Dangerous at Both Ends, Tricky in the Middle

What does good actually look like for horses?Not the version we’ve inherited. Not the version that’s easiest to manage. The version that actually meets their needs. It's tricky,In this episode, Jen and Barbara dig into enrichment for horses.We’re talking ethology. What horses are built for. What they’re missing. Why that matters more than any system label, plus how you can find the gaps and fill them Because this isn’t just “track vs traditional livery.” It’s about whether the life we’re offering lines up with the animal in front of us. The individual needs of your animal.We pull in lessons from other industries, zoological collections/gardens (also caled zoos), cattle systems, places where thinking around individual needs and population-level welfare has moved on.And then we bring it back to real life. Our horses.  Our setups. Very different environments, where we all struggle to find that balance. And how we each tweak, adapt, and work with what we’ve got, by understanding what needs are being met… and what still needs filling.Because there’s no perfect system. But there is better thinking for us as humans.Got a situation you’re trying to figure out? Send us a voice note. Your horse. Your question. And we’ll work through it in a future episode.Real cases. Real answers.Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

In this episode, Jen and Barbara revisit a conversation that’s come back into the spotlight, one that clearly still needs to be had. We’ve reimagined our original pilot episode and asked the big question again: does positive reinforcement lead to biting in horses?While the original pilot is still available, this episode takes the discussion further. We dive much deeper into what actually causes biting in horses, unpacking the difference between correlation and causation, and clarifying why positive reinforcement itself isn’t the culprit it’s often made out to be.This reimagined pilot is packed with new insights, updated perspectives, and fresh examples. You can absolutely listen to the original pilot and this episode together, they complement each other beautifully and offer plenty of new and interesting takeaways.Enjoy the conversation.Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

This was our very first episode back in September 2023, and I’m reposting it here because it’s super relevant to our newest episode!In this podcast, we try something a little different: a debate! If you’re familiar with debate club rules, one person must defend the topic and one must oppose it. We did this using the current research in the field and went head-to-head to hash it out.There are points involved, plus some hidden secret words we have to sneak in to earn bonus points!Debating topics in horse care and equitation is valuable. Jen and I do this for fun and learning, and we still love each other afterwards. Good learning comes from respectful debate and from exploring different ideas and research within the field.Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

We’re back! Jen had the audacity to go and get married, and now I’m here editing this and complaining about her selfish behaviour… prioritising love over the podcast (how dare she!) 🤣It took us two hours to talk about this because it’s been way too long since we’ve recorded, so the chaos here is high and I refuse to edit more then I need to.Will these episodes get shorter? Maybe, Hopefully?Will they actually? Probably not. We just can’t stop.Enjoy the madness. References below. I definitely recommend “Tea and Consent”.Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast.References:“But my horse is well cared for”Can’t jump, won’t jumpTea and Consent Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

 In this episode, we take a closer look at the role of foraging in equine wellbeing. Horses are hard-wired to graze for many hours a day, so what happens when we limit or disrupt this natural behaviour? Barbara and Jen discuss their research, practical ways to support natural foraging, and how it links to emotional regulation, behavioural health, and performance. A must-listen for anyone wanting to support their horse’s welfare from the ground up. Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

In this episode we dive into the controversial and widely debated topic of dominance theory. Is it still relevant, or has modern behavioural science moved on? We chat about what dominance theory actually is, how it came to influence horse training, and why it continues to spark disagreement today.Join us as we explore what the latest research says, how dominance-based approaches compare with evidence-based, ethical training methods, and the real impact this has on horse welfare and human–horse relationships. As always, it’s an open conversation grounded in science, compassion and curiosity.Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

We’re back from our summer break and kicking off a brand new season! 🎉In this episode, we catch up on what we’ve been up to, what’s coming next for the podcast, and some of the things we’ve been reflecting on over the break.Our main topic this week is language both the words we use when we talk about horses, and the “language” horses use to communicate with us.We explore:How the language we use shapes our mindset, expectations, and welfare decisionsThe difference between describing behaviour vs. labelling the horseHow horses communicate emotional states through posture, movement, and subtle expressionWays to shift from judgement to curiosityAnd how a more thoughtful vocabulary can lead to better understanding and kinder trainingThis is a reflective, gentle, conversation-based episode a thoughtful place to start the new season together.We’re happy to be back. 💛Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

Welcome to a powerful and timely special episode of our podcast. In this edition, we tackle the investigation by RTÉ that uncovered shocking systems of animal-welfare abuse and food-safety failures in the horse-slaughter industry. We’ll unpack:How hundreds of horses declared unfit for human consumption ended up in slaughterhouses. The Abuse that took place in the slaughter house, uncovered by RTÉ documentary.The mechanics of identity fraud and traceability failures in the equine food chain. First-hand interviews from protesters outside the slaughterhouse site and what it means for horse care, regulation, and public trust.For the first time on our show, we dive deep into the uncomfortable side of the industry, exploring why these failures matter for us as equine professionals, and how we as behaviourists and caretakers can respond.Join us as we listen, learn, challenge, and think about what real welfare, transparency and ethical oversight should look like in horse care.Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

In this episode, we chat all about desensitisation and more importantly, how it differs from systematic desensitisation. These terms often get used interchangeably, but they’re not the same!We break it down in a practical and horse-friendly way:What each method actually involvesHow they’re used in behaviour modificationWhen things can go well… and when they can go wrongWhy careful planning and ethical considerations are keyJoin us as we explore how to build confidence and reduce fear in horses using evidence-based approaches, with a dash of humour, honesty and real-life case examples.Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

 Here we talk about Extinction, when a behaviour reduces because it no longer “works” for the horse. We look at what extinction bursts are, what emotional responses can show up, and when extinction may or may not be an ethical or effective choice. Clear, considerate, and welfare-focused. Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

 This short episode dives into Shaping, reinforcing small steps toward a bigger behaviour. We explore how to break behaviours down, how to celebrate progress, and how shaping creates confidence and curiosity in learning. Ideal for anyone wanting more softness, clarity, and joy in their training. Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

 In this episode, we take a calm and honest look at Positive Punishment, adding something aversive to reduce behaviour. We discuss why it’s widely used, why it can create fallout, and how it affects emotional state and trust. No judgement, just clear, science-based exploration to help listeners understand the implications.Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast.  Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

 Here we explain Negative Punishment, removing something the horse wants to decrease a behaviour. We talk about time-outs, the role of clarity, and how to avoid frustration or confusion. A gentle, practical overview of a concept often misunderstood in training discussions. Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

 This bite-sized episode focuses on Positive Reinforcement: adding something the horse values to encourage behaviour. We chat about food rewards, scratches, marker signals, and what makes reinforcement actually reinforcing. Perfect for anyone curious about introducing R+ into training routines. Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

 In this quick bonus episode, we break down what Negative Reinforcement really is — and what it isn’t. We talk about the role of pressure and release in horse training, how timing shapes the horse’s experience, and how this form of learning can be used thoughtfully and ethically. Short, simple, and straight to the point. Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

In this episode, we explore a big and sometimes hotly debated question in the horse world: Is riding bitless safe?We look at what the research says, how bitless bridles actually work, and the factors that influence safety from training and communication to physical comfort and emotional wellbeing. We also unpack some of the common myths and assumptions (on both sides of the bit vs. bitless conversation).This isn’t about declaring one method “right” or “wrong” it’s about understanding the horse’s experience, improving clarity in our cues, and making informed, welfare-focused choices that support the individual horse in front of us.Whether you’re curious about trying bitless, already committed to it, or just want to hear a thoughtful discussion, this episode offers perspective, nuance, and plenty to think about.Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

In this episode, we take a closer look at how everyday habits, both human and equine, shape behaviour, wellbeing, and the relationship we build with our horses.We explore what positive habits really look like for you and your horse, how they form, and why consistency matters more than perfection. From small routines around handling, training, and care to the internal habits we carry as humans ,such as expectations, emotional regulation, and timing, we discuss how these patterns influence learning and trust.Building positive habits isn’t about rigid rules or doing things “right” all the time. It’s about awareness, compassion, and creating environments where both horse and human can succeed. This episode invites you to reflect on the habits you’re reinforcing, notice what’s working (and what isn’t), and make intentional choices that support welfare, learning, and a calmer, more connected partnership.Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

In this festive episode, we share the story of the time we were hired by Santa Claus himself to help with some behavioural modification for one of his reindeer!This particular reindeer was having feelings about pulling the sleigh  and when you’re part of a global overnight gift-delivery team, that’s kind of a big deal.With Santa’s permission (he was very generous and fully consented to the case being discussed  he loves education!), we walk you through:What the behaviour looked likeHow we assessed the reindeer’s emotional state and motivationThe training plan we developedAnd how it all turned out on the big night ✨It’s a light-hearted, cosy, story-style episode full of seasonal cheer, training insight, and a reminder that even magical animals deserve compassion, patience, and good reinforcement schedules.Grab a hot chocolate, curl up, and enjoy this one  it’s a Christmas treat. 🎅🦌💫Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

In this episode, we take a closer look at how to recognise what’s normal horse behaviour and what may be a sign that something is off.We talk about how horses communicate stress, comfort, curiosity, pain, and emotional wellbeing and why context is everything. From subtle posture changes to bigger behavioural patterns, we explore how to observe horses with curiosity rather than judgement.Understanding what is “normal” for an individual horse is key to good welfare, effective training, and strong relationship-building. This episode is all about tuning into the horse in front of us, listening to what they’re expressing, and responding in a way that supports them.Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

In this episode, we break down Learning Theory, what it is, why it matters, and how it shows up every day in our interactions with horses (whether we realise it or not).We explore the core principles behind how animals learn, including reinforcement, punishment, shaping behaviour, and emotional associations. Most importantly, we talk about how understanding these concepts can make us clearer, kinder, and more effective in our training.If you’ve ever wondered why a behaviour happens, why something works (or doesn’t), or how to build training that truly supports your horse’s wellbeing, this episode is for you.Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

In this episode, we dive into one of the most important questions in horse training: How can we set our horses up for success?We talk about what “success” actually means from the horse’s perspective, how environment and emotional state shape behaviour, and the small training adjustments that make a big difference. From clear communication to thoughtful reinforcement, we share practical ways to support your horse so learning feels safe, achievable, and enjoyable for both of you.This episode is all about building confidence, reducing frustration (in horses and humans!), and creating those lovely “ah-ha!” moments that make training feel good.Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923

Welcome to our very first episode! The audio is a little rough around the edges (we were still finding our sea legs), but the conversation is a good one.In this episode, we explore a big question in the horse training world: Does positive reinforcement lead to biting?We dig into what the research says, where the concern comes from, and how training approach, timing, and clarity can shape behaviour. Whether you’re new to positive reinforcement or already using it in your horse’s training, this discussion offers food for thought, reassurance, and maybe a few laughs along the way.Voice note your questions on WhatsApp to +353 85 143 8688 to have your questions answered on the Podcast. Meet Your HostsBarbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie📧[email protected] ☎️+353 85 143 8688 Jen Nash (The Equine Method)www.theequinemethod.co.uk📧 [email protected] ☎️+44 7902920923