EPISODE · Feb 16, 2025 · 1H 6M
#14: Empowering Youth Through Horsemanship with BridgeUP GiddyUP
from Optimized Equine Podcast · host Tamara Lee Barrett
In this episode of the Optimized Equine Podcast, host Tamara Lee Barrett speaks with McKrell Baier, the Director of Bridge UP Giddy UP, and several students from the program. They discuss the origins of the program, its impact on the community, and the personal growth of the students involved. After meeting the students, the conversation highlights the importance of ethical horsemanship, the structured curriculum, and the future aspirations of the program to expand and promote equestrian education. The students share their experiences, emphasizing the transformative power of working with horses and the lessons learned beyond riding. TakeawaysThe program aims to provide equestrian education and beyond to underserved communities.Students are involved in an intensive year-round program that combines riding lessons with practical and theoretical knowledge for life in and out of the saddle.The program emphasizes the importance of ethical treatment of horses and responsible horsemanship.Students learn valuable life skills such as teamwork, communication, and emotional regulation through their interactions with horses.The program aims to expand its reach and provide opportunities for more students to access equestrian education.Community involvement is a key aspect of the program's mission and success.The importance of lifelong learning in horsemanship is a central theme of the conversation.The program seeks to change perceptions of equestrian sport by promoting ethical practices and transparency.Students express how their experiences in the program have positively impacted their personal growth and confidence.Chapters00:00 The Bridge UP Giddy UP Story04:36 The Structure and Commitment of the Program07:04 Meet BridgeUP GiddyUP: Student Introductions and Experiences22:11 Holistic Approach to Equestrian Education26:42 The Lifelong Journey of Learning with Horses27:40 The Importance of Breathing in Riding29:06 Passion for the Process vs. Competition30:37 Community Engagement and Equestrian Programs32:29 Barriers to Accessible Equestrian Sport35:47 Introducing Level Up Licensing Events38:42 Equine Welfare and Competition Standards42:20 Transparency in Equestrian Events47:11 The Coexistence of Humans and Horses49:36 Ecological Benefits of the Equestrian Lifestyle50:40 Developing a Standardized Curriculum53:43 Connecting with the Community and Future Plans55:22 Tables Turned: Tamara’s Story*You can follow and support Bridge UP Giddy UP on Instagram**United States Equestrian Society’s mission is “To Serve as a Driving Force in the USA for the Regeneration of Ethical and Accessible Equestrian Ecosystems.” Learn more about the curriculum, certifications, and Level Up Licensing Events at us-es.org**Learn more about Tamara on Instagram, Facebook, X and at tamaraleebarrett.com*
What this episode covers
In this episode of the Optimized Equine Podcast, host Tamara Lee Barrett speaks with McKrell Baier, the Director of Bridge UP Giddy UP, and several students from the program. They discuss the origins of the program, its impact on the community, and the personal growth of the students involved. After meeting the students, the conversation highlights the importance of ethical horsemanship, the structured curriculum, and the future aspirations of the program to expand and promote equestrian education. The students share their experiences, emphasizing the transformative power of working with horses and the lessons learned beyond riding. TakeawaysThe program aims to provide equestrian education and beyond to underserved communities.Students are involved in an intensive year-round program that combines riding lessons with practical and theoretical knowledge for life in and out of the saddle.The program emphasizes the importance of ethical treatment of horses and responsible horsemanship.Students learn valuable life skills such as teamwork, communication, and emotional regulation through their interactions with horses.The program aims to expand its reach and provide opportunities for more students to access equestrian education.Community involvement is a key aspect of the program's mission and success.The importance of lifelong learning in horsemanship is a central theme of the conversation.The program seeks to change perceptions of equestrian sport by promoting ethical practices and transparency.Students express how their experiences in the program have positively impacted their personal growth and confidence.Chapters00:00 The Bridge UP Giddy UP Story04:36 The Structure and Commitment of the Program07:04 Meet BridgeUP GiddyUP: Student Introductions and Experiences22:11 Holistic Approach to Equestrian Education26:42 The Lifelong Journey of Learning with Horses27:40 The Importance of Breathing in Riding29:06 Passion for the Process vs. Competition30:37 Community Engagement and Equestrian Programs32:29 Barriers to Accessible Equestrian Sport35:47 Introducing Level Up Licensing Events38:42 Equine Welfare and Competition Standards42:20 Transparency in Equestrian Events47:11 The Coexistence of Humans and Horses49:36 Ecological Benefits of the Equestrian Lifestyle50:40 Developing a Standardized Curriculum53:43 Connecting with the Community and Future Plans55:22 Tables Turned: Tamara’s Story*You can follow and support Bridge UP Giddy UP on Instagram**United States Equestrian Society’s mission is “To Serve as a Driving Force in the USA for the Regeneration of Ethical and Accessible Equestrian Ecosystems.” Learn more about the curriculum, certifications, and Level Up Licensing Events at us-es.org**Learn more about Tamara on Instagram, Facebook, X and at tamaraleebarrett.com*
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#14: Empowering Youth Through Horsemanship with BridgeUP GiddyUP
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