#8: Bridleless Cowboy Mounted Shooting with Ezra Yoder of No Reins Performance Horses

In this episode of the Optimized Equine podcast, host Tamara Lee Barrett interviews Ezra Yoder from No Reins Performance Horses. Ezra shares his journey from growing up Amish to becoming a professional horse trainer specializing in Cowboy Mounted Shooting…which he actually competes in bridleless! He emphasizes the importance of connection between horse and rider, as well as his training philosophy that prioritizes the horse’s mental and physical well-being. We discuss tie-downs, and some of the challenges of retraining horses who have been ridden in them. Ezra also talks about his exhibition performances, clinics, and the other aspects of his business based out of Wooster, OH.  You can find Ezra and No Reins Performance Horses on Facebook Instagram and at [email protected] Takeaways Ezra Yoder trains horses for cowboy mounted shooting. He grew up Amish and developed a love for horses early on. Bridleless riding enhances the connection between horse and rider. Ezra's first mounted shooting experience hooked him on the sport. He balances training horses with competing and performing. Ezra believes in cross-training to prevent burnout in green and experienced horses. Ezra aims to teach horsemanship alongside mounted shooting in clinics. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ezra Yoder and No Reins Performance Horses 03:03 Ezra's Journey: From Amish Roots to Professional Horse Trainer 05:56 The Transition to Mounted Shooting: A New Passion 08:44 Bridle-less Riding: The Art of Connection 11:39 Training Philosophy: Balancing Competition and Horse Well-being 14:00 Exhibition Performances: Expanding Horizons 16:49 Training Techniques: Cross-Training and Mental Health 19:53 Influences and Mentorship in Horse Training 22:49 Bodywork and Maintenance: Keeping Horses Healthy 25:49 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Ezra Yoder Keywords Ezra Yoder, No Reins Performance Horses, mounted shooting, bridleless riding, horse training, equine health, horsemanship, cowboy mounted shooting, horse exhibitions, equestrian sports