Horse Wise

In this episode (#57), I discuss how horses don’t care about your politics. They respond to your presence and your actions -- right now and in the moment. Too often, I see people using horses as a blank screen -- on which they project their emotions, worldview and political beliefs. When the horse doesn’t behave in a way that correlates to those premises, some people will blame the horse than re-evaluate their approach. But the truth is that the horse reflects back reality at all times. Whether we choose to accept that or not is what determines our growth in horsemanship (as well as in our characters). At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way). If you’d like more information on mindset practices, audio coaching or general Horse Services, please visit our website for more information:  http://horsewise

Leading a horse is one of the best ways to communicate with your horse — in ways that translate into practical results under saddle. In this episode (#56), I discuss why your lead rope is nothing like a leash -- and why that's a good thing. At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way). If you’d like more information on mindset practices, audio coaching or general Horse Services, please visit our website for more information:  http://horsewisecoach.com/ And if you’d like to keep up with our news and updates, please join our email list or follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/HorseWiseCoach/ https://www.instagram.com/horse_wise/

As part of the our youth education services, we have started a Horse Wise® Horsemanship Buckle for 4-H groups. In this episode (#55), I discuss the buckle standards and why we decided to start this specific initiative. The buckle requirements focus on learning ground work techniques -- to help young riders become more aware of their horses (and learn to "do less sooner" for better partnership and performance). Prize includes the buckle AND $100 cash prize. If you work with a 4-H club and are interested in our buckle series (and its requirements), please email me at horsewisecoach@icloud.com. At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way). If you’d like more information on mindset practices, audio coaching or general Horse Services, please visit our website for more information:  http://horsewisecoach.com/&

Alicia Landman has devoted her life to the study and dedicated practice of horsemanship. I’ve been inspired by her work for years — and I especially admire her willingness to always evolve as a horsewoman and teacher. In this episode (#54), we discuss the importance of embracing the basics — and how fun it is to discover new nuances in those basics each year. Alicia also shares her decision to take a sabbatical from teaching for a month — so she can focus on her young horses and on developing her skills even further. Please check out Alicia’s work at https://www.facebook.com/Alicia-Byberg-Landman-Horsemanship-169812219699049 At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way). If you’d like more information on mindset practices, audio coaching or general Horse Services, please visit our website for more informa

In this episode (#53), I look back at 2020 as it draws to a close.. For me, this most unusual year was full of unexpected gifts. Most especially, a return to classical study that led me to become a better student of the horse. Happy New Year from me and the equine teachers (Santo & Cozy) at Horse Wise! At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way). If you’d like more information on mindset practices, audio coaching or general Horse Services, please visit our website for more information:  http://horsewisecoach.com/ And if you’d like to keep up with our news and updates, please join our email list or follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/HorseWiseCoach/ https://www.instagram.com/horse_wise/

To me, Brooke Tatrow epitomizes the concept of integrity and balance in horsemanship. She has studied with classical and foundation horsemanship masters for over twenty years. Her teachers have included Buck Brannaman, Ray Hunt and Maryal Barnett. Brooke brings a thoughtful, compassionate and philosophical approach to every horse (and rider) she works with. Brooke is inspiring to learn from — and also is just super fun to talk horses with. Please check out Brooke’s work on Facebook at  https://www.facebook.com/mindfulhorsemanshipbt and her youtube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeRkQibAYL6Wo6jITrk_xvg/videos At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way). If you’d like more information on mindset practices, audio coaching or general Horse Services, please visit our website for more infor

Often the biggest questions have the simplest answers. In this episode (#51), I discuss how two words (“it depends”) have given me much insight over the years — especially in 2020. At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way). If you’d like more information on mindset practices, audio coaching or general Horse Services, please visit our website for more information:  http://horsewisecoach.com/ And if you’d like to keep up with our news and updates, please join our email list or follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/HorseWiseCoach/ https://www.instagram.com/horse_wise/

On this episode (#50), Amy Skinner returns for a fun and laughter-filled discussion on the relationship between herd dynamics, horse handling and riding. Also we ponder the nature of epiphanies and why they often deliver both the highs and lows simultaneously. .Amy offers a training program for all breeds and disciplines that focuses on promoting softness, balance, and relaxation.   Working with the horse’s mind develops confidence, and an understanding of biomechanics develops correct and sound movement.  She believes that learning should be fun and not intimidating, and she provides a safe, enjoyable atmosphere for riders to improve their abilities. As she says, “Training should never be so serious that we lose our sense of awe for the horse.” For more information on Amy and her work, please visit her FB page (https://www.facebook.com/AmySkinnerHorsemanship ), her website (https://amyskinnerhorsemanship.com/) and her book (https://amyskinnerhorsemanship

Emma Daily Kline is one of my favorite horsemanship people to follow. She blends dressage, classical movement and vaquero horsemanship philosophy in an unique way. Emma works 5-6 horses in her personal string — plus is a successful entrepreneur. In this episode (#49), Emma discusses how she balances a packed riding schedule with full-time business ownership —all while remaining dedicated to the art of horsemanship. Please check out her wonderful blog posts, vlogs and ongoing horsemanship adventures on social media: https://www.instagram.com/evolution_0f_a_girl/ https://www.instagram.com/p/CGbIwc8JHZK/ https://www.youtube.com/user/northwoodfarms/videos https://www.emmadailykline.com/ https://realtorsaysyes.com/ https://www.facebook.com/NorthwoodFarms/ At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way). If you’d like

Sometimes horsemanship insight comes from unexpected sources. In this episode (#48), I discuss how big waver surfer Laird Hamilton, yoga workouts and a tall QH named Santo helped me learn several key lessons. At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way). If you’d like more information on mindset practices, audio coaching or general Horse Services, please visit our website for more information:  http://horsewisecoach.com/ And if you’d like to keep up with our news and updates, please join our email list or follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/HorseWiseCoach/ https://www.instagram.com/horse_wise/

Renowned horsewoman Kathleen Beckham has spent decades in pursuit of horsemanship excellence. A lifelong student of the horse, Kathleen shares her knowledge via her blog, FB study group as well as ongoing lessons, clinics and coaching sessions. I’ve followed Kathleen for years on FB — and have found her blog posts to be incredibly helpful and insightful. What is remarkable about Kathleen is her dedication to personal growth and ongoing learning in her own work. As a talented young professional trainer, Kathleen’s world was upended by a debilitating stroke at age 28. Undeterred, Kathleen steadily climbed out of a long rehab and returned to her work in the horse world. Since then, she has continued to deepen her skills (and stretch herself beyond her comfort zone). From traveling clinician to riding for the public to developing colts into safe riding horses — and then writing about each step of her journey in wonderful detail — Kathleen truly is always thinking about horses. For more information on Kathleen and

It’s easy to get fixated on a certain result and grit our teeth through the process to achieve that result. But the irony is that the process itself is actually the result. Join me on this episode as I discuss how this is true in both horsemanship and life in general. At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way). If you’d like more information on mindset practices, audio coaching or general Horse Services, please visit our website for more information:  http://horsewisecoach.com/ And if you’d like to keep up with our news and updates, please join our email list or follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/HorseWiseCoach/ https://www.instagram.com/horse_wise/

Amy Skinner blends the principles of classical dressage and sound horsemanship practice. In her work, Amy keeps the best interest of horse and rider in mind, choosing to avoid fads and quick fixes, but to seek continual learning from the best teacher: the horse.Amy offers a training program for all breeds and disciplines that focuses on promoting softness, balance, and relaxation.  She believes that any horse can improve given enough time and understanding, and that force and dominance play no part in building a strong relationship.  Working with the horse’s mind develops confidence, and an understanding of biomechanics develops correct and sound movement.  She believes that learning should be fun and not intimidating, and she provides a safe, enjoyable atmosphere for riders to improve their abilities. As she says, “Training should never be so serious that we lose our sense of awe for the horse.” For more information on Amy and her work, please visit her FB page (https://www

Renowned horsewoman Kathleen Beckham has spent decades in pursuit of horsemanship excellence. A lifelong student of the horse, Kathleen shares her knowledge via her blog, FB study group as well as ongoing lessons, clinics and coaching sessions. I’ve followed Kathleen for years on FB — and have found her blog posts to be incredibly helpful and insightful. What is remarkable about Kathleen is her dedication to personal growth and ongoing learning in her own work. As a talented young professional trainer, Kathleen’s world was upended by a debilitating stroke at age 28. Undeterred, Kathleen steadily climbed out of a long rehab and returned to her work in the horse world. Since then, she has continued to deepen her skills (and stretch herself beyond her comfort zone). From traveling clinician to riding for the public to developing colts into safe riding horses — and then writing about each step of her journey in wonderful detail — Kathleen truly is always thinking about horses. For more information on Kathleen and

Many times, riders feel frustrated and behind schedule with their horse. It can be tempting to rush and try to catch up as fast as possible. But ironically this approach will have the opposite effect — and will create more setbacks. In this episode, I discuss why the hurry and catch up mentality works against both you and your horse. I also examine the classically negative (if unintentional) motivation behind this mindset— and how to ask yourself a key question to avoid this pitfall. The bottom line is that it isn’t about getting more things done with your horse (as fast as possible). Instead, it’s about how to get the right things done with your horse. The little things that help him become balanced, straight and supple —and that mean the most to the horse. Those are the things that we never “catch up” on — but instead are the focus of each ride, slowly and steadily building a consistency and compound effect over time. At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and the

No one will be surprised to learn that my favorite way to coach involves talking. I’m known for my colorful teaching style — lots of vivid metaphors, humorous stories and (of course) laughter. My regular clients will recognize serious curriculum concepts like “giant stripper boobs” and “50 lbs of queso in your pockets.” While I’m not exactly the Spanish Riding School in terms of presentation, I love to coach — and my favorite way to do is through audio coaching. In this episode, I describe what’s unique about my customized audio coaching services (besides references to strippers and queso). I also include a real audio coaching segment I did for a special client and her horse. Best of all, I include a super fun offer to my listeners to email me any issues with their horses or horsemanship that they would like assistance with. I will be selecting one or two each week — and will do a customized audio coaching segment for them on the podcast! My email is horsewisecoach@icloud.com 1 At Horse Wise, I teach people

“Horse trainers train horses. Horsemen work on themselves.” -Tom Dorrance Linda’s work speaks to the foundation and refinement of skills that allows ANY horse, regardless of discipline, to be a more willing and prepared partner. For her, the art of horsemanship is a personal journey to discover the grace, harmony and partnership that can exist between horse and rider. Linda has been teaching and training professionally since 1980. She has helped horses and riders in nearly every discipline — from stock horse to dressage to cutting horse to eventing. Linda has worked with many “Masters” of the art of horsemanship, including Buck Brannaman, Tom Curtin and Ray Hunt. In 2008, she attended the first of many symposiums taught by Dr. Gerd Heuschmann, world renowned expert of equine biomechanics and the author of Tug of Way - Classical versus “Modern” Dressage. In addition, Linda has received certification through the Western Dressage Association of America (WDAA) Train th

“Horse trainers train horses. Horsemen work on themselves.” -Tom Dorrance Linda’s work speaks to the foundation and refinement of skills that allows ANY horse, regardless of discipline, to be a more willing and prepared partner. For her, the art of horsemanship is a personal journey to discover the grace, harmony and partnership that can exist between horse and rider. Linda has been teaching and training professionally since 1980. She has helped horses and riders in nearly every discipline — from stock horse to dressage to cutting horse to eventing. Linda has worked with many “Masters” of the art of horsemanship, including Buck Brannaman, Tom Curtin and Ray Hunt. In 2008, she attended the first of many symposiums taught by Dr. Gerd Heuschmann, world renowned expert of equine biomechanics and the author of Tug of Way - Classical versus “Modern” Dressage. In addition, Linda has received certification through the Western Dressage Association of America (WDAA) Train th

The concept of turning loose is very important in horsemanship. When a horse “turns loose” and trusts a person, it is such a key moment. The horse essentially allows the person to guide him fully — even into unknown situations and circumstances. It is not exactly submission (in my opinion) — it’s more of a voluntary surrender to allow the person to fully direct his feet, mind and body. It’s an honor and privilege when a horse lets down his guard and allows himself to trust a person. In this episode, I share the story of Ellie, a fierce little mare who could not turn loose — even when it was a life or death situation. At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way). If you’d like more information on mindset practices, audio coaching or general Horse Services, please visit our website for more information:  h

When horses are in a state of learned helplessness, they are shut down and in a form of cocoon. Over time, they have learned not to try — to always stay within their comfort zone. Sometimes this can show in a horse as a stoic form of behavior (on the surface). The horse seems unflappable — mostly because he isn’t entirely present. But — once you ask him to go outside his normal routine or habits, that same horse will often become very emotional and troubled. People also can learn not to try. In this episode, I discuss the difference between a horse and a person who both displayed learned helplessness during key sessions with teachers. At Horse Wise, I teach people tools so that they can learn how to coach themselves and their horses to progress together as a team. It’s a fun process that shows you how build a good partnership with your horse (in a practical, straightforward way). If you’d like more information on mindset practices, audio coaching or general Horse Services, please visit our website for more in