Fit for Halter Podcast

Ever find yourself standing at the rail thinking… “I’m a pleasure rider… but I keep watching the halter.”? 👀 That’s exactly how Alexis Gooding found her way into the halter world. Coming from a strong pleasure background, Alexis shares what it was like to step into a completely different side of the industry — from asking all the questions to understanding the idea of form to function. In this episode, we talk about: 🐴 What surprised her most about halter horses 🐴 The biggest differences between pleasure and halter 🐴 The myth that “the fattest horse wins” 🐴 How learning conformation changes the way you see every horse 🐴 Why understanding halter can actually make you a better horseman Whether you’re a pleasure rider curious about halter, or a halter exhibitor who loves hearing how others find their way into the discipline, this conversation is full of great perspective. 🎧 Listen on Amazon, Apple, iHeart Radio or Spotify!

In this episode, I’m joined by Guy Williams of Venning Quarter Horses, coming to us from the Hunter Valley of Australia. We talk about: ✨ What actually separates an elite halter horse ✨ Why “big and fat” isn’t the same as fit ✨ How fitness, cross-training, and mental well-being show up in the pen ✨ And why loving the job matters more than the perfect pedigree Guy brings a thoughtful, honest perspective shaped by his background in racing, showing, and horsemanship. Whether you’re gearing up for the 2026 show season or just trying to make better decisions for your horse, this episode will challenge the way you think about halter horses in the best way.

If you’ve shown your halter horse in Michigan, there’s a good chance this guest has called your name over the loudspeaker. On this episode of Fit for Halter, we're joined by Mike Huntoon — halter horse enthusiast, accomplished show announcer, and trainer with a voice many exhibitors instantly recognize. If you love halter horses, horse show culture, or just a good “how I got here” story… this is for you! Mike shares his early days growing up with horses, how a backyard Paint stud and a few key mentors pulled him into the halter world, and the story behind his very first horse show as an announcer.

I had the absolute honor of sitting down with Kaylynn Wilson — who along with her husband Gene, are known for quality, longevity, and undeniable impact in the halter horse industry. For decades, the Wilsons have bred, owned, and shown some of the most recognizable horses in the country. Their program has produced standouts known for balance, bone, beauty, and that unmistakable presence that turns heads in any pen. In this episode, we dive into: ✨ How their individual journeys with horses began ✨ The moment halter horses captured Gene’s attention ✨ Their love story that started… on a stud farm visit  ✨ The legendary horses that shaped their program ✨ What matters most in their breeding decisions today ✨ Soundness, balance, and the importance of choosing the right stallions ✨ The hands-on philosophy behind evaluating crosses and seeing stallions in person

This week on the Fit for Halter podcast, Amy sits down with Sally Griffin — a lifetime APHA director, dedicated leader, and lifelong Paint Horse enthusiast who has done it all — from amateur halter exhibitor to rule maker, show organizer, and advocate for the next generation. Sally shares her incredible journey that began in the 1970s as a youth and amateur exhibitor, showing standout halter horses and earning APHA Champion Certificate #1. Today, she continues to shape the association she loves — co-creating the Margarita Classic Paint Horse Show in memory of Charlie Sasser, leading key APHA committees, and championing programs like Novice Amateur, Novice Youth, and Walk-Trot to keep the Paint Horse community strong and inclusive.

Meet Melanie Fransen, an amateur halter exhibitor whose story is equal parts heart, hustle, and humor. From growing up “basically born in a barn” to sharing the show pen (and plenty of laughs) with her mom, Melanie brings the fun side of showing to life. In this episode, recorded live at the Fall Color Classic in Lansing, MI, Melanie shares: - How a “fill-the-class” moment turned into a halter passion - The thrill of her successful futurity season — and the surprise Sportsmanship Award that meant the most - Balancing a busy career, travel, and life with a barn full of horses - What it’s really like showing alongside her mom (spoiler: total opposites!) It’s an upbeat, real, and relatable conversation about finding joy, teamwork, and balance in the show world.

By request, Stephanie Sickafoose is back on on the podcast — and this time, she’s taking it a step further.  She takes us on a detailed journey through her daily program. From 4:30 a.m. mornings to long trotting across rolling hills after a full day’s work, Stephanie’s routine is all about structure, commitment, and results. Ever wonder what it really takes to succeed as an amateur in the halter pen? Hear how she’s built a program that works — one that’s earned her respect and results in the pen.

This week on Fit for Halter, we’re chatting with someone who truly does it all. Sydney Miller is a non-pro, mom of littles, and alongside her husband, runs Miller Quarter Horses — a successful hunter under saddle training operation now based in Boerne, Texas. While her husband focuses on the performance side of the industry, Sydney has carved out her own lane (and love!) in the halter pen — recently wrapping up a successful futurity season. In this episode, we talk about: ✨ Finding balance between family, business, and the show world ✨ What it’s like running a barn as a husband-and-wife team ✨ Her unique perspective on both the hunt seat and halter worlds ✨ And how she’s creating space for joy in every season of life Find Sydney and Miller Quarter Horses on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/millerquarterhorses

From growing up in a family of horsemen to building her own successful training program, Cathy Sasser has lived a life centered around great horses — and even greater people. In this episode, Cathy shares her journey in the halter horse industry, the pivotal moment that reshaped her career, and the philosophy that guides her barn today. She shares how she defines success beyond the trophies and why investing in the next generation of exhibitors and trainers is key to keeping our industry strong. We talk about: -Her journey into halter and the pivotal moments that shaped her career -The philosophy behind her training program and what she looks for in a horse -Why mentoring youth and newcomers is essential for the future of halter -Her thoughts on legacy, growth, and where the industry is headed

This week on Fit for Halter, I’m joined by Stephanie Sickafoose, an amateur exhibitor who’s had an incredible season in the halter pen. From her DIY prep at home to big wins with her standout yearling filly — a daughter of a young stallion already making waves — Stephanie’s story is full of grit, lessons, and memorable moments. She also shares how her background, breeding program, and even a world champion stallion trace back to her own journey of persistence and passion for the horses.

What do you do when life throws you a curveball and the path you’ve been on isn’t possible anymore? This week on the podcast, I’m joined by Subrina Hobart, whose journey in the show pen took an inspiring turn. Subrina started out in the pleasure arena, but when health challenges made riding unsafe, she wasn’t ready to give up her love of horses or showing. Instead, she discovered a brand-new passion in the halter pen.  In this episode, Subrina opens up about: 💫 Her first steps into the paint horse world 💫 The challenges that made her step out of the saddle 💫 How she found joy, community, and competition through halter 💫 The horses and family moments that continue to inspire her

This week on the podcast, we meet the team from Iron Horse Ranch —a powerhouse in breeding, training, and showing halter horses.   Tawni Jones Ledbetter and her team share what it takes to manage over 127 horses, build a successful show program, and—most importantly—create a ranch culture rooted in teamwork, trust, and shared meals around the table.   From early mornings and long days in the barn, to celebrating wins (and each other) in and out of the show pen, this episode is a reminder that true success is about more than trophies—it's about the people and horses who make it all possible. Hear the story behind Iron Horse Ranch, their approach to halter horses, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.  

Decades in the halter horse industry. A once-in-a-lifetime horse that sparked a world-class breeding program. Countless champions, memories, and lessons learned along the way.   In this episode, Kathy Pettit shares her remarkable journey — from saving for her first horse as a determined 17-year-old, to working with some of the most influential trainers in the business, to raising and showing horses that have left their mark in the arena.   ✨ Kathy’s story is one of grit, passion, and vision — and right now, she’s gearing up to head to the World Show with one of the very best she’s ever raised.   You won’t want to miss her wisdom, her stories, and her love for this sport.   Watch on YouTube  https://youtu.be/6jZZmJub0MY?si=pTuWa20WnfFvu4iZ

Behind every winning halter horse program is someone making sure everything runs like clockwork. In this week’s episode, meet Natasha “Tosh” Bothwell — the right hand to top halter trainer Andy Staton. From sunrise feedings to late-night prep, Tosh shares what it’s really like to work 12–15 hour days at major shows like Congress and the World Show. Hear how Tosh keeps a top program running smoothly at the shows while staying passionate about the halter horse world. We talk about: ✨ The reality of life as a trainer’s assistant ✨ Balancing horse care, client service & show schedules ✨ Why the behind-the-scenes role is her dream job  

This week on the podcast, we’re heading to Australia to meet Melissa Eeles — a respected amateur halter horse exhibitor, breeder, and program builder with a passion for confirmation and class. From working at the largest equine hospital in the Southern Hemisphere to preserving legendary bloodlines like Statutory and Mighty Awesome, Melissa shares her journey, her breeding goals, and what it’s really like to raise and show halter horses across Australia’s vast and challenging landscape. ✅ How Melissa’s early mentors shaped her halter career ✅ The traits she prioritizes in breeding top-tier horses ✅ The unique challenges (and perks!) of showing in Australia ✅ Her perspective on bloodlines old and new

Meet Ami & Kendall Bennett — a dynamic mother-daughter team who share not just their halter horses, but the road trips, early mornings, late nights, and the heart and hustle that come with this sport. From Ami’s first halter horse to their current string of champions, their story is one of family teamwork, passion, and balance. You’ll hear how they choose horses with the perfect temperament for kids, the special backstory behind their world show yearling, and how even their riding horse with “quirks” has a place in the show lineup. * How they got started in halter horses * What it’s like to share horses across generations * Selecting the right trainer-student combo * The sweet, behind-the-scenes stories of their 2025 show string * Tips for making showing a true family affair

Meet Aynslee Gavey: founder of The Arena Admin, a virtual assistant service tailored specifically for horse business owners and western entrepreneurs. Running a business in this world takes grit, hustle, and a whole lot of heart — and The Arena Admin is all about taking the weight of the administrative chaos off your shoulders so you can focus on doing what you do best. Aynslee has created a business that understands the lifestyle and the workload of equine professionals. Learn more about: 🔹 How her passion for horses + business mindset led to The Arena Admin 🔹 Why most horse pros need a VA (even if just for an hour) 🔹 The kinds of tasks she takes off your plate 🔹 What makes equine-specific support different  

This week, we sit down with Kathy Smallwood of Kathy Smallwood Quarter Horses — a renowned breeder and trainer whose halter babies shine in the pen and leave a lasting legacy. Hear how Kathy’s passion began at a very young age, how she evolved her program through decades of dedication, and how she’s preparing the next generation of champions for the fall futurities. We talk daily prep, confidence-building in young horses, breeding insights, and what it really takes to peak at the right time. Whether you're raising your first foal or fine-tuning your show calendar, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration.

This week we’re shifting from the show pen to the camera lens to explore the artistry behind great equine photography. Whether it’s an ad, horse and rider sessions, horse show candids or those amazing black background shots, guest Brittany Callahan of Brittany Callahan Photography plays a huge role in how our horses are seen and remembered. Tune in as Brittany shares: *Her journey from the show pen to the photography world *How she captures a horse’s true personality *The gear she swears by *Tips for preparing your halter horse for a photo shoot *Plus a few wild behind-the-scenes moments you won't want to miss Find her on Facebook here!

What if you could connect your tail extension in seconds or use the same tail extension for more than one horse?  This week we’re joined by RJ Tail Designs, the creators of a revolutionary quick connect tail system for show horses.  This little detail makes a big difference in the show pen.  They created a system that saves time and protects your horse's real tail on those long show days while still accomplishing the full and beautiful tail we’re looking for in the pen.  We look at how it works and why it’s a game-changer for trainers and amateur exhibitors.

What happens when passion turns into profession? On this week’s Fit for Halter Podcast, we’re joined by two rising stars in the halter world who just made a major move—turning in their amateur cards to step into the ring as professional trainers. Leighton Wetzel of WC Show Horses and Logan Lorenz of Lorenz Quarter Horses share their journey and give us a glimpse of the next generation of leaders in the halter industry. We’re talking about what pushed them to take the leap, what life as a new trainer really looks like, and the lessons they’ve learned on the business side of the barn. 💥 Bonus: Dalton Collins joins the conversation and asks the questions other amateurs are wondering too.

Have you ever wished you could search, filter, and compare breeding stallions based on what your mare really needs—from height and bloodlines to color genetics and more? This week, we're talking to the brilliant mind who made that possible. Meet Natashya Vince, the founder of Stallion Compare—a powerful, data-driven platform created out of her own curiosity and passion. With a background in web design and a love for horses, she built the ultimate tool for mare owners to make informed breeding decisions. From detailed genetic panels and four-generation pedigrees to robust filtering by breed, location, and discipline—Stallion Compare is changing the way we select stallions. Natashya shares her journey, her vision, and how this platform levels the playing field for ALL stallions, not just the famous ones. www.stallioncompare.com

If you’ve ever struggled to find a pair of jeans that truly fits and functions when you’re riding, you’re going to love this episode. We sat down with Whitney Lloyd, founder of MarkWest Denim, to talk about the jeans she couldn’t find — so she made them herself. After years in the saddle and just as many years frustrated with the options on the market, Whitney set out to design the perfect pair of riding jeans for women. No fashion background — just horse sense, grit, and an eye for detail. The result? Eight rounds of saddle-tested prototypes and performance features made with real cowgirls in mind.  From a hidden, secure phone pocket to the flattering fit that still works after a full day of showing, Whitney is solving the problems no one else was. www.markwestdenim.com

From show pen to stitch line, we’re talking all things custom cowboy hats with the talented Heather Werkema Smith of Initial Impressions by HWS! Heather joins us to share how her lifelong love of horses, shaped by her amazing family, led her on a winding journey through the show world—and ultimately into the art of designing one-of-a-kind cowboy hats. What started as a side hustle has become a thriving business built on bold creativity, precise craftsmanship, and a passion for helping people express themselves through custom hats. Hear how Initial Impressions by HWS helped fund her family's showing dreams, how she blends tradition with trend, and what truly makes a cowboy hat yours. This episode is packed with information for Western fashion lovers, horse show families, and anyone who’s ever dreamed of turning their side hustle into something beautiful.

In this week’s episode, we’re joined by Ashley Koeller of MJK Quarter Horses—a trusted name in horse transportation from coast to coast. Ashley shares how she and her husband Mike built a business and team of drivers rooted in care, communication, and commitment to the horses in their trailer. We dive into what it takes to earn trust in the hauling world, logistics, gear, and emergency prep, stories from the road and life on the move, and tips for prepping your horse for a smooth haul.  

In this episode, we dive into the recent AQHA rule changes that are making an impact—especially for halter exhibitors. Joined by AQHA leaders Scott Newman and Sydney Reynolds, along with industry advocate Kelley Wainscott, they break down what these updates mean, why they’re happening, and how they impact the leveling and competition structure. This episode gives you the clarity you need straight from the source. From the goals of the leveling program to the exciting new incentives—like cash awards for top World Show finishers—this is one conversation you don’t want to miss. Hear how these changes are shaping the future of halter classes and helping more exhibitors find their place in the pen. Kelley Wainscott brings valuable perspective from her work on AQHA’s Show Committee, shedding light on how these changes aim to give more people a fair shot in the ring.  With the halter division often serving as a gateway into the show world, these updates are about inclusivity, progression, and helping every exhibitor find their path to success. Find more information at: www.aqha.com

LK Tack Shop has been a staple in the Chicagoland area for 36 years.  We get to meet the mother-daughter team, Kim and Karli Franklin, who own and operate LK Tack Shop in Monee, Illinois.  They stock boots, supplies, tack, supplements, blankets, and the latest in Western fashion.  They like to say "if we don't have it, you don't need it"! We discuss the ins and outs of running a family business and how the shop has created a community for local equestrians.  They talk about their favorite products and best sellers along with how to care for your show halter. www.lktack.com 

Kelly Chapman took time at a recent show to share her insight as a trainer, judge, and lifelong horse woman.  She's been an APHA professional horsewoman for more than 30 years, holds multiple judges cards, and was named the Paint Professional Horsewoman of the year in 2018.  Kelly and her husband Rob operate Chapman Horse and Livestock, they have 2 children, and she enjoys the traveling that comes with being a judge.  Kelly shares her training philosophy and how she works with her clients to improve showring presence and confidence.  We dig into her experience as APHA Immediate Past President and her perspective on the future of the halter division.  Listen to learn more about her confidence in APHA as a business leader in the stock horse industry.

In this crossover episode, we meet JJ and Jamie Ross, better known as the "Ross twins".  They are consistently at the top of the APHA Honor Roll with their all-around geldings, Call Me a Cowboy and DaddySleepsToMuch.  These twin sisters travel together, have distinct roles when they hit the show grounds, and finish each others sentences.   JJ and Jamie explain their weekly rhythms and the discipline required to stay in shape. They share their grooming tips, workouts, travel habits and a few tips for other DIY amateurs.  They share dozens of transferrable tips for the halter pen. This is an episode of firsts for Fit for Halter: our first in-person interview, first recording at a show (it's a bit noisy!) and first performance guests.  Thanks for joining this community!

In this episode I’m joined by Maryann and Alex, the owners and founders of Lonestar Nurse Mares, a unique business that provides nurse mares—surrogate mothers—to orphaned foals in need. When a young horse loses its mother, survival can be uncertain. That’s where Lonestar steps in, offering not just a lifeline, but a nurturing connection that can mean the difference between life and loss. We talk about how this work started, the challenges and ethics around nurse mare programs, and the incredible moments that come from uniting mares and foals in such a vital way. Contact information 24/7 - 814.282.0831 or [email protected] 

In this episode we meet Chase Parrish, entrepreneur and founder of Stable Savers.  Chase Parrish has been around horses his entire life and comes from a family that’s heavily involved in the pleasure industry.  He knows what we need to bring out the best in our horses! Chase created Stable Savers to help horse owners save money on the products we use on a regular basis.  He launched Stable Savers about a month ago and is building his team of well-known brands.  Stable Savers is a membership club that offers year round black Friday style discounts with products that we use throughout our barns. www.stablesavers.com

In this episode, we meet Justin Bisel of Bisel Quarter Horses.  He was raised in a halter horse family and in the early 2000’s to 2019 he was fully immersed in the horse world as a trainer.  He transitioned somewhat recently to the financial world as an advisor and today, he’s taking a few outside training horses including halter horses.  Justin brings a great mix of skills as a trainer, a WCHA carded judge, and APHA and AQHA specialty halter carded judge.  He shares insights on the conditioning, feeding, and breeding aspects of the halter industry.  You’ll get to see Justin and his wife Ashton in show pen this year! Bisel Quarter Horses on Facebook

In this episode, Russell Mueller, Senior Marketing Manager with ProElite Feeds, brings us a master class on nutrition, performance, and the latest in industry trends.  He is an equine nutritionist and marketing specialist with a life-long career in the horse feed business. Outside of work he's an amateur stock horse exhibitor so he has a deep understanding of what it takes to fuel top-performing horses.  He breaks down the science behind ProElite’s high-quality formulas and how they help horses reach their full potential. Learn more about their products at https://proelitehorsefeed.com/

Scott Meyers is from New South Wales, Australia and has been involved with horses most of his life.  He’s the owner of Meyers Quarter Horses and has been part of the quarter horse scene for about 35 years.  Former AQHA judge and current President of the Halter Breeders Group who is working on building the halter-bred horses in Australia with a show model that looks similar to the Breeders Halter Futurity.   He has a beloved band of broodmares and stands two Quarter Horse stallions.  He shares his experience with raising high-level halter horses, the importing process, and how he sees the future of halter in Australia and America evolving. 

In this episode we meet Chuck Williams, owner of Williams Show Horses in Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada.  With 40 years in the stock horse business, Chuck brings wisdom and insight about his program, the Canadian halter climate, and his outlook on the global halter industry.  He explains his approach to fitting his show horses and how to grow a solid client base.   We discuss long-distance travel, access to shows and the value of a family-run business.  He credits several folks from the halter industry for fueling his passion and supporting him along the way.   Williams Show Horses on Facebook

In this episode we’re pulling back the curtain and getting the inside scoop from the real MVPs behind the scenes - the wives of two of our very own halter horse trainers - Mary Robertson, wife of Tom, and Fallen Cooper, wife of Clint. These women have raised children, established their own professional careers, and walked alongside their husbands through the highs and lows.  They know the sheer passion and hard work it takes to succeed in this industry. But what’s life really like as the woman behind the trainer? From barn life to show life and everything in between, we get their unfiltered take!

In this episode, we’re talking with Dawn Allen who owns Allen Quarter Horses along with her husband, Kent. They operate a premier equine layover facility designed to keep traveling horses comfortable, safe, and well-cared for. We'll discuss what makes a great layover stop, how to reduce stress for horses on the road, and why these facilities are a game-changer for equine transportation. When you're transporting horses across the country, finding the right place to rest along the way is crucial.  We give you a look into the barns and what to expect when you arrive.

In this episode, we explore one of the most important yet often overlooked aspects of success in the halter industry—the trainer-client relationship. This isn’t just any trainer-client dynamic. We get to hear about the unique bond between a professional trainer and a family team—a husband, wife, and their daughter—who are all deeply invested. How does a trainer juggle the different personalities, goals, and expectations of an entire family? What challenges arise when family members work together? And how does a trainer not just fit the horses, but also guide and mentor clients of all ages and experience levels to bring out their best in the show ring? Kim Clark, of Fitting Edge Halter Horses, along with her clients, Keith Witter, Missy Witter, and their daughter, Jody share their experiences, challenges, and the moments that make it all worth it.

Clint Fullerton is someone who truly embodies excellence in the halter industry. He is not only a respected judge but also a legend in the field, with years of experience evaluating and shaping the standards of halter competition. In the halter world, success isn’t just about having a great horse—it’s about preparation, practice, and attention to every detail. From fitting and presentation to mastering the art of showing your horse, every top exhibitor knows the real work happens long before stepping into the pen. Clint has seen it all, and he shares invaluable insights on what it takes to stand out in the ring and earn that title. Learn more about Clint's journey to the halter pen from Episode 004 here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0Hf5K3A7u9qD6bgIICVrje

In this episode, we get to know Clint Cooper, a young entrepreneur with a strong presence in the halter pen.  He credits his family and many legends in the halter industry for investing in him.  He recently launched his training facility called Clint Cooper Equine, located in Collinsville, TX.  Our community has the privilege of joining him to hear his vision for the future.   A WCHA judge, trainer, husband, and dad to two young children, we are fortunate to get a few minutes with him to hear his story, learn what drives him, and get his advice for aspiring trainers. Clint Cooper Equine on Facebook

In this episode, I have the opportunity to introduce you to the husband and wife team behind the Painted for Success Weanling Futurity.  Chad and Kayla Slayton are the founders of this weanling halter futurity that’s helping shape the future of our industry.  This niche futurity with just two classes includes generous payouts and high-end prizes. Painted for Success is designed to showcase exceptional young stock, reward dedicated breeders, and raise the bar for competition in the halter industry.   https://paintedforsuccess.com/

There are dozens of ways for people to engage with our industry and probably hundreds of professions that our fellow exhibitors represent.  In this episode we’ll take a look at the role of an auctioneer.  Dalton Collins, of DC Auction is with me for a conversation about his own program as well as a few facets of the auctioneer business and how it relates to our part of the world.  We talk about the art and skill of auctioneering, what it takes to run a sale, and a few tips for auction buyers and sellers. DC Auction Website DC Auction on Facebook

In this episode, we have the opportunity to meet Janna Kimmons, the visionary behind Paradise Paints and Quarter Horses in Jefferson, GA.  Janna is a small breeder known for producing elite halter horses. We talk about what it takes to develop world-class halter horses, the challenges of running a breeding operation with a small band of broodmares, selecting the right stallion for her mares, and how she balances tradition with innovation.  

Breeding season is just a few weeks away and its time to consider your stallion and broodmare pairing for the year!  In this episode we take a deep dive into selecting the right broodmare or stallion for your program with Anna Horn of Chris Arentsen Quarter Horses. We take a look at criteria for selecting the broodmare to enhance a program and some of the attributes that make a mare tough to handle.  We discuss stallion selection and how the show record can impact the marketability of a given stud.  Last, we cover industry trends and the demand for double-registered horses and futurity eligibility. www.arentsenquarterhorses.com 

Adam and Kelley Wainscott return for a next level conversation about equine nutrition.  They walk us through each listener-provided question to describe, explain, and teach us how to supply the best care for our beloved horses.  Adam and Kelley joined us for episode 002 and jumped back in to continue their investment in our community.  They operate Covenant Show Horses in Sanger, Texas and stand 2006 APHA stallion, He's Stylin.      

One of the most pivotal events for breeding and showing halter horses is a futurity and this is our third episode this winter, highlighting money earning opportunities across the U.S.  In this episode, we’ll learn about the Iowa Breeders Futurity, we’ll explore why it’s so significant, and how futurities like this shape the future of the industry. I’m joined by two guests who are well-versed in the halter horse world: Lindsay Black, owner of Black Show Horses, an Iowa Quarter Horse Association Executive Board Member, a seasoned trainer and exhibitor, and amateur exhibitor, Illinois Paint Horse Association Futurity Chair, and IPHA President, Carri Hansen. We discuss the broader impact of futurities on the halter horse industry and how they shape breeding trends and the direction of the sport.  We talk through sponsorships, the cost of showing, how futurities can alleviate some of the burden, and what fundraising methods they have found to be effective. Iowa Quarter Horse Association

In this episode we meet Michigan Quarter Horse Association board members, Chris Perniciaro and Austin Gooding.  They lead the charge for the MQHA Futurity and Stallion Service Auction (SSA) which includes many of our great halter stallions.  The Futurity and SSA classes are held every September along with the Great Lakes Classic QH show. Chris and Austin have successfully grown this show to over $100k in prize money and they are on their way to the next goal of $150k.  This affordable futurity is for exhibitors of all levels of experience and includes a great opportunity for weanlings to earn prize money in the stallion owner, mare owner, non-pro, and open classes.  You can stick around for the full 6-judge QH showbill and enjoy the MSU show facility. Website: www.miquarterhorse.com 

In this episode we meet Marcy Walker and Jim Scarpa, President and Vice President of the East Coast Halter Futurity.  The ECHF was founded in 2014  and provides an opportunity for halter horse owners from the Eastern states to have a halter futurity in their own backyard.  We discuss the importance of futurities to the halter industry, judge selection, and the special effort that goes into providing an exceptional exhibitor experience. The ECHF calendar begins with the Stallion Service Auction on January 19-21, 2025 where you'll find the top stallions available.  The show is held on Sunday, April 20, 2025, at the Virginia Horse Center in conjunction with the AQHA Spring Breakout.   East Coast Halter Futurity

In this episode we meet Laurie and Logan Lorenz, the mother-son team from Lorenz Quarter Horses.  We capture them just hours after concluding their successful show season at the AQHA World Show to discuss their show strategies, breeding operation, and the KY Breeders Incentive Fund. Laurie comes from a multi-generation AQHA family and has instilled an incredible work ethic in her son.  Logan is an emerging leader in our field and has spent time learning from some of the greatest in the halter industry.  He leads their operation from the breeding shed to the show pen.  You'll learn about his approach to working with babies, his deeply rooted respect for the horse, and plans for the future.

In this listener requested episode, we discuss fitting halter horses during cold weather, blanketing practices and preferences, and using lights to maintain a light hair coat.   Our guest line-up includes Erin Henderson and Warren English. Erin and her husband Matt are the owners and trainers at Turner-Henderson Show Horses located in Albany, Oregon. Warren English is an amateur exhibitor and the owner of English Quarter Horse Farms in Sturgis, Michigan.