Judges, Jokes, and Judging Myths with Jonathan Meilleur and Mark Russell

In this episode of Taking the Reins, Clay sits down with Jonathan Meilleur and Mark Russell to pull back the curtain on horse show judging. From hilarious moments in the ring to common misconceptions horsemen have about judges, this conversation delivers laughs, honesty, and real insight. The guys share stories from their judging experiences, explain what they’re actually looking for when horses enter the ring, and clear up myths that just won’t die in the horse world. Whether you show, judge, train, or just love good horse stories, this episode offers an entertaining and eye-opening look at how decisions are made—and why they’re not always what people think. Funny, informative, and refreshingly real—this one might change how you watch the next class.