In this special episode of the Canter Therapy podcast, Shelley and Kat sit down with American horseman Bob Wood for a fascinating conversation about authentic horsemanship, rider development, leadership, and the timeless principles that underpin good horse training.

Trained originally by a former US Cavalry horseman, Bob shares decades of hard-earned wisdom from a lifetime spent teaching riders, training horses, coaching eventers and polo players, restarting troubled horses, and helping people understand the deeper “why” behind effective horsemanship.

In this episode, Bob explains:

• What has been lost in modern horsemanship and rider education

• Why good lesson horses and correct rider development matter

• How to develop an independent, balanced seat by learning to move with the horse

• The importance of leadership in creating true partnership with horses

• Why some abused or dangerous horses may initially require “dominance” as Bob defines it, not cruelty, but clear, confident influence and boundaries

• The difference between leadership, domination, and partnership

• Why horses need humans to demonstrate competence and reliability

• The problems created by social media horsemanship trends, over-humanising horses, and confusing sentimentality with training

• How pressure, feel, timing, and attention shape horse training far more effectively than gimmicks or dependency-based approaches

This is an honest, thought-provoking conversation that bridges old-school horsemanship wisdom with modern discussions about welfare, rider skill, and horse behaviour. Whether you’re a beginner rider, experienced trainer, or simply passionate about horses, this episode offers valuable insights into what it really takes to create calm, willing, confident horses and competent, grounded riders.

We are incredibly grateful to Bob for sharing his experience and perspective, and we know this will not be the last conversation we have with him.

To find out more about Bob Wood

Website: http://www.triplecreekfarmpa.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BobWoodHorsesForLife

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UClZRgcA-CIydVmlMARcIq0A

To find out more about Canter Therapy Podcast

Website: https://www.cantertherapy.com.au

To find out more about Dr Shelley Appleton

Website: https://www.calmwillingconfidenthorses.com.au

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calmwillingconfidenthorses

Instagram: @calmwillingconfidenthorses

To find out more about Kathryn Christieson

Website: https://firenzapark.com.au

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FirenzaPark

Instagram: @firenzapark