PODCAST · kids
Curious Equestrian
by Curious Equestrian
🎙️ Curious Equestrian: Where Conventional Wisdom Gets BuckedTired of "that's how it's always been done" in the horse world? Saddle up for a podcast that dares to ask "why?"Join us as we challenge equestrian norms, uncover groundbreaking insights, and revolutionize human-horse partnerships. From myth-busting with leading experts to practical tips that transform curious riders into confident partners.Subscribe now. Because thriving horses horses start with questioning humans.
Episodes
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How did horse tricks turn a biting rescue horse around? | Noche Miller, Horse Tricks 101 trainer
Noche Miller turned to trick training when Rusty, a young rescue Morgan, bit and walked straight through people. He had been dumped at auction because nobody could handle him, and two or three months of traditional handling had got nowhere. Noche, an instructor with Horse Tricks 101, tells Anna...
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Dartmoor Pony Crisis: The truth behind the headlines
In June the headlines said 90% of Dartmoor's semi-wild hill ponies faced a cull. A former consumer journalist went looking for who had actually said so, and for what would happen to a moorland herd that had to leave.Recorded in June 2026, before the Government changed the grazing rules on 15…
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Horse listener, not horse whisperer with Nicci Mackay
Horse whisperer — or horse listener? Nicci Mackay on what horses are really telling usCan horses actually understand us? Nicci Mackay has spent her life arguing the question is backwards. She doesn't "whisper" to horses, and she's quick to correct anyone who calls her a horse whisperer — she...
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What mouth breathing does to a rider's position | Ciara Glaisher
Chartered physiotherapist Ciara Glaisher treats horses and their riders as one system, and she says horse rider fitness starts with the breath. Most of us mouth breathe, brace our bellies and sit in chairs all day, then expect our pelvis to move with a horse's back. She tells host Anna Louise...
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Equestrian vaulting: the horse sport you can start without riding
Equestrian vaulting is gymnastics on horseback, and everyone in this episode says the same unlikely thing about it: you can start with no riding, no gymnastics and no particular level of fitness. Curious Equestrian spent a day at RDA Woodbridge as the centre launched vaulting for the first time,...
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She was taught to dominate horses. Her rescue horse said no | Shelby Dennis
Shelby Dennis was taught to "get after" horses from the age of four, showing on the Arabian circuit and told not to worry: they're big animals, it doesn't hurt them. Then a rescue horse called Milo squared up to fight her when she escalated pressure the way she'd been taught, and everything she'd...
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Horse's Hierarchy of Needs with Marcel Olivé
What if your horse isn't being naughty at all, but telling you something you were never taught to hear? Horsemanship expert Marcel Olivé joins Curious Equestrian to challenge everything we assume about horse psychology, and why the words we reach for, stubborn, lazy, mischievous, moody, almost...
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She worked inside horse racing. This is what they don't show you
She worked inside horse racing. Then she started saying the things most people in the sport won't.After multiple racehorse deaths at the 2026 Cheltenham Festival and Grand National, the outrage landed on race day. But Alex Fleming says the deaths you see are not horse racing's biggest welfare...
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Bullied and Burnt Out: The Hidden Truth About Being a Horse Groom, with Lucy Katan MBE
Lucy Katan MBE spent more than eight years as a horse groom, including time at the top of international dressage. She loved the horses, but she was also bullied on the yard and, after a dangerous 24-hour drive home from the 2002 World Equestrian Games, decided enough was enough. She wrote one...
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Why This Equestrian Refuses to Show Her Face
What does it mean to fight for horse welfare when being visible would cost you your livelihood? Riverstown Farm Stables — an anonymous Irish equestrian with over 37,000 followers and no public face (we've altered her voice to protect her identity) — joins Anna Louise at Curious Equestrian to talk...
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What Happens When a Horse Stops Being Useful?
👇 INSIDE THE EPISODE, WE DISCUSS:• Theresa Demarest's 5-year journey making the film and why she centered the horses' perspectives.• Katherine Gregory (CEO of Colorado Horse Rescue) on the hidden realities of the rescue economy.• The truth about "kill pens" and why buying horses from them often...
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People Think Running a Horse Sanctuary Is a Dream. Here's the Reality
"People have this romantic idea of animal rescue. It's not like that at all." Billy Thompson has been jailed, physically attacked and throttled unconscious saving animals. He'd do it again tomorrow. This is what running a horse rescue sanctuary actually looks like. At The Retreat Animal…
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The riding school offering free lessons
Horse riding has a cost problem the industry rarely addresses directly. Lessons most families can't afford. Schools closing at a rate that suggests something structural is breaking down. A sport quietly narrowing its own audience. Chloe is doing something the industry says isn't viable: offering...
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Hay Prices Have Doubled. Here's What's Really Happening
Hay prices have doubled. Some suppliers have nothing left. If you're a horse owner right now, this episode could save you time, money, and a lot of sleepless nights.Anna-Louise sits down with Nick from NP Nunn — a major hay, bedding, and feed supplier to stud farms and racing yards across the UK…
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See Your Horse, Not Your Idea of Your Horse | Kate Sandel
Horse trainer and author Kate Sandel invites you to rethink what it really means for a horse to be well – in body and in mind. If your horse isn’t mentally with you, she argues, you’re not truly training together, you’re just doing things to them. In this conversation, we explore how to see the...
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Caring for the Older Horse
Do you care for a senior horse and want to ensure they are happy and healthy? Then you won't want to miss this episode written and narrated by Sue Palmer. Sue is an experienced equestrian physiotherapist with over 25 years in the industry. Sue has worked with inspiring owners and professionals...
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Horse Massage: What a Physiotherapist Actually Wants You to Know
Sue Palmer is a chartered physiotherapist who works with horses and riders every day. Her mission, which she has given herself until 2030 to achieve, is straightforward: she wants every equestrian to understand that pain and behaviour in horses are linked. That when a horse is called naughty,...
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Does Kinesiology Tape Work for Horses?
A $13 roll of tape is showing up in equine rehabilitation yards. The question is whether the claims stand up. Rebecca Haddock has spent 30 years working at the edges of equine therapy. In this episode, she explains how kinesiology taping works in horses, why the equine version is built entirely...
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Wild Horse Behavior: What 20 Years of Research Reveals About Domestic Horses
Bonny Mealand - Equine Podiatrist, Touching Wild Academy In this episode: Bonny Mealand has spent 20 years studying wild horses, she talks about how horses' entire lives revolve around social relationships, and how watching wild horses changes the way we advocate for domestic horses.Key topics:-...
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The Complete Winter Feeding Masterclass
This is your comprehensive "Winter Survival Guide." In this deep-dive, Independent Equine Nutritionist Clare MacLeod (MSc) joins us to cover virtually every aspect of managing your horse through the colder months. From the anxiety of the Hay Crisis to the confusion around rugging and fasting...
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The native ponies we could lose
We often think of the Shire horse as a staple of the county show. Huge, gentle, and safe. We assume they are doing fine. The data tells a different story. In this episode, Anna Louise sits down with Tracy Wathen-Jones from the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST). We move past the nostalgia of the...
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Horse Riding Accidents: A Paramedic’s Guide to Safe Hacking
Have you ever thought through exactly what would happen if you fell off your horse while hacking? We often plan our routes, but do we have a plan for when it all goes wrong? In this vital episode of Curious Equestrian, we are joined by Mike Elkins, Lead Driving Education Manager at South Central...
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Give Them Choice. Why Track Systems Are The Future.
We like to think that when our horse whinnies at us over the stable door, it's love. But what if it's actually desperation? In this interview, I’m talking to Lauren from Graveney Equine about why Track Systems (Paddock Paradise) are the future of horse care. We dig into the hard truth that haunts...
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Feeding 20 Horses Through the Hay Shortage: Track System Owner Shares Strategies
The UK is facing its worst hay crisis in over a century. And for livery yard owners like Lauren Johnson, the reality became terrifying when her hay supplier called to say the field was on fire. This is Day Three of our three-day Hay Crisis Special. Meet Lauren Johnson—Faversham, Kent. Livery Yard...
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What Happens When We Run Out? The Harsh Reality of the UK Hay Shortage
The UK is facing its worst hay crisis in over a century. Spring 2025 brought the driest conditions in 50 years for the UK, and England's driest spring in more than 100 years. Hay yields have dropped by 50-75% in some regions. Prices have doubled or tripled. And for horse owners like Katarina...
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UK Hay Crisis: Expert Strategies to Reduce Waste and Stretch Your Supply
The UK is facing its worst hay crisis in over a century. Spring 2025 brought the driest conditions in 50 years for the UK, and England's driest spring in more than 100 years. Hay yields have dropped by 50-75% in some regions. Prices have doubled or tripled. Horse owners fed hay through summer…
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How Tiffany Learned to Speak: Equine Assisted Learning with Teal CIC
When Lisa's daughter Tiffany was told she'd never walk or talk due to a rare chromosome disorder, horses proved the medical professionals wrong. Within a year at the yard, Tiffany spoke 100 words and could ride, though she still couldn't sit in a chair. That experience led Lucy and Lisa to found...
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When It's Time to Say Goodbye: Horse Euthanasia & Grief Support
Losing a horse is one of life's most devastating experiences—yet it's often a loss society doesn't fully recognize. In this episode, we explore euthanasia options, what to expect, grieving, and where to find support when nobody around you understands. Sophie Cookson King from Blue Cross walks us...
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Bonfire Season is Here - What Every Horse Owner Needs to Know
In this episode, Ruth from Blue Cross breaks down everything you need to know about keeping your horse safe during firework season—from practical preparation to handling those tricky neighbor conversations.If fireworks stress you out, this episode is for you. Share your experiences in the...
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Going Back to Basics to Become a Better Horse Person with Josie
Horse trainer Josie joins us to explore why going back to basics isn't a step backward but a continuous spiral of deeper understanding. In this thoughtful conversation, we discuss how ego creates barriers to learning, why basics form the foundation even for Grand Prix movements, and how...
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Why Slowing Down Might Be the Fastest Way to Train Your Horse
What happens when you throw out everything you've been taught about horse training and try the complete opposite? Diana Waters went from traditional BHS instructor training to building a 22,000-member community around one radical idea: slowing down instead of pushing forward. In this episode…
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Is Your Horse Too Fat? A Vet's Guide To Weight Management
Why is obesity one of the biggest killers of horses? In this eye-opening episode, veterinarian Katie reveals the shocking truth about equine obesity, with 40% of UK leisure horses classified as overweight. From practical solutions like grazing muzzles to track systems, discover how to spot weight...
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Why This Horseman Measures Experience in Horses, Not Years
When Jonny Browne saw an advert for a "rider interpreter to joust at the Royal Armouries," he was curious. What he didn't expect was how this job would completely transform his understanding of horses and horsemanship. In this conversation, Johnny shares his journey to professional performer,...
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Classical vs Modern Dressage - Finding the Lost Connection
Charlotte Dujardin’s return to competition has brought dressage back into the spotlight — but not without reigniting a vital debate: Can modern dressage truly be ethical? In this powerful conversation with classical trainer Jessica Kenyon, we explore the forgotten roots of dressage, the…
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Heat Safety Secrets: What Elite Horse Professionals Know (That You Don't)
Discover the cooling mistakes horse owners make without knowing it. Olympic groom and equine expert Emma Cornish reveals the professional secrets that could save your horse's life this summer. What You'll Learn: Why the "scrape water off" method is dangerous Olympic-level cooling techniques used…
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What If Your Horse Is Hiding Trauma? The Truth Behind the Calm
What if your horse is carrying invisible wounds and hiding trauma? In this emotional journey, we explore horse trauma healing through the eyes and hands of Hannah Jones, founder of Saber Holistics. Discover how she uses Reiki, essential oils, and deep intuition to help horses release emotional...
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What We Can Learn from Wild Horse Behavior for Our Domestic Horses
Join us on a journey into the world of free-living horses. Learning Wild founders Bonny Mealand and Dr Emily Kieson reveal the nuanced behaviour of equines in their natural habitat. Learn more about our guests Bonny and Emily Learning Wild: https://www.touchingwild.com/copy-of-about-bonny Filmed…
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The Heartbreaking Truth About Arizona's Wild Horses and Their Family Bonds
America's wild horses may disappear in our lifetime, and photographer Susan Goudge is documenting what could be their final chapter. Susan Goudge is a retired school teacher who discovered wild horses by accident 10 years ago—and now she's witnessing their systematic removal from American...
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Healing a Traumatized Mare: How Nervous System Work Transformed Fear into Partnership with Nicky Sharp
Is your horse reactive, defensive, or shutting down? Nicky Sharp reveals how healing her own anxiety and nervous system transformed her relationship with Jessie, a traumatized mare who reared, bit, and defended herself "at all costs." When Nicky bought what she thought was a "safe" hacking horse,...
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The Hidden Damage of Poor Saddle Fitting: Expert Insights from Certified Fitter Jennifer Howland-Christensen
Is your saddle silently damaging your horse? Certified saddle fitter Jennifer Howland-Christensen reveals the three critical fitting mistakes that 80% of riders make unknowingly. Discover the subtle signs of poor saddle fit that most people miss, why expensive doesn't mean better fitting, and the...
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Why You Should NEVER Feed a Stranger’s Horse!
HS Award-winning campaigner Natalie Munir reveals how strangers feeding your horses could kill them—and the defense strategies that actually work. Natalie Munir is the founder of the Stop Feeding Our Horses campaign and BHS Equine Welfare Award winner who has documented thousands of dangerous...
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What Makes a Horseman a Great Leader?
What separates a great horseman from average riders? Ben Longwell reveals the 3 core leadership principles that transform horse-human partnerships. Learn why being "nice" to your horse might be hurting your relationship, how to rebuild confidence through groundwork, and the authentic leadership...
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The Art of Connecting With Your Horse
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jack and Paula Curtis, founders of Art of the Horseman, who have dedicated over 30 years to cultivating meaningful connections between horses and their people. Since 1994, this dynamic duo has been transforming riders and horses through their...
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I Was Crushed by My Horse & Told I'd Never Walk Again | Aisling Byrne's Comeback
When a horse reared up and crushed Aisling Byrne in a freak accident, doctors delivered a devastating verdict: she would never walk again, let alone ride. With a shattered pelvis, broken hips, and severe spinal damage, even survival seemed uncertain. Yet through extraordinary determination…
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The Horse Owner's Guide to Professional Sheath Cleaning
The Taboo Topic Every Horse Owner Needs to Hear: Professional Sheath Cleaning In this eye-opening episode, Allie MacLeod of The Horsebox Spa reveals why professional sheath cleaning is a critical yet overlooked aspect of equine care. Discover how common behavioral issues like bucking, tail…
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Your Horse Trainer is Wrong About Treats
Training Horses with Kindness with Sandra Poppema @SandraHippoLogicIn our latest episode, we speak with Sandra Poppema, founder of HippoLogic and creator of The Confident Clicker Trainer method. Sandra shares her journey from traditional training to positive reinforcement, revealing how this…
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From Riding School to Horse Haven: How One Couple Transformed Equestrian Education
When Tam and Ants Bennett took over a traditional North Devon riding school, they discovered horses that were fearful and shut down. Instead of continuing business as usual, they made the bold decision to close their doors temporarily and reimagine what equestrian education could be.In this…
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Natural Hoof Care: What Wild Horses Can Teach Us About Healthy Hooves
Are your horse's hooves truly healthy? In this eye-opening interview, natural hoof care expert Louise Backholler reveals what a healthy hoof really looks like and why so many domestic horses struggle with hoof issues. Louise shares what healthy hooves actually look like and the warning signs to...
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Why Your Horse Needs Mental Stimulation as Much as Physical Exercise
Are traditional horse training methods missing something vital? Discover how incorporating play into your horsemanship can transform your horse's learning ability and deepen your connection.Horse trainer Gabi Neurohr shares how simple games can build connection, solve behaviour problems, and...
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Miniature Horses as Athletes: From Rescue to Adventure Races
Meet the rescue miniature horses transforming into adventure athletes in New Zealand! Chloe and Debbie have rescued over 40 neglected minis, rehabilitating them from severe health issues to become incredible endurance racers. Watch how these tiny horses tackle 100km races with more heart than...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
🎙️ Curious Equestrian: Where Conventional Wisdom Gets BuckedTired of "that's how it's always been done" in the horse world? Saddle up for a podcast that dares to ask "why?"Join us as we challenge equestrian norms, uncover groundbreaking insights, and revolutionize human-horse partnerships. From myth-busting with leading experts to practical tips that transform curious riders into confident partners.Subscribe now. Because thriving horses horses start with questioning humans.
HOSTED BY
Curious Equestrian
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Curious Equestrian have?
Curious Equestrian currently has 85 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Curious Equestrian about?
🎙️ Curious Equestrian: Where Conventional Wisdom Gets BuckedTired of "that's how it's always been done" in the horse world? Saddle up for a podcast that dares to ask "why?"Join us as we challenge equestrian norms, uncover groundbreaking insights, and revolutionize human-horse partnerships. From...
How often does Curious Equestrian release new episodes?
Curious Equestrian has 85 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Curious Equestrian?
You can listen to Curious Equestrian on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Curious Equestrian?
Curious Equestrian is created and hosted by Curious Equestrian.
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