The Elevated Equestrian

What if the way your horse stands in the cross-ties is telling you everything? What if the "good" horse in the show ring is actually the most dysfunctional one? Sam sits down with Tara Osborne of Long Drove Holistic Horse Training for a conversation that will change how you watch horses move. They cover Tara's assessment process for spotting compensation, the seesaw of front-to-back balance and why every horse she assesses has a balance problem, and why the thoracic sling is the linchpin connecting the back end to the front end. The conversation goes deep on hypermobility — the explosion of hyper-loose horses in modern sport, why they need Pilates-style stability work instead of more mobility, and how that instability is reshaping how riders are forced to ride. Tara also shares her go-to groundwork exercises (thoracic sling lifts, pole work, podiums, balance pads, incline work), how to recover a horse after a competition weekend, and what she'd push for if she could change one thing about how sport horses are produced today.If this episode hits, follow The Elevated Equestrian Podcast wherever you listen so you never miss a conversation — and share it with the rider in your life who's ready to start looking closer.

Is your horse's feed doing more harm than good? In this episode, functional nutrition therapy practitioner and veteran vet tech Stephanie Carter of Indigo Ancestral Health joins Sam to break down why so many performance horses — not just ponies and draft crosses — are being diagnosed with metabolic issues like elevated insulin, EMS, and Cushing's. Stephanie explains her Won't Thrive 25 list of common feed ingredients that contribute to inflammation, why a "perfect" guaranteed analysis can still promote sickness, and how 150 years of modern feeding has imposed more change on horses than 22 million years of evolution.We get into the HPA axis and how chronic stress — from stall confinement, restricted forage, and training pressure — can drive elevated cortisol, spike insulin, and fatigue the adrenal glands, mimicking a Cushing's diagnosis in horses as young as four. Stephanie shares why restricting hay for easy keepers often backfires by triggering a survival response that slows metabolism and promotes weight gain, and how a forage-first, species-appropriate approach with real-food ingredients and quality minerals can reverse insulin resistance and restore long-term health.We also talk about the microbiome's role in bioavailability, why collaboration between vets, nutritionists, farriers, and bodyworkers matters more than ever, and how horse owners can take ownership of their horse's health in the middle of a growing vet shortage.Follow The Elevated Equestrian Podcast so you never miss an episode, and find all the ways to connect, listen, and follow along at https://www.samanthabaer.com/links

What if a simple cotton swab could tell you more about your horse's health than a blood draw? In this episode, molecular biologist and cancer researcher Dr. Kimberley Mackenzie breaks down her groundbreaking work at For Martin Bio, where she's developing a saliva-based test that analyzes the sugar molecules — called glycans — attached to your horse's antibodies to reveal what's really going on inside their body.We get into how glycan research in humans has been able to predict type 2 diabetes up to seven years before traditional testing catches it, and why Dr. Mackenzie believes the same science could be a game-changer for conditions like EMS, Cushing's, and laminitis in horses. She explains how truncated glycans change the shape of antibodies and weaken the immune system, what the collection process actually looks like (spoiler: it takes about five minutes and a cotton swab), and why removing the stress of repeated blood draws matters more than most people realize.We also talk about the performance side — how this testing could help fine-tune training programs for sport horses by catching overtraining before injuries happen, the fascinating differences between how male and female glycans age in humans and what that might mean for mares versus geldings, and where AI fits into making all of this data actually usable for the everyday horse owner. Plus, I share a wild story about a client whose horse was treated for Cushing's for a full year before a second test revealed it didn't have it at all.Whether you're managing a competition horse or keeping your backyard pony healthy, this conversation will change how you think about preventative care.🎧 Follow The Elevated Equestrian Podcast so you never miss an episode and check out all the links → https://www.samanthabaer.com/links

What's really happening in your horse's brain when the pressure is on — and why does it matter for how we train? In this episode, neuroscientist and lifelong horse trainer Dr. Janet Jones (author of Horse Brain, Human Brain and the upcoming A Horse's World) joins the podcast to unpack the science behind the prey animal brain at every level of performance.We get into what's actually happening neurologically when a horse is stressed at a show, why confinement and tight tack make fear worse, how trust is built (and how quickly it can be broken), the difference between learning and performing in the horse's brain, why drilling destroys motivation while practice builds it, how surprise-based rewards create stronger neural connections than predictable food treats, and why the best thing most riders can do is simply slow down. Dr. Jones also shares why a horse's skin is more sensitive than a human fingertip, why it takes at least a year of daily interaction to build real trust, and how mixing disciplines keeps horses mentally and physically healthier.Whether you're starting a young horse, competing at the upper levels, or just trying to better your relationship with your horse — this one's packed with science you can actually use.🎧 Follow The Elevated Equestrian Podcast so you never miss an episode → available on Spotify & Apple Podcasts🔗 Find all things Elevated Equestrian: https://www.samanthabaer.com/links

Physical therapist and lifelong equestrian Dr. Allison Baier of EquiPT joins the podcast to explore why so many riders feel disconnected from their bodies in the saddle — and what to do about it. Drawing from her training in somatic experiencing and over a decade of physical therapy, Allie explains the "felt sense," how fight, flight, and freeze states show up in your riding, and why no amount of stretching or positive self-talk can release what's actually stuck in your body. We talk about why adult amateurs struggle with fear more than kids, how orienting to your environment can break a panic spiral at a show, and what happens when you stop trying to fix the problem and start noticing what's already working. If this episode hit home, do us a huge favor — follow the show, leave a rating, and share it with a rider who needs to hear this. It's the single best way to help us keep bringing conversations like this one to more riders. 🐴

Are you white knuckling your way through barn chores, rushing between rides, and wondering why your body keeps revolting? In this episode, nutritional therapist and endometriosis educator Katie Edmonds of Heal Endo breaks down the difference between CAN chemistry (cortisol, adrenaline, norepinephrine) and DOSE chemistry (dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, endorphins) — and why the one you're living in is shaping everything from your hormones to your horse's behavior.We talk about chronic inflammation as the root of conditions like endometriosis, PCOS, and Hashimoto's, why high-performing equestrians are especially prone to nervous system dysregulation, and how being a highly sensitive person in a sport that demands toughness creates a cycle that can wreck your health. Katie shares practical ways to shift out of survival physiology — including the concept of "pottering" — so you can show up for your horse from a place of regulation instead of white-knuckled control.Whether you're managing a diagnosed condition or just feel like something's off, this episode will change how you think about performance, partnership, and what it really means to take care of yourself so you can take care of your horses.Follow The Elevated Equestrian on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

In this episode Samantha Baer sits down with Linda Hauck, founder of Tapestry Equine Products, racetrack trainer, eventing technical delegate, and competition coach with over 40 years in the barn. Linda didn't design her products from a boardroom — she designed them because her horses were telling her something wasn't working, and she actually listened.They talk about why horses go to the back of the stall when you tack up, how the wrong girth kills movement and willingness, the spur Linda built after testing every option on the market on herself, and why the neck strap belongs on every horse regardless of level. If your horse seems duller or more resistant than they should be, start here.🎓 FROM STIFF TO SUPPLE IN 28 DAYSSix ride-along audio lessons coached in real time, right from the saddle. Presale is 40% off — code applied automatically at checkout. Ends March 14th. Stiff to Supple

Grete Jørgensen is a researcher at the Norwegian Institute for Bioeconomy Research who's spent years studying how horses communicate preferences — including the viral blanket study that taught horses to use symbols for yes and no. In this episode, we talk about what it actually took to teach horses to make choices, and what it revealed about how we train them.We get into why some horses were too shut down to even touch the board, the cold-blooded horse who kept asking for a blanket when everyone assumed he'd be fine, how positive reinforcement was the only way to make the study work, whether horses should have a say in how they're kept and trained, and why the culture of "kick and pull" often starts at Pony Club.Whether you're competing at the top level or just want a better relationship with your horse, this one's worth a listen.Connect with Grete:Horse Voice Project: nibio.no/en/projects/giving-the-horse-a-voice-horse-welfare-and-owner-awarenessNews article: nibio.no/en/news/2026/new-research-project-gives-horses-a-voice🐴 Ready to help your horse move better? Check out my course From Stiff to Supple in 28 Days – currently 40% off at $58 (regular $97). Presale ends March 15th. 👉 samanthabaer.com/courses

Samantha Baer sits down with Matt Brown, a five-star eventer and horse trainer based in Pennsylvania who's been vocal about rethinking how we use tools like whips in competition. In this episode, we talk about his journey from traditional, dominance-based training to a more horsemanship-focused approach - and what it took to make that shift while competing at the highest level.We get into why being named a Rio Olympic alternate was actually his lowest point, the difference between a shut-down horse and a horse with a voice, his decision to ride Kentucky 2025 without a stick, how outcome-based culture affects both horses and riders, and having honest conversations about what needs to change in horse sport.Whether you're competing or just trying to build a better partnership with your horse, this one's worth a listen.🐴 Ready to help your horse move better? Check out my course From Stiff to Supple in 28 Days – currently 40% off at $58 (regular $97). Presale ends March 15th.👉 Course

What if the resistance, crookedness, and tension you feel in your horse is actually coming from you? In this episode, I sit down with Matthias Agneessens — manual therapist, biomechanics specialist, and the man treating some of the world's top show jumpers — to break down exactly why rider posture and muscle activation is the missing piece most trainers never address. We talk about why your gym work might be making things worse, how a blocked psoas affects both you AND your horse, and why "fix the rider and all the horses get better" is the most underrated truth in equestrian sport.Work with Matthias - Www.move2ride.com 🎧 Speaking of unlocking your horse's body — my course From Stiff to Supple in 28 Days is in presale right now at 40% off. Six ride-along audio lessons you can listen to straight from the saddle. Presale ends March 14th — grab it here: https://www.samanthabaer.com/courses/stiff-to-supple-28-days

Presence is one of those things everyone in the horse world talks about but almost nobody explains how to actually get there. This week I sat down with high performance and nervous system coach Natalie Hummel and honestly this might be one of my favorite conversations we've had on the pod. We get into why presence is the single most powerful thing you can bring to your horse, what's actually blocking you from accessing it (and why it has nothing to do with focus or discipline), the real root underneath fear and performance anxiety, why awareness alone isn't enough to change your patterns, and how the work I do with horses and the work Natalie does with humans turned out to be almost identical. I also share my own burnout and people pleasing era that I'd honestly rather forget — but it's too relevant not to. If you've ever felt like you're doing everything right and still hitting a wall, this episode is going to reframe a lot for you.Your horse already knows how to be here. This is about catching up to them.🎓 My course From Stiff to Supple in 28 Days is in presale right now. Six ride-along audio lessons designed to systematically unlock your horse's body and yours. 40% off, code applied automatically at checkout. Presale ends March 14th. Grab it here: https://www.samanthabaer.com/courses/stiff-to-supple-28-days

What if your horse's biggest problem isn't behavior — it's that they can't feel you? In this episode, Josh Nichol joins the podcast to break down why so many horses shut down, spook, buck, or refuse to go forward — and why the answer almost never starts with the horse. We talk about the difference between lightness and softness, why tension stored in your horse's body is actually dormant behavior waiting to surface, and how your own unresolved triggers are showing up in every ride whether you realize it or not. Josh shares his framework around mind, space, and pressure — three core needs every horse has — and explains why desensitizing and sacking out aren't building the resilience you think they are. We dig into the danger of the current polarization in horsemanship, why good-hearted riders are the most paralyzed by fear of doing something wrong, and what it actually looks like to empower a horse to handle pressure instead of just removing it. If you're into equine psychology, nervous system training, groundwork, natural horsemanship, rider mindset, body mapping, emotional regulation in the saddle, or building a genuine partnership with your horse — this episode is packed. Follow The Elevated Equestrian Podcast so you never miss an episode and share this one with a rider who needs to hear it.

In this episode of The Elevated Equestrian podcast, Samantha Baer sits down with Inga Wolframm, Professor of Sustainable Equestrianism, to uncover the hidden biases in dressage judging. From eye-tracking research to AI-assisted scoring, they dive into the future of equestrian sports, sustainable horse training, and why flashy movement gets rewarded over correct biomechanics. Don't miss this deep dive into the biggest judging controversy in horse sport!

In this episode of The Elevated Equestrian, Samantha Baer sits down with horse trainer, author, and filmmaker Elsa Sinclair to ask the uncomfortable question that changed her entire approach to horses: do horses actually want to be ridden—if they truly had a choice? What starts as a simple question quickly opens the door to a radically different way of thinking about training, consent, and partnership.We talk about what it really means to train from the horse’s point of view, including Elsa’s decision to start a mustang without a halter, without food rewards, and without trapping or forcing participation. She shares how prioritizing the horse’s sensory and emotional systems—not just physical training—completely reshaped her understanding of motivation, cooperation, and trust.This conversation dives deep into sensory-based and emotional training, the peak-end rule and how horses form memories, and why many “problem behaviors” are actually patterns we unintentionally train into our horses. We also explore how these ideas apply to sport horses, especially sensitive, expressive horses who struggle with anxiety, explosiveness, or shutdown in high-pressure environments.If you’ve ever questioned where the line is between consent and compliance, or felt stuck between wanting partnership and needing results, this episode will challenge you—in the best way.👉 Subscribe to The Elevated Equestrian wherever you listen to podcasts for more honest conversations about horsemanship, performance, and putting the horse first without losing the joy of the sport.

When a horse is labeled “metabolic,” it often feels like the end of the conversation. In this episode, I’m joined by Alison Lepanto, founder of Cataract Nutrition, to challenge that assumption and explore what may actually be driving inflammation, behavioral changes, and metabolic red flags in horses.We unpack the difference between sugar management and toxic load, what GMO and herbicide exposure really means for equine health, and how nutrient density is lost from many modern feeds and pastures. We also discuss why some horses seem constantly hungry despite being fed “enough,” and how chronic inflammation can show up as both physical and behavioral symptoms.The conversation expands into pasture biology, rotational grazing, and hay diversity, including practical strategies for horses on dry lots, stall rest, or limited turnout. Alison shares accessible management approaches that support soil health, gut health, and long-term resilience without turning horse ownership into an all-or-nothing system.If you’ve ever felt like something is off with your horse but couldn’t quite explain it, this episode offers a new lens on longevity, welfare, and thriving—not just surviving. Follow The Elevated Equestrian and subscribe so you don’t miss future horse-first conversations.

Starting a young horse will expose your nervous system faster than any training issue ever could. In this episode, I sit down with Gabi Neurohr of Understanding Horses to talk about emotional regulation—why it matters, how horses mirror it, and what happens when we lose it under pressure. We dive into what it actually means to be a steady leader for a young horse, how to tell the difference between a horse that feels safe versus one that is simply compliant, and why spooking isn’t the problem—poor recovery is. Gabi shares her relationship-based approach to starting young horses, including how she uses clarity, timing, and emotional fitness instead of force, how to avoid getting stuck chasing perfection, and why slowing down often leads to faster progress. If you’re bringing along a young horse, rebuilding trust, or trying to stay calm when things get unpredictable, this conversation will shift how you think about training and leadership. 👉🏼 Follow The Elevated Equestrian on Spotify so you don’t miss future conversations on ethical horsemanship, rider mindset, and building better partnerships with our horses.

In this episode of The Elevated Equestrian, Samantha sits down with Jessica Howell — a licensed Thoroughbred trainer who is quietly rewriting the rules of racehorse development from the inside out.Jessica didn’t come up through the traditional racing pipeline. She came from eventing, classical dressage, and a background in producing sound, educated horses. And when she stepped into the racetrack world, she brought all of that with her — heart-rate-based conditioning, periodized programming, biomechanics, turnout, mental health days, and a level of horsemanship most people don’t associate with racing.Together, we dive into how racehorses are actually trained, why so many break down, and what a more thoughtful, horse-centric approach could look like. Jessica explains the structure of racehorse conditioning, the hidden costs of claiming races, the difference between American and European systems, and how classical principles can transform a horse coming off (or preparing for) the track.This conversation challenges assumptions, opens doors into a closed world, and paints a picture of what’s possible when responsibility, science, and real horsemanship drive the training process — even in a high-speed, high-pressure sport.If you care about soundness, welfare, and the future of the Thoroughbred, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.👉 If you enjoy this episode, please follow the show, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves horses. It helps the podcast reach more riders who care about doing things better.

In this episode of The Elevated Equestrian, Swiss Olympian and 5★ rider Felix Vogg joins me for a genuinely honest conversation about what it takes to stay competitive in one of the toughest sports in the world. We dig into the mental side of elite eventing—how he processes setbacks, why he doesn’t let failure freeze him, and what actually went through his mind after a heartbreaking fall at Badminton. Felix opens up about how he rebuilt, how he kept believing in his horses, and how that approach ultimately led to major wins at Maryland and Petroni later in the season.We talk about the years-long foundation behind a top event horse, why he rarely buys anything older than seven, and how individualized fitness and slow, patient development shape the longevity of a career. Felix shares why downsizing his string was one of the smartest decisions he’s made, how still grooming and handling his horses himself deepens their trust, and why understanding a horse on the ground matters just as much as riding them well. He also speaks candidly about the realities of running a high-performance program without endless owners or resources, and how that has shaped both his horsemanship and his mindset.If you’re interested in 5★ eventing, long-term horse development, the psychology of elite athletes, or what it truly takes behind the scenes to produce and maintain top horses, this conversation gives a rare, grounded look at all of it. It’s thoughtful, detailed, and full of insight for anyone who wants to build a stronger partnership or push their own riding forward.If you enjoy this episode, make sure to subscribe, share it with a friend, and help us keep growing The Elevated Equestrian—it means more than you know.

In this episode, Samantha sits down with rider, trainer, and tech sales professional Jacqueline Burke of Hablyn Hills Equestrian to unpack what it actually looks like to build a sustainable equestrian life without losing the love for the sport. Jacqueline shares how she went from broke working student with an FEI horse that couldn’t stay sound, to a successful career in tech sales and owning a 25-acre farm with 16 horses and a thriving training program.They dive into the surprising overlap between selling horses and selling software, the reality of stepping away from competition to get financially stable, why teaching became a core pillar of her business, and how she juggles remote work, a barn, staff, students, Florida/Aiken trips, and motherhood—with intention instead of burnout.If you’re trying to figure out how to afford your horse goals without living in constant survival mode, this one’s for you.👉 If you enjoy this episode, please follow, rate, and share The Elevated Equestrian—it helps more riders find these conversations.

This week, I sit down with trainer and former upper-level event rider Madison Solosi for a refreshingly honest look at what it really takes to reinvent yourself in this sport. Madison grew up homeschooled on a Michigan farm her parents built from scratch, went to Scotland to train with the legendary Ian Stark instead of college, competed through Intermediate, and eventually made the move to Virginia to build a business in a place with a deeper horse community.We talk about the mental and physical shift from eventing to show jumping, the culture shock of entering a new discipline, learning to be “the new kid” again, finding community in the jumper world, managing a 15-stall training program, and figuring out how to stay competitive while raising a family and rehabbing from a major injury.It’s a conversation about identity, ambition, resilience, and what it looks like to start over when the sport you love demands something different from you.If you’re listening along, tap follow and keep sharing the show—this whole thing grows because of you.

What if listening to your horse’s no actually created a stronger, braver, more confident performance partner?In this episode, Samantha Baer sits down with equine behavior specialist Adele Shaw to unravel the science and nuance behind choice, agency, and communication in performance horses. They talk about the difference between confusion, fear, pain, and true unwillingness, and how recognizing early signs of stress can prevent shutdown, blow-ups, and long-term behavioral issues.Adele explains how positive reinforcement works on a scientific level, why “kind” pressure is still pressure, and how riders can shift into training habits that build clarity instead of dependency on whips, spurs, and force. Samantha shares stories from the show-jumping and eventing world that highlight the real consequences of ignoring a horse’s signals—and the surprising transformation that happens when you adapt your training instead of pushing harder.This episode blends science, emotion, practicality, and real-world performance experiences. It’s an invitation to reexamine what partnership actually means and how much more a horse can offer when they’re given a voice in the process.Please Follow the podcast and leave a rating if you found value in this episode!

Equine physiotherapist and trauma-informed trainer Yasmine Stewart joins Samantha Baer on The Elevated Equestrian to explore how posture, pain, and performance are deeply connected to a horse’s lived experience. Together they dive into what “neutral spine” really means in motion, how enrichment and curiosity can create physical change faster than drills, and why honoring a horse’s agency can actually accelerate progress—not slow it down.Yasmine explains how nervous-system regulation shapes soundness, shares the link between trauma and posture, and offers a practical lens for navigating complex rehab cases like kissing spines and arena aversion. She and Samantha also dig into the gray areas of performance—how competition pressure affects both horses and humans, and whether true consent and high performance can ever fully coexist.If you’ve ever questioned traditional “make it happen” training or wondered how to protect welfare without losing direction, this episode will challenge and inspire you to see your horse—and yourself—differently.🎧 Follow, rate, and review The Elevated Equestrian on Spotify to help more riders find thoughtful, horse-first conversations like this one.

Why Producing Horses in America No Longer Makes Financial SenseFrench entrepreneur and horsewoman Marjory Berkache, founder of Equisale Sport Horses, joins Samantha for a brutally honest look at the real economics of horse sales and production in 2025. From importing horses from Europe to navigating pre-purchase exams and buyer expectations, Marjory breaks down why the U.S. market has become nearly impossible for breeders, trainers, and professionals to sustain.They dive deep into what’s driving global price inflation in horses—the rising cost of hay and farriers, America’s obsession with perfect x-rays, the surge of Chinese buyers in Europe, and how lease-to-buy agreements are reshaping the entire sales landscape. Marjory also shares insider insight on why only 18% of trainers actually pay themselves a salary and how the “show every weekend” mindset is breaking both horses and professionals.This episode is a masterclass in understanding the real business of horses—what it costs, why it’s changing, and what it will take to fix it.If you care about the future of horse sales, imports, and equine welfare, follow, subscribe, and leave a rating or review so more riders can find these conversations!

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Patricia Bona – human and animal chiropractor and creator of the Posture Prep cross-fiber grooming system – to talk about what your horse’s body is really trying to tell you. We get into posture as a true language, why dents, dings, girthiness, and “just hates grooming” are massive red flags, and how tight skin, scar tissue, and poor foot balance quietly shape your horse’s entire way of going.We also dig into the rider side: symmetry, old injuries, nervous systems, and how our habits in the car, in the barn, and in the saddle all feed into what the horse has to carry. If you’ve ever wondered whether your horse is actually “just a mare” or if you’re missing something important under your hand while you curry, this conversation will change how you look at your horse’s body forever.If you enjoy this episode, it helps a ton if you follow The Elevated Equestrian, rate the show, and leave a quick review.

What really happens when a horse gets to say no? In this episode, equine behavior consultant Brie Simpson of Grow Horsemanship joins Samantha for a deep dive into the science and feel behind positive and negative reinforcement, consent-based training, and what it actually means to give horses real choice and control. They unpack why “positive” doesn’t always mean kind, how timing—not tools—creates understanding, and how to recognize the moment a horse shifts from confusion to confidence. They explore thresholds, pressure that teaches versus pressure that shuts down, and the difference between compliance and true connection. From trailer loading and impulse control to fading food rewards and redefining what ethical training looks like in sport, this is one of those conversations that will quietly change the way you see everything you do with horses.If you believe training should feel better for both horse and human, follow The Elevated Equestrian, rate the show five stars, and share this episode with someone who loves a good rethink.

What if “feel” wasn’t intuition—but science you can learn? In this episode, Samantha sits down with Dr. Andrew McLean, zoologist, equitation scientist, and founder of Equitation Science International, to decode how horses actually learn. They dive into negative and positive reinforcement, classical conditioning, and the myth of “leg-into-hand.” You’ll learn why seat-only stops fade after five reps, how to retrain OTTBs who pull on the bit, the two-beat rule for perfect halts, and what true half halts look like.They also unpack arousal and downregulation, scratching at the wither as a physiological reward, and why giving horses touch, forage time, and agency can change their mental state. This is horsemanship stripped down to what the horse’s brain can understand—science that makes “feel” teachable.Follow and rate The Elevated Equestrian on Spotify to keep these evidence-based, horse-first conversations growing.

Learn how to read your horse’s mood, mindset, and nervous system in just three seconds. In this Hack Chat, Samantha breaks down the subtle body language cues hidden in something as simple as how your horse takes a cookie. Discover how lip tension, breathing, and small reactions reveal whether your horse is calm, anxious, or shut down—and how to use that information to build trust, improve relaxation, and create a better ride from the ground up.

What if your horse’s problems weren’t training issues at all—but sensory ones? In this episode, Samantha sits down with herd-dynamics expert Kerry M. Thomas to unpack the hidden operating system running every horse: sensory soundness. Together they explore how horses interpret their world, how herd wiring shapes stress, and why understanding the emotional system beneath behavior is the key to true connection.They talk about mares who multitask and geldings who “glitch,” what herd-bound behavior is really telling you, how early weaning and human pressure create lifelong stress patterns, and why the difference between a reaction and a response is everything in the saddle. Kerry explains why horses need mental warm-ups before physical work, how to stretch their emotional umbilical cord with time not distance, and what shared leadership really looks like in training.This is a deep, practical, and emotional look at the bridge between nature and sport. If you’ve ever wondered why your horse feels fine one day and fried the next, this episode will change how you see training, competition, and partnership forever.Follow The Elevated Equestrian wherever you listen, and if you love these conversations, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it really helps more riders find this work.

International Grand Prix rider and educator JJ Tate joins Samantha Baer for a deep conversation about what the “basics” of good riding really are — and why most of us have been chasing them the wrong way. We talk about creating a horse that’s powerful but liquid, how to develop true straightness and balance, and why classical dressage principles still matter in modern sport.JJ breaks down biomechanics and mindset in ways every rider can apply, from eventers to jumpers to devoted dressage nerds. We dive into the epidemic of too-long stirrups, the art of the real half-halt, how to find softness without losing power, and why good riding has nothing to do with strength and everything to do with feel.This episode is a masterclass in connection, confidence, and classical foundations that keep horses happy, sound, and proud of their work. Whether you’re polishing your position or rediscovering why you ride at all, this one will stay with you long after you hit play.If you love this conversation, it would mean the world if you follow, rate, and review The Elevated Equestrian on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. It’s the best way to help thoughtful, horse-first conversations like this reach more riders.

What if your horse isn’t the problem—it’s your body? In this episode, Samantha Baer sits down with international equestrian performance coach India Parker-Smith to talk about what it really means to be a strong, supple, and stable rider. Together they dive into why rider fitness, mobility, and body awareness are the missing links to better performance and happier horses.India breaks down what “engage your core” actually means, how to fix common imbalances, and why mobility beats stretching every time. You’ll learn simple pre-ride routines, the truth about breathing and tension, and how your posture might be the reason your horse keeps needing chiropractic work. Whether you ride dressage, jumpers, or eventing, this episode will help you ride better, feel stronger, and help your horse perform at their best.If you love the show, please take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe to The Elevated Equestrian. It helps more riders discover the podcast and join the movement to put the horse first while raising the standard of rider performance.

Most riders think tension is a training problem—but what if it’s not? In this conversation Samantha sits down with Karen Rohlf of Dressage Naturally to explore the real reason your horse won’t relax and why it often has more to do with trust, intention, and emotional balance than any specific technique.Karen explains how relaxation, energy, and balance form the foundation of healthy biomechanics and true power. We talk about recognizing the difference between a horse that’s quiet and one that’s shut down, how to use energy as a conversation rather than a command, and why your intention can completely change the outcome of a ride. We also dive into the small mindset shifts—like practicing with a timer or creating space for play—that rebuild confidence and connection from the inside out.This episode is for riders who want their horses to feel better after the ride, not just look better during it. If you’ve ever felt torn between getting results and keeping the relationship, this one will change the way you train.If you enjoy conversations that put the horse first, make sure to follow, rate, and share The Elevated Equestrian—it helps more riders find these horse-centered stories and keeps the community growing.

In this episode of The Elevated Equestrian, host Samantha Baer sits down with Piper Klemm, publisher of The Plaid Horse Magazine, to unpack the hard truths behind leadership, money, and accountability in American horse sport. Piper—who’s covered over a thousand horse shows across the U.S.—shares an insider look at the USEF salary structure, the growing gap between governing-body decision makers and grassroots professionals, and why so many riders feel unheard and undervalued.We dive into the future of equestrian governance, the power dynamics shaping modern horse shows, and how transparency, compassion, and volunteer-driven reform could rebuild trust in the system. From the realities of judging and prize money to the welfare of horses at every level, this conversation challenges the traditions holding the sport back—and imagines a better path forward for both horses and humans.If you’re passionate about equestrian reform, rider welfare, and accountability in sport, this episode will change how you see the future of competition.🎧 Subscribe, rate, and review The Elevated Equestrian wherever you listen—your support helps independent, rider-led media spark real change in the industry.

How do you really feed for performance? In this episode, equine nutritionist Dr. Holly Spooner—Vice President of Science and Innovation at Unbeetable Feeds—joins Samantha Baer to break down the science-backed fundamentals of horse nutrition. You’ll learn why forage-first diets outperform grain-heavy ones, how to read a feed tag like a pro, and what the latest research says about gut health, inflammation, and recovery.From understanding fiber’s role in the microbiome to balancing fat vs. glycogen for sustained energy, this conversation blends cutting-edge science with barn-ready simplicity. Whether you’re feeding a high-level eventer or a weekend partner, you’ll walk away knowing exactly how to fuel your horse for calm power, peak performance, and long-term soundness.Please subscribe and rate our podcast, it helps us be able to bring on more amazing guests!

What if your horse’s spook isn’t disobedience, but a sensory processing delay—or your own pressure showing up in their body? In this episode, Dr. Shelley Appleton of Calm, Willing, Confident Horses shares the pivotal story that changed her approach forever, the 80/20 skillset that forms the foundation of horsemanship, and why self-awareness is as critical as technique. We cover sensory soundness and herd dynamics (Kerry Thomas), protecting the show environment as a marble-jar of trust, rethinking “respect” as motivation and meaning, and how off-the-track Thoroughbreds benefit from no-rider canter therapy to rebuild force transfer. If you want calmer, more confident, more willing horses—and a clearer understanding of your role in the partnership—this conversation will change the way you ride.Please don't forget to subscribe to our podcast so we can keep having conversations like these!

Learn how to read your horse’s body with equine bodywork pioneer Jim Masterson, creator of the Masterson Method. In this episode, Samantha and Jim dive into the subtle signals—blinks, licks, chews, and yawns—that reveal tension, pain, or restriction in your horse. You’ll hear why issues in the feet, teeth, saddle fit, and riding mechanics often show up as tightness in the poll/atlas, how to tell the difference between restriction vs pain, and how to use the Search–Response–Stay–Release technique to build trust and improve performance. Whether you’re dealing with trailer loading stress, mounting block jitters, or “behavior problems” that aren’t what they seem, this conversation will help you see behavior as information, not defiance. If you want softer, sounder, and more connected rides, this episode is your roadmap.https://elevatedeq.base44.app/👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share—it helps more riders discover the podcast.

In this episode of The Elevated Equestrian Podcast, Samantha talks with Cathy Woods, creator of Body Mind Equine and author of Yoga for Riders, about the powerful connection between yoga and horsemanship.Cathy shares how awareness, breath work, and mindfulness can help riders feel more balanced, confident, and connected in the saddle. Together they explore how honoring your energy, listening to intuition, and finding the balance between “doing” and “non-doing” improves both rider wellness and the horse-rider partnership.If you’ve ever wondered how yoga, meditation, and breath work can make you a better rider and deepen your connection with your horse, this conversation is full of practical tools and inspiration.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe and share The Elevated Equestrian Podcast for more conversations at the intersection of wellness and performance.

In this episode of The Elevated Equestrian, Samantha Baer interviews William Micklem — international equestrian coach, author of The Complete Horse Riding Manual, and inventor of the world-famous Micklem bridle. Known for his welfare-first approach to horse training, William shares how his philosophy of calm, forward, and straight helps riders build confidence, achieve personal bests, and create happier horses.The conversation covers the inspiration behind the Go Rules TED Talk, why positive and generous coaching outperforms negativity, and how correct tack fit — from bridles to girths — transforms both comfort and performance. William explains why simplifying training leads to better results, how curiosity and courage shape great riders, and what it means to “create yourself through horses.”If you love thoughtful conversations about horsemanship, tack, and rider mindset, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast and share this episode with a fellow rider who would enjoy it.$15 off Ariat → share.ariat.com/samanthabaer

Could your barn lights be quietly making your horse worse? In this episode of The Elevated Equestrian, Samantha Baer sits down with Dr. Barbara Murphy, Associate Professor at University College Dublin and founder of Equilume, to explore the surprising connection between light and equine health. Barbara shares how barn lighting influences circadian rhythms, reproduction, metabolism, coat condition, behavior, and even whether horses experience jet lag. We talk about why blue light during the day can transform your horse’s wellbeing, how stable management practices often disrupt the body clock without us realizing it, and what every rider or barn owner can do to create a healthier environment. This conversation shines a light on one of the most overlooked aspects of horse care and performance.If you enjoy this episode, please rate, share, and subscribe—it helps us reach more horse lovers and bring you more expert conversations that can change the way you care for your horses!$15 off Ariat → https://share.ariat.com/samanthabaer

Every riding lesson drills position, technique, and discipline. But what about the piece no one talks about—the one that makes or breaks your confidence, focus, and connection with your horse?In this episode, Samantha Baer sits down with Lisa Eklund, founder of The Mindful Equestrian, to uncover the mindset side of riding most riders never get taught. From breaking perfectionist loops and handling show-ring nerves to finding curiosity instead of critique, Lisa explains how mindfulness transforms both everyday rides and high-pressure competition moments.You’ll hear stories about missed distances, mindset triggers, and why your horse is the ultimate truth-teller. Plus, practical tools you can use today—on the ground or in the saddle—to ride with more clarity, presence, and joy.If you’ve ever wondered why progress feels stuck despite endless lessons, this conversation reveals the missing link.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the show—every share helps more riders find these conversations.$15 off Ariat → https://share.ariat.com/samanthabaer

Lockie Phillips of Emotional Horsemanship joins Samantha Baer to challenge the industry’s favorite half-truths. They dissect what “empathy” actually means beyond buzzword status, why feel is a trained sense—not mysticism—and how escalating pressure became the default solution for imaginary emergencies. Lockie outlines a richer pressure alphabet (soft, firm, sliding, bouncing, motivational) and explains why horses need the right kind of confusion to become responsive instead of reactive.They dive into whips as “arm extenders” vs. plain old whipping, optics in modern sport, and how public scrutiny will force better behavior—whether we like it or not. Samantha shares real-world trailer-loading and show-environment stories; Lockie discusses rehabilitating a high-talent sport horse by first allowing “average” movement and teaching polite refusal. The throughline: emotional soundness creates physical soundness, partnership, and safety.$15 off Ariat → https://share.ariat.com/samanthabaer

In this episode of The Elevated Equestrian, Samantha sits down with equine sports performance consultant Tim Worden to explore what it really takes to develop horses for long-term soundness and success. Drawing from his background in biomedical science and kinesiology, Tim shares how principles from human athletics translate to equestrian sport — from conditioning and recovery, to data-driven training plans, to avoiding the pitfalls of overtraining.They discuss how to tell if your horse is fit enough for the job, the balance between active and passive recovery, and how technology like wearables and AI is shaping the future of horse training. Tim also highlights what everyday riders can learn from elite athletes, and why simplicity and consistency often outperform complex programs.$15 off Ariat → https://share.ariat.com/samanthabaer

Resilience has become the go-to buzzword in sport — especially in the horse world. But what if it’s actually working against us? In this episode of The Elevated Equestrian, Samantha Baer sits down with Dr. Jenny Susser, a clinical sport psychologist and former UCLA swimmer, to unpack why “just be resilient” is the most dangerous advice riders can follow. Together they dig into burnout, hustle culture, and the hidden cost of pushing through when your tank is already empty. Dr. Susser explains why energy management — not toughness — is the real key to lasting performance, and Samantha shares her own experiences of grinding harder only to end up sick and stuck. This conversation will challenge how you think about success, stress, and sustainability — both in and out of the saddle.$15 off Ariat → https://share.ariat.com/samanthabaer

n this Hack Chat, Samantha Baer dives into one of the most overlooked parts of horse training: teaching horses to truly relax. Too often riders mistake licking, chewing, pawing, tripping, or grabbing reins as signs of calm. In reality, those are self-soothing behaviors — not genuine release.Samantha explains why she never lets horses “reward themselves,” how to recognize the difference between distraction and real relaxation, and practical ways to help your horse down-regulate his nervous system on the ground or out hacking. From young horse confidence to positive reinforcement timing, this episode reframes the basics of horse training through the lens of mental health.If you’ve ever wondered why your horse spooks after tripping, or why offering a cookie at the wrong moment can build insecurity instead of confidence, this conversation will give you tools to create a calmer, more confident partner.👉 If you enjoy these Hack Chats, please rate, review, and share, and check out our other episodes!$15 off Ariat → https://share.ariat.com/samanthabaer

Is your horse really “lazy,” “grumpy,” or “stubborn”… or is it pain? In this episode, equine orthopedic specialist Dr. Sue Dyson breaks down the Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram . We dig into how subtle signs—like pinned ears, tail swishing, or breaking gait—are too often brushed off as training issues, when in reality they’re red flags for musculoskeletal discomfort.Dr. Dyson shares how to spot these behaviors early, why tack fit and rider balance play a huge role, and what riders can do to protect soundness, longevity, and welfare in sport. If you’ve ever wondered whether your horse’s resistance is behavioral or physical, this conversation will change how you see your ride. Explore the full Ridden Horse Pain Checklist here: 24horsebehaviors.org$15 off Ariat → https://share.ariat.com/samanthabaer

Samantha Baer sits down with Celeste Lazaris, founder of the Balance Through Movement Method, for a conversation that goes far beyond biomechanics. Together, they trace the journey from chasing adrenaline and “fixing” horses through force, to realizing that what most horses need is space, softness, and access to their own bodies. Celeste shares how bodywork opened her eyes to nerve compression, fascia, and posture as the real roots of so-called ‘behavior’ problems, and how nervous system regulation—both human and equine—changes everything about training.This isn’t just a technical deep dive. It’s about the humbling, ego-erasing moments that force us to see our horses differently, the grief of realizing how often pain was mistaken for disobedience, and the hope of finding new ways forward. If you’ve ever felt like your whole framework for riding and training came crashing down, this episode will feel like home.

Dr. Rachel Bellini, an equine veterinarian with over 30 years of experience, shares her holistic approach to equine health. From her years on the racetrack to her work with sport horses, she explains how posture and the nervous system are deeply connected to soundness, healing, and performance. Listeners will learn why traditional rehab often falls short, how joint extension and thoracic sling function impact horses, and practical ways to create calmer, healthier equine partners.

What really happens inside the hoof when laminitis strikes — and why are negative palmar angles becoming such a common issue? In this episode, Samantha Baer is joined by Alicia Harlov, hoof care provider, rehab facility owner, and host of The Humble Hoof Podcast. Together, we break down:The hidden role of the lamina and what “rotation” actually meansWhy 90% of laminitis cases are metabolic in origin — and the emergency diet that can make a differenceHow grass, grain, and even “safe” feeds can quietly trigger hoof problemsThe connection between posture, body pain, and negative palmar anglesWhy corrective shoeing alone often fails without addressing the whole horseYou’ll also hear a case study from my own mare — how her extreme shoeing setup, constant lost shoes, and mysterious body pain finally turned around through a combination of podiatry, bodywork, and in-hand training.If you’ve ever heard the phrase “no hoof, no horse” and wanted to know just how true that is, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of The Elevated Equestrian, Samantha Baer sits down with equine-partnered life and business coach, animal communicator, and author Kate Neligan for a powerful conversation on what horses can teach us about perfectionism, burnout, and trust.Kate shares how she went from corporate America to building a life around horses, and why our relationship with them goes far beyond riding. Together, we talk about saying “no” as clearly as horses do, why burnout can happen even when you love what you do, and how to find joy and presence again in a competitive world that constantly demands more.If this episode resonates with you, please make sure to subscribe to the show and leave us a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts.

In this episode of The Elevated Equestrian, Samantha sits down with Paul T. Haefner, Ph.D & Justin Haefner from Riding Far to unpack the concept of nervous system regulation in both horses and riders. With decades of experience spanning sports psychology, horsemanship, and young horse development, they explore how dysregulation shows up in the arena, why obedience isn’t the same as partnership, and what it really takes to build a calm, responsive, and connected horse. Listeners will walk away with a fresh understanding of polyvagal theory, co-regulation, and the neuroscience of trust — plus practical insights on trailer loading, fear management, and the hidden cost of traditional training.

Join Samantha Baer with FEI/Olympic coach Christoph Hess as he reveals how to create true horse‑rider harmony, chase Olympic dreams, and modernize equestrian training.