it helps us to stay in this frame of mind, and focus on the wonder God has put all around us, and most of all, the wonder of who He is. Looking for an equestrian devotional? I wrote one! Check it out on Amazon here. Or search, "Stable Truths."Check out my blog: www.stabletruths.wordpress.com
Have you ever struggled with your monthly cycle, and it has impacted not only your motherhood but also with your horses? If so, then this podcast with Katie Klein, homeschooling mama of 3, is for you. Katie and I share a great conversation on all things cycles and cycle syncing. She has even written an amazing book on cycle syncing that can be found at her website. I have been cycle syncing for a few months now, and have been testing to see if tracking and syncing with my cycle would help with some of the PMS symptoms and general discomfort. I've also began implementing cycle syncing with my horse. This means that I will do more work with him at different points in the month, and then rest in others. I'll use the times when I am feeling a little more low in energy to reflect and dream. It's fascinating! Covered in this episode:*What is cycle syncing?*What if my periods are irregular, can I still cycle sync?*Practical ways to implement cycle syncing in a very simplistic, easy way. *Staying in the wonder of motherhood*How exercise, nutrition and sleep affect our cyclesand much, much more!You can find out more about Katie Klein on her website:https://littlehouselearningco.comThis is the link to her book on cycle syncing, be sure to check it out! https://littlehouselearningco.com/products/homeschooling-with-hormones-ebook
Do you often feel discouraged or dismayed at pursuing your dreams and goals in horsemanship, as a mom? If so, then this is a conversation you do not want to miss. In this episode, I talk with Amanda Sommer (owner of www.sommerstrides.com), about:*Having realistic expectations as a horse loving mama*Being okay when things don't go as expected, or when you don't meet goals,*Saying "I can" and going for your dreams and goals, bringing your kids along with you!*How being a horse loving mom is not only about you, it's about the lessons you teach your children through horses*How Liberty work with horses is one of the easiest ways to continue working with horses while being a mom*And... this episode is also full of very practical stories of Amanda as she has navigated horsemanship and motherhood! So encouraging, and really applicable. You can find out more about Amanda here. Amanda's website: https://www.sommerstrides.comThe North Central Liberty Horse Club (NCLHC): https://www.northcentrallhc.comInternational Liberty Horse Association: https://www.libertyhorseassociation.com
Do you struggle to keep your horse's attention on you? Do you struggle to keep your children's attention? Are you in a season of life that feels scary and unexpected, with lots of unknowns?If you answered any of these questions, then this podcast is for you. My first solo episode in a long time! This morning, I took a ride on my horse, Pilot, and learned something that I believe applies to our motherhood, our horsemanship, and ultimately, our walk with the Lord. I share a story about my ride, and then how I see it played out and applied in life. Mentioned in this episode:Zephaniah 3:17, The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save;he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love;he will exult over you with loud singing. Looking for an equestrian devotional? I wrote one! Check it out on Amazon here. Or search, "Stable Truths."Check out my blog: www.stabletruths.wordpress.com
I was introduced to Nina Roesner at the very beginning of my motherhood journey, and she helped me understand the importance of dreaming, which led me to buying my first horse, and even starting this podcast. I am so excited to welcome Nina onto the podcast today! Mentioned in this episode: 1. The importance of dreaming as a mom. 2. Priorities and seasons of life. 3. How to respond to feeling selfish or guilty when considering doing something you love, like horses, while being a mom. 4. What to say to others who may not understand your love for horses. 5. Encouragement in Christ! Stay until the end for a bonus piece of advice that ties this whole episode together. At the end of this episode, Nina offered to pray for me. I would like to share that prayer with you, as an encouragement in the Lord. He's got us, Mamas. He'll never let us go. Never. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever, and He is forever faithful. Soli Deo Gloria. Nina Roesner is the founder and executive director of Greater Impact Ministries, Inc., a Christian training organization. Nina has more than 30 years in the communications and training industry and has coached executives, managers, individuals, wives, couples, church staffs, and pastors around the country. As a professional speaker for women's groups and the author/developer of The Respect Dare (Thomas Nelson, 2012), Strength & Dignity, and What to Say & How to Say it, and Daughters of Sarah, she has seen hundreds of lives positively impacted by the understanding and application of the biblical concept of respect. Nina writes and speaks about relationships and our identity in Christ on her podcast and her blog. Nina has been married to her husband, Jim, since 1991, and together they are privileged to have raised three children. Nina's website: https://ninaroesner.com Nina's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-to-say-how-to-say-it/id1628882271 Follow me on Facebook at the "Mama in the Saddle" page. Check out my blog: www.stabletruths.wordpress.com
This conversation is one you certainly will not want to miss. It's encouraging, inspiring and a boost to keep going as equestrian moms! About my guest, Jerusha Steinert: Jerusha Steinert has had horses since childhood and has been working as a horse professional and artist for over 20 years. Her artistic projects include creating large scale drawings of horses and performing in Blue Horse Theatre. As a founder, Jerusha’s goal for the group was to promotes a deeper understanding of what horsemanship is through the expression of art, dance and theatre. In 2010 Jerusha was introduced to the Nokota breed at a colt starting clinic and fell in love with working with wild horses. In 2014 Jerusha and her Nokota Mesabi Warrior won the Grand Champion title for the American Horse Woman's Challenge in 2014 after competiting in Western Dressage, Extreme Cowboy Race, Liberty pattern, and theatrical freestyle. Since that time, she’s become a board member for the Nokota Horse Conservancy and enjoys gentling Nokotas for new owners. She owns her own training facility and breeds Nokota horses in Stacy Minnesota. In this episode you will find: -The importance of dreaming big as an equestrian and mom -Having emotional intelligence and awareness in each season of life - Recognizing the change motherhood can bring for us as horse lovers, but enjoying each moment as a gift - Setting goals as a mom and horsewoman - Counting successes when with your horses and your children And much, much more! Take a listen! Links: Blue Horse Theatre: www.bluehorsetheatre.com My website: www.stabletruths.wordpress.com