Come hang out with Crysta Brown, a APHA and AQHA All-Around horse trainer, and Scott Cooper, her favorite amateur sidekick, as they spill the tea on the all around Quarter Horse and Paint Horse world. Crysta brings the trainer tips and insider know-how while Scott keeps it real with the amateur perspective. Together they share the wins, the flops, the laughs, and all the behind-the-scenes moments that make horse showing such a ride. If you can't get enough of chatting with your besties in the stalls or in the stands, this podcast is your new happy place.
Episode Summary Scott is officially in his DIY horse dad era, and it turns out retirement is a lot more complicated than just hanging up the show clothes. This week, he shares what life with Chip looks like now that he's riding more independently, figuring out the day-to-day management himself, and settling into life at a hunter-jumper barn. From farrier appointments and vet chats to warm-ups, cooldowns, turnout schedules, and the shocking number of things you suddenly have to buy, Scott discovers that owning a horse outside a full training program comes with a whole new appreciation for everything that happens behind the scenes. Naturally, the besties spiral into one of horse showing's favorite debates: turnout, fly sheets, baths, muddy horses, and whether your horse should actually look like it lives outside. They chat about adapting to a new barn culture, being the western rider in an English barn, learning when to blend in, when to speak up, and why making your barn staff's life easier is usually a pretty smart life choice. Meanwhile, Crysta introduces the newest member of the family: a sassy, double-registered mare with serious pasture boss energy. She shares the story of buying her sight unseen, finally meeting her after the World Show, and beginning the process of convincing a finished reiner that ranch riding might actually be a fun career change. Along the way, the besties remind us that even the nicest, most talented horses are still delightfully weird sometimes. Bailey has opinions. Chip is committed to being filthy. The new mare is already running the neighborhood. That's horses. The conversation heads back to the APHA World Show, where Crysta reflects on showing Lucky in Luv in Western Riding for the very first time, navigating the newly updated Coliseum, obsessing over the prize backpacks, and feeling more mentally prepared than ever walking into one of the biggest stages in the industry. Then it's off to Germany, where Crysta shares what surprised her most while coaching at the German Paint Show. From bigger amateur classes and fewer divisions to awards that genuinely make exhibitors feel celebrated, the discussion turns into a fun debate about class structures, walk-jog divisions, and whether bigger classes might actually make winning feel even sweeter. To wrap things up, Scott and Crysta tackle horse show social media, Facebook comment sections, and why the internet occasionally appoints itself judge, jury, and disciplinary committee. They chat about the difference between holding people accountable through the proper channels and getting swept up in online outrage, with plenty of laughs (and a few opinions) along the way. In This Episode • Scott enters his DIY horse owner era with Chip • Why Chip may have quietly un-retired himself • The hidden costs of moving out of full training • Surviving life as the western kid at an English barn • Turnout, fly sheets, baths, and the great dirty horse debate • Meet Crysta's opinionated new ranch horse prospect • Why good horses are allowed to have questionable personalities • APHA World Show highlights and first-time Western Riding adventures • Behind the scenes of coaching at the German Paint Show • Bigger classes versus more divisions... the besties debate • Walk-jog classes, participation, and competitive goals • Horse show Facebook drama and when it's time to log off Sponsor Spotlight NAC Equine Services nac-equine-services.com Crysta Brown Horsemanship cbhorsemanship.com
Overcoming Show Pen Nerves, Coming Back After Loss, and Riding in College with Catherine Goffard
1 hr 4 min
Besties, this episode is giving horse show hangover, late-night John Justin energy, and the kind of post show conversation that somehow makes you laugh, tear up, and feel personally called out all at once. Scott is joined by Catherine Goffard fresh off an incredible APHA World Show, where she and Calvin (Obsessed to be Best) celebrated a showmanship win, reserve finishes, and a Western riding breakthrough that was years in the making. Before they dive into the ribbons, they chat about world show exhaustion, Catherine's night-shift nursing schedule, and why 2 a.m. practice rides are just part of life. Catherine shares her journey from Green Bay horse girl to TCU equestrian athlete, reflecting on how college catch-riding taught her confidence, adaptability, and the value of being part of a team that genuinely cheers for each other's success. That team-first mindset carries through the entire conversation. The pair also unpack Calvin's World Show, bringing along a talented but still-green all-around horse, and the mental challenge of Western riding. Catherine talks honestly about learning to trust, soften, and let go of control, plus the breakthrough ride that came from believing in her preparation. And yes, Calvin's now-famous snack of the arena decorations definitely gets a mention. The heart of the episode is an honest conversation about anxiety, confidence, and trusting both yourself and your horse. Catherine shares practical sports psychology tools she still relies on, including power posing, box breathing, grounding techniques, and focusing on the things she can control when the pressure is high. She also opens up about losing her once-in-a-lifetime horse, Gilly, and how Calvin represents not a replacement, but a new chapter built on patience, healing, and learning to trust again. It's a touching reminder that our greatest horses continue shaping us long after they're gone. By the end, this episode celebrates everything that makes horse showing unforgettable: the exhaustion, the laughter, the barn family, the inside jokes, and the horses that change our lives. It's full of practical mindset takeaways and a reminder that confidence is built one ride at a time, and no one has to do it alone. Sponsors NAC Equine: www.nac-equine-services.com Crysta Brown Horsemanship www.cbhorsemanship.com
Surviving as a Young Trainer with Kyra Ley
1 hr 14 min
This week we're catching up with horse trainer and content creator Kyra Ley to talk about everything from building a business in rural Montana to navigating social media, client relationships, and the realities of making a living in the horse industry. We dive into what it's really like being a young trainer, how platforms like TikTok have completely changed the way trainers attract clients, and why online education and virtual lessons are becoming an important part of a sustainable business. The conversation also takes a closer look at the horse show world. We share ideas for making local shows more affordable and welcoming, discuss why community matters just as much as the major events, and talk about the changes we'd love to see across the industry. Of course, we couldn't resist getting into the trainer-client relationship. From setting expectations and building trust to handling payments, communication, and the occasional online critic, Kyra shares honest insights from both the business and horse training sides of the fence. If you've ever wondered what goes into building a successful training program, choosing the right trainer, or balancing horses with entrepreneurship, this episode is full of practical advice, behind-the-scenes stories, and plenty of Horse Show Bestie conversations along the way. Follow Kyra: Instagram: @kyra.ley Facebook: Kyra Ley TikTok: @KyraLey295 Website: Ley Performance Horses Sponsors NAC Equine Services nac-equine-services.com Crysta Brown Horsemanship CBhorsemanship.com
NSBA is Poppin Off! Bill Kaven Breaksdown Exactly What They're Doing To Grow The Industry!
1 hr 8 min
This week on Horse Show Bestie, we're joined by Bill Kaven of the National Snaffle Bit Association, whose work spans two of NSBA's most influential areas: the Judges and the NSBA Yearling Sale. Bill shares an inside look at the NSBA Yearling Sale, how it has grown into one of the industry's premier sales programs, and the opportunities it creates for breeders, buyers, and exhibitors alike. We also discuss NSBA's mission, the role it plays across the horse industry, and how the association continues to expand its reach as an all-breed organization. The conversation explores NSBA's partnerships, incentive programs, and trophy initiatives, along with the ways the organization supports exhibitors across a wide range of disciplines. We also touch on the hunter-jumper world, warmblood registration, and the increasing crossover between different segments of the equine industry. As the Director of Judges, Bill offers valuable insight into the judging side of horse showing. We talk about the realities of judging, the challenges officials face, how judges are educated and evaluated, and the hierarchy that helps maintain standards across the industry. The discussion also tackles one of horse showing's most debated topics: subjectivity. From both the judge's and exhibitor's perspectives, Bill shares thoughtful insights into what competitors should understand about the process. From yearling sales to judging, industry growth to exhibitor education, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at some of the systems and people helping shape the future of horse showing. Sponsors Horse Show Bestie is proudly supported by our sponsors. NAC Equine: www.nac-equine-services.com Crysta Brown Horsemanship: www.cbhorsemanship.com Takeaways NSBA's mission is to grow the horse show community through collaboration and support. The NSBA Trophy Program is a unique and iconic aspect of the horse show community, representing collaboration and achievement. NSBA's role as an all breed association allows for warmblood registration and support for unregistered horses. NSBA's diverse programs and initiatives cater to the needs of the horse show community. The challenges and opportunities in judging highlight the importance of correctness and degree of difficulty in evaluating horse performances. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Horse Show Bestie 06:02 Riding Goals and Ranch Show 12:16 Euro Summit Show Success and Growth 17:39 NSBA's Mission and Purpose 29:37 Challenges and Opportunities in Judging 41:56 Judging Hierarchy and Exhibitor Perspective 56:00 NSBA's Inclusive Programs and Initiatives
How YEDA Is Creating Horse Kids Without Buying Horses... and How Trainers Can Benefit!
1 hr 11 min
This week, Ric Weitzel, CRO of YEDA, joins us to talk all things YEDA and the important role youth programs play in the future of the horse industry. From catch-riding and lesson horses to scholarships, national championships, and creating opportunities for riders who don't have access to horse ownership, this conversation dives into the many ways YEDA is helping young equestrians find their place in the industry. We chat about the realities of building lesson programs, the challenges trainers face when trying to grow the next generation of riders, and why creating accessible entry points into horses matters now more than ever. The conversation also explores the financial side of the industry, the rising costs associated with participation, and what it takes to create sustainable programs that can continue serving riders for years to come. Along the way, we discuss coaching, mentorship, horse-and-rider matching, judging challenges, youth recruitment, and the often-overlooked work happening behind the scenes to keep equestrian opportunities available for young people. We also take a look at YEDA National Championship Week and the experiences, connections, and memories that make it such a special part of the program. It's a thoughtful conversation about growing the horse industry from the ground up, supporting young riders, and creating more opportunities for horse-crazy kids to become lifelong horse people. Support our sponsors: NAC Equine Services www.nac-equine-services.com Crysta Brown Horsemanship www.CBhorsemanship.com
Planning Adult Horse Camp Without a Budget
1 hr 16 min
This week we’re catching up on life updates and welcoming Scott back to the podcast before diving headfirst into designing the ultimate adult horse camp. We talk about transitioning horses, the social side of horse shows, and why horse people are all secretly craving more community, connection, and camaraderie in the industry. From choosing venues and clinicians to balancing educational sessions with fun, low-pressure activities, we’re basically building our dream horse girl summer camp in real time. Expect conversations about team-building, non-horsey activities, late-night hangs, and what it takes to create an experience that feels equal parts educational, social, and genuinely fun. If you’ve ever wished horse showing felt a little less isolating and a little more collaborative, this episode is for you. Support our sponsors! NAC Equine: www.nac-equine-services.com
Horse Girls, Cameras, and Career Pivots with Kirstie Marie Jones
1 hr 3 min
Kirstie Marie Jones of Kirstie Marie Photography joins us for a conversation that goes way beyond just taking pretty horse photos. From practical photography tips to building a business in multiple disciplines, this episode is packed with insight for horse girls, photographers, and anyone trying to carve out a lane in the industry. We talk about the little things that make a huge difference in photos, like preparing your horse before a shoot, paying attention to light sources, and yes, even cleaning your camera lens. Kirstie also breaks down concepts like the rule of thirds in a way that actually makes sense and explains how thoughtful details can completely change the outcome of an image. The conversation also dives into the evolution of KMP Learn and how education became such a major part of her business. Kirstie shares her background riding across different disciplines, the challenges that come with marketing yourself to multiple audiences, and why versatility has become one of her biggest strengths both behind the camera and in the saddle. This episode is really about keeping a wide perspective in the horse industry. Learning from different trainers, stepping outside one discipline, and being intentional about growth can open more doors than most people realize. Links! NAC Equine: nac-equine-services.com KMP learn: kmplearn.com Crysta Brown Horsemanship: CBhorsemanship.com
Trainer vs Amateur: What Are Trainers REALLY Thinking? ft. Brian Henry
1 hr 10 min
If you’ve ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes of a training program, this episode is for you. Crysta sits down with Brian Henry to tackle some of the biggest trainer vs amateur debates from the trainer’s perspective. They get honest about client expectations, horse show disappointment, communication issues, green horses and riders, maintenance, show spending, and the emotional realities of horse ownership. Brian also shares what life actually looks like as a professional trainer, and why so many problems in the horse world start with expectations that were never properly discussed. It’s funny, practical, slightly uncomfortable at times, and very much one of those “horse people will understand” conversations. Support us by supporting our sponsor! NAC Equine: https://www.nac-equine-services.com/
Fine I'll Do It Myself- A Solo Episode with Crysta
54 min
Okay bestie… this one’s a little different. For the first time ever, it’s just Crysta. No co-host, no back-and-forth. And it's just a hair all over the place. But sometimes we have to show up for our bestie when he gets busy at work! This episode is part life update, part info dump on all of Crysta’s current hyper-fixations… and all of it is very on brand. She gets into the real side of building a career in the horse industry right now, including: Why some business models work and others don’t Her favorite training lessons Rider biomechanics and the small habits that are quietly affecting your results Why adaptability matters if you want to stay in the game There’s a clear thread through all of it: growth. Sometimes we have to rethink things, take responsibility, and adjust even when it’s inconvenient. It feels like a late-night, post-show conversation. Honest, a little unfiltered, and grounded in real experience. Things might look a little different this week, and that’s the point. Besties show up in every season. We’ll be back together soon. For now, you’ve got Crysta. Support Horse Show Bestie by supporting our sponsor: NAC Equine: https://www.nac-equine-services.com/ Links from episode discussion: Crysta Brown Horsemanship: www.CBhorsemanship.com Centered Riding by Sally Swift: https://www.amazon.com/shop/crystadbrown/list/CVP9BIZ51OBF?ref_=aipsflist
Posting Anonymously to Protect Our Reputation
1 hr 3 min
Your Horse Show Besties are back in your ear, catching you up like you missed a few group chats. Scott’s on the mend and ready to get back into the saddle, so we get into what that actually looks like... the weird in-between phase, the mental side of coming back, and how much patience it really takes. We also went down a few rabbit holes you’ll probably have opinions on. Things like not picking fights you can't win, what’s actually fair when it comes to day fees at shows, and the ongoing amateur vs. pro conversation that never seems to go away. There’s a lot in here about speaking with authority when you're new to the sport. That rolls right into a bigger conversation about how we treat each other in the industry, both in person and online. We also talk through the less polished stuff. Rumors about horse abuse without evidence, what to do when you do see real abuse. Plus some real-life chat about handling young horses, and how to balance young horse's classes as a way to support breeders vs allowing individual horses to be who they are. Crysta and Scott may be officially Negative Nancie's and totally deserving of cancellation but either way you know you want to watch the downfall. If you’re enjoying the podcast, support the people who support it. Check out NAC Equine Services for help with buying or selling your next horse: https://www.nac-equine-services.com/
The Judge Is Not Out to Get You (Probably) - Talking Scores with Don Beard
1 hr 21 min
If you’ve ever walked out of the pen like “that felt SO good” and then looked at your score like 🤨 …this one’s for you. We sat down with Don Beard (aka a real judge) and got into what’s actually happening on the other side of the clipboard. We’re talking: what the scores mean why “pretty” doesn’t always mean effective what judges are actually rewarding vs what riders think they’re rewarding and yes… why that run you loved maybe didn’t mark like you expected We also get into the bigger picture stuff: how patterns are selected, how ranch + pleasure horses have evolved, and what it actually takes to make it in this industry without losing your standards (or your mind). It’s honest, theres no shortage of hot takes, and very much a “listen before your next horse show” situation.
Flipping Horse Shows Upside Down: Saving The Horse World with UDJC Founder David Reichert
1 hr 1 min
Alright bestie, this episode is one of those “wait… why are we not doing this already?” conversations 👀 We sat down with David Reichert, the founder of UDJC, and got into some real talk about what’s actually broken in the American horse show industry… and more importantly, what we can do about it . If you’ve felt like showing has gotten too expensive, too exclusive, or just straight up disconnected from what riders actually need to grow… you’re gonna feel very seen in this one. Also… quick warning 😅 David is a little spicy . He does not sugarcoat, and he’s definitely not trying to win a popularity contest. But honestly? That’s kind of the point. His blunt, say-it-like-it-is approach is exactly why he’s able to call out the real problems in the industry without dancing around them. And more importantly, it’s why he’s actually doing something about it instead of just talking in circles. So if you like your conversations honest, a little bold, and actually productive… you’re gonna appreciate this one. 🎧 Episode Overview David breaks down how UDJC is flipping the script on traditional horse showing by focusing on affordability, accessibility, and actual community (not just saying the word “community” and doing nothing with it 🙃). We get into: Why the current system is pricing people out How judging has gotten way too complicated (and honestly… not that helpful) What the European club model is doing right And how we can rebuild the sport from the ground up instead of waiting for the top to fix it It’s practical, a little spicy, and very much a “let’s rethink everything” kind of episode. What You Can Do (Yes, You) This isn’t just a “cool ideas” episode. There are real ways to take action: Go volunteer or support a local show or club Start asking for better judging feedback (and normalize it) Support and promote smaller, community-based events Stop waiting for the industry to change and start contributing to it 🔗 Resources + Guest Links UDJC: https://udjc.org NAC Equine Services: https://nac-equine-services.com Facebook: https://facebook.com/nacequineservices If you’ve been feeling frustrated with the industry lately, this episode is going to feel like a deep exhale… and also a bit of a kick in the pants in the best way. Because the takeaway is pretty simple: no one is coming to fix this for us… but we can fix it ourselves.
Trail Rides, AQHA Convention, and a Scott update!
1 hr 15 min
In this episode, Scott Cooper and Crysta Brown share their insights on horse training, trail riding, and the importance of confidence and trust in horsemanship. They discuss practical tips, personal experiences, and the mental aspects of developing a strong rider-horse relationship. Scott Cooper shares his journey of recovery, community involvement, and the importance of honesty and diversity in the horse industry. Crysta Brown explores how to stay connected without a horse, the value of community, and strategies for engaging younger generations.
Just The Two of Us: Crysta and Scott Reunited
1 hr 16 min
Bestie… the duo is BACK. Crysta and Scott are finally back on the mic together. They get into what has been going on lately, from changes in the industry to the reality of making decisions for your horse when it actually matters. Not in a heavy way, just real talk about the stuff you are probably already thinking about but maybe not saying out loud. There is also some Sun Circuit talk, a little people watching energy, and a reminder that the horse show world is just as much about who you are around as what class you are in. Overall it feels like a catch up with people who get it. Go listen, then text your bestie because you will definitely have something to say 👀🐎
Coming Back From Injury with Jessi Lueth
1 hr 4 min
Bestie, today’s episode is a little different and kind of wild. Scott starts off by sharing the story of a ski accident he had recently that left him with some pretty serious injuries and a long road to recovery. He talks through what happened, what the recovery process has looked like so far, and how moments like that really make you think about the risks we take in both skiing and riding. From there, the conversation shifts into something a lot of horse people can relate to… injuries and the comeback that follows. Scott brings on guest Jessi Lueth who has gone through her own injury and recovery journey, and they talk about the mental side of getting back on your feet, leaning on the people around you, and finding the grit to keep going. It’s a really honest conversation about resilience, setbacks, and the kind of support that makes a comeback possible. 💛
A Team USA Physical Therapist Dr.Kari Talks Improving Horses By Improving Riders
1 hr 10 min
Let’s be for real when was the last time you spent as much time (or money) on your own body as you do on your horse’s chiro, massage, and vet bills? 💅 In this episode, we’re sitting down with the queen of rider wellness, Dr. Kari , to talk about why your physical therapy era is actually the secret to leveling up your performance in the ring. We’re deep-diving into the "why" behind common positioning struggles and how your own biomechanics are basically the remote control for how your horse moves. We’re breaking down those "why can't I just do it?" moments and how PT can fix the stuff your trainer keeps yelling at you about. Dr. Kari calls us out on taking responsibility for your own fitness makes you a better partner for your horse (because they shouldn't have to carry our crookedness, tbh). No gatekeeping here! You’ll get actual tips you can add to your pre-ride routine so you’re not stiff as a board when you mount up. If you’ve been feeling a little "off" in the saddle or you’re rready to optimize for your upcoming show season, this episode is your sign to start prioritizing you . Your horse (and your scores) will thank you. 🦄✨ Check out our first sponsor!! Nac Equine Services!
Katie Van Slyke Tell Us What We've All Been Wondering
1 hr 1 min
🚨 BIG GUEST ENERGY ALERT 🚨 This week we’re sitting down with Katie Van Slyke and let’s just say… the HorseTok is about to eat this one UP. We talk about the breeding barn, stallion ownership realities, social media chaos, and why local horse shows are the backbone of the horse world . Katie keeps it real-real about what’s working, what’s broken, and what she's doing to facilitate a glow-up in the industry (looking at you, accessibility 👀). If you care about young horse sales, AQHA, grassroots shows, content creation, or just love hearing people talk business + horses , this episode is for you. ✨ Expect: • “Bring back the local show” • Honest convo about the young horse market • Social media… but make it horse industry • Mentorship, community, and making newcomers feel welcome • A day-in-the-life of one of the biggest names in the game Katie doesn’t just talk the talk — she’s focused on giving back, running a breeding program, owning stallions, and showing up online without losing her mind (mostly). #HorseShowBesties #KatieVanSlyke #AQHA #HorseIndustry #EquestrianLifestyle #HorseGirlEnergy #LocalShowsMatter #BreedingTalk #HorsePodcast
The Horse Show Therapist Roasts Our Goal Setting!
1 hr 13 min
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. J, Horse Show Therapist as she sits down hosts Scott Cooper and Crysta Brown and makes them rethink their life choices (but in a productive way). We talk about goal setting without emotionally damaging yourself, what does it look like to set a goal that isn't outcome based, and focusing on what brings us joy and not just everything that sucks right now. We also get into the very real stuff: unrealistic timelines, comparison spirals, financial anxiety, and that constant feeling of “I should be doing more.” Dr. J breaks down why accepting your starting point isn’t settling, why flexibility is a skill, and how chasing tiny wins keeps you from rage-quitting a sport that already costs too much. If you’re trying to build a winning mindset while also enjoying the ride (or at least not dissociating in the warm-up), this episode is a grounded reminder that progress is messy, flow state is worth chasing, and the joy is usually in the process, the people, and the moments when everything briefly clicks.
What If You Did Everything Right... But STILL Failed
1 hr 12 min
Grab your coffee and your emotional support animal, besties. This episode is a real one, made for anyone whose perfectly planned goal did not happen. Scott and Crysta talk about what it feels like to do the work, set the goal, and still come up short. We get real about failure, disappointment, and the weird emotional hangover that follows when your expectations do not match reality. Then we talk about what comes next, how to pivot, reset, and keep moving without losing your love for the sport. Along the way, Scott admits to choosing a Palm Springs weekend over a riding lesson, because life outside the barn matters too. Crysta shares an update on young Ricky Bobby, including farrier compliments that absolutely count as wins. We also dive into the exhausting reality of chasing horse lameness. The vet visits, the waiting, the mental and emotional toll, and how quickly your confidence and plans can unravel when your horse is not quite right. From there, the conversation opens into mental health. Managing anxiety, processing disappointment, and learning how to sit with both gratitude and grief at the same time. Horse showing is full of highs and lows, and everyone rides them, even when it looks perfect from the outside. If you have ever left a show questioning everything, feeling burned out, or wondering how to pivot when the goal does not work out, this episode is for you. If you'd like to consult with Crysta on your equestrian journey, check out CBhorsemanship.com and book a Confidential Call with Crysta to discuss your goals.
2026 Energy, Dumping your Boyfriend, and Rule Change Proposals
1 hr 24 min
The besties are back and skipping the highlight reel in favor of honest horse show life. In this episode, Scott and Crysta catch up after the holiday break, swap stories from recent shows and clinics, and chat about what they actually want from their horse lives in the year ahead. We talk goals without the grind, ambition without burnout, and why fun might be the underrated tool you are overlooking. The conversation also dips into some of the bigger topics buzzing around the industry right now including rule change discussions, walk trot accessibility, and why online conversations can help or completely derail progress. In this episode, we cover: Setting realistic horse show goals that still excite you Why community, clinics, and learning from others actually matter Balancing competition with genuinely enjoying your horse Walk trot classes and accessibility in today’s horse industry Partnerships, balance, and asking for what you want in and out of the show pen Equal parts horse show strategy, industry perspective, and bestie to bestie encouragement. If you have ever felt stuck between pushing harder and enjoying the ride, press play. This episode might be the permission slip you did not know you needed. 💅🐎
