The Whoa Podcast about Horses and Horsemanship

Horse Health with Dr. Madison Seamans Looking for expert insights on horse care? Look no further than this podcast episode featuring our special guest, Dr. Madison Seamans, with over fifty years of experience as a professional horseman and equine veterinarian. Our guest is in an exclusive equine practice for 37 years and has even instructed at the prestigious UC Davis Veterinary Medical Center. But what really sets him apart is his passion for horses and his avid trail riding experiences, including a ride through Mount Rushmore national monument. In addition to his impressive resume, our guest is also a marginally talented cowboy poet and artist, as well as a teacher of equine podiatry to vet students at the annual AAEP (American Association of Equine Practitioners) conference. And, if that wasn't enough, he's also a sorry team roper, bringing a little bit of cowboy logic and humor to the world of equine medicine, surgery, and dentistry. So what can you expect from this episode? Our guest will share practical knowledge and experience on a wide range of horse care topics, from routine health maintenance to emergency care. Whether you're a seasoned horse owner or just starting out, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who cares about the well-being of their equine companion. So saddle up and tune in to our latest podcast episode featuring our expert guest, and get ready to learn some valuable tips and insights on horse care from a true industry veteran. Don't miss out on this opportunity to hear from one of the best in the business! Madison Seamans' first book, "Never Trust a Sneaky Pony", is available at Trafalgar Square Books. In this book, you'll learn a little bit about horse medicine, but mostly he'll entertain you with the stories. Links heard on the Show Dr. Madison Seanmans' Website Contact Dr. Seamans Join the Journey Whether you're a seasoned horse owner or just starting out, we invite you to join us on this journey. Share your challenges, triumphs, and everyday experiences with others. We believe these stories can help others in their horse journey. If you have a story, you would like to share, you can reach out to us through our Facebook or Instagram page. Alternatively, you can email John@WhoaPodcast.com to be a part of the show. Thanks for listening. John & Ranae Episode #217 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses

Sami Hernandez Diamond Crest Stables Sami Hernandez is a longtime horsewoman, trainer, and horse show judge headquartered at her Diamond Crest Stables in Bakersfield. Along with her husband, George, they have a ton of horsemanship experience teaching people and training horses. I really enjoy talking to both of them. Perhaps I can get George on the show in the future. You’d like him. While they deal with horses working at a higher level, they also work with novice and intermediate horses and riders too. They are very easy to talk to. Sami invited me to her barn. I feel so at home with the dogs barking, chickens clucking, and horses nickering. At times you might even hear the rain pounding on the metal roof. We set a table up right there in the alleyway, put the mics and recorder up, and sat around talkin’ horses. I hope you enjoy it too. I wanted to learn more about horse shows and showmanship. My horse and I plan on participating in horse shows this year and Sami not only shows, she helps people show, AND she judges. She is a wealth of information. Thanks to Sami Hernandez and the folks at Diamond Crest Stables for having me out. I enjoyed this conversation and hope you did too. Links heard on this Episode   Facebook Page Diamond Crest Stables in Bakersfield Facebook Page Sami Hernandez Join Us on this Journey We want you to be a part of the show. Tell us about your horse. Share your challenges, triumphs, or just everyday items that make horse ownership unique. Create an audio file using the memo app on your phone. Or contact me and we'll set up a time to talk on Skype or phone. Perhaps what you have to share can help someone in THEIR horse journey. You are an enormous part of why we do a podcast. We really love getting your feedback. Please let us know your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for the show. Email us at John@WhoaPodcast.com Thanks for listening. John & Ranae Episode #195 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My John Harrer & Horses YouTube Channel

Doug Williamson Legendary Trainer It's been a busy summer and in listening to some of the old shows, I came across this interview with Doug Williamson in 2015.  Doug was 73 at the time.  Now, he's 75 and he's like an Energizer Bunny.  He just keeps going and going!  Doug has trained 42 AQHA champions.  He's been a horseback nearly all his life. It's one of the best parts of doing the podcast, I got to watch Doug work and ride a couple of horses, then he took a break.  We sat in his office surrounded by plaques, ribbons, trophies, and newspaper clippings.  Doug was proud of the things he has accomplished on a horse.  Doug has trained 42 AQHA champions.  But, he was also generous with his time and patiently answered some of my personal questions about horse training.  This interview with Doug Williamson remains one of my favorites. Meeting Up with New Friends There's a horsemanship group called Golden State Horsemanship Club.  We had met up with some of the members when they hold their annual equestrian get-together at the Bar SZ Ranch Memorial Day Weekend.  (We experienced it three times and I would encourage you to check it out.)  Mike and Cynthia were embarking from Northern California for a 2-week horse vacation.  They are podcast listeners and wanted to stop over in Bakersfield and check out some of our riding areas.  It was great to get to ride with them and show off just a few of the wonderful places we get to ride.  We took them out to Ethel's Old Corral and shared lunch and a beer.  Good times.

Ep 225 Whoa Podcast News Ep 225 Whoa Podcast News Welcome to the Whoa Podcast about Horses and Horsemanship. There's no guest today, just me, and I've got some important news to share about the future of this podcast. So, saddle up and stick around. When I began this journey in 2012, I did not know where it would lead. I had come to horses late in life. I hadn’t grown up in the Western culture or in the horse world. I had owned my horse long enough to know how little I actually knew. I needed more. If you’ve listened long, you’ll know I’m a big fan of Clinton Anderson. Clinton says, “If you want it bad enough you’ll find a way. If not, you’ll find an excuse.” You may not know, but I was also a fan of Adam Carolla around this time. While Adam is known for many quotes, I remember him saying, “Figure out what you want, take a nap, then try to get kinda close.” Podcasts were new. I bought a thirty dollar microphone, downloaded the free version of Audacity, and followed the step-by-step instructions on Podcast411. Now, I had this thing, the podcast, what to do with it. Another quote I like-and by now you know I like quotes- is, “When you don’t know where you’re going, Go as far as you can see; when you get there, you'll be able to see further.” So, I kept going. The famous horse trainer, Doug Williamson not only didn’t know who I was, he had never heard of a thing called a podcast. But, he could see I was interested in horses and wanted to learn more about what he knew, so he invited me to his ranch. After getting to watch him ride a few, we sat in his office surrounded by awards and talked about his amazing life. I ventured a little farther and found ways to get myself invited to Working Equitation events, Horse Expos, and the Horsemen’s Reunion where I met and interviewed so many good trainers. Not one of them knew what a podcast was. In 2014, I covered a local mustang makeover event, The Vaquero Heritage Trainers Challenge. When the event struggled to find trainers in 2015, I volunteered and got to start my first horse at age 61. I felt like George Plimpton in Paper Lion. (yes, that’s a 1968 reference. Google it). Starting a horse from Scratch changed everything. So many trainers were generous with their time and knowledge. I was exposed to so many facets of the western world I had not seen before. I got to go on gathers, be in the branding pen, and lead trail rides. A highlight for me was riding in the same arena with the Mustang Man Bobby Kerr. I asked him if he would ride my horse and tell me what he thought. I didn’t tell him I was having problems with lead changes. I watched in awe as Bobby did things on my horse I didn’t think were possible. The podcast wasn’t a money generating endeavor. It was an experience generating one. I’ve told you a little about the guest side, but the listener side is just as amazing. People would help on Patreon, recommend guests, heck, even set up interviews with guests. When I would get stuck and not produce for a while, they would email with encouragement. And, it’s hard to imagine, sitting in my little studio, computer on one side, cat on the other, that anyone was listening at all. But, the emails would come from all over the world. It’s truly humbling. Our horses have grown up through all this too. They put up with every crazy adventure from Extreme Cowboy Races to Working Equitation to Team sorting and more. I experimented with trainer advice, supplements, and tack. Those guys have seen it all. Our horses are well into their 20s now. They get to just trail ride and graze in the yard. Friends, I'm putting the podcast on a bit of a hiatus. Nearly 300 episodes. I never thought it would go on this long. I’m so happy it did. It truly changed the direction of my life. Now, before you start wondering, this isn't a goodbye. It's more like a 'see you later.' I’ve found that I’ve accomplished so much of what I set out to do with this podcast, and the time has come to explore other avenues—especially my growing interest in video and photography. Trust me, my journey with horses is far from over. I’ll keep the back episodes on Apple, Google, Spotify and other places, up for the time being. If I come across a story I just can't resist, I’ll publish. The Facebook page will still be around. If you’re interested in what I’m doing with photography, you can check out my Instagram @johnharrerphotography, My videos are on my YouTube channel, JohnHarrerHorses. And, you can always see what I’m up to on JohnHarrer,com So, one more time, thanks for listening and sharing the podcast with your friends and riding buddies. For Ranae this is John Harrer saying, “Go have some fun with your horses.” Bye bye everybody. Thanks for listening. John & Ranae Episode #225 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses Your Horse Will LOVE This Shampoo                  

Discovering Estancia Ranquilco: A Conversation with Tom Carrithers The Magic of Estancia Ranquilco Hidden away in the vast landscapes of western Argentina lies a gem: Estancia Ranquilco. Managed by T.A. Tom Carrithers, this ranch promises unparalleled adventures in its sprawling 100,000 acres. I reached out to Tom to explore more. Journey with Tom Carrithers Tom's connection with Ranquilco is deep-rooted. At age ten, he began exploring this land when his father, Ashley Carrithers, bought it. Tom knows the ranch well from these expeditions. He now manages the place, ensuring everything runs smoothly from December to March. Upcoming Events and Adventures For those seeking an exceptional experience, February 2024 promises something special. Our friends, Cristobal and Flor Scarpati, will conduct a clinic. Therefore, if you're keen on joining, mark your calendar. Or you can simply embark on your own journey, exploring the vast terrains and rivers. Conclusion Estancia Ranquilco isn't just a ranch; it's a narrative of nature, adventure, and legacy. So, whether you're eager for an adventurous retreat or simply want to bask in the beauty of Argentina, Ranquilco awaits. Links Heard on the Show Estancia Ranquilco Website Facebook Page Instagram YouTube Tripadvisor Join the Journey Whether you're a seasoned horse owner or just starting out, we invite you to join us on this journey. Share your challenges, triumphs, and everyday experiences with others. We believe these stories can help others in their horse journey. If you have a story you would like to share, you can reach out to us through our Facebook or Instagram page. Alternatively, you can email John@WhoaPodcast.com to be a part of the show. Thanks for listening. John & Ranae Episode #224 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses Your Horse Will LOVE This Shampoo                    

Horse Fly Spray Solution: 'Stop Buggn'  Introduction to Michele Navarro Are you on the hunt for an effective horse fly spray? Look no further. Today, we're spotlighting Michele Navarro, an expert in the horse world and an innovator in the realm of horse fly spray solutions. Besides running a diverse ranch in Gilroy, California, Michele faces a problem common to many: the persistent nuisance of flies. Why 'Stop Buggn' is the Horse Fly Spray You Need It's not just any fly spray; it's a horse fly spray that prioritizes the well-being of your animal. Why should 'Stop Buggn' be your go-to fly spray? Firstly, it boasts natural ingredients, ensuring no harmful chemicals touch your horses. Secondly, unlike many other fly sprays, this one comes with a pleasant aroma. Most importantly, after using it for two weeks, I can attest to its effectiveness. Benefits of Choosing 'Stop Buggn' Horse Fly Spray Given the plethora of horse fly sprays on the market, why choose 'Stop Buggn'? Natural Ingredients: Many horse fly sprays have overpowering chemical scents. 'Stop Buggn', however, is an exception with its natural composition and pleasant smell. Cost-Effective: For those skeptical about the often high costs of organic products, this fly spray won't strain your budget. Support Local: Opting for 'Stop Buggn' means supporting a local business. Michele operates not far from Bakersfield, making it feel like supporting a community member. Final Thoughts This episode might come across as promotional, but it's rare for me to champion products. 'Stop Buggn' isn't just any product; it's a fly spray that genuinely delivers. So, if flies are causing havoc in your barn, consider Stop Buggn. And for more insights, swing by Whoa Podcast. Links Heard on the Show Stop Buggn Facebook Stop Buggn Website Join the Journey Whether you're a seasoned horse owner or just starting out, we invite you to join us on this journey. Share your challenges, triumphs, and everyday experiences with others. We believe these stories can help others in their horse journey. If you have a story, you would like to share, you can reach out to us through our Facebook or Instagram page. Alternatively, you can email John@WhoaPodcast.com to be a part of the show. Thanks for listening. John & Ranae Episode #223 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses Your Horse Will LOVE This Shampoo                    

Exploring the Canadian Horse: Talking with Gail Cuthbert Brandt Reveille Merit Flamme-de-Nuit, Owned by Ken Morris   I wanted to learn more about "Cheval canadien", the Canadian Horse. I spoke with , an expert on Canadian history and a former breeder, Gail Cuthbert Brandt. Join us as we dive into the world of the Canadian Horse, its fascinating history, versatile uses, and unique personality traits. Canadian Horse History Gail Cuthbert Brandt takes us through the captivating history of the Canadian Horse. Descended from horses brought to Canada by early European settlers, linking them to King Louis XIV.  We know the Canadian Horse for its strength and toughness. Throughout history, people used these horses in different ways, as Gail Brandt explains. Originally, they were essential for farming and transportation. However, nowadays, people use them for different activities, such as sports, recreational riding, and therapy work. Their adaptable nature and friendly temperament make them beloved companions in the equestrian world. Gail shares her experiences as a breeder of this amazing Horses. She highlights their unique personality traits, emphasizing their calm and willing nature. These horses are smart and have a strong work ethic, forming special bonds with their human partners. Gail's enthusiasm for the breed is clear when she talks about breeding and raising horses. She hopes to preserve the breed and promote its importance in Canadian history. She is helping ensure a bright future for the Canadian Horse, which many horse lovers admire.. Our conversation with Gail Cuthbert Brandt provides a fascinating insight into the world of the Canadian Horse. These horses have a unique place in Canadian history. The Whoa Podcast has done many shows from Canadians. You may be interested in learning more about horse trainers Jonathan Field or Jason Irwin, or rodeo entertainer, Bobby Kerr. To learn more about the Canadien Horse Welcome to the Canadian Horse Breeders' Society Rare Breeds Canada Heronwood Farms Canadien Horses Canadian Horse Heritage and Preservation Society Cheval Canadien Horse Association Ontario Canadian Horse Association Rocky Mountain District Canadian Horse Breeders Association - Atlantic District Facebook group for New England and New York State   Join the Journey Whether you're a seasoned horse owner or just starting out, we invite you to join us on this journey. Share your challenges, triumphs, and everyday experiences with others. We believe these stories can help others in their horse journey. If you have a story, you would like to share, you can reach out to us through our Facebook or Instagram page. Alternatively, you can email John@WhoaPodcast.com to be a part of the show. Thanks for listening. John & Ranae Episode #222 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses Your Horse Will LOVE This Shampoo

Andria Hautamaki's Lens: A Journey of Journalism and Horses Andria Hautamaki is a remarkable freelance photo and print journalist. She has carved her niche in the realms of agriculture, the environment, and rural life. Publications such as National Geographic, CNN, and The New York Times have publisher her freelance work. As an avid reader of Western Horseman, I have read and enjoyed many of Andria's articles over the past months. She has a unique perspective and a diverse range of topics. Andria is from Colorado and has a Master's degree in International Agricultural Development. She lives in Chile on her husband's family cattle ranch. After getting a grant from the International Women and Media Foundation, Andria focused on her photography. Andria has explored amazing places through her freelance work, telling stories about both people and horses. While Andria is an accomplished writer, her photography is the way she likes to tell stories. I am particularly intrigued by Andria's ability to discover interesting tales wherever she roams. We talk about her beginnings in photography, her education, and her travel. She offers an interesting perspective now that she has to perform work on her cattle ranch. The same work she writes about others doing. Today, we have the privilege of delving into Andria Hautamaki's life as a journalist and photographer. Join us to hear about Andria's encounters with different cultures and her bond with horses. Get ready to be inspired by her remarkable storytelling and the indelible imprint she has made on the field of journalism. I really enjoy talking to people in other parts of the world, such as Canada, Germany, and England. Andria Hautamaki Links Heard on the Show Website: https://ahowdyphoto.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahowdyphoto Email: info@ahowdyphoto.com Join the Journey Whether you're a seasoned horse owner or just starting out, we invite you to join us on this journey. Share your challenges, triumphs, and everyday experiences with others. We believe these stories can help others in their horse journey. If you have a story you would like to share, you can reach out to us through our Facebook or Instagram page. Alternatively, you can email John@WhoaPodcast.com to be a part of the show. Thanks for listening. John & Ranae Episode #221 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses Your Horse Will LOVE This Shampoo  

Will Grant on Pony Express: Horseback Journey Welcome to our conversation with author Will Grant. Grant's debut book, "The Last Ride of the Pony Express," takes us on a captivating journey. Let's delve into his experiences, encounters, and the remarkable impact of this legendary adventure. Grant's background as a cowboy and horse trainer adds authenticity to his writing. He remembers his mentorship under Jack Brainard fondly, which deepened his love for horses.. Grant took a 2,000-mile horseback journey and rode Chicken Fry, a level-headed buckskin, and Badger, a fast bay horse. Riding one and leading the other as a packhorse, Grant channels the resourcefulness of the original Pony Express riders. Along the Pony Express route, Grant's encounters with people living in the modern West provide a unique perspective. He shares stories of camping in fields, conversing with ranchers, and connecting with isolated shepherds. Grant's approach of allowing individuals to tell their own stories creates an intimate and diverse portrait of the West. The Pony Express, operating for a brief but impactful 18 months, showcased the heights of American horsemanship. Grant highlights the challenges it faced, emphasizing the immense distances and costs involved. This short-lived yet influential chapter holds a special place in Western lore, much like the legendary cowboys we admire. Grant discusses the changing Western landscape and the decline of family-run agriculture. He also discusses other long rides, such as the Mongol Derby. Join us as we journey with Will Grant through the captivating history of the Pony Express. Discover the timeless allure of the American West and its profound impact on horsemanship, culture, and the people who call it home. Links For Will Grant Instagram Twitter Buy the Book Amazon Hachette Book Barnes and Noble Book Shop Join the Journey Whether you're a seasoned horse owner or just starting out, we invite you to join us on this journey. Share your challenges, triumphs, and everyday experiences with others. We believe these stories can help others in their horse journey. If you have a story, you would like to share, you can reach out to us through our Facebook or Instagram page. Alternatively, you can email John@WhoaPodcast.com to be a part of the show. Thanks for listening. John & Ranae Episode #220 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses

Horseback Adventures and Endurance Riding Margaret Reynolds is an endurance rider who enjoys traveling abroad on horse adventures. When my friend and listener, John Zeliff, told me she would make a great guest, I listened. John is president of the NATRC, and we had him on the show a while back to talk about endurance riding. Margaret Reynolds is a Master Growth Catalyst of Breakthrough Masters Unlimited. For over 20 years, she has helped companies grow and improve their businesses. She has always had a love of horses. Like many, after her kids grew up and went out on their own, she got a horse. Margaret found endurance riding was her thing and joined both NATRC and AERC to compete in the sport. She also had a bucket list of places she would like to ride. With a tight group of friends sharing the same desire to ride in exotic places, they took their first horseback adventure to Spain. They rode the country, met the people, and sample the food. Margaret and her friends got to see the country from a unique vantage point. Since then, she has traveled and rode horses in many places, including Jordan, Portugal, and Morroco. Margaret is an avid writer and documents lessons from these trips in her blog. One of her articles about a horseback adventure she had in India riding a Marwari horse was published in the Outdoor Journal. Margaret tells us the trips were transformative, and she encourages any with a inkling to pursue their dream. Horseback Adventures Over the years, I've been lucky to interview many people in the travel industry. Most recently was Keith Swenson of Stone Horse Expeditions in Mongolia. You can also find my interview from Equestrian Adventuresses with Krystal Kelly.  Here are a few more: Equitrekking Travel, Globetrotting Horse Adventures With Kate Pilcher   Join the Journey Whether you're a seasoned horse owner or just starting out, we invite you to join us on this journey. Share your challenges, triumphs, and everyday experiences with others. We believe these stories can help others in their horse journey. If you have a story, you would like to share, you can reach out to us through our Facebook or Instagram page. Alternatively, you can email John@WhoaPodcast.com to be a part of the show. Thanks for listening. John & Ranae Episode #219 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses

Igniting Imagination: A Journey into Kids Summer Reading with Author Rae Rankin Discover the magic of Kids Summer Reading as we sit down with award-winning author Rae Rankin in this captivating episode. Rae's deep love for writing and reading has led her to become an influential figure in the literary world, inspiring young readers through her enchanting stories. Embark on a captivating adventure into the realm of Kids Summer Reading as we sit down with accomplished author Rae Rankin. With a deep passion for writing and reading, Rae has crafted an impressive collection of books and is dedicated to inspiring young readers. In this episode, we delve into the enchanting world of storytelling, the significance of summer reading programs, and the impact they have on children's lives. Join us as we uncover Rae's insights, experiences, and the magic of Kids Summer Reading.   Episode Highlights: Rae's introduction as an award-winning author with a passion for inspiring young readers. Unveiling the goals and objectives of Kids Summer Reading programs. Exploring the benefits of participating in a summer reading program for children's literacy development. Delving into specific activities and initiatives within Rae's program. The inspiration behind starting the program and the personal experiences that shaped its vision. Discussing the role of reading in children's educational growth, particularly during the summer months. Opportunities available for authors to get involved and contribute to Kids Summer Reading. Talking about other authors such as Sam Finden and Janet Barrett who have been on the show. Links for podcast Website: www.wereadhorsebooks.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/horsebookssummerreading Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/kidssummerreadingprogram Summer Reading Log: https://bit.ly/3WecO7x Optional Alphabet Challenge Summer Reading Log: https://bit.ly/3WaYtce Become a Participating Author: https://wereadhorsebooks.com/become-a-participating-author/ Current list of participating authors (as of 5/17/2023): Corinne Joy Brown https://corinnejoybrown.com/ Cressida Burton https://www.cressidaburton.co.uk/ Kacy Burke https://www.buckaroobeau.com/ S. Damonhttp://facebook.com/E.S.DamonEquine Rennie Dyball https://www.renniedyball.com/ M.J. Evans http://www.dancinghorsepress.com/ Terri Farley https://www.terrifarley.com/index.shtml M.D. Ford https://whisperinghorsebooks.com/ Laura Holt-Haslam https://lauraholthaslam.com/ Elaine Heney https://elaineheneybooks.com/ Ann Hunter http://amazon.com/author/annhunter Dr. Piper Klemm http://www.theplaidhorse.com/books Brittney Joy http://www.brittneyjoybooks.com/ Maria Langella Sorgie https://www.marialangellasorgie.com/ Kerri Lukasavitz  https://www.kerrilukasavitz.com/ Lori McIntosh http://www.lorimcintosh.com Christine Meunier https://christinemeunierauthor.com/ Valerie Ormond https://valerieormond.com/ Rae Rankin https://www.raerankin.com/ Jenny Roman https://jennyroman.wordpress.com/ Laurie Salisbury https://lauriezkidz.wixsite.com/mysite J.L. Williams https://www.facebook.com/jwilliamswriter Brianna York https://www.booksbybriannayork.com/ Links heard on the Show We Read Horse Books Kids Summer Reading Program Website Join the Journey Whether you're a seasoned horse owner or just starting out, we invite you to join us on this journey. Share your challenges, triumphs, and everyday experiences with others. We believe these stories can help others in their horse journey. If you have a story, you would like to share, you can reach out to us through our Facebook or Instagram page. Alternatively, you can email John@WhoaPodcast.com to be a part of the show. Thanks for listening. John & Ranae Episode #218 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses  

Discover the Thrill of Competitive Trail Riding with John Zeliff, President of NATRC If you're an avid rider or just love spending time outdoors, try competitive trail riding. It's an exciting equestrian sport that combines horseback riding with endurance and navigation skills, and John Zeliff, the president of the North American Trail Riding Conference (NATRC), wants to introduce you to it. As a young man, John discovered his passion for horseback riding while exploring the countryside with his horse and dog. He later joined NATRC, a national organization that promotes and regulates competitive trail riding, but his career and family responsibilities kept him from participating actively. After retiring from teaching and with his children grown up, John returned to competitive trail riding with renewed enthusiasm. He enjoys the camaraderie, the challenge, and the opportunity to explore new trails and landscapes while building a bond with his horse. Today, John is the president of NATRC, and he wants to invite anyone who loves horses and the outdoors to discover the thrill of competitive trail riding. In this podcast episode, John shares his experience and insights into this unique sport. What is Competitive Riding Competitive trail riding involves navigating through a marked trail, covering a distance of 25 to 100 miles over two to three days, and passing checkpoints where the horse's condition and the rider's equipment are evaluated. It requires both physical and mental stamina, as well as the ability to work as a team with your horse. John explains how NATRC promotes sportsmanship, horse welfare, and education about trail riding and the environment. The organization offers clinics, seminars, and competitions for riders of all levels, from beginners to experts. He also shares tips on how to prepare for a competitive trail ride, from training your horse to packing the right gear and supplies. He highlights the importance of building a bond of trust and communication with your horse, as well as the joy of sharing the experience with fellow riders and volunteers. Whether you're looking for a new challenge or a way to connect with nature and horses, competitive trail riding is a rewarding and fulfilling sport. Listen to John Zeliff's inspiring story and join the NATRC community to start your adventure today! Links Heard on the Show NATRC on Facebook NATRC Website Join the NATRC Top Trail Virtual Online Trail Riding Challenges and Competition Join the Journey Whether you're a seasoned horse owner or just starting out, we invite you to join us on this journey. Share your challenges, triumphs, and everyday experiences with others. We believe these stories can help others in their horse journey. If you have a story, you would like to share, you can reach out to us through our Facebook or Instagram page. Alternatively, you can email John@WhoaPodcast.com to be a part of the show. Thanks for listening. John & Ranae Episode #213 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses

Mastering the Art of Colt Starting with Shawn Dunn As a seasoned colt-starter with over three decades of experience working with horses across the country, Shawn Dunn has a unique insight into the art of colt starting. From the basics of training to the finer details of horse behavior, Shawn has seen it all and is eager to share his knowledge with others. In this episode, we delve into the world of colt starting and learn about Shawn's approach to horse training. We also explore the importance of starting a horse off on the right foot and the long-term impact it can have on the horse's life. The Art of Colt Starting Colt starting is often considered an art form, requiring a special set of skills and a deep understanding of horse behavior. It is the process of taking a young horse and teaching it the basics of life under saddle. According to Shawn, the key to successful colt starting is understanding that each horse is unique and requires a tailored approach. He believes that the earlier you start training a horse, the better off they will be in the long run. "The best dog I ever had was the one I began training at 7 weeks old," says Shawn. "The start kids get in pre-school is so important to how they will grow up. So, why should it be any different with horses?" Training Techniques Shawn's approach to colt starting centers around building a strong foundation of trust and respect between horse and handler. He believes that creating a safe and secure environment for the horse is crucial for their growth and development. One of Shawn's favorite training techniques is the use of groundwork, which he describes as "teaching the horse to understand the language of the handler." This can include simple exercises like leading, lunging, and ground driving. By working with the horse on the ground, Shawn can establish a clear communication line and build trust with the horse before getting on its back. He believes that this approach results in a smoother and more positive riding experience for both horse and rider. Links Heard on the Show Shawn Dunn Facebook Shawn Dunn Instagram Join the Journey Whether you're a seasoned horse owner or just starting out, we invite you to join us on this journey. Share your challenges, triumphs, and everyday experiences with others. We believe these stories can help others in their horse journey. If you have a story you would like to share, you can reach out to us through our Facebook or Instagram page. Alternatively, you can email John@WhoaPodcast.com to be a part of the show. Conclusion In conclusion, colt starting is an art that requires patience, understanding, and a deep knowledge of horse behavior. Shawn Dunn is a true master of this art, and his approach to horse training has helped countless horses and riders along the way. We hope this episode has provided you with a better understanding of the world of colt starting and how Shawn approaches this important process. Thanks for listening. John & Ranae Episode #211 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses

Josh Lyons Horsemanship Josh Lyons grew up learning horsemanship from his dad. John Lyons was one of the first trainers I remember seeing on back in the early 2000s. I was new to horses and really did not know what I was doing. The TV show showed me there was a whole style of horsemanship that was effective and, with work and study, easy for anyone to learn. Back in 2017, I was lucky enough to catch up and interview Josh's sister, Brandi, about her Lyons's No Limit Clinic. This year, I was working on some basic exercises, and I remembered watching John Lyons TV program, and that got me thinking about the Lyons' Horsemanship Philosophy. A little research, and email to Josh's office, and I connected with Josh. Josh Lyons Legacy Training As part of the Lyons legacy program, Josh is educating horse trainers in every discipline. Education is important to Josh. He wants his trainers to succeed. The Legacy program gives people the right tools to train horses. The Colorado Department of Higher Education, Private Occupational School Board, approve and regulates the Lyons Legacy Program. And, because Josh wants to give back to veterans, his Legacy program went through the stringent qualifications to qualify students for VA benefits. Links For Josh Lyons Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LyonsLegacy Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joshlyonslegacy/   YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@JoshLyons Website - https://www.joshlyons.com/ Events - https://www.joshlyons.com/events/   Leave a review - https://g.page/r/CWO3YYANdMf4EBM/review Contact - info@lyonslegacy.com; 615-379-1056 Join Us on this Journey We want you to be a part of the show. Tell us about your horse. Share your challenges, triumphs, or just everyday items that make horse ownership unique. Create an audio file using the memo app on your phone. Or contact me and we'll set up a time to talk on Skype or phone. Perhaps what you have to share can help someone in THEIR horse journey. You are an enormous part of why we do a podcast. We really love getting your feedback. Please let us know your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for the show. Email us at John@WhoaPodcast.com Thanks for listening. John & Ranae Episode #210 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses  

Breakaway From Cancer Today we are doing something a little different. Often, I get requests from someone to be on the show. They have a good book, a new piece of tack, or a good cause. There's not enough content for an entire show, but it's worthwhile information I think you's like to know. Since I'm producing a long version every other week, I thought I'd experiment with a short podcast in between. Let me know what you think. Beth Papopnik's friend and breakaway roper, Emily, contracted cancer. It was pretty serious and, as you can imagine, stressful. Beth and her friends wanted to help. They formed a charitable foundation, Breakaway From Cancer, to help with Emily's mounting bills. After many months, Emily is on the mend and Beth and her friends saw there was a need for their charity in the equine world. They want to grow the charity and help more people. Beth tells the story of how Breakaway From Cancer got started and what it hopes to accomplish in the future. I hope you will check it out. Links for Breakaway From Cancer Facebook: Breakaway From Cancer Instagram: Breakawayfromcancer Direct Donation link: bit.ly/3v26xzm Website: www.breakawayfromcancer.org   Whoa Podcast Shorts We hope to bring you these abbreviated episodes on a bi-weekly basis. They will arrive through the same feed as the regular episodes. I'd love to hear what you think of them. Email us at John@WhoaPodcast.com Thanks for listening. John & Ranae Short Episode #1 Support the Whoa Podcast with this Amazon Link. Checkout My YouTube Channel John Harrer & Horses