Ask An Expert: Horse Care and Riding Advice
- Folgen
- 51
- Erscheint
- wöchentlich
- Letzte Folge
- 11. Nov. 2026
Über den Podcast
Ask An Expert is your go-to for practical, real-world advice from top equestrian pros. Whether you’re curious about improving your riding, training a green horse, or mastering horse care, our expert guests are here to help. Hosted by Ride iQ, these conversations are relatable, insightful, and packed with tips you can use right away. Want more? Ride iQ members get access to over 100 exclusive episodes just like this one, plus unlimited audio lessons you can follow while you ride, taught by some of the best coaches in the business. Head to Ride-iQ.com to get started for free today.
Folgen 51
Fear, Confidence, and Focused Calm: Brain Training for Riders
What if feeling nervous in the saddle is completely normal, and there's a way to work with it instead of fighting it? In this episode of Ask an Expert, event rider, therapist turned equestrian performance …
Shownotes
What if feeling nervous in the saddle is completely normal, and there's a way to work with it instead of fighting it? In this episode of Ask an Expert, event rider, therapist turned equestrian performance coach, and author of Brain Training for Riders Andrea Monsarrat Waldo explains how your brain responds to fear and shares practical tools for staying in control, building real confidence, and coming back after a scary experience.
Episode Highlights:
- How the "lizard brain" and the fight-or-flight response take over, and why it's so hard to think clearly when you're nervous
- A simple three-step game plan for any stressful moment: breathe, soften your elbows and seat, then do the next right thing
- What confidence really is, and how owning your skills and getting comfortable with being a little uncomfortable helps build it
- How to come back from a fall or scary experience one small step at a time, using a simple stress scale
- How to talk to your coach about what helps you, so they can support you better
Meet the Expert, Andrea Monsarrat Waldo
Andrea Monsarrat Waldo is an event rider and the co-owner of Triple Combination Farm in Ferrisburgh, Vermont, where she helps run a boarding, training, and riding instruction program. She is also a therapist turned equestrian performance coach. Andrea has competed through the advanced level in eventing, has shown through third level in dressage, and has brought along several horses from the very beginning of their careers. A practicing therapist from 1994 until 2012, she now offers StressLess Riding performance coaching through workshops and individual sessions, helping riders understand their brains and rebuild their confidence.
Ask an Expert Is Brought to You by Ride iQ
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches.
Members also get:
- Weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts
- Exclusive podcast episodes
- Dressage test prep resources
- A supportive learning community
Start your free 14-day trial and get 20% off your first month or year when you sign up at askrideiq.com
What Your Horse’s Movement Is Telling You: A Vet’s Guide to Equine Lameness
Your horse can't tell you when something hurts, but the way they move can. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine veterinarian and author Dr. Bob Grisel explains how to read your horse's movement, spot …
Shownotes
Your horse can't tell you when something hurts, but the way they move can. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine veterinarian and author Dr. Bob Grisel explains how to read your horse's movement, spot lameness earlier, and support their soundness and longevity.
Episode Highlights:
- Why lameness isn't as simple as "sound" or "lame," and how a horse's movement can point to where a problem is coming from
- The difference between weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing lameness, and what each can tell you
- Why catching problems early makes such a difference, and how sending video clips to your vet can help between visits
- How X-rays fit in, and why what shows up on an image doesn't always match what your horse feels
- His thoughts on joint injections and icing, and what rehab can look like after a hind suspensory injury
Meet the Expert, Dr. Bob Grisel
Dr. Bob Grisel graduated from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine and has more than 30 years of experience with sport horse medicine and surgery. He built the Atlanta Equine Clinic, worked as a vet at the 1996 Olympic Games, and is the author of Equine Lameness for the Layman.
Ask an Expert Is Brought to You by Ride iQ
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches.
Members also get:
- Weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts
- Exclusive podcast episodes
- Dressage test prep resources
- A supportive learning community
Start your free 14-day trial and get 20% off your first month or year when you sign up at askrideiq.com
Choice, Trust, and Confidence: The Power of Positive Reinforcement Training
Positive reinforcement training isn’t just about treats and clickers. It’s about helping your horse feel safe enough to learn. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Shawna Karrasch, a pioneer in the field, and …
Shownotes
Positive reinforcement training isn’t just about treats and clickers. It’s about helping your horse feel safe enough to learn. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Shawna Karrasch, a pioneer in the field, and trainer and breeder Jessie Hillegas explain how it builds more confident, trusting horses, how to bring it into a horse who was trained traditionally, and how it can help with everything from separation anxiety to vet care.
Please note: Shawna shares a personal story in this episode that includes a mention of childhood sexual abuse.
Episode Highlights:
- What positive and negative reinforcement actually mean, how clicker, target, and food-based training fit in, and why they affect a horse’s brain and emotions differently
- How to bring positive reinforcement into a horse who was trained traditionally, and how it fits with dressage, eventing, hunters, and jumpers
- Why separation anxiety happens and how to build a new association with being apart, one small step at a time
- How cooperative care and giving your horse a choice can make vet visits, handling, and grooming easier
- Simple ways to enrich your horse’s turnout and keep them mentally engaged
Meet the Experts, Shawna Karrasch and Jessie Hillegas
Shawna Karrasch is a pioneer of positive reinforcement training in the equestrian world, bringing humane, effective behavior techniques to professionals and amateurs alike through her teaching, books, and global clinics. She began her career training marine mammals like dolphins, sea lions, and orcas, where voluntary participation made reward-based methods essential, and later recognized how these same principles could transform horse training. She is the author of You Can Train Your Horse to Do Anything.
Jessie Hillegas began her riding career in traditional hunter jumper programs, spending 20 years working with large A-rated show barns on the East Coast, where she trained young horses, coached Bucknell University’s equestrian team, taught lessons from beginner through advanced, and prepared horses for competition. She later launched her own warmblood breeding and training program in Pennsylvania, breeding top hunters that have won prizes at venues like Warrenton, Upperville, and the Devon Horse Show. After a filly she bred came back to her with PTSD-like behavior, she turned to positive reinforcement, and today she and Shawna work as partners through Shawna Karrasch Equine.
Ask an Expert Is Brought to You by Ride iQ
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches.
Members also get:
- Weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts
- Exclusive podcast episodes
- Dressage test prep resources
- A supportive learning community
Start your free 14-day trial and get 20% off your first month or year when you sign up at askrideiq.com
Understanding Your Horse’s Personality
Is your horse’s personality working with your training or against it? In this episode of Ask an Expert, Grand Prix dressage rider and author Yvonne Barteau breaks down the four core horse personality types and …
Shownotes
Is your horse’s personality working with your training or against it? In this episode of Ask an Expert, Grand Prix dressage rider and author Yvonne Barteau breaks down the four core horse personality types and shows you how to figure out which one you’re dealing with, and how to adjust your handling and riding to match.
Episode Highlights:
- The four core personality types (social, fearful, aloof, and challenging), and how to read your horse’s true personality
- How personality, energy level, and intelligence combine to shape your training plan, plus the passive-to-aggressive scale and why some horses show two personalities
- How to find a horse that fits you as a rider, how to train each type, and Yvonne’s book recommendations
Meet the Expert, Yvonne Barteau
Yvonne Barteau is a lifelong horsewoman, USDF bronze, silver, and gold medalist, and FEI trainer and clinician. She’s the author of Ride the Right Horse and The Dressage Horse Manifesto, and the founder of Horses Without Humans, a horse rescue and rehabilitation organization.
Ask an Expert Is Brought to You by Ride iQ
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches.
Members also get:
- Weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts
- Exclusive podcast episodes
- Dressage test prep resources
- A supportive learning community
Start your free 14-day trial and get 20% off your first month or year when you sign up at askrideiq.com
Trust Your Gut: How the Equine Microbiome Impacts Health and Performance
Are you making the right choices for your horse’s digestive health, or is their internal ecosystem suffering in silence? In this episode of Ask an Expert, Dr. Mary Beth Gordon, Senior Director of Equine …
Shownotes
Are you making the right choices for your horse’s digestive health, or is their internal ecosystem suffering in silence? In this episode of Ask an Expert, Dr. Mary Beth Gordon, Senior Director of Equine Technical Innovation for Purina Animal Nutrition, demystifies the equine microbiome and explains how it impacts every aspect of your horse’s well-being.
Episode Highlights:
9:04: What the microbiome actually is, why it matters, and how it functions as your horse’s hidden health driver
18:24: Real-world warning signs your horse’s microbiome may be out of balance and key links to behavior, immunity, and colic risk
25:31: How fiber, feed, stress, and even travel or medications can shape the gut
30:18: The difference between prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics - and how to spot products that actually work
Meet the Expert, Dr. Mary Beth Gordon
Dr. Mary Beth Gordon is the Senior Director of Equine Technical Innovation at Purina Animal Nutrition, where she leads research focused on equine nutrition, exercise physiology, and digestive health. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from Delaware Valley University and her PhD in Animal Science, with a focus on equine nutrition and exercise physiology, from Rutgers University. In addition to her work in research, Mary Beth is active in the horse world as a dressage rider.
Episode Sponsor
Connaway & Associates
The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance.
Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
The Secret to a Happy Equine Athlete (That Most Riders Miss)
Ride iQ is currently offering a special Kentucky Legacy Rate - a 20% lifetime discount on membership, available for one week only. Use code LEGACY at Ride-iQ.com to lock in your savings for as long as you …
Shownotes
Ride iQ is currently offering a special Kentucky Legacy Rate - a 20% lifetime discount on membership, available for one week only. Use code LEGACY at Ride-iQ.com to lock in your savings for as long as you remain a member.
What if your horse’s happiness is the missing piece in your performance? In this episode of Ask an Expert, renowned Grand Prix dressage rider and clinician Karen Rohlf shares her holistic approach to creating joyful equine athletes. Blending classical dressage with natural horsemanship, Karen dives deep into what real partnership looks like, how to recognize true happiness in your horse, and why everyday choices make a difference.
Episode Highlights:
11:56: Introducing the Happy Athlete Training Scale and why happiness and harmony come before communication, biomechanics, and sport
19:44: Concrete ways to add more choice, enrichment, and mental stimulation to your horse’s daily routine
27:37: What true harmony feels like, how to “join up” with your horse, and why being present and patient matters more than you think
34:11: The nine habits of excellent horsemanship and why a sense of humor is a secret weapon for riders at any level
44:16: Understanding healthy biomechanics, practical tips to find your horse’s “sweet spot,” and why trust and curiosity fuel athleticismMeet the Expert, Karen Rohlf
Karen Rohlf is the founder of Dressage Naturally, an internationally recognized clinician, and the author of multiple books on training and horsemanship. She is known for her approach that prioritizes partnership, empowers riders as students, and blends classical dressage with relationship-based training. Karen focuses on developing the mental, emotional, and physical connection between horse and rider, with a goal of helping both horses and humans thrive.
Episode Sponsor
Connaway & Associates
The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance.Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Every Breath Counts: Understanding the Equine Respiratory System
Understanding and protecting your horse’s respiratory health is key to their comfort, performance, and long-term well-being. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine respiratory specialist Dr. Laurent Couëtil …
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Understanding and protecting your horse’s respiratory health is key to their comfort, performance, and long-term well-being. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine respiratory specialist Dr. Laurent Couëtil breaks down the most common issues affecting horses’ lungs and airways. You’ll learn how to identify early signs of asthma, what makes environments either harmful or protective, and which practical steps can make a major difference.
Episode Highlights:
- 06:16: What equine asthma is, why it’s often missed, and key environmental triggers every horse owner should know
- 11:38: If asthma is genetic, environmental, or both and what current research tells us about risk factors
- 28:53: What actually causes inflammation in the horse’s airway, why invisible dust matters most, and how hay feeding practices can dramatically reduce risk
- 45:13: Traveling with hay, head position during hauling, and best-practice strategies to prevent both asthma flares and respiratory infections
- 50:11: How to recognize subtle signs of asthma, when to call the vet, and what treatments protect your horse without compromising performance
Meet the Expert, Dr. Laurent CouëtilDr. Couëtil is a professor of large animal medicine at Purdue University, where he directs the Equine Sports Medicine Center and is involved in equine research initiatives. With a veterinary degree from France, a residency at Tufts, and a PhD in respiratory physiology, his work has significantly advanced the understanding and management of respiratory health in sport horses.
Episode Sponsor
Connaway & Associates
The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance.Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
Rider Safety Equipment 101: Understanding Safety Standards and Finding the Right Gear & Fit
Protecting yourself every ride starts with the right gear and knowing what works (and why) matters. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Ride EquiSafe founder, Catherine Winter, discusses helmets, body protectors …
Shownotes
Protecting yourself every ride starts with the right gear and knowing what works (and why) matters. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Ride EquiSafe founder, Catherine Winter, discusses helmets, body protectors, air vests, and safety stirrups, drawing on personal riding experience and deep product knowledge. You’ll learn how to assess fit, understand safety standards, and avoid common mistakes so you can ride with confidence at every level.
Episode Highlights:
10:18: What the Virginia Tech helmet study means for riders and how to interpret certification standards
13:18: What MIPS technology is, why it matters, and what riders should know before buying a new helmet
27:38: When to replace your helmet or body protector and why impact, sweat, and age all matter
41:19: Body protectors vs. air vests: how they actually work, their strengths and limitations, and why pairing them offers the highest level of protection
50:22: What makes a stirrup a "safety stirrup" and how discipline, personal comfort, and fall history shape your choiceMeet the Expert, Catherine Winter
Catherine Winter is the founder of Ride EquiSafe, a business dedicated to helping riders make informed decisions about their safety equipment. A lifelong equestrian, she created Ride EquiSafe to make rider safety more accessible through education, expert guidance, and a curated selection of protective gear. Her work focuses on helping riders feel more confident and protected in the saddle.
Episode Sponsor
Connaway & Associates
The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance.Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
Performance Psychology: Managing Nerves and Pressure in the Arena
Nerves can make it hard to ride the way you know you can - and show up for your horse the way you want to. In this episode of Ask an Expert, 5* event rider and performance psychologist Ashley Johnson shares …
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Nerves can make it hard to ride the way you know you can - and show up for your horse the way you want to. In this episode of Ask an Expert, 5* event rider and performance psychologist Ashley Johnson shares actionable tools for conquering competition fears, building resilience, and supporting sensitive or emotional horses.
Episode Highlights:
25:12: The single biggest change every rider can make for their mental health and why self-care matters at all levels
31:25: Who should see a sports psychology coach and how performance psychology supports every rider
33:08: Strategies for working with sensitive horses and the mindset shifts that help you succeed under pressure
39:51: Practical exercises for managing show anxiety, using grounding techniques, and staying present in the moment
52:13: The benefits of meditation, simple calming exercises, and how to make mental fitness part of your routineMeet the Expert, Ashley Johnson
Ashley Johnson is a 5* event rider, Level V ICP certified instructor, and “A” Pony Club graduate. She holds a Master’s in psychology focused on performance from Harvard and a Master’s in human performance from the University of Florida. She is also a licensed ‘r’ judge and technical delegate with the USEA. Ashley was the inaugural coach of the University of Florida Eventing Team, a role she held for seven years, and is currently the Area 3 Young Rider Coach. She runs Totem Hill Farm in Ocala, Florida.
Episode Sponsor
Connaway & Associates
The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance.Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
A Vet’s Guide to Managing Ulcer-Prone Horses
Concerned about managing ulcers in your horse? In this episode of Ask an Expert, internationally recognized equine gastric health researcher Dr. Benjamin Sykes takes a science-based, whole-horse approach to …
Shownotes
Concerned about managing ulcers in your horse? In this episode of Ask an Expert, internationally recognized equine gastric health researcher Dr. Benjamin Sykes takes a science-based, whole-horse approach to understanding and preventing equine gastric ulcers. Dr. Sykes dispels myths, explains the latest research, and offers practical, actionable advice for owners and riders ready to support their horses’ well-being.
Episode Highlights:
7:10: The two types of equine gastric ulcers, how they differ, and why management needs to be tailored to each
11:30: Why ulcers remain so common and how small changes in daily management can make a real impact
23:30: Which horses are more prone to ulcers, including breed, age, and temperament factors every owner should understand
36:45: How to manage recurring ulcers and the role of long-term care, routine, and behavior in prevention
44:13: Treatment options that actually work and why management is key to lasting resultsMeet the Expert, Dr. Benjamin Sykes
Dr. Sykes is an internationally recognized leader in equine gastric health and clinical research. A graduate of Murdoch University, he completed an internship at Randwick Equine Centre and a residency in equine internal medicine in Virginia. He also holds an MBA from the University of Liverpool and a PhD in veterinary pharmacology from the University of Queensland. Dr. Sykes is affiliated with Southern Cross University and is the owner of BW Sykes Consultancy, traveling worldwide as an invited speaker and consultant for high-performance equine cases.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
Ride Smarter, Score Higher: Tips for Achieving a Personal Best in Dressage
Looking to achieve your personal best in the dressage arena? In this episode of Ask an Expert, Grand Prix dressage rider Lauren Sprieser offers honest and practical strategies to help riders at any level raise …
Shownotes
Looking to achieve your personal best in the dressage arena? In this episode of Ask an Expert, Grand Prix dressage rider Lauren Sprieser offers honest and practical strategies to help riders at any level raise their scores and their confidence. Lauren shares wisdom on everything from building a foolproof foundation to overcoming nerves, improving transitions, and decoding what judges really want to see.
Episode Highlights:
- 8:10: How to choose the right test level, build a solid foundation, and improve transitions
- 13:10: How to prepare for a consistent, relaxed ride and why the basics matter at every stage
- 21:00: How to manage “horse show brain,” overcome nerves, and practice effectively under pressure
- 26:00: Tack and warm-up best practices, plus common mistakes to avoid on show day
- 34:40: Why memorizing your test matters and how to confidently learn and run through tests at home
- 46:30: How to improve your free walk and halts, plus tips for mastering key movements with effective ring craft
Meet the Expert, Lauren SprieserLauren Sprieser is a USDF Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medalist with Distinction and an international Grand Prix dressage rider. She runs a successful training and coaching business, Sprieser Sporthorse, out of Clearwater Farm in Marshall, Virginia. In addition to producing numerous FEI horses and riders, Lauren is a longtime contributor to the Chronicle of the Horse and has written for Dressage Today, Noelle Floyd, and Practical Horseman. She is a graduate of the FEI Young Rider and U25 programs and holds a degree in public policy and urban planning from Sarah Lawrence College.
Episode Sponsor
Connaway & Associates
The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance.Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
EPM Explained: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
EPM is one of the most common and complex neurological diseases facing horses in North America, but what really causes it, and are there ways to protect your horse? In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine …
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EPM is one of the most common and complex neurological diseases facing horses in North America, but what really causes it, and are there ways to protect your horse? In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine veterinarian Dr. Phil van Harreveld breaks down the real risks of EPM, explains early warning signs, debunks common myths, and gives actionable advice on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for every horse owner.
Episode Highlights:
4:00: What causes EPM, where the parasite is found, and whether some horses are more susceptible than others
12:00: What owners can do to help reduce the risk of EPM in horses that have been exposed to the parasite
22:00: Common myths and misconceptions about EPM symptoms and diagnosis
31:20: Treatment options for EPM and how effective they are
34:20: How often EPM leads to neurological symptoms, how severe those symptoms can be, and the likelihood of recurrence after treatment
Meet the Expert, Dr. Phil van Harreveld
Dr. van Harreveld received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from North Carolina State University, and his master’s degree and surgical board certification from Kansas State University. He practiced as an equine veterinary surgeon for more than 22 years, founding the first equine referral hospital in Vermont, which he operated for over two decades. In addition to handling the hospital’s field cases, he managed the in-house medical and surgical case load. He joined the Merck Animal Health equine veterinary professional services team in 2022.
Episode Sponsor
Connaway & Associates
The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance.
Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
Buckle Up: An Eventing Safety Crash Course with Jon Holling
Eventing is one of horse sport’s most thrilling disciplines, but what are the biggest safety challenges riders and organizers face today, and how is the sport working to better protect both horses and riders? …
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Eventing is one of horse sport’s most thrilling disciplines, but what are the biggest safety challenges riders and organizers face today, and how is the sport working to better protect both horses and riders? In this episode of Ask an Expert, 5* event rider and National Safety Officer Jon Holling shares his insider perspective on common safety mistakes, innovations like frangible fences and MER rules, and practical advice for riders at every level.
Episode Highlights:
4:00: The biggest safety challenges currently facing eventing and what he sees from his role as National Safety Officer
6:00: Frangible fence requirements and why cross-country accidents can still happen despite safety advancements
12:00: How MER rules work and the new MER rule modification for moving from training to preliminary level
40:45: Common safety mistakes lower-level riders make and how they can avoid them
54:50: Practical advice for nervous riders who want to feel safer and more confident on their horses
Meet the Expert, Jon Holling
Jon Holling is a US based 5* event rider who also serves as chairman of the USEF Eventing Sport Committee and U.S. National Safety Officer to the FEI. He has competed at some of the top international events around the world, including the Burghley CCI5* and Kentucky CCI5*. Jon has also led the Area IV Young Rider Team to multiple gold medals.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
A Beginner’s Guide to Western Dressage: How It Works, How It’s Judged, and How to Start
Western Dressage continues to grow in popularity for good reason, but what truly sets it apart, and how can riders begin their journey in the sport? In this episode of Ask an Expert, Cindy Butler, president of …
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Western Dressage continues to grow in popularity for good reason, but what truly sets it apart, and how can riders begin their journey in the sport? In this episode of Ask an Expert, Cindy Butler, president of the Western Dressage Association of America, explains what makes Western Dressage unique, how competition and judging work, and what riders need to know before giving it a try!
Episode Highlights:
8:45: What Western Dressage is, how it developed, and what makes it different from other equestrian disciplines
17:30: How horses and riders are evaluated in Western Dressage and the key differences from traditional Dressage scoring and expectations
23:50: The skills horses and riders need to succeed and how movements and technical demands progress through the levels
26:30: The different ways to compete in Western Dressage and advice for preparing for your first show
32:00: Recommended attire and equipment
41:20: Where and how to get started in Western Dressage
Meet the Expert, Cindy Butler
Cindy Butler is the president of the Western Dressage Association of America. She holds a bachelor's degree in equestrian science and business administration from William Woods College and has spent a lifetime showing horses, earning multiple world championship titles. Beyond competing, Cindy has managed horse shows, led equine 4-H programs, organized judging competitions, and served as president of several state and local equine associations. She's also an experienced trainer, instructor, and clinician, traveling the country to teach Western Dressage.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
Let’s Make Some Adjustments: Chiropractic Care for Horse and Rider
Chiropractic care can transform comfort and performance for both horse and rider, but understanding how it works is key to getting the most benefit. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Dr. Jillian Johnson, an …
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Chiropractic care can transform comfort and performance for both horse and rider, but understanding how it works is key to getting the most benefit. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Dr. Jillian Johnson, an equine and human chiropractor, discusses her unique journey, explains how chiropractic adjustments help equestrians and their horses, dispels common misconceptions, and shares practical tips for improving alignment, flexibility, and overall well-being in and out of the saddle.
Episode Highlights:
13:00: Common patterns seen when working with horses and riders, and how to determine whether chiropractic care is the right fit
16:15: Biggest misconceptions about chiropractic care in the equestrian world, and the training, certification, and education required to practice safely and effectively
21:00: The most common issues in horses that benefit from chiropractic care, and how to recognize signs of discomfort
31:30: Common alignment and movement issues seen in riders, plus stretches and exercises to support the body between adjustments
44:00: One simple thing riders can do to improve symmetry in the saddle, and the most important takeaway every rider should understand about chiropractic care
Meet the Expert, Dr. Jillian Johnson
Dr. Jillian Johnson is a chiropractor specializing in equestrians and their horses. With a lifelong passion for performance, movement, and partnership, she helps riders and horses feel and perform their best both in and out of the saddle. A graduate of Texas A&M University, Dr. Jillian holds a doctorate in chiropractic and is certified by the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association. She runs Farmhouse Chiropractic, a thriving practice based in Ocala, Florida, where her work focuses on optimizing comfort, alignment, and communication between horse and rider, helping each partnership find greater balance and harmony.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
Harnessing Genetics: Choosing and Managing Sport Horses
Genetics can reveal more about your horse than you might expect, offering powerful tools for making informed decisions about breeding, training, and daily management. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine …
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Genetics can reveal more about your horse than you might expect, offering powerful tools for making informed decisions about breeding, training, and daily management. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine geneticist Christa Lafayette shares how modern genetic testing can help owners and breeders uncover everything from health risks and temperament tendencies to athletic potential and ancestry, while also addressing common myths and the practical realities of using this cutting-edge technology.
Episode Highlights:
13:00: How equine genetic testing works, what the process looks like, and the types of results owners can expect
19:00: What DNA testing can (and can’t) reveal about temperament, behavior, stress response, and trainability
24:00: Health conditions and disease risks that genetic testing can help screen for
27:00: What genetic testing can tell you about injury risk, muscle type, stamina, recovery, and physical stress tolerance
42:00: How equine ancestry testing has evolved, where the science is headed, and common myths about equine genetics
Meet the Expert, Christa Lafayette
Christa Lafayette is the founder and CEO of Etalon Diagnostics, a pioneering company in equine genetic testing. With a background in science, technology, and business development, Christa has spent over two decades at the intersection of innovation and animal health. Under her leadership, Etalon has become a leader in the field, offering cutting-edge genetic testing that helps horse owners better understand and care for their equine partners. Christa is passionate about empowering horse people with data-driven insights to support sound decisions in breeding, management, and performance.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
We’ve Got You Covered: Equine Insurance Explained
Equine insurance can be confusing, but knowing your options means you’re better prepared when the unexpected happens. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine insurance agent Heidi Wardle explains the different …
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Equine insurance can be confusing, but knowing your options means you’re better prepared when the unexpected happens. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine insurance agent Heidi Wardle explains the different types of coverage available, what they include, how to navigate the claims process, and how to protect everything from your horse to your tack and equipment.
Episode Highlights:
2:30: The different types of equine insurance, who each policy is best suited for, and how to choose the right coverage
11:15: Common equine insurance misconceptions
15:30: What major medical typically covers and key exclusions to watch for
31:00: How the claims process works, how to prepare ahead of time, and common mistakes that can lead to denied claims
41:00: Coverage options for tack, trailers, and farm property
48:45: Expert advice for first-time horse owners shopping for equine insurance
Meet the Expert, Heidi Wardle
Heidi is a lifelong horsewoman who began her career as a professional rider and trainer before transitioning into the equine insurance world in 2017. She now works with clients across disciplines to protect what matters most, from major medical and mortality to liability, farm, trailer, and tack coverage. Heidi brings a rider’s perspective to her work, combining industry knowledge with firsthand experience. She continues to compete her off-the-track-thoroughbreds, Cold Spice and Generalist in the sport of eventing.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
Variety Is the Spice of Life: The Benefits of Cross Training
Keeping your horse’s training fresh and engaging can be the key to higher performance and happier rides. In this episode of Ask an Expert, accomplished dressage trainer Lisa Helmer discusses the benefits of …
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Keeping your horse’s training fresh and engaging can be the key to higher performance and happier rides. In this episode of Ask an Expert, accomplished dressage trainer Lisa Helmer discusses the benefits of cross training and shares practical ways to add variety, fitness, and fun into your routine.
Episode Highlights:
4:00: What cross-training really means, how it fits into a program, and why it matters for both performance and mindset
19:30: Lisa’s favorite cavaletti exercises and easy ways to blend them into flatwork
45:30: One small weekly training change that can make a big difference
47:00: Common cross-training misconceptions and how to spot the physical and mental benefits
Meet the Expert, Lisa Hellmer
Lisa Helmer is a lifelong horsewoman and USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medalist. A graduate of Johnson & Wales University with a degree in equine business management and riding, she trained young horses at the Hanoverian Verband in Germany, where she developed a passion for cross-disciplinary training. She later worked for international Grand Prix rider Pam Goodrich before starting her own business, LCH Equestrian, in Ocala, Florida.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
Learning to Listen: Building a Better Relationship Through Animal Communication
Horses have their own language, and learning to listen opens the door to a deeper, more compassionate connection. In this episode of Ask an Expert, animal communicator Alexa Linton shares how you can better …
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Horses have their own language, and learning to listen opens the door to a deeper, more compassionate connection. In this episode of Ask an Expert, animal communicator Alexa Linton shares how you can better understand your horse’s experiences, tune into their needs, and support them through tools like animal communication, bodywork, and mindful presence.
Episode Highlights:
10:30: How animal communication works in practice
9:20: Simple exercises for tuning in and strengthening communication with your horse
36:00: Situations that are more challenging for horses than we often realize
39:30: How horses experience loss, absence, and changes within the herd
47:00: Supporting horses through long-term rehabilitation and extended rest
Meet the Expert, Alexa Linton
Alexa is an osteopathic practitioner with more than 20 years of experience in kinesiology, manual therapy, and energy work. Based in Duncan, BC, she blends science, intuition, and a deep love for horses into everything she does-from her one-on-one intuitive work to her popular programs like the Whole Horse Apprenticeship and her long-running podcast The Whole Horse.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
The Power of Walk: Building Connection & Balance Through the Walk
The walk is often underestimated, but it has the power to transform both horse and rider, improving balance, communication, and overall well-being. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Diana Waters, founder of The …
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The walk is often underestimated, but it has the power to transform both horse and rider, improving balance, communication, and overall well-being. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Diana Waters, founder of The Power of Walk, explores the principles behind slow walk work, the benefits you can expect, and practical approaches for incorporating it into your training.
Episode Highlights:
7:00: The short-term and long-term benefits of focused walk work, and how it supports overall training development
8:45: The difference between a slow walk and a lazy walk, and where intentional walk work fits into a horse’s training schedule
14:00: How walk work is adapted to address different challenges, and how it improves posture, strength, and muscle tone
21:30: An overview of Diana’s program, including timeline, key exercises, and end goals
47:45: A simple, practical walk-focused challenge listeners can try with their own horse
Meet the Expert, Diana Waters
Diana Waters is a BHS-qualified instructor, Enlightened Equitation Teacher, and Equine Assisted Psychotherapist. She developed Slow Walk Work after discovering how profoundly a gentle, grounded approach could change everything for the horse and the human. What began as a personal journey with a “lazy” horse soon became a method she now shares with horse owners worldwide. Today, she teaches this method to riders around the world through The Power of Walk course and online community, helping horses and humans become more relaxed, confident, and balanced.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
The 5 Most Costly Mistakes Horse Owners Make (Webinar Recording)
Daily care decisions play a bigger role in your horse’s long-term health than many owners realize. In this webinar, Dr. Erica Lacher breaks down the five issues she sees most often in her practice, explains the …
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Daily care decisions play a bigger role in your horse’s long-term health than many owners realize. In this webinar, Dr. Erica Lacher breaks down the five issues she sees most often in her practice, explains the everyday habits that have the biggest impact on soundness and wellbeing, and shares practical, vet-approved strategies you can start using right away. Whether you’re a lifelong horse owner or just getting started, you’ll come away feeling more confident, prepared, and proactive about your horse’s care.
Episode Highlights:
17:15: Mistake #1: Calling everyone but the veterinarian
21:30: Mistake #2: Spending hard-earned money on supplements
26:15: Mistake #3: Poor quality farrier work
28:30: Mistake #4: DIY wound care
33:40: Mistake #5: Skipping routine care
46:00: Real-world case Q&A
Meet the Expert, Dr. Erica Lacher
A graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Erica Lacher is the owner and lead veterinarian of Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic in Newberry, Florida. She has a particular interest in helping sport horses have long, successful careers and helping owners learn how to make that happen. When she's not at the clinic, Erica competes her own horses in the jumper ring and co-hosts the podcast Straight From The Horse Doctor's Mouth with Justin Long.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
The Dos & Don’ts of Building and Designing Arenas
Your horse is affected by the footing with every step they take, which makes arena design and footing choices more important than many riders realize. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Dickie Osborne dives into …
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Your horse is affected by the footing with every step they take, which makes arena design and footing choices more important than many riders realize. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Dickie Osborne dives into the fundamentals of arena construction, explains common pitfalls, and offers advice on evaluating and improving the footing at home and at shows.
Episode Highlights:
5:00: Why footing matters for horse soundness and performance, and how to recognize good vs. bad footing
8:00: The key steps to building a quality arena, including material selection and proper proportions
17:10: How to choose the right footing, and how footing needs differ by discipline
31:00: Evaluating footing at competitions, what to look for when you arrive, and how to decide if a venue is worth returning to
47:00: Differences between indoor and outdoor arena construction, and how often a well-built arena should be retested and reevaluated
Meet the Expert, Dickie Osborne
Dickie has been a horse owner since childhood and built his first arena more than 30 years ago. After a long career as an excavation contractor, he combined his construction expertise with his lifelong involvement in horses to become a leading authority on equestrian arena design and footing. He is the founder of Precision Equestrian Arenas and Precision Arenas Academy, and he builds and consults on arena projects across the country.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
New Year, New Goals: Here’s How to Make Them Happen
Learning to set effective goals as an equestrian is challenging, especially with so many factors outside your control, but in this episode of Ask an Expert, Dr. Tyler (Held) Murray shares a fresh approach that …
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Learning to set effective goals as an equestrian is challenging, especially with so many factors outside your control, but in this episode of Ask an Expert, Dr. Tyler (Held) Murray shares a fresh approach that balances physical, technical, and mental development for lasting performance gains. She explains practical strategies for goal-setting, overcoming setbacks like injury, and the importance of curiosity and reflection for continuous improvement.
Episode Highlights:
9:30: How goal setting looks different for equestrians compared to other sports
14:00: Common goal-setting mistakes riders make, and why goal setting matters
18:20: What effective goal setting looks like, including good vs. bad goals and pivoting plans
37:30: How to reflect on a goal and move forward after it’s complete
49:00: Resources and tools for identifying personal values
Meet the Expert, Tyler Held
Dr. Tyler (Held) Murray is a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) with a Doctorate in Sport and Performance Psychology. Tyler blends high-level equestrian experience with performance mindset training. She is a semi-retired professional 5-star groom for Jennie Brannigan and is also the Master 1 Purple Belt Jiu Jitsu World Champion. If her personal accomplishments are any indication, her approach to performance mindset works.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
Your Roadmap for Better Performance Through Self-Mastery
Unlocking peak performance often comes down to mastering your mental game, yet understanding where to begin on that journey can feel overwhelming. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Natalie Hummel joins Jessa to …
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Unlocking peak performance often comes down to mastering your mental game, yet understanding where to begin on that journey can feel overwhelming. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Natalie Hummel joins Jessa to break down the essential components of self-mastery, from nervous system regulation and ego work to emotional mastery, and explains how these areas directly impact riders in and out of the saddle. She shares the roadmap for ongoing personal growth, describes what separates high performers, and offers actionable practices for listeners ready to step into their full potential.
Episode Highlights:
13:00: How this work directly applies to riding and performance
33:45: Common roadblocks riders face during this process, and how to work through them
51:20: Personality types that tend to excel with this work, and which ones may find it more challenging
53:40: Practical advice for riders who want to start doing this type of work
Meet the Expert, Natalie Hummel
Natalie Hummel is a transformational life coach who helps equestrians and other athletes overcome mental and emotional barriers to elevate their competitive performance. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Wellness from the University of Louisville, and she has served as head research assistant in the learning and performance lab during her time there. She has also earned a Wellcoaches certification and Mastery Coach certification, bringing evidence-based strategies and real-world perspective to her coaching work.
If you’d like to learn more about Natalie Hummel’s Limitless Academy, visit the link below. https://nataliehummelcoaching.com/limitless/
Equestrian Mastermind Season 3, Episode 1 drops January 22. Find it in the In Stride feed and follow the show so you don’t miss new episodes.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
Your OTTB Retraining Manual
Retraining an off-the-track Thoroughbred can be one of the most rewarding journeys, but navigating the first steps can leave even experienced riders searching for answers. In this episode of Ask an Expert …
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Retraining an off-the-track Thoroughbred can be one of the most rewarding journeys, but navigating the first steps can leave even experienced riders searching for answers. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Aubrey Graham shares her expertise on retraining off-the-track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs), discussing key first steps in their transition, common misconceptions, and mistakes riders make. She also offers practical advice for sourcing OTTBs and highlights what makes Thoroughbreds special to work with.
Episode Highlights:
13:40: Common misconceptions about OTTB’s and what it will take to shift perceptions in today’s market
18:00: The first steps Aubrey takes when transitioning an OTTB from the track to a successful show horse
37:20: How Aubrey sources OTTBs, including the key traits she looks for when evaluating a potential prospect
45:00: The most common mistakes riders make when working with OTTBs, and how to avoid them
Meet the Expert, Aubrey Graham
With more than 30 years of riding experience, Aubrey is known for her work with young, green, and challenging horses, with a particular passion for retraining off-the-track Thoroughbreds. She is also an accomplished event rider, having competed through the Preliminary level of eventing. Aubrey is the founder of Thoroughbred Logic, an educational platform featuring weekly articles on Horse Nation, along with masterclasses and clinics held nationwide. She has also partnered with the Retired Racehorse Project to develop educational programs for the Ride iQ app.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
Skip the Stress: Smart Strategies for Injury Prevention
Preventing injuries is essential for keeping performance horses healthy throughout their careers, but understanding what truly helps can feel overwhelming. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine surgeon and …
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Preventing injuries is essential for keeping performance horses healthy throughout their careers, but understanding what truly helps can feel overwhelming. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine surgeon and sports-medicine veterinarian Dr. Maureen Kelleher breaks down the most common discipline-specific injuries, why hoof balance and shoeing are core to soundness, and how owners can make informed decisions about warm-ups, footing, and useful (vs. unnecessary) therapies.
Episode Highlights:
9:00: The most common injuries seen in dressage, eventing, and show jumping horses and whether certain issues are discipline-specific or shared across all three
13:30: The percentage of injuries that could be prevented through training, recovery routines, and daily care, plus key best practices for injury prevention
41:00: The risk-benefit tradeoffs of protective boots and standing wraps
53:50: Technologies Dr. Kelleher supports for maintenance and rehab, and which popular therapeutic treatments may not be worth the time or money
Meet the Expert, Dr. Maureen Kelleher
Dr. Maureen Kelleher earned her DVM from UC Davis in 2006, then completed an internship at Pioneer Equine Hospital. She spent several years in private equine practice in California, focusing on sports medicine, lameness, diagnostic imaging, and acupuncture. She became a certified veterinary acupuncturist in 2010 and earned Diplomate status with the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. She joined the Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center in Leesburg, VA, where she worked with medicine, surgery, and therapeutic-farrier teams to provide advanced care for performance horses.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
Calling the Shots: The Essentials of Equine Vaccinations
Staying on top of vaccinations is one of the most effective ways to protect your horse’s long-term health, but knowing what to give, when, and why can feel overwhelming. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine …
Shownotes
Staying on top of vaccinations is one of the most effective ways to protect your horse’s long-term health, but knowing what to give, when, and why can feel overwhelming. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine veterinarian Dr. Erica Lacher breaks down how to make confident, informed decisions about your horse’s vaccination plan. She explains how to assess risk, how environmental factors influence what’s needed, and what signs to watch for if your horse has an adverse reaction.
Episode Highlights:
3:00: Dr. Lacher’s overall approach to vaccinations and how owners can stay informed about what their horses need
15:30: Key environmental factors that influence which vaccines are necessary
25:45: How veterinarians choose between vaccine brands and why it matters
39:30: How vaccinations support herd health and reduce risk at shows and boarding barns
45:30: What to do if your horse experiences a reaction, plus warning signs of a more serious issue
Meet the Expert, Dr. Erica Lacher
A graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Erica Lacher is the owner and lead veterinarian of Springhill Equine Veterinary Clinic in Newberry, Florida. She has a particular interest in helping sport horses have long, successful careers and helping owners learn how to make that happen. When she's not at the clinic, Erica competes her own horses in the jumper ring and co-hosts the podcast Straight From The Horse Doctor's Mouth with Justin Long.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
Stop Playing Tack Roulette: Learn Bit & Bridle Fit
Effective bit and bridle fitting supports not only communication but also your horse’s long-term comfort and performance. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine physiotherapist and biomechanics specialist …
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Effective bit and bridle fitting supports not only communication but also your horse’s long-term comfort and performance. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine physiotherapist and biomechanics specialist Kailyn Pupa breaks down what riders should know about bit and bridle fitting, how to recognize good (and poor) fit, and the small adjustments that can make a big difference in your horse’s way of going.
Episode Highlights:
8:30: What to look for and prioritize when choosing a bit and bridle fitter
16:30: Clear signs your horse is in the right bit and bridle
36:00: Bridle styles and design features riders should generally avoid
38:00: Common signs of discomfort or poor bridle fit in older horses
48:00: How to determine the correct bit size and height for your horse
Meet the Expert, Kailyn Pupa
After completing her graduate degree in equine physiotherapy at Writtle University in the U.K., Kailyn Pupa founded Bullseye Equine to support sport horses and their riders through expert biomechanics work and independent bit and bridle fitting. She previously groomed and managed at the five-star level and now works between Wellington, Florida and Central New Jersey. Specializing in hunter/jumper, eventing, and dressage, Kailyn focuses on optimizing both performance and long-term comfort through precise, detail-oriented care.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com. For Black Friday, use code FRIDAY35 to get 35% off your first month or your first year.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
How to Unlock Your Horse’s Calm, Willing, and Confident Side
Understanding your horse isn’t about finding a magic button - it’s about clarity, communication, and confidence. In this episode of Ask an Expert, recorded on October 7th, 2025, Dr. Shelley Appleton shares how …
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Understanding your horse isn’t about finding a magic button - it’s about clarity, communication, and confidence. In this episode of Ask an Expert, recorded on October 7th, 2025, Dr. Shelley Appleton shares how science, horsemanship, and self-awareness can help you bring out your horse’s best.
Episode Highlights:
12:00: The most common issues Shelley sees in the horses she works with
15:30: How she approaches working with riders and the challenges they bring
23:40: The rider tendencies that often limit progress (and how to fix them)
34:00: How to help a horse with poor boundaries or buddy sour behavior
Meet the Expert, Dr. Shelley Appleton
Dr. Shelley Appleton began her career as a university academic and pharmacist, researching how people develop expertise and think critically. A pivotal moment with her own horse sparked a personal mission to understand how horses learn and how riders can communicate more clearly. That mission soon grew into helping friends, then students, and ultimately riders around the world. Less than a decade later, she left her 25-year academic career to found Calm Willing Confident Horses, where she teaches riders how clarity, curiosity, and communication create genuine partnership. Through clinics, coaching, and online education, she helps riders transform frustration into confidence, for themselves and their horses.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Join the waitlist for Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
Equine Posture Explained: What to Look For and Why It Matters
Equine posture offers valuable insight into a horse’s comfort, balance, and overall well-being. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Shelley Thomas explains what your horse’s posture is telling you and how …
Shownotes
Equine posture offers valuable insight into a horse’s comfort, balance, and overall well-being. In this episode of Ask an Expert, Shelley Thomas explains what your horse’s posture is telling you and how noticing small changes early can support their long-term health and happiness.
Episode Highlights:
4:00: What equine posture entails and why it is important to pay attention to it
7:45: What the ideal posture looks like and how riders can assess their horses' posture
29:30: What to do with the information gathered from assessing posture
50:15: How nutrition plays into posture and the indicators that a horse may need a different nutrition plan
Want a free downloadable worksheet on how to assess your horse's static posture? Check out Shelley's website!
Meet the Experts, Shelley Thomas
Shelley Thomas is a Certified Equine Rehabilitation Practitioner through the University of Tennessee. She is also a Permitted Equine Therapist for FEI competitions, a certified movement performance coach, a Precision Nutrition Level 1 coach, and a Master Reiki practitioner. In addition to her equine work, she holds a degree in psychology and a master’s in physical therapy from the Mayo Clinic and has over 20 years of experience as a human physical therapist. Having ridden through Preliminary eventing and Fourth Level dressage, Shelley brings firsthand knowledge of sporthorse demands to her busy practice, where she treats both horses and riders in-person and virtually.
Brought to you by Ride iQ
This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more.
Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.
If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.
Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Join the waitlist for Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.
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