It's back-to-school season, so we thought it was a perfect time to sit down with Missy Smith, Saddle Seat Instructor at William Woods University, who just watched her first graduating class walk across the stage, get their diplomas, and embark on their own unique futures in our horse industry. We talk about the journey that took her from a horse-crazy kid in Maine to one of the industry's most respected educators. Along the way, we dive into mentorship, collaboration, the evolving horse industry, and why bringing new people into the sport may be the most important job any of us has. If you've ever wondered what it takes to build a career in horses—or how we ensure this industry thrives for generations to come—this is a conversation you’re going to want to hear.
In this episode of Stable-Minded, we sit down with Tara Wentz-Goosley to talk about a life shaped by horses—from barn rat beginnings and catch riding anything she could stay on, to building a thriving training program and developing riders from the ground up. Along the way, Tara shares stories that are equal parts funny, honest, and deeply relatable, while also diving into bigger conversations about the future of the industry, the importance of bringing new people through the barn doors, and why the horse world continues to be a powerful source of connection, purpose, and belonging for so many.
In this month’s episode of Stable Minded, we sit down with Allison Deardorff—author of How To Not Annoy The Judge—for a candid, funny, and refreshingly honest conversation. From moving her business across the country every six months to tackling some of the horse industry’s biggest challenges, Allison brings both insight and edge. As an American Saddlebred Horse & Breeders Association board member, she’s helping shape the future of the sport—and yes, even stirring up a little online drama with her friend Mary Orr along the way.
Before the red carpets, runways, and morning shows, Carson Kressley was a kid growing up in the horse world—and in this latest episode of Stable Minded, Carson joins us to reflect on how a lifelong love of horses shaped his beginnings, opened doors to a career with Ralph Lauren, and continues to ground and balance his life today. With his signature wit and candor, Carson shares why the joy, discipline, and perspective he learned at the barn still guide him—whether he’s at the Rose Bowl Parade, on a national talk show, or back home with friends and horses. A wicked sense of humor, a few strong opinions, and zero hesitation about sharing either—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss.
Our horse show community is shaped by people who lead, give back, and aren’t afraid to speak honestly about where we’ve been…and where we’re going. Mary Orr is one of those people. In this month episode of Stable Minded, Mary chats about everything from her roots in Northern California to winning the Three-Gaited Stake at Louisville, Mary’s path reflects both grit and growth. As a trainer, business owner, breeder, clinician, and writer, she brings a rare, big-picture perspective to our industry. She’s also helped raise nearly $150,000 for William Woods University through the High Caliber Hot Shots “fun” show with serious impact. She now sets her sights to on thoughtful conversations about sustainability and the future of horse shows. Candid, insightful, and deeply invested in our sport, this interview with Mary Orr is one you don’t want to miss.