The Touch of a Mustang

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In this episode of The Touch of a Mustang Podcast, I’m joined by horseman and teacher Justin Dunn of the American Mustang School. Together, we explore how ancient Hermetic Principles—like Polarity, Correspondence, and Rhythm—can serve as profound guides for higher living when paired with the grounded presence of the horse.Justin shares insights from his journey of blending horsemanship with universal law, and offers a look into a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: a soul-deep experience on the island of St. Croix where participants will swim with horses in the turquoise Caribbean waters, all while deepening their understanding of these principles in an embodied, unforgettable way.This episode is a rich invitation to reconnect—with nature, with the wisdom of ancient times, and with the truth that horses help us remember. If you’ve been craving more harmony, freedom, and intentionality in your life, this conversation will stir something ancient and true within you.Tune in to discover how the rhythm of water, the wisdom of the horse, and the laws of the universe can lead you home to yourself.Connect with Justin!Join him in the Caribbean: https://www.justindunnhorsemanship.com/tropical-horsemanship-adventureDISCOUNT CODE: https://www.weaverequine.com/?sca_ref...YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@americanmustangschool/featuredBuy His Book:https://www.amazon.com/Horse-Guide-Me...Website:https://www.justindunnhorsemanship.com/Instagram:instagram.com/americanmustangschoolTikToktiktok.com/@justindunnhorsemanshipFacebookfacebook.com/justin.w.dunn

In this episode of The Touch of a Mustang Podcast, I sit down with Henry Merrill, a third-generation horseman with a deep-rooted history in ranching, colt starting, and military service. From growing up under the guidance of his father—who started horses for esteemed clients like Harriet Peckham and Fred Hervey—to serving as a combat infantryman post-9/11, Henry's journey has been one of resilience, discipline, and unwavering commitment to the horse.After earning a degree in philosophy, Henry returned to the world of horsemanship, working across Idaho, Oregon, and Arizona. His time as a working student with Martin Black and his experience in a collegiate horse-starting program shaped his approach to training. Now, he partners with the American Mustang Project, helping Mustangs find homes through a foundation built on trust, self-regulation, and nonviolent methods.Join us as we discuss Henry’s philosophy on training, his work with Mustangs, and how the right approach can create confident, willing equine partners. Whether you're a Mustang owner, an aspiring horse trainer, or simply passionate about the human-horse connection, this episode is packed with insight, wisdom, and inspiration.Connect with Henry!Websitehttps://henrymerrillhorsemanship.comInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/thehenrymerrill/

In this episode of The Touch of a Mustang Podcast, I sit down with Tim West, a passionate photographer whose journey into capturing the spirit of wild horses began during one of the most uncertain times—when both he and his wife lost their jobs during COVID. What started as a way to find solace in nature quickly became a mission to share the untamed beauty of wild horses with the world.Tim shares his story of resilience, the first moments he spent behind the lens with wild Mustangs, and how his photography has deepened his appreciation for these incredible animals. We discuss the power of storytelling through images, the emotional connection between humans and horses, and why preserving their wildness is more important than ever.Join us for an inspiring conversation about finding purpose in unexpected places and the magic of wild horses through the eyes of a photographer.Connect with Tim!Websitehttps://timwestphotography.com/TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@timwestphotographyEtsyhttps://timwestphotography.etsy.comInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/timwestphotography/

In this special panel discussion, host Shalyce Cluff of The Touch of a Mustang turns the reins over to Hollie Tenberge as they delve into the world of wild horses. As Hollie trains for Wyoming’s Run With the Horses marathon, she shares how this journey sparked a mission to raise awareness, support Mustang rescues, and build a network to facilitate lasting adoptions.Joining the discussion is Samantha Couper, an animal behaviorist who studies wild horses in their natural environment, bringing valuable insights to help horse owners form deeper connections with their Mustangs.Melissa, photographer-turned-advocate and caregiver to adopted Mustangs Stargazer and Nora, shares her transformation from documenting wild horses to directly impacting their lives post-roundup.Together, they dive into the challenges and hopes for Mustangs, exchanging knowledge and ideas on how to successfully adopt a wild horse or support them in other meaningful ways. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about stepping into the world of wild horses and making a difference.Connect with the panel!Samantha Couper: equineabcs.comunderstandhorses.comStargazer and Nora:Email: StargazerandNora@gmail.comWebsite: https://linktr.ee/stargazer_and_noraInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/stargazer_and_nora/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StargazerandNoraTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stargazer_and_nora?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcHollie Tenberge:https://marathonformustangs.my.canva.site/Books Mentioned: Wild Horse Countryhttps://www.amazon.com/Wild-Horse-Country-History-Americas/dp/0393356221/Wild Horses of the Westhttps://www.amazon.com/Wild-Horses-West-Politics-Americas/dp/0816528268/Horses in Companyhttps://www.amazon.com/Horses-Company-Lucy-Rees/dp/1908809566/Horse Behaviorhttps://www.amazon.com/Horse-Behavior-Behavioral-Adaptations-Conservation/dp/0815509278/

In this episode, we’re joined by Rebecca Forcier, the inspiring founder of Wild Hearts Thoroughbred Adoption Society, a registered charity based in beautiful British Columbia, Canada. As a wife, mother of two teens, and nutritionist by trade, Rebecca's passion for animal welfare and dedication to creating a lasting impact in the racing industry led her to establish Wild Hearts just three short years ago.Rebecca shares the powerful story of how Wild Hearts provides aftercare for retiring thoroughbred racehorses, working to elevate their status and disrupt the status quo within the industry. With the organization's mission to create a thriving, self-sustaining system for retired racehorses, Wild Hearts has already garnered significant attention and made waves in the racing world.In this conversation, we dive deep into Rebecca’s journey, the challenges she’s faced, and the incredible strides Wild Hearts has made—all driven by 100% volunteer and donation support. Tune in to hear how this organization is not only changing lives for horses but paving the way for a brighter future in the racing world.Episode Highlights:The origin story of Wild Hearts Thoroughbred Adoption SocietyThe challenges and rewards of running a charityHow Wild Hearts is disrupting the thoroughbred racing industryThe heart behind a volunteer-driven, donation-supported missionThis episode is a must-listen for animal lovers, those passionate about sustainable practices in sports, and anyone looking for a powerful example of positive change.Connect with Wild Hearts! Instagram: www.instagram.com/wild_hearts_ranch_ ; Website: www.wildheartsthoroughbredadoption.com ; Patreon Training Videos and Community: www.patreon.com/wildheartstbadoptionDONATE TODAY!http://www.wildheartsthoroughbredadoption.com

Step into the world of Mustang Champions with Executive Director Matt Manroe in this captivating episode. Discover how this trailblazing organization is reshaping the future of America’s wild horses, transforming them from free-roaming icons into prized partners. Matt shares the innovative events, thrilling competitions, and heartfelt stories driving Mustang Champions' mission to highlight the adaptability and strength of formerly wild Mustangs.From high-stakes showdowns with top-tier competitors to creating highly adoptable equine ambassadors, learn how they’re proving that these majestic animals are a living legacy worth celebrating. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how Mustang Champions is building programs that bridge the gap between wild and domestic horses, changing perceptions of what these incredible animals are truly capable of.Whether you're a horse enthusiast, history buff, or simply drawn to America's wild heart, this episode will inspire you to explore the world of Mustangs—whether as an observer, owner, or competitor.Connect with Matt and Mustang Champions!Mustang Championshttps://mustangchampions.orgMustang Challengehttps://mustangchallenge2025.comMustang Classichttps://mustangclassic25.com

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Veteran Cope Wilson to explore his journey from the harrowing front lines of war to life-changing moments of despair and hope. Cope shares his unfiltered experiences of the intense mental and emotional toll the struggles life brings. His raw honesty about the emotional battles he faced and how he found redemption on the back of a Mustang offers a poignant reflection on survival, healing, and resilience.This episode is an exploration of trauma, recovery, and the importance of community, hope, and understanding. Whether you're a veteran, someone struggling with mental health, or simply seeking an inspiring story of overcoming life's darkest moments, Cope's incredible journey will leave you moved and motivated. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation about strength, transformation, and finding the value of struggle.Connect with Cope!https://www.instagram.com/cope_wilson/

In this episode we sit down with Patricia Petrina (better known as Penny Pett on Instagram), an avid horsewoman and back-country enthusiast, who is about to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Patricia, alongside her three 5-year-old Mustangs and Quarter Horse mare, is preparing for a 7-month, 3,000-mile solo horseback journey across the United States.Patricia shares her incredible story of how she went from a lifelong passion for horses to bonding with Mustangs and preparing for this extraordinary trek. From the highs and lows of training her horses to the unique challenges of traveling solo, Patricia reveals the personal and physical preparations that go into an adventure like this.We also dive into what motivates her to take on such a monumental journey, the lessons she hopes to share, and her deep connection to the wild places she’ll be exploring. This episode is a celebration of independence, resilience, and the untamed beauty of the back-country – a story that will inspire anyone who has ever dreamed of a journey beyond the ordinary.Connect with Patricia and follow along on her adventure!Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/on_a_wild_mustang/

In this episode, we sit down with the team behind The Mustang Recovery Challenge, a transformative nonprofit that blends substance use prevention and mental health support through the powerful connection between people and wild horses.The Mustang Recovery Challenge offers participants a unique path to recovery, using heart-rate synchronization and trust-building techniques to train mustangs. This process helps participants develop emotional regulation, stress management, and resilience—skills they can carry with them on their recovery journey and beyond. With the guidance of credentialed counselors, a licensed psychologist, and experienced horse trainers, the program focuses on rebuilding interpersonal relationships, boosting self-esteem, and reducing the risk of relapse.We'll dive into how working with these incredible animals fosters personal growth, instills a renewed sense of purpose, and provides practical life skills. Plus, we explore how the program creates a ripple effect of healing, as graduates return to mentor new participants, ensuring a continuous cycle of support for the community.Tune in to learn more about how this innovative program is changing lives, one Mustang at a time.Connect with Mustang Recovery Challenge!Website:https://mustangrecoverychallenge.com/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/mustangrecoverychallenge

In this episode, we sit down with Lynda Sanford, the founder of the Mustangs of America Foundation (MAF), to talk about her incredible journey from city life to becoming a passionate advocate for wild mustangs. MAF is a dedicated, all-volunteer nonprofit organization with 501(c)3 charitable status, focused on the welfare of mustangs and burros. Operating as a nonpolitical entity, MAF collaborates with the Bureau of Land Management to enhance successful adoptions and ease the burden of overpopulated holding pens.From her first encounter with Nevada’s wild horses to building a sanctuary for them, Lynda shares the story of how a simple love for these majestic creatures turned into a mission to save thousands of mustangs and burros from overcrowded facilities. She takes us through her personal experiences of gentling wild mustangs, the challenges of working with horses from the wild, and how a once-in-a-lifetime horse named Lil Gal left a lasting impact on her life.But her work doesn’t stop there—she’s now focusing on transforming the lives of incarcerated individuals by partnering with correctional facilities to provide training programs that help parolees develop essential skills and build careers in horse training.We dive deep into the evolution of the Mustangs of America Foundation, her work with prison programs, and how she’s shaping the future of mustang adoptions, while also supporting programs aimed at using horses for therapy and veteran rehabilitation. If you’re passionate about wild horses, rehabilitation, or just love a good underdog story, this episode is for you.Tune in for a powerful conversation on advocacy, compassion, and the unbreakable bond between humans and horses.Follow Lynda and Mustangs of America Foundation: Website:https://www.mustangsofamericafoundation.org/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/mustangsofamericafoundationInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/mustangupranch/

Crystal Field had just opened a new hair salon in Portland, OR, but was soon guided to follow a call in another direction. During the pandemic of 2020 and the struggles associated with that time, she realized she had a higher purpose in life--to build a sanctuary for as many wild mustangs as she could. She moved into an airstream, rented her house on Airbnb, became a minimalist and saved as much money as she could until she could move to raw property she purchased in Arizona. Two years after first following this pull, she moved in October of 2022 and rescued the first 2 Alpine Mustangs from upstate AZ on November 12th 2022.Moksha sanctuary has now rescued 32 horses, 23 of which remain at the sanctuary. The 9 other horses were owner surrenders that were rehabbed and then found forever homes. Join us as we discuss Crystal's journey, the struggles of rescue and sanctuary, the dire situation so many wild horses are facing, and what you can do to help. At Moksha, you can also care for your very own Mustang through sponsorship, ensuring life long safety for a beautiful wild horse. Follow Crystal and support her work:Website:mokshasanctuary.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/moksha_sanctuary/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089378239301#wildhorses #wildlife #sanctuary #horserescue #horsepodcast #mustanghorses

In this episode, I dive into the fascinating world of animal communication, sharing my personal experience from a recent session I had with an animal communicator, after my mares appeared to a former podcast guest. I’ll walk you through the process, the insights I gained, and the unexpected, exciting and touching messages from my mares. This episode explores the incredible bond between humans and animals and will expand your vision of what is possible in your relationship with your horse.To be honest, this one goes deep for me. I was a bit hesitant to share, but felt again and again and again, that this is something that needed to be shared with others.Join me for a fun, insightful, and curious discussion of the insights I gained from my mares after a session with an animal communicator. Don’t miss it!Tune in, it might just expand what you believe is possible with your horses.Connect with Lindsay!Website:https://www.peregrineequinetherapy.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/peregrine.equine.therapies/Connect with The Touch of a MustangInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/thetouchofamustang/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/TheTouchofaMustangTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thetouchofamustangWebsite:https://thetouchofamustang.org/Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/515129299959812

In this episode, we sit down with Matson and Gabriel, from At Ease Horsemanship, to explore the transformative journeys they've had working with Mustangs. Together, they share how their connection with these incredible horses has not only deepened their understanding of the natural world but has also led to profound personal healing and growth.Through their work, they've learned invaluable lessons in trust, patience, and communication—skills they now use to guide others on their own paths to healing and self-discovery.Join us as we discuss the unique bond between humans and horses, the power of mutual respect, and how working with Mustangs has shaped their approach to horsemanship and life itself. Whether you're an equestrian enthusiast or someone seeking inspiration in the art of connection, this episode offers a powerful message about the importance of empathy, listening, and learning through partnership.Tune in to hear Matson and Gabriel’s inspiring journey and how they are now helping others find their own sense of peace and purpose through the powerful lessons learned with Mustangs.Connect with At Ease Horsemanship!Website:https://ateasehorsemanship.org/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/at_ease_horsemanship/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559215080888