The Highline Herd

In this episode, we’re sharing a listener story that starts on a fourth generation ranch and builds into a full-on cowboy coming of age moment. Raised “double homozygous for horses,” this rider spent his childhood chasing dreams in the saddle until one split-second decision at 13 led to a wreck he’d never forget. We’re talking a steep canyon trail, a deer chase gone wrong, a horse flipping into barbed wire, and a tumble into a creek that could’ve ended way worse. From a dazed walk for help to a sheriff thinking something much darker was going on: this story has it all. But the real takeaway? The next morning, there was no sympathy… just fence to fix and a lesson that stuck for life.Thank you so much John for taking the time to write this epic tale and sending it in!

With the Pony Express in our near future this June & hitting a big milestone for the Highline Herd Podcast, we’re diving into the history of the original route: crossing the continental divide, carrying mail coast to coast, and leaving behind a legacy we’re about to experience for ourselves.

We talked about why planning your facility is important, but another common looked over aspect is the pastures or turnout areas. Today is all about the different types of pastures, fencing, feed/water options, maintenance & much more.

In today's episode we will discuss the optimal stall design for different horses and barns. We'll cover things like gates versus guards versus doors (half or full?), half walls versus full walls, size, and more. Tune on in so we can deep dive into designing that dream stall!

So you want to buy a horse property? What are some of the major things you should consider and look at ? Driveway width, drainage, water pipes, electric, hydrants, and more are all important considerations when deciding if a property can house horses and meet their needs.

Hay & forage is one of the most important yet easiest looked over aspect of horse care. Today we break it down and cover all aspects of figuring out what your horse might need.

Supplements are everywhere and you've most likely heard someone recommend brands or types to feed, but the big question is- are you wasting money on supplements? Lets dive into what they are and what you should know.

Something you may have heard of but not experienced firsthand could be extremely beneficial to your horse- equine physical therapy. What are some therapy options and how can they be applied?

Shelby and Skylar sit and chat about a new DIY project and why they got it, tying everything back to previous episodes about purchasing equipment.

In this episode, we break down what we’ve learned about trailers. From budget mistakes to safety details most people overlook, we’re talking about the things no one tells you before you hand over the check.If you’re thinking about upgrading, downsizing, or buying your first trailer — this could save you money, stress, and regret. Consider this your honest trailer talk.

In this episode, we’re diving into the hidden corners of the horse world — the niche disciplines, unconventional paths, and riders who refuse to follow the mainstream. From skijoring to mounted archery, endurance to jousting, we’re talking about what happens when you carve your own lane.Because the truth is… not everyone was meant for the rail and if you’ve ever felt out of place in the horse industry, this one’s for you.

In this episode we talk a little about what we're planning for the 2026 season and how we're preparing our horses for the many rides ahead! Make sure to check out out YouTube and Instagram for some sneak peaks!

Is there a limit to teaching a horse something new? To changing habits? When is it worth it and when isn't it? In this weeks episode we talk about how age might affect horses- or at least what the common misconception is.

Occasionally folks get worried about being too old or too young to get into horses, training, or lessons. Is there any truth to that? Lets find out!

In todays episode we talk about the handful of base personalities that you will see with horses, how to handle them, and how to approach them.

In this episode we cover who we are, an introduction into our lives and the horses who share it. We also discuss the different experiences that led to this podcast and what we plan to touch on in future episodes.This is purely to help you get a feel for who we are and what we want to do. Horse ownership is hard enough, no need to do it alone!

In this episode we will cover the depths of blanketing! While we covered blanketing in a previous episode, this one breaks things down even more! As the temperature shifts its important to be prepared so tune in!

Its cold, its wet and muddy, or there's ice and deep snow. Either way, its hard to find time to ride. In this episode we talk about what else can we do with our equines in the winter.

Campground etiquette, dealing with non-horse campers, what you should expect and more in this episode! Inspired by our latest trip to Hocking Hills & Pine Creek Horseman's Camp.

Today we talk about a spooky encounter out in the heart of Hocking Hills Ohio. A reminder that you are never alone out on the trail and the land hold many secrets.

In this episode we discuss the process of adding a new horse to the herd. Quarantine, records, introductions, and more. We'll also discuss how to identify hierarchy disputes versus bullying. Tune in and lets get your herd happy!

In today's of episode of the Highline Herd, we cover the importance of quarantine and understanding some of the most contagious diseases that can effect our horses. Buying a new horse is exciting but carries risk, so tune in and let us help!

The first episode for our new series: Tales from the Trails! Where we share your stories on the podcast so make sure to email us any for the chance to be featured!Shelby and I talk about our most recent trail experience that went…off the deep end.

Trigger Warning to sensitive listeners, this episode features topics of death and euthanasia.In this episode we begin discussing the process of adding a new horse to the herd but around 17 minutes in switch gears and cover a more serious topic- euthanasia. This is a topic we wished more equestrians talk.

In today's episode, we discuss everything you need to know before bringing your first horse home. Obvious topics like buckets, vet, and farrier but we will also discuss what you should have on hand just in case! First aid, wraps, tools, tack, and more!

Something so simple yet so hard to do when working with horses, in todays episode we dive deep into how to set realistic goals and give examples of what some might be based on your equestrian background.

Today's episode is geared towards the newer horse owner but is an import topic for all. How to trailer, what to look for, and all the seemingly small things that make a huge difference in your trailering experience.

What do you need to know? What should you carry? How do you use it? Owning horses requires independence and a knowledge of wound care so in today's episode we help figure out just that!

It's summer and the heat is here, so how do we help keep our equine friends cool? Join us as we talk about what we do for our horses and what to look out for when dealing with heat stroke in horses.

One of the most important things you will have when working with horses is the name and number of a good farrier and vet. But how do you know if they're good? In this episode we will cover how to select a vet and farrier that is a good fit for you and your horses.

In this episode we discuss how to best prepare your horse for trail riding. From something as simple as saddle bags and jacket removal, to sticks in tails and bushwhacking. Trail Riding isn't for the faint of heart so lets prepare together!

We talk a lot about trail riding with others on this podcast but today's episode covers what it's like riding out alone. Things to keep in mind and things to prep for. Tune in and let us know if there's anything else you do before a solo ride!

What does consent with horses actually mean? Where and when is it applicable? How do we encourage it and how do we handle situations where something has to happen regardless? Let's figure it out together in this week's episode!

Join us as we dive into sharing the Trip out West and Packing Clinic. We learned a bunch, saw as many sights as possible, and met some amazing folk along the way!

In today's episode we cover working with and handling young horses. Following our theme, we start with Skylar's young mustang, Sundown. Then we transition into a more general discussion about working with babies, domesticated or not.

Today we have a very special episode for you guys! A long time cowboy, horseman, trainer, and new friend is willing to speak with us about his past. Specifically, mustangs! So lets gather round the campfire and hear some old cowboy tales!

This episode might be a little shorter, but we keep on the mustang theme! This episode is talking about the modern day mustang and our control methods. Why it all exists. Our goal is spread information, and let you decide how far to go. Tune on in and lets learn about our modern mustang wranglers!

On todays episode we are talking about the history of America's wild mustangs! Most people don't know how much of an important role mustangs played in American history so we're here to talk all about it!

In today's episode, we are talking briefly about an upcoming trip and how it will change HH's direction. So stay tuned and keep an eye out on our social media!

This is a topic based off of experience. Every cowboy, trainer, owner, rider, and groom will tell you a different way to bond with your horse. In this episode we try to gather all of that for you to choose from and apply to your own steed. Having a bond, a partnership, with your horse sets you up for success.

So you want to buy a horse. Tune in to this episode and learn what to ask, what to look for, and what to be aware of. We cover seller red flags, green flags, and tips and tricks.Horse shopping should be a rewarding process, so let's figure it out!

In today's episode, we discuss the necessary preparations you need to make before traveling with animals. How best to prepare them and yourself for travel and new experiences. Testing things in a controlled, safe environment helps ensure success while traveling. It will also help keep a level head!

In this episode we cover how to plan a trip. This will be based off our personal experiences and what we have learned from others. We cover everything from our own needs, the animals, to checklists and vehicles.

In this episode, we discuss what we pack for our horses and why. We cover veterinary care supplies, including our main choices for wound ointment. We also cover the other supplies you should consider packing; extra hay, shavings if they're stalled and more! Its important to know what you're packing and why, so a list is a huge help.

In this episode we cover trail riding. The dos and donts, preperation, what to pack, and more. You might see a lot of people ride with saddle bags, why? We tackle that too! This episode might be a bit shorter but we really just want to help you be prepared, so dive on in and ride with us.

As the weather shifts, a lot of people start horse shopping for coming show season, leases for trail riding, or lessons. While age and training are important, another important consideration that is lacking is the rider/horse suitability. You see people list horses with their age, color, breed, experience, or search for horses with this critiriea. But you have to consider your size/build as well as the horses to consider true suitability. In this episode we try to cover just that so tune in!

In this episode we tackle the unknown of getting into horses, the stuff you can't easily find on the internet. Everything in this episode is spoken from personal experiences, speaking to trainers, instructors, and other horse owners. So if you or your child is looking into horses, whether ownership, lessons, or leases, tune on in! Let's get horsing!!

In this episode we talk about getting ready for spring. We discuss the necessary veterinary care (and why its important), rider and horse fitness, and tack checking/preparations. This episode will have some additional clarification of terms so that new horse enthusiasts will understand what we are discussing.

In this episode, we explore the perks of setting up sacrifice lots for your horses, especially when you’re working with limited or rotating pastures. We’ll cover surface options like sand, grass, dirt, and gravel, and how to create safe, functional spaces. Plus, we’ll talk about important things like drainage, equipment access, daily cleaning and upkeep. Whether you’re caring for one horse or a few, we’ve got tips to keep your horses happy and healthy in their new space!

In this episode we cover watering horses in the winter. We talk about different ways to make the water appealing and encouraging them to drink. You can lead a horse to water AND make them drink!! It's possible so tune on in.