Unbridled Therapists Podcast

Join Brianna Hammerman, LPC and Lisa Weiss, LCSW for an insightful conversation with Shelby Dennis, a horse behavior expert and author, as she shares her journey from competitive riding to advocating for ethical horsemanship and mental health. Perfect for horse lovers, trauma therapists, or anyone seeking a compassionate approach to life, this episode invites you to rethink strength, vulnerability, and relationships. Shelby’s insights challenge us to be more mindful, both in the saddle and in life.Shelby Dennis is the author of Secrets of the Horse, bridging the gap between animal behavior and mental health. If you’re ready to see horses—and yourself—in a new light, this episode is a must-listen.Purchase "Secrets of the Horse" here: https://milestoneequestrian.ca/publications

In this podcast, Brianna Hammerman, LPC speaks with Michaella Gallina, a former Wall Street investor and equestrian. She shares her expertise on financial wellness, value-based budgeting, and overcoming money stories, especially within the horse community. Discover practical tips to align your finances with your passions and build financial independence.

Most equestrians don’t realize how deeply their mental health impacts their connection with horses—and how open, honest conversations about emotional struggles can transform both rider and horse well-being. In this powerful episode, Maggie Carty—an equestrian, web designer, and mental health advocate—shares her heartfelt journey through injury, therapy, and the profound realization that mental health support is as essential as a good saddle.Discover how trauma, attachment styles, and the emotional toll of injury reshape the way riders relate to their horses and themselves. Maggie opens up about her experience with EMDR therapy, challenging the stigma around seeking help and highlighting how mental health care can be a game-changer. We break down concrete tools like EMDR, attachment theory, and the importance of community in healing, all tailored specifically for equestrians navigating the unique highs and lows of the sport.You'll learn why addressing mental health isn’t just a personal journey—it's an essential part of horsemanship that can improve your riding, deepen your bond with your horse, and prevent burnout or crisis. This episode empowers riders, trainers, and horse lovers to rethink the way we handle stress, trauma, and emotional resilience in the equestrian world, with actionable insights that can be applied today.Perfect for anyone feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure about seeking help—especially if you’ve ever felt isolated in the barn or misunderstood in your sport. Listening can be your first step toward greater emotional balance, stronger relationships, and a healthier connection to your horses. Maggie’s wisdom reminds us: mental health is the foundation of true horsemanship.Maggie is a full-time website and brand designer, equestrian, and mental health advocate, blending her passions to foster open dialogues within the horse community. Her insights on therapy, attachment, and resilience are redefining how riders care for their minds as rigorously as they do their horses.Join hosts Lisa Weiss, LCSW, and Brianna Hammerman, LPC—both equestrian therapists—as they explore the intersection of mental health and horsemanship. Because when we care for ourselves, we elevate the entire riding experience. Maggie Carty Golon is the founder of Maggie Carty Design, a boutique marketing and web design studio helping equestrian and farm businesses elevate their brands online. She blends strategy and creativity to build websites and marketing materials that truly resonate with audiences. A passionate advocate for the equestrian community, Maggie combines industry knowledge with creative expertise to help her clients thrive in competitive markets. When she’s not designing, you can find her immersed in all things horses, exploring the outdoors, or brainstorming her next big project.

In this honest and engaging conversation, Brianna Hammerman, LPC, Lisa Weiss, LCSW and Rylee Cudney dive into how social media is shaping the world of equestrian culture — for better and for worse. They open up about their own experiences and share real stories from the community, exploring how platforms like Instagram and TikTok fuel both inspiration and unhealthy comparison. From the pressure to present a perfect riding life to the emotional toll it can take, especially on younger equestrians, they unpack the mental health side of being online. With warmth and insight, they also offer thoughtful advice on how to use social media more mindfully — without losing your love for the ride.

In this episode, hosts Brianna Hammerman, LPC and Lisa Weiss, LCSW, have a heartfelt conversation about the emotional realities of horse care. They explore the complexities of herd dynamics, the impact of change on both horses and humans, and the often-overlooked challenges that caregivers face. Together, they reflect on the importance of community support, building trust in barn management, and showing compassion—especially during times of crisis. They also dig into the difference between healthy community connections and trauma bonds, offering insights into how emotional awareness can deepen our relationships, both with each other and with our horses.

In this honest and heartfelt episode, hosts Lisa Weiss, LCSW, and Brianna Hammerman, LPC, explore the emotional realities of being an equestrian — from the pressure to perform to the quiet mental hurdles riders often face alone. With support from Rylee, who brings her own perspective to the conversation and has been helping behind the scenes, the team dives into topics like community, vulnerability, cognitive distortions, and the importance of self-care. Whether you’re chasing ribbons or just trying to stay connected to the joy of riding, this episode is a reminder that your feelings matter — and you’re not in this alone,

In this episode, Brianna Hammerman, LPC and Lisa Weiss, LCSW welcome their new member, Rylee, as they dive into the many sides of therapy — from equine therapy to sports psychology. They chat about what a typical day looks like for therapists, juggling clinical work and paperwork, and what makes the job so fulfilling. Along the way, they bust some common therapy myths, talk about why emotional regulation matters, and why teaching practical life skills is so important. Plus, they share personal stories about how they got into this work and ideas on making therapy feel more approachable for everyone.

In this episode, Brianna Hammerman, LPC and Lisa Weiss, LCSW start with a few laughs over the quirky phrases and sayings that are totally normal in the horse world—but might sound bizarre to outsiders. Then, we dig a little deeper, exploring how some widely accepted norms in the equestrian community can feel out of sync with our personal values as riders and horse people. It’s a thoughtful (and sometimes funny) look at tradition, culture, and what it means to question the “way things have always been."

In this insightful podcast episode, mental health professionals Lisa Weiss, LCSW, and Brianna Hammerman, LPC, delve into the complexities of the often-overlooked issue of narcissistic abuse. The conversation explores the signs of emotional manipulation, the cyclical patterns of abusive relationships, and the vital role of community support. Lisa and Brianna highlight the importance of awareness and intuition in identifying red flags and offer practical tools for listeners to navigate these dynamics and seek healing. Helpful resources and websites for individuals who suspect they might be dealing with a narcissistic relationship: The Narcissistic Abuse Recovery ProgramWebsite: www.narcissisticabuserecovery.comDescription: This website offers tools, articles, and a structured recovery program designed to help individuals heal from narcissistic abuse. It also includes resources for recognizing narcissistic behaviors and how to break free from toxic relationships.. Out of the FOGWebsite: www.outofthefog.websiteDescription: This site offers resources for individuals dealing with narcissistic abuse and other personality disorders. It provides articles, tools, and a supportive community for understanding and healing from emotionally abusive relationships.Narcissistic Abuse Awareness & Support (NAAS)Website: www.naasca.orgDescription: NAAS is dedicated to supporting survivors of narcissistic abuse. It offers resources, support groups, and information on how to recognize narcissistic behavior and cope with the aftermath of abusive relationships.Therapists Specializing in Narcissistic AbuseWebsite: www.narcissisticabusetherapists.comDescription: This directory helps individuals find therapists who specialize in helping survivors of narcissistic abuse. It’s a valuable resource for anyone seeking professional support tailored to their experiences.

In this conversation, Lisa Weiss, LCSW and Brianna Hammerman, LPC, delve into the complex issues surrounding body image and eating disorders within the equestrian community. They discuss the societal pressures that contribute to negative body image, the normalization of unhealthy eating habits, and the importance of fostering a supportive community. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-acceptance, the impact of comparison, and the role of education in promoting a healthier relationship with our bodies. They also explore how to set positive examples for others and the importance of addressing these issues openly.Key Takeaways:The equestrian community often faces challenges related to body image and eating disorders.Many equestrians report disordered eating, yet few seek treatment.Cultural pressures contribute to a hostile environment for body image.It's essential to treat our bodies with the same care we give our horses.Normalizing discussions about body image can help younger riders.Comparison within the equestrian community can lead to negative self-perception.Self-acceptance is crucial for mental wellness in equestrians.Education about body changes during puberty is important for youth.Creating a supportive community can foster healthier body image.Mindfulness in how we speak about bodies can influence others positively.

In this episode, licensed therapists Lisa Weiss, LCSW, and Brianna Hammerman, LPC, dive into the common challenges people face with New Year’s resolutions. They explore why resolutions often fail, identify key barriers to success, and share evidence-based strategies for effective goal setting. Tune in for practical tips on how to set achievable, sustainable goals that align with your values and bring lasting change.

In this episode, join Brianna Hammerman, LPC, and Lisa Weiss, LCSW, as they dive into the crucial role of setting boundaries in the horse world. From ensuring the well-being of horses to fostering healthy, respectful relationships, Brianna and Lisa explore practical strategies for maintaining clear and effective boundaries. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or new to the horse world, this conversation offers valuable insights into creating a balanced environment for both humans and horses.

Brianna Hammerman, LPC and Lisa Weiss, LCSW explore the sometimes complex balance between managing life with horses. Brianna and Lisa provide tips on how to maintain a healthy balance as well.

From the intense schedules of training and showing to the relentless pursuit of perfection, riders and trainers can find themselves grappling with the exhaustion of burnout. Brianna Hammerman, LPC and Lisa Weiss, LCSW discuss recognizing the signs of burnout and the importance of prioritizing self-care.

Brianna Hammerman, LPC and Lisa Weiss, LCSW discuss how losing a horse can impact one's sense of purpose and connection to the equestrian community, as the barn may no longer be a safe space for solace and connection. They discuss ways of navigating grief after the loss of a horse.

Brianna Hammerman, LPC and Lisa Weiss, LCSW explore grief within the equestrian community. They discuss various forms of grief, including complicated grief and grief related to the ending of something, not just death. They reflect on how grief brings up layers of past losses, shaping how we handle and talk about loss in our communities. Brianna and Lisa explore the challenges of stepping away from equestrian activities due to injury or other reasons, and the importance of finding support from others who understand.

Brianna Hammerman, LPC and Lisa Weiss, LCSW explore equestrian anxiety both in and outside of the arena. They discuss examples of how equestrians experience anxiety, as well as what happens in the brain and body when an equestrian is anxious. They share their approach to managing expectations and finding purpose in their field, emphasizing the value of trust, preparation, and a growth mindset.

Brianna Hammerman, LPC and Lisa Weiss, LCSW explore the role of intuition as an equestrian. While seemingly different topics, they discuss their experience of using an animal communicator as well as how and when to set boundaries for riders and trainers.

Brianna Hammerman, LPC and Lisa Weiss, LCSW, discuss anxiety-inducing medical situations as horse owners. Brianna and Lisa also dive into the topic of the term "High Maintenance" and what it means when it's used to define Amateur Equestrians.

Brianna Hammerman, LPC and Lisa Weiss, LCSW, provide information on the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) model. They discuss how it can be helpful for individuals, families and couples.

Brianna Hammerman, LPC and Lisa Weiss, LCSW discuss Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). They dive into what EMDR is, how it works, and how it can be helpful for equestrians who have experienced horse-related equestrian anxiety.

Brianna Hammerman, LPC and Lisa Weiss, LCSW discuss more grounding techniques, getting present in your body, body awareness, and nonjudgemental self talk.

Brianna Hammerman, LPC and Lisa Weiss, LCSW discuss grounding techniques equestrians can use while at the barn with their horses. Transcript Here: https://tr.ee/4nKV2tB9ig

Brianna Hammerman, LPC and Lisa Weiss, LCSW, discuss who they are and the work they do with equestrian clients.