Equestrian Adult Amateur

When does your horse stop loving their job — and how do you know when it’s time to listen? This week on the Equestrian Adult Amateur Podcast , Kelly and Alexis are back with one of those conversations that starts in one place and somehow ends up everywhere. 😂 We’re talking about horses, riding, confidence, and the questions adult amateurs eventually have to face: How do you know when you’re asking too much? When is it time to change the plan? And how much should your horse’s happiness factor into the decisions you make as a rider? We also get a little personal about how much has changed since starting the podcast nearly two years ago — from being uncomfortable on camera and worrying about what everyone else thought to becoming a whole lot more comfortable simply showing up as ourselves. As always, there are plenty of tangents, laughs, horse stories, questionable commentary, and the completely unfiltered conversations you’ve come to expect from us. In this episode: • Knowing when your horse may no longer want to do its job • Listening to what our horses are telling us • Horse showing, riding goals & adult amateur life • Confidence and comparison in the equestrian world • Becoming more comfortable putting yourself out there • How much we’ve changed after nearly two years of podcasting • And, naturally, plenty of completely unrelated side conversations If you’re an adult amateur trying to figure out horses, riding, life, and everything that comes along with it — you’re in the right place. 🎧 Subscribe and join us every week for honest conversations about life in the horse world. And tell us in the comments: How do YOU know when your horse is telling you they need something different?

Toxic trainers. It's the conversation flooding our DMs and the Adult Amateur Lounge — and this week we finally sat down and got into all of it. We start where it usually starts: the line between business and friendship, and how completely this sport blurs it. Your trainer is your coach, your confidant, and the person you write a very large check to every month — so what happens when your feelings get involved, your horse gets involved, and you don't agree? We talk about why communication (early, honest, uncomfortable communication) fixes about 90% of it, and why trainers are stuck in an impossible spot: speak your truth, protect your client, and protect your business, all at the same time. Then we get into the barn ecosystem — the teacher's-pet dynamic, everyone competing to be the favorite, and what happens when a trainer talks negatively about a client. Because your other clients are watching, and they will follow your lead. That's how the outcast thing starts. And if your trainer is saying it about her, she's saying it about you. We also flip it, because this episode is not one-sided. Clients can absolutely be the toxic ones. Sometimes "my trainer is toxic" actually means "my trainer won't let me jump the three foot" — and a trainer telling you no is often a trainer protecting you, your horse, and her own reputation. We're both honest about being against barn hopping: the first hop might be a toxic trainer, but by the fifth barn, it might be you. Your horse suffers, your riding suffers, your reputation suffers. And we get into the gray area we both actually live in: the amateur who has researched every single thing about her horse's nutrition and has to figure out how to say that to a professional who's been doing this for thirty years. Plus the honest trade-off nobody wants to hear — if you can't keep your horses at home and manage them yourself, you can't expect to check every single box at a boarding barn. Our gut check for when it's time to go: if you get a pit in your stomach pulling into the barn, if you're anxious every single time, it's not worth it. That doesn't make your trainer bad. It doesn't make you bad. It just isn't the right fit — so leave respectfully, and do not burn the bridge. Kids happen. Divorce happens. Life happens. That barn could be exactly right for you again in five years. Have you been in a toxic barn situation? We want to hear it. 👇 00:00 — Welcome back (and Kelly's very triggering breeches) 00:26 — Today's lineup: toxic trainers, loyalty, barn hopping 02:12 — What "toxic" actually looks like — and why it's so situational 03:39 — When you get too close to your trainer 06:14 — Communication fixes almost everything 07:07 — The trainer's impossible position 08:35 — When you and your trainer flat-out disagree 10:42 — Teacher's pets, barn gossip and the outcast effect 14:31 — Trainers hold real power (at every level) 15:12 — Leading by example: the barn that got it right 16:52 — Talking about clients behind their backs 19:39 — "It depends on the offense" 23:08 — All any amateur wants is to be treated equally 24:01 — Why we're both against barn hopping 25:12 — When your trainer says no — and she's right 27:15 — When the client is the toxic one 28:19 — The feed debate and the honest gray area 31:25 — Horses at home vs. horses at a barn 33:14 — The gut check: when it's time to go 34:38 — Leave on good terms. Don't burn the bridge. 36:01 — Send us your stories 🎧 New episodes weekly. Subscribe and hit the bell so you never miss one.💬 Drop a comment: have you left a toxic barn situation? What was your final straw?👍 Like & share if this one hit a little too close to home. #TheEquestrianAdultAmateur #EquestrianPodcast #ToxicTrainer #BarnLife #AdultAmateur #HunterJumper #HorseGirl #EquestrianLife #BarnDrama #HorseTrainer #ShowJumping #HorseWorld Chapters

Social media has changed the equestrian world—but has it actually made us better at communicating with each other?In this episode of the Equestrian Adult Amateur Podcast, Kelly and Alexis dive into the good, the bad, and the downright exhausting side of equestrian social media. From viral clips and comment sections to influencer culture, unsolicited opinions, and conversations being taken completely out of context, we’re talking about what happens when the horse world goes online.We share some of our own experiences creating content, including the behind-the-scenes reality of shooting for the Equestrian Adult Amateur Collective, and talk about how quickly one photo, video, or short clip can become an entirely different story once it reaches social media. We also get into the growing divide between different corners of the equestrian community—professionals versus amateurs, disciplines versus disciplines, different training philosophies, and the constant pressure to pick a side. Why does disagreement so often turn into personal attacks? And when did having a different opinion mean someone had to be “wrong”? This conversation is about more than mean comments. It’s about **context, accountability, empathy, and the responsibility we all have in shaping the culture of the equestrian community online.**As always, expect plenty of side stories, laughs, strong opinions, and the candid conversations you’ve come to expect from us. 🎧 In this episode: • Equestrian social media and influencer culture • Viral clips and conversations taken out of context • Online criticism vs. constructive conversation • Adult amateurs and representation in the horse world • Why equestrians are so quick to divide into “sides” • The responsibility of both content creators and viewers • Remembering there’s a real person behind the screen Whether you create equestrian content, consume it, or have ever found yourself reading a comment section thinking, “How did we get here?”—this episode is for you.Follow, subscribe, and join the conversation. What do you think social media has done for the equestrian community—for better or worse?

This episode dives into a conversation that started online and quickly sparked a much bigger discussion about horsemanship, training, genetics, and the relationship we have with our horses. Katie shares how a life-changing rotational fall—and the loss of use of her left arm—completely shifted the way she approached horses and ultimately led her toward teaching better horsemanship. We talk about why giving horses more tools, confidence, and education can make them safer and happier partners, and why conversations around training methods can sometimes become so controversial. We also revisit a recent viral clip and unpack some of the reactions surrounding it, including the debate over genetics versus training, the role riders and trainers play in a horse’s behavior, and why some behaviors may be managed or improved but never completely disappear. From groundwork and emotional awareness to choosing the right horse for the rider in front of you, this conversation is ultimately about asking better questions, staying open-minded, and continuing to learn—for ourselves and for our horses. It’s an honest conversation about the topics that aren’t always easy to talk about in the equestrian world, but probably need to be.

Ever wondered what it actually takes to fly a horse across the world? In this episode, we sit down with Bastian Schroeder from EquiJet to talk all things international horse transportation. Bastian shares how his love for logistics turned into a career helping horses travel between Europe and the United States, and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what really goes into getting a horse safely from one country to another. We talk about the importing process, required paperwork, flights, designated airports, quarantine, costs, and how horses are cared for throughout their journey. Bastian also explains what goes into keeping horses comfortable while traveling and helps make a process that can seem incredibly intimidating feel a whole lot easier to understand. Whether you've considered importing a horse from Europe or you've simply wondered how in the world horses travel on airplanes , this episode gives you a fascinating look at a side of the equestrian industry most of us don't get to see! 🐴From Europe to the U.S., we're talking horses, airplanes, quarantine, logistics, and everything in between.

In this fun and candid episode, we catch up on everything from life outside the barn to the latest happenings in the show ring. What starts as a lighthearted conversation about getting nails done quickly turns into a recap of a busy weekend at the horse show, where we celebrate a successful first big class, share memorable family moments, and laugh through the unexpected challenges that come with horse show life. We also dive into the performances of our horses, discussing what went well in the ring, a few moments that raised questions, and how closely we pay attention to the small details that can tell us how our horses are feeling. From evaluating movement and conformation to preparing for the upcoming fall season, this episode is an honest look at the highs, lows, and constant learning that comes with owning and competing horses. If you love authentic horse show conversations, behind-the-scenes updates, and the everyday realities of life with horses, this episode is for you! 🐴✨

Navigating the Future of the Horse Industry: Media, Leadership, and Community Join Kelly and Ellie Morris as they discuss the evolving landscape of the horse world, touching on leadership transitions, the power of media in sport perception, and building a united community. This episode offers deep insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping our sport’s future.In this episode: Ellie Morris’s journey from hunter jumper competitor to social media influencer and industry consultant The impact of leadership changes in the US Equestrian Federation and what it means for members The crucial role of media in shaping public perception and driving industry growth Strategies for better sponsorship engagement through innovative media content The community’s role in fostering industry transparency and constructive dialogue The evolving culture of social media and its influence on rider development and industry reputation Comparing international show costs and sponsorship models with those in North America The importance of top-down leadership in cultivating a positive narrative and trust Future hopes: increased collaboration, transparency, and growth in the horse community Ellie Morris - LinkedIn Equestrian Economist YouTube Channel LA Morse Equestrian - TikTok & Instagram Equest ⁓ EAM Equestrian Consulting Twitter Instagram Consider the importance of grassroots sponsorship strategies and branded media content for show series. The industry’s future depends heavily on transparent leadership and community engagement. International comparisons highlight potential models for lowering costs and increasing exposure. Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and episode overview 00:36 - Ellie’s background in the equestrian industry 01:40 - Her recent return to riding and social media influence 02:48 - Growing up in Chicago’s hunter jumper world and cultural shifts 04:15 - The differences between East Coast and Southeast horse communities 05:12 - Junior career reflections and social media pressures today 06:08 - The evolution of horse show culture and family influences 07:30 - Transitioning from show riding to adult riding and industry challenges 09:39 - Ellie’s consulting career and balancing family life 10:38 - Her perspective on the upcoming US Equestrian Federation leadership search 11:37 - Media’s power and potential in transforming industry perceptions 13:05 - Industry transparency, accountability, and the role of social media 14:53 - Thoughts on the open CEO position and structural changes within the federation 16:17 - The importance of leadership with corporate experience and industry background 17:31 - The challenges of filling key executive roles and what candidates are needed 20:28 - The future of sponsorships, branding, and media strategies in equestrian sport 22:00 - Media’s role in increasing visibility and public engagement 24:43 - Building community buy-in before expanding media exposure 25:42 - The importance of positive narratives and top-down leadership vision 27:00 - Structure, costs, and organization of horse shows across North America and Europe 32:00 - The balancing act between affordability and industry standards 36:59 - The influence of media coverage and sponsorship on event success 39:00 - Community-driven conversations and industry transparency 40:39 - Making the sport more approachable for all ages and backgrounds 44:18 - International comparisons in show costs and sponsorship models 45:25 - Innovative sponsorship strategies through media integration 48:56 - The positive trajectory of industry change and leadership’s role in it 50:18 - Ellie’s hopes for the upcoming year and industry growth 51:37 - The importance of honest dialogue and industry unity 52:22 - Connecting with Ellie Morris and resources for further engagementResources & Links:Connect with Ellie Morris:Additional Notes:

Is horse showing becoming too expensive for the average adult amateur? In this episode of The Equestrian Adult Amateur Podcast , Alexis and I dive into one of the biggest conversations happening in the equestrian world today: the rising cost of horse ownership and competition. From skyrocketing horse prices to training, boarding, travel, and show expenses, we explore how the sport has changed—and what that means for everyday riders trying to stay in the game. We also discuss the pressure social media has created, the rise of luxury "Instabarns," and how privilege and financial resources can shape opportunities within the industry. Most importantly, we talk about how these challenges affect adult amateurs, why so many riders feel isolated, and how we can start having more honest conversations about making equestrian sport more accessible. Whether you're showing locally, competing on the national circuit, or simply trying to make your horse budget work, this episode is for you. In this episode we discuss: Why horse showing has become dramatically more expensive The true cost of owning, training, and competing with horses How horse prices have changed over the last decade The financial realities facing adult amateur riders The impact of social media and "Instabarns" Creative ways riders are making the sport more affordable Why open conversations about money matter in the equestrian community We'd love to hear from you! How has the cost of horse showing affected your journey? What tips or strategies have helped you stay in the sport? Share your thoughts in the comments below. If you enjoy honest conversations about horses, horse showing, and life as an adult amateur, don't forget to like, subscribe, and join our growing equestrian community.

Are we giving young horses the foundation they actually need to succeed? In this episode of The Equestrian Adult Amateur Podcast, we sit down with Katie Armstrong, founder of Building Better Hunters, to talk about one of the most important conversations happening in the hunter/jumper industry today: how we start young horses.Katie has dedicated her career to improving the way young horses are developed, believing that a horse's future is shaped long before it ever steps into the show ring. From building confidence and trust to establishing clear boundaries and safe handling practices, she shares why horsemanship—not shortcuts—is the key to creating successful hunter horses. We also dive into the differences Katie has observed between imported and domestic horses, the importance of reading a horse's mind instead of just its movement, and why so many behavioral issues can be prevented with the right foundation. If you've ever wondered what separates a horse that's truly confident from one that's simply coping, this conversation is for you. Whether you're an amateur rider, trainer, breeder, or simply passionate about better horsemanship, Katie's perspective offers valuable insight into developing horses that are happier, safer, and more successful throughout their careers.In this episode, we discuss: * Katie Armstrong's philosophy behind Building Better Hunters * Why foundation is everything when starting young horses * Building confidence, trust, and respect from day one * Preventing behavioral issues through better horsemanship * The differences Katie has noticed between imported and domestic horses * How to recognize when a horse feels overwhelmed or unsafe * Why consistency creates confident, reliable hunter horses * The future of young horse development in the hunter/jumper industry If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and leave a comment with your thoughts. We'd love to hear what you think makes a great young horse and how we can continue improving the future of our sport. #Equestrian #HunterJumper #KatieArmstrong #BuildingBetterHunters #YoungHorseTraining #HorseTraining #Horsemanship #HunterHorses #EquestrianPodcast #HorsePodcast #USEF #YoungHorses #HorseDevelopment #HorseRiding #EquestrianLife

In this episode of the **Equestrian Adult Amateur Podcast**, Alexis and I sit down with our longtime trainer, Hannah Stone of Stone Performance Horses, for one of our most honest conversations yet. Hannah has spent years developing hunters, jumpers, and all-around horses in both the USEF and AQHA worlds, and she's sharing what she's learned from training horses—and riders—at every level.We talk about Hannah's journey into professional horse training, what she looks for when matching horses with adult amateurs, and why temperament is often more important than raw talent. We also dive into the realities of developing young horses, building confidence in the saddle, and the daily work that happens long before anyone steps into the show ring.Whether you're an adult amateur, a young rider, or simply passionate about horses, this conversation offers an inside look at the challenges, rewards, and relationships that define life in the equestrian world.In this episode, we discuss:• Hannah's journey from junior rider to professional horse trainer• The differences between the AQHA and USEF hunter/jumper worlds• What makes a great horse for an amateur rider• Developing green horses with confidence and consistency• Why personality and temperament matter more than talent alone• Building trust and communication between horse and rider• The "homework" riders should be doing between lessons• How confidence affects both horses and riders• Motherhood, business, and balancing life as a professional trainer• Behind-the-scenes realities of training horses for a livingIf you've ever wondered what separates a good horse trainer from a great one—or what professionals really think about developing horses and riders—this episode is for you.Be sure to subscribe for more conversations about horse showing, the hunter/jumper world, Quarter Horses, training, and the real experiences of adult amateur equestrians.#Equestrian #HorseTrainer #AdultAmateur #HunterJumper #AQHA #USEF #HorseTraining #YoungHorse #GreenHorse #ShowJumping #HorseShow #EquestrianPodcast #HorseRiding #Confidence #HorseLife

What happens when everyone tells you it's over? In this episode of The Equestrian Adult Amateur, we share the incredible story of Wyatt, a Thoroughbred who suffered a devastating injury that many believed would end his career for good. Faced with difficult decisions, discouraging prognoses, and multiple professionals advising against continuing, Wyatt's team chose a different path. They chose patience, faith, and the willingness to trust the process. What followed was a journey filled with setbacks, uncertainty, sacrifice, and determination. Through careful management, unwavering support from his owner, trainer, and community, Wyatt not only recovered but returned to the show ring and reminded everyone exactly who he was. But this episode is about much more than one horse's comeback. We dive into the realities of the equestrian world, the pressure many riders feel to appear successful, the role social media plays in shaping perception, and the lack of support that adult amateurs often experience. We talk about why the sport needs more real stories, more vulnerability, and more conversations about the challenges behind the highlight reels. This episode is a reminder that horses don't care about followers, ribbons, or appearances. They care about partnership, trust, and showing up every day. Sometimes the greatest victories aren't championships—they're simply getting back in the ring when nobody thought you could. Whether you've experienced a setback with your horse, struggled with confidence, or needed a reminder of why you fell in love with horses in the first place, Wyatt's story is one you won't want to miss. In this episode: • Wyatt's career-ending injury and unexpected comeback • The emotional reality of horse ownership • Trusting the recovery process when others doubt you • The importance of community in equestrian sport • Social media, pressure, and comparison culture • Why adult amateurs need more representation • The bond between horse and rider • Inspiring listener stories from across the equestrian community If Wyatt's story resonates with you, we'd love to hear about a horse that changed your life. Share your story in the comments. #EquestrianAdultAmateur #HorseRecovery #Thoroughbred #HorseShowLife #AdultAmateur #EquestrianPodcast #HorseTraining #HorseRiding #HorseCommunity #ComebackStory #HunterJumper #EquestrianLife

This week on The Equestrian Adult Amateur, I'm sharing a horse show weekend recap as Sunny and Ollie continue preparing for one of our biggest goals of the season—the Big A Quarter Horse Show in Conyers, Georgia. Going into the weekend, I felt like we were in a really good place. Sunny had some great trips, Ollie had been working well at home, and I was feeling excited about the progress we've been making. But as every equestrian knows, horses have a way of reminding us that confidence can change in an instant.After what felt like a great schooling session, Ollie stopped at the first jump during one of our rounds. Suddenly, all the confidence I thought I had built started to disappear. What followed wasn't really about the refusal itself—it was about the mental game of horse showing. The self-doubt, the frustration, the second-guessing, and ultimately learning how to move forward. In this bonus episode, I'm talking about the reality of developing a young horse, managing horse show nerves, building trust in the saddle, and why confidence is one of the most important skills an adult amateur rider can develop. Whether you're preparing for your next horse show, riding a green horse, or working through your own confidence struggles, I think you'll relate to this conversation. Horse showing isn't always about championships and blue ribbons. Sometimes the biggest wins happen when you learn to trust yourself, trust your horse, and keep showing up after things don't go according to plan.If you've ever dealt with a horse refusal, struggled with confidence in the show ring, or found yourself replaying a round over and over in your head, I'd love to hear your story in the comments. 🎙️ Topics Covered:* Preparing for the Big A Quarter Horse Show* Developing a young horse* Building confidence in the horse show ring* Horse show nerves and mental preparation* Horse refusals and setbacks* Trust between horse and rider* Adult amateur riding experiences* Lessons learned from horse showing#EquestrianAdultAmateur #HorseShow #QuarterHorseShow #BigAQuarterHorseShow #HorseShowRecap #HorseTraining #YoungHorse #HorseRefusal #HorseShowNerves #AdultAmateur #HunterJumper #AQHA #HorseRiding #EquestrianLife #ConfidenceInTheRing

Why does it feel like no one outside the equestrian bubble cares about our sport? In this episode, we get honest about the stuff most riders only whisper about — the bitterness, the inequality, and the quiet competition between disciplines that nobody wants to admit is there.We dig into the hunter ring and the subjective side of judging, the "horse girl" stereotype, and why so many of us feel judged differently depending on what we ride. From there we get into the big one: why equestrian events struggle for attendance and attention, and how that's really a marketing and community problem more than a sport problem. (Yes, we bring up F1 and Boyd Martin's personal branding — because it proves this CAN change.)We also talk honestly about the dark side of being online in this community: trolling, the fear of speaking up, and how the internet makes the horse world look way worse than it actually is. Our take? Context matters. Know the people behind the video before you judge the clip. Is there bias in judging? Sometimes. Corruption? It exists in every industry — but it's not as rampant here as people love to claim.Then we get into amateurs vs. pros in show jumping — the stricter rules amateurs play by, the looser ones pros seem to get, and that uncomfortable conversation about money buying wins and how fairness actually gets enforced. We close on bias, gender inequality, and why the sport desperately needs more storytelling and more people willing to tell the truth.If you've ever felt like an outsider in your own sport, this one's for you.🎧 New episodes weekly. Subscribe and hit the bell so you never miss one.💬 Drop a comment: do you think money buys wins in our sport? We want to hear it.👍 Like & share if this hit home.#TheEquestrianAdultAmateur #EquestrianPodcast #HorseGirl #HunterJumper #AdultAmateur #EquestrianLife #ShowJumping #HorseWorld #Dressage #Eventing

In this episode of the Equestrian Adult Amateur Podcast, we dive into one of the most debated topics in the hunter/jumper world: when is someone truly ready to call themselves a professional?We discuss the differences between amateurs and professionals, the challenges young trainers face when building a business, and the realities of managing horses, clients, staff, and expectations. From developing a client base and earning trust in your local community to handling the long hours, travel, and sacrifices that come with the profession, we explore what life as an equestrian professional really looks like behind the scenes.We also tackle the subjective language often used in the horse industry—terms like "green," "broke," and "trained"—and why experience, horsemanship, and problem-solving are often more important than titles alone.Whether you're considering becoming a trainer, currently building your business, or simply curious about what goes into making a career out of horses, this conversation offers an honest look at the rewards and realities of the profession.### In this episode:* What separates an amateur from a professional* The challenges of starting a training business* Building a client base and earning trust* Why reputation matters in the horse world* The importance of grooms, barn staff, and support teams* Long hours, travel, and the sacrifices trainers make* Should horse trainers be certified?* The pressure facing young professionals today* Why choosing the right lifestyle matters more than chasing money* The skills every successful trainer needs to developAt the end of the day, horses aren't just a job—they're a lifestyle. This episode explores what it takes to turn a passion into a profession and whether becoming a pro is the right path for everyone.🎙️ Listen, subscribe, and let us know your thoughts in the comments:**Should there be more standards or certifications for equestrian professionals?**

What does it take to breed a horse that can truly succeed in the hunter ring?In this episode of the Equestrian Adult Amateur Podcast, Kelly sits down with Ashley Adler of Oasis Sport Horses, along with trainer Josh Dolan, to talk about breeding, temperament, and the journey behind one of the hunter world's most recognizable palomino stallions, Kiss of Gold.Ashley shares how a childhood dream of owning a stallion eventually led her to build a breeding program centered around producing horses with not only beauty and athletic ability, but the kind of minds that amateur riders can trust. Together, they discuss the stigma surrounding stallions, why temperament should be a breeder's top priority, and how Kiss of Gold has helped challenge traditional ideas about color in the hunter ring.The conversation also dives into the realities of breeding horses, foaling season, selecting mares, raising young horses, and the emotional investment that comes with creating future equine partners from the ground up.Whether you're interested in breeding, own a young horse, or simply love hearing the stories behind successful horses and the people who raise them, this episode offers a fascinating look into a side of the industry many riders never get to see.In this episode:🐴 The story behind Kiss of Gold and Oasis Sport Horses✨ Breaking color barriers in the hunter world🧠 Why temperament matters more than talent alone🏆 Breeding horses for amateur riders👶 Foaling season and raising young horses🤝 Trusting trainers and building successful partnerships🌟 The realities of owning and standing a stallion💛 Following a childhood dream and building a breeding businessIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with a fellow horse lover. Kiss Of Gold Docuseries

In this episode of the Equestrian Adult Amateur podcast, Kelly and the crew dive into the controversial Netflix documentary surrounding the shocking shooting at a horse farm and the media storm that followed. The conversation unpacks the highly produced nature of the documentary, the unanswered questions left behind, and how the portrayal of the equestrian world has sparked major discussion both inside and outside the industry. The episode explores the complicated trainer-client relationship between Michael and Lauren, the red flags viewers noticed throughout the series, and the way the documentary dramatized key moments while leaving out important context. Kelly discusses how the production seemed to prioritize entertainment over accuracy, creating confusion around what really happened and whether viewers were given the full story. Beyond the crime itself, the conversation turns toward the bigger issue of how equestrian sports are represented in mainstream media. The hosts discuss the damage that sensationalized storytelling can do to the perception of the sport, especially for people unfamiliar with the horse world. They also reflect on the importance of communication, boundaries, and professionalism within trainer-client dynamics and why these relationships can become emotionally complicated. This episode is an honest and unfiltered discussion about media bias, controversy, mental health, and the uncomfortable reality of watching the equestrian industry become the center of a true-crime spectacle.

In this episode of the Equestrian Adult Amateur podcast, Kelly sits down with Orchid In this episode of the Equestrian Adult Amateur podcast, Kelly sits down with Orchid Bertelsen to talk about returning to the horse world after a 25-year break, rediscovering passion as an adult, and navigating the realities of balancing horses, motherhood, work, and personal identity. With a background in digital marketing, Orchid opens up about leaving her career to pursue something that truly fulfilled her and how documenting her equestrian journey online has helped her reconnect with the sport in an entirely new way.The conversation dives deep into the emotional side of being an adult amateur rider — the guilt of taking time for yourself, the pressure to “have it all together,” and the struggle to balance family responsibilities while still pursuing personal goals. Kelly and Orchid discuss how horses become more than just a hobby; they become therapy, connection, and a way to reconnect with yourself outside of everyday life.They also unpack the realities of modern equestrian culture, from the financial commitment of the sport to the elitism and pressure often felt within the industry. Together, they explore why horsemanship, community, and inclusivity matter more than appearances or status, and why newcomers to the sport deserve encouragement rather than judgment.This episode is an honest conversation about passion, identity, self-care, and what it really means to be an adult amateur equestrian in today’s world.to talk about returning to the horse world after a 25-year break, rediscovering passion as an adult, and navigating the realities of balancing horses, motherhood, work, and personal identity. With a background in digital marketing, Orchid opens up about leaving her career to pursue something that truly fulfilled her and how documenting her equestrian journey online has helped her reconnect with the sport in an entirely new way.The conversation dives deep into the emotional side of being an adult amateur rider — the guilt of taking time for yourself, the pressure to “have it all together,” and the struggle to balance family responsibilities while still pursuing personal goals. Kelly and Orchid discuss how horses become more than just a hobby; they become therapy, connection, and a way to reconnect with yourself outside of everyday life.They also unpack the realities of modern equestrian culture, from the financial commitment of the sport to the elitism and pressure often felt within the industry. Together, they explore why horsemanship, community, and inclusivity matter more than appearances or status, and why newcomers to the sport deserve encouragement rather than judgment.This episode is an honest conversation about passion, identity, self-care, and what it really means to be an adult amateur equestrian in today’s world.

Or maybe more specifically… why does nobody outside of our world care about the top athletes in our sport?In every major sport, there are household names.Golf has Tiger Woods.Gymnastics has Simone Biles.Swimming has Michael Phelps.These athletes became bigger than their sports because media, storytelling, sponsorship, and marketing dollars were invested into making people care.So why hasn’t that happened in equestrian?In this episode, I talk openly about why I personally believe the horse world struggles to grow outside its own bubble — and why even riders *within* the sport often don’t feel connected to the top-performing athletes. We discuss the lack of mainstream media coverage, the absence of long-form storytelling surrounding riders and horses, and how little financial support exists for creating meaningful media around the sport.Because the reality is:People care about stories before they care about results.And if nobody is investing in showcasing the personalities, struggles, journeys, and humanity behind these athletes… how can we expect new audiences to connect with them?This conversation also dives into why projects like **Inside The Ingate** became so important to me personally, and why I believe storytelling is one of the only ways equestrian sport can truly grow beyond its current audience.This episode is opinionated, honest, and probably a little uncomfortable — but I think it’s a conversation our industry desperately needs to have.🤍 Media & storytelling in equestrian sport🎥 Why audience connection matters🐴 The future of equestrian media📈 Why the sport struggles to grow outside its bubble

In this episode of the Equestrian Adult Amateur Podcast, Alexis and I are sitting down for a real life update — and it’s one of those conversations that feels a little messy, a little emotional, and very real.We talk about what’s been going on behind the scenes, especially with my young horse, Oli. After being in training while I was recovering from a broken leg, he’s come back struggling with anxiety and spookiness in a way I didn’t expect. It’s been frustrating, overwhelming, and honestly has pushed me to question what the right next step is — including the possibility of selling him.We also get into the ups and downs of training in general — from regressions in new environments to working through things like lead changes, confidence, and consistency. It’s a reminder that progress isn’t always linear, and sometimes the setbacks hit harder than expected.Outside of the barn, life has been just as full — from navigating big personal decisions, to the stress of everyday responsibilities, to trying to balance it all while still showing up for our horses.This episode is a little bit of everything:The emotional side of owning and training young horsesDealing with setbacks and uncertaintyThe pressure we put on ourselves as adult amateursAnd the reality of trying to hold it all together when things feel a little chaoticIt’s not polished. It’s not perfect. But it’s honest — and sometimes that’s exactly what we need.

In this episode of the Equestrian Adult Amateur Podcast , I’m sitting down with Mel, an equine massage therapist whose journey in the horse world started early — from caring for horses at 13 to studying biblical counseling with a minor in equine studies, and eventually building a career centered around helping horses feel and perform better. Mel shares how her time as a working student in Pennsylvania shaped her understanding of the importance of grooming, muscle care, and truly knowing your horse’s body. We dive into how she transitioned into equine massage therapy, her love for dressage, and why bodywork plays such a critical role across all disciplines — from performance horses to broodmares. We talk about: How tension in areas like the neck and jaw impacts the entire horse The connection between soreness, weakness, and performance Why posture and balance matter just as much for the rider as the horse And how touch is one of the most powerful ways we communicate with our horses Mel also shares her approach to preventing injuries, her thoughts on supplements, and why taking care of your horse should always be a team effort — not a one-size-fits-all solution. This episode is a reminder that understanding your horse’s body goes far beyond riding — and that sometimes the smallest details make the biggest difference in their comfort and performance.