In this episode, we talk with AQHA APHA NSBA VRH Judge Lori Gordon about her journey from a pony-crazy kid in Pennsylvania to an experienced horse show judge with international experience. She shares practical, judge-level advice on showmanship, turnout, and what exhibitors often miss in the pen. We also cover how she built her career without growing up in a horse training family, the value of fairness in judging, and why she believes great shows are about enjoying the process, not just winning.

In this episode of Splash of Color, we sit down with renowned horseman and judge Scott McFarland to take a deep dive into one of the fastest-growing and most exciting classes in the show pen—Disciplined Rail.

Scott shares his unique perspective from the judge's stand, explaining what separates the top exhibitors from the rest, the most common mistakes he sees in the arena, and how riders can better prepare for success. We also explore how disciplined rail has evolved over the years, what the future may hold for the class, and how thoughtful class design creates a fair, challenging, and enjoyable experience for both horses and exhibitors.

Whether you're an exhibitor looking to improve your scores, a judge wanting to refine your eye, or simply a fan of the equine industry, this conversation is packed with practical advice and behind-the-scenes insight. Scott also discusses the importance of communication and trust between horse and rider, the differences between English and Western disciplined rail calls, the balance between creativity and safety in course design, and how technology is changing the judging process.

Tune in for an engaging conversation full of expert knowledge, practical tips, and a fresh look at one of the most dynamic classes in today's horse shows.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What makes a winning disciplined rail performance

• The judging criteria that matter most

• Common exhibitor mistakes—and how to avoid them

• How judges develop fair and effective rail calls

• The future of disciplined rail competition

• Scott McFarland's journey as a respected judge and educator

Whether you're heading to your next horse show or just love learning from the industry's best, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

In this episode, multi-carded judge Wayne Hipsley shares his extensive experience judging horses worldwide, insights into equine law, and tips for horse owners and judges. Discover key takeaways on industry trends, legal protections, and the future of the horse industry. Wayne brings experiences from all over the world when it comes to judging and this podcast is filled with fun stories that even the most accomplished judges and horsemen can relate to. Be sure to SHARE, LIKE and FOLLOW the Splash of Color Podcast because it's really great stuff!

Ever wonder what really goes through a judge’s mind during Western Pleasure? AQHA APHA NSBA Judge Jamieson Gross discusses how Western Pleasure is a detailed process rooted in a hierarchy of correctness, quality, and degree of difficulty. From perfect cadence to relaxed expression, every movement counts, but what truly matters is that correct gait and how effortlessly the horse moves.

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Ever wondered how chiropractic care can transform your horse's performance? 🤔 Let’s dive in!

In our latest episode, West Michigan native Dr. Addison Lohman shares her journey from a childhood filled with horses to becoming an expert in equine chiropractic care. 🐴✨ She reveals how adjustments can improve not just the physical health of horses, but their overall well-being and performance in the show ring.

AQHA APHA WCHA Judge Clint Fullerton and a renowned halter horse exhibitor, shares his journey into judging, his expertise in halter horses, and tips for exhibitors. In this episode, Clint shares his top five tips for showing halter; from judging criteria, presentation and industry insights. Whether you are a season halter exhibitor or new to this horse show event, there are excellent takeaways for every level. Be sure to follow, like and share the Splash of Color podcast with your friends, because it's really good stuff!

Ever wondered what it's like to be a horse show scribe? While Tate Gill may be relatively new to the horse show scribing world, he is no stranger to AQHA showing and competing at the highest level. In Episode 48, Tate shares his journey into horse scribing, the skills needed, and tips for aspiring scribes. Filled with insightful information and fun stories, discover how scribing enhances the understanding of judging, builds connections, and offers unique opportunities within the horse industry.

Join the Splash of Color Podcast with Dr. Roni Jo Roth as we discuss veterinary care for dogs at horse shows, including vaccination protocols, disease prevention, and managing stress and emergencies. Dr. Roni Jo is a small companion animal veterinarian and PtHA exhibitor who shares expert tips to keep your furry friends healthy and safe during the horse show season. Be sure to like, follow and share the Splash of Color Podcast with a friend because it is really great stuff!

Taft Dickerson and Kate Marie of Taft Dickerson Show Horses are making Western Pleasure cool again! Kate is the producer of popular and entertaining videos focused on Taft's "coaching hand signals" used during the pleasure classes. In this episode, Taft shares his top 5 tips and advice that everyone should be doing when it comes to the western pleasure, as well as the influence that social media plays. Together, they share horse training experiences, personal journeys, social media impact, challenges and rewards of the pleasure horse and the need for a positive spin on the western pleasure discipline. This is quite honestly, one of the best episodes yet so be sure to like, share and follow the Splash of Color Podcast because it's really great stuff!

In this episode of the Splash of Color Podcast, Amy Franks discusses with APHA Judge Sonnesa Gooding, of Bauer & Gooding Show Horses horsemanship essentials with some Top 5 Tips everyone should be doing. In addition to her experiences within the equine industry, Sonnesa shares advice on how to excel in horsemanship, emphasizing the importance of understanding patterns, knowing the rule book, and the positive approach judges take during horse shows. Whether you are a national level rider, a DIY or just starting out, this episode has fantastic takeaways for every rider at any level. If you love horse shows and horse showing, then be sure to share, like and follow this podcast because it's really great stuff!