OEP 30: Navigating Equestrian Sport in the US with Nandi Kegode (Part Two)

What this episode covers

In part two of this conversation, Nandi Kegode shares her experiences navigating the American equestrian industry as an aspiring international athlete without major financial backing. She discusses the challenges of working through Florida and other competitive circuits, the mentors who supported her journey, and the toxic cultural dynamics she encountered in barn environments. Nandi opens up about her partnership with two other women of color who co-own her mare Idana, and their ambitious vision to create pathways for Kenyan athletes to reach top sport. The conversation explores the realities of "quirky" horses, the importance of two-way communication in training, and Nandi's vision for authentic cultural exchange through equestrian tourism in Africa.The equestrian sport is not designed to allow aspiring athletes without substantial financial backing to progress through the levelsMarketing may celebrate diversity, but the industry often lacks understanding of true moral and ethical diversityCultural differences in respect, work ethic, and interpersonal boundaries create significant challenges when navigating different barn environmentsFinding good mentors who prioritize horse welfare and human wellbeing is rare but essential for surviving the industryThe "quirky horse" label is often an excuse for poor training, handling, or unaddressed pain rather than inherent personalityTrue diversity in equestrianism includes cultural exchange and learning from different approaches to horsemanship worldwideHorses labeled as difficult often respond completely differently when treated with respect and proper communicationYou cannot terrify the rider and expect the horse to have a good experience—both must be supportedNot every rider can ride every horse, and admitting that is a sign of good horsemanshipCultural exchange through equestrian tourism can provide quality education and competition experience at accessible pricesYou can follow Nandi Kegode on Facebook or Instagram @african.horse.woman_official and @hisia_intelDon't Forget To Follow, Subscribe, Rate The Show, and Follow Our Socials! ⁠ Visit TamaraLeeBarrett.comChapters[00:00] Introduction to Part 2[00:32] Coming to America[02:08] The Reality of Diversity in Sport[05:30] Cultural Clashes in Barn Environments[08:45] Navigating Toxicity and Racism[12:36] Geographic and Economic Barriers[13:27] Learning What Not to Do[14:14] Jenni McAllister: A Role Model[16:25] McKrell and Christian: Critical Mentors[21:23] The Idana Partnership[26:58] The Plan for Idana[30:18] Equestrian Tourism Vision[32:06] The True Meaning of Diversity[36:08] How Horses Communicate[40:49] Feeling Riders Aren't Born, They're Made[42:40] The "Quirky Horse" Excuse[50:18] Becoming What We Tell Them[52:52] One-Way vs Two-Way Dialogue[54:57] When Livelihood Depends on Sales[56:06] Education in Body Language and Biomechanics[57:23] Three Fairy Godmother Wishes[58:52] The Sad Over-Correction[1:00:00] How to Follow Nandi

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