Adulting with Horses

By Adulting with HorsesLeisure Hobbies

Adulting with Horses episodes

October 02Dragon Season is Here: Of Course We're Getting Back in the Saddle, Right?
“It’s a great little taste of what it’s like to use the engine of the horse.”
Heather Wallace and Natalie Keller Reinert catch up on the realities of riding horses in fall weather, horse training, and the realities of building a creative career.
They chat about everything that moves, from horse behavior in changing weather to the behind-the-scenes work of getting books into the world. They also share a few personal wins, including riding progress, new covers, and meaningful reader feedback.
Key topics
Heather Wallace and Natalie Keller Reinert compare notes on how horses change with the weather, especially when fall air makes them feel lighter, more forward, and easier to collect.
They discuss the difference between a horse being hot because of weather versus being hot because of tension or frustration—and why that distinction matters for riding and safety.
Natalie shares that she has started cantering on purpose again, and Heather describes similar progress with Ferrous as both riders work back toward fitness and confidence.
The conversation gets into how smart, anticipatory horses need variety in training, with repetitive exercises often making them bored or too clever for their own good.
Heather explains how IEA riding shaped her as a rider because it forced her to adapt quickly to different horses, and how that experience still influences her confidence and horsemanship.
They talk about the value of riding school horses and unfamiliar horses as a way to improve, and Natalie considers getting back into that format next year.
They discuss reader support, reviews, and the emotional boost of hearing that a book or podcast episode mattered to someone.
Natalie shares frustrations about Goodreads reviews and the idea of a book “breaking containment”—reaching readers who expected something else and judge it unfairly.
Heather and Natalie reflect on writing for specific audiences, including younger readers, horse girls, and cozy romance readers who want comfort and familiarity.
They wrap up with updates on Equine Affaire, new paperback editions, upcoming releases, and the importance of bookstores and libraries for horse books.

Links:
www.adultingwithhorsespodcast.com
Instagram @adultingwithhorsespodcast
Twitter @AdultingHorses
Facebook Group, The Clubhouse: https://www.facebook.com/groups/adultingwithhorsespodcast/
Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
Thank you for being a little weird with us, horse girl! If you like what you hear make sure to subscribe to the podcast on your player of choice, join our Adulting with Horses Clubhouse on Facebook where you can become part of the show! Also, it’s a great place to meet other horse crazy women. Thanks and see you next time!
If you like what you hear but want a little more, become a Patreon member for extra bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes content with video, and more! https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
1 hr 3 min
September 18Hormonal Rage, Cancellation Policies, and the Perks of Living Apart Together
On this episode of the Adulting with Horses podcast, Heather and Natalie talk about Hormonal Rage, Cancellation Policies, and the Perks of Living Apart Together
Natalie Keller Reinert and Heather Wallace cover everything from respecting time and cancellation fees to the very practical realities of running a life, a business, and a family at full speed. What starts as a rant about a client trying to game a schedule turns into a bigger conversation about boundaries, burnout, hormonal chaos, travel, and what kind of partner actually fits into a busy life.
Key topics
Natalie and Heather break down why freelancers and independent contractors need cancellation fees, card-on-file policies, and clear onboarding rules
The conversation widens into a broader rant about people not respecting other people’s time, especially when they know better
Heather talks about being exhausted, burned out, and close to a breakdown after weeks and months without a real day off
Natalie and Heather discuss how they both tend to stay busy on purpose because slowing down makes room for thoughts and responsibilities they would rather avoid
The chat turns playful and candid as they talk about hormones, PMS, spotting, and how much mood can change with timing and food
Heather explains why she is not interested in dating right now, especially if it would require giving up autonomy, travel, or solo time
They land on a shared preference for unconventional relationships, including living apart together, separate houses, or arrangements that preserve independence
Natalie shares that she’s deep into writing a sweet cowboy romance and prefers sensitive men in fiction and real life
Heather describes the kind of man she finds attractive: protective, emotionally aware, and supportive without being controlling
The episode ends with lighter banter about travel, cruise planning, vacation anticipation, and Heather’s accidental concert ticket predicament

For our special bonus episode on trailer horror stories that really happened, make sure to join our Patreon!
Links:
www.adultingwithhorsespodcast.com
Instagram @adultingwithhorsespodcast
Twitter @AdultingHorses
Facebook Group, The Clubhouse: https://www.facebook.com/groups/adultingwithhorsespodcast/
Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
Thank you for being a little weird with us, horse girl! If you like what you hear make sure to subscribe to the podcast on your player of choice, join our Adulting with Horses Clubhouse on Facebook where you can become part of the show! Also, it’s a great place to meet other horse crazy women. Thanks and see you next time!
If you like what you hear but want a little more, become a Patreon member for extra bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes content with video, and more! https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
1 hr 4 min
September 11 Clubhouse LIVE: Horse Girl Besties with Sarah Welk Baynum
Hey horse girls, happy bonus day!
In this episode of AWH Clubhouse LIVE, we (Heather Wallace, Natalie Keller Reinert, and Ashley K. Winch) dive into the whirlwind of life that comes with juggling responsibilities, friendships, and, of course, our beloved horses. Heather shares the chaos of her kids starting school, with sports activities colliding in a perfect storm of scheduling madness.
We're joined by special guest and IRL author and podcast bestie, Sarah Welk Baynum!
Introducing the Not So Safe Word
Before bringing in their guest, the trio introduces a fun twist: a not-so-safe word. "Our not so safe word for today's episode is bestie," Ashley announces, prompting laughter and a toast. Every time the word is mentioned, a sip is taken, adding a playful element to the discussion.
In a world where life can feel overwhelming, this episode serves as a reminder to cherish the moments of joy, laughter, and companionship.
Take a moment to unwind, sip your drink, and join us for this delightful chat. Until next time, keep celebrating the beautiful mess that is life!
For more hearty laughs and engaging stories, tune into the full video episode on our Patreon!
Links:
www.adultingwithhorsespodcast.com
Instagram @adultingwithhorsespodcast
Twitter @AdultingHorses
Facebook Group, The Clubhouse: https://www.facebook.com/groups/adultingwithhorsespodcast/
Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
Thank you for being a little weird with us, horse girl! If you like what you hear make sure to subscribe to the podcast on your player of choice, join our Adulting with Horses Clubhouse on Facebook where you can become part of the show! Also, it’s a great place to meet other horse crazy women. Thanks and see you next time!
If you like what you hear but want a little more, become a Patreon member for extra bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes content with video, and more! https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
1 hr 5 min
September 04 Horses, Potatoes, and Adventures in Iceland: Is Heather Even Meant to Ride?
Heather and Natalie dive into the unexpected challenges of equestrian adventures, particularly during Heather's recent trip to Iceland. From tech mishaps to the trials of riding a particularly wide horse, their conversation is both humorous and relatable.
The episode kicks off with a lighthearted exchange about the absurdities of AI giving personal advice to Natalie.
Heather describes her recent tour in Iceland, where she found herself leading a group of riders of all skill levels. "It was like an adrenaline rush, such a good group of people," she shares. However, day two brought unexpected challenges when she encountered a horse that was a bit too wide for comfort.
The Dangers of Riding a Potato
Heather humorously refers to her horse as a "potato" due to its wide saddle, which led to some intense muscle spasms. "I was struggling to breathe... my muscles locked up," she recalls. The conversation shifts to the broader issue of horse breeding, with Natalie chiming in about the discomfort that wide horses can cause for riders.
For more stories and insights, tune into the full episode where laughter and learning abound!
Links:
www.adultingwithhorsespodcast.com
Instagram @adultingwithhorsespodcast
Twitter @AdultingHorses
Facebook Group, The Clubhouse: https://www.facebook.com/groups/adultingwithhorsespodcast/
Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
Thank you for being a little weird with us, horse girl! If you like what you hear make sure to subscribe to the podcast on your player of choice, join our Adulting with Horses Clubhouse on Facebook where you can become part of the show! Also, it’s a great place to meet other horse crazy women. Thanks and see you next time!
If you like what you hear but want a little more, become a Patreon member for extra bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes content with video, and more! https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
1 hr 10 min
August 07Ferrous Gets a Fan Club and the Power of Barn Family Presented by Farnum Endure Gold
Join Heather and Natalie in this episode presented by Farnum Endure Gold Killer Fly & Mosquito Control as they battle the heat (and the hum of the emergency AC unit) during Natalie's trip to New Jersey. Ferrous gets a fan club of one, Natalie confuses the horses, and Heather makes Natalie question whether she might need a barn family of her own. To be fair, she is quite good and getting people to question their lives.
In this episode:
Heather's unexpected guest (a.k.a. her horse Ferrous) and their humorous antics
The hilarious misunderstanding about horse names and personalities
Pony meeting tales and the surprises of horse personality quirks
Behind the scenes of a Maryland book signing and the vibrant local market scene
The charm and chaos of pet care, including cats' independence and horses' sensitivities
Practical tips on managing animal health and environmental concerns
The joy of sharing farm and horse life with friends and future plans
Lighthearted banter about household chores, laundry fails, and favorite adulting wins
The episode concludes with garden fantasies, flower updates, and estate zonings

Links:
www.adultingwithhorsespodcast.com
Instagram @adultingwithhorsespodcast
Twitter @AdultingHorses
Facebook Group, The Clubhouse: https://www.facebook.com/groups/adultingwithhorsespodcast/
Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
Thank you for being a little weird with us, horse girl! If you like what you hear make sure to subscribe to the podcast on your player of choice, join our Adulting with Horses Clubhouse on Facebook where you can become part of the show! Also, it’s a great place to meet other horse crazy women. Thanks and see you next time!
If you like what you hear but want a little more, become a Patreon member for extra bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes content with video, and more! https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
1 hr 4 min
July 31Saratoga to Saugerties: An New York Adulting Adventure
On this episode of the Adulting with Horses podcast, join us as we share hilarious stories from garden mishaps, epic travel adventures from Saratoga to Saugerties, and behind-the-scenes tales from the HITS horse show circuit. This episode will keep you laughing while offering insights into our crazy equestrian life.
Main Topics:
Personal stories of accidents and recovery
Travel adventures including wildfires, storms, and cross-border escapes
Insights into horse show experiences, trainer quirks, and rider tips
Adulting wins—celebrating small victories amidst chaos
Upcoming book signings, fairs, and the upcoming cruise

Resources & Links:
Maryland Equestrian Book & Market Fair
Cruise to the Caribbean - Book Today

Connect with the Hosts:
Natalie Keller Reinert - Twitter | LinkedIn
Heather Wallace - Instagram | Website

Links:
www.adultingwithhorsespodcast.com
Instagram @adultingwithhorsespodcast
Twitter @AdultingHorses
Facebook Group, The Clubhouse: https://www.facebook.com/groups/adultingwithhorsespodcast/
Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
Thank you for being a little weird with us, horse girl! If you like what you hear make sure to subscribe to the podcast on your player of choice, join our Adulting with Horses Clubhouse on Facebook where you can become part of the show! Also, it’s a great place to meet other horse crazy women. Thanks and see you next time!
If you like what you hear but want a little more, become a Patreon member for extra bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes content with video, and more! https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
55 min
July 17The Downfall of the Equestrian Center: Is Board Becoming Impossible to Afford? By Farnam Endure Gold
In this episode brought to you by Farnum Endure Gold Killer Fly & Mosquito Control, Heather Wallace and Natalie Keller Reinert explore the challenges and opportunities in the equestrian industry, focusing on boarding facilities, costs, sustainability, and innovative solutions to keep the sport accessible and thriving.
Keywords
equestrian industry, boarding facilities, horse boarding costs, sustainability, horse sport economics, horse community, equestrian business models
Key Topics
The rising costs of horse boarding and its impact on riders
Innovative boarding models like dry stalls and self-care options
The importance of community and collaboration in the horse industry
Economic challenges faced by large and small barns
Potential for nonprofit and grassroots initiatives to support amateurs
The influence of real estate and land ownership on facility sustainability
The role of regulation, licensing, and legal issues in boarding facilities
Strategies for affordability and accessibility in horse sports

Upcoming Events:
August 1, 2027, Equestrian Book Market and Fair with Natalie and Heather. August 1, 2026 from 11am to 2pm. Rutledge Ridge Farm: 2301 Rutledge Road, Fallston, MD 21047. Join us and other amazing authors!
November 12-15 Equine Affaire, MA. Adulting with Horses Podcast booth in the Better Living Center.
August 20, 2027 "Hijinks on the High Seas" Cruise with Heather and Natalie. Register here. (Horse husbands very welcome!)
Links:
www.adultingwithhorsespodcast.com
Instagram @adultingwithhorsespodcast
Twitter @AdultingHorses
Facebook Group, The Clubhouse: https://www.facebook.com/groups/adultingwithhorsespodcast/
Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
Thank you for being a little weird with us, horse girl! If you like what you hear make sure to subscribe to the podcast on your player of choice, join our Adulting with Horses Clubhouse on Facebook where you can become part of the show! Also, it’s a great place to meet other horse crazy women. Thanks and see you next time!
If you like what you hear but want a little more, become a Patreon member for extra bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes content with video, and more! https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
52 min
July 10Adulting with Horses Clubhouse LIVE: The Wild, Witty Ride with Saddle Talk
On this LIVE bonus episode of the Adulting with Horses podcast, Heather and Natalie join with their podcast bestie, Ashley K. Winch and Sandy and Cara from Saddle Talk, newly on the HRN network.
Buckle up, folks! Today's episode is a cocktail of hilarious adulting adventures, horse tales, ghost exorcisms, and enough sarcasm to keep your spirits high. If laughter, good friends, and a little bit of horse chaos sound like your jam, this one's a must-listen.
In this episode:
The chaos of Thursday night with kittens and cats conspiring against productivity
Secret game reveal: drink every time someone says the magic word "hint it begins with an 'F'"
Horse talk, Mustangs, and the art of turning bad decisions into epic adventures
Spooky ghost tales and haunted houses, complete with flaming tornadoes and uninvited spirits
Drinking, dating, and the hilarious truths about podcasting and friendship goals
How to build a community without buying followers, just pure authenticity
The scoop on upcoming horse radio network cruises and plans for Montana dude ranches
The art of social media burnout and how to keep it real while promoting your passion

Special Note:
Stay tuned for that upcoming cruise! Book now, bring your friends, and prepare for two days at sea, Bimini, and plenty of margaritas.<|endofshow_notes|>
Links:
www.adultingwithhorsespodcast.com
Instagram @adultingwithhorsespodcast
Twitter @AdultingHorses
Facebook Group, The Clubhouse: https://www.facebook.com/groups/adultingwithhorsespodcast/
Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
Thank you for being a little weird with us, horse girl! If you like what you hear make sure to subscribe to the podcast on your player of choice, join our Adulting with Horses Clubhouse on Facebook where you can become part of the show! Also, it’s a great place to meet other horse crazy women. Thanks and see you next time!
If you like what you hear but want a little more, become a Patreon member for extra bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes content with video, and more! https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
59 min
July 03Canter is a Four-Letter Word
Show Notes: The Canter Is a Four-Letter Word
This episode is brought to you by pure chaos, cruise dreams, and the emotional journey back into the canter.
Natalie and Heather kick things off with the kind of live, slightly unhinged energy only horse people can sustain before coffee fully kicks in. They share big news about their upcoming “Hijinx on the High Seas” cruise, a five-night adventure packed with theme nights, happy hours, games, prizes, and all the shenanigans a horse-loving adult could want away from the barn.
Then the conversation turns to the real beast of the episode: cantering. Why does it suddenly feel scarier in adulthood than it ever did before?
Natalie and Heather unpack the mental blocks, balance issues, fitness struggles, horse behavior, and the deeply relatable experience of feeling like your body and your brain are both negotiating terms with gravity. They also remind us that sometimes the horse is doing exactly what they should be doing, and we’re the ones falling apart at the seams.
In this episode:
Cruise announcement: “Hijinx on the High Seas”
Why cantering feels harder as an adult amateur
Balance, confidence, and rebuilding riding fitness
Adulting wins: AC survival, dinner mishaps, and bargain burgers

If you’ve ever thought, “I used to love this gait, why am I suddenly terrified of it?” this one’s for you.
Upcoming Events:
July 15, 2027 Impressions of Saratoga with Natalie. Learn more.
August 1, 2027, Equestrian Book Market and Fair with Natalie and Heather. August 1, 2026 from 11am to 2pm. Rutledge Ridge Farm: 2301 Rutledge Road, Fallston, MD 21047. Join us and other amazing authors!
November 12-15 Equine Affaire, MA. Adulting with Horses Podcast booth in the Better Living Center.
August 20, 2027 "Hijinks on the High Seas" Cruise with Heather and Natalie. Register here. (Horse husbands very welcome!)
Links:
www.adultingwithhorsespodcast.com
Instagram @adultingwithhorsespodcast
Twitter @AdultingHorses
Facebook Group, The Clubhouse: https://www.facebook.com/groups/adultingwithhorsespodcast/
Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
Thank you for being a little weird with us, horse girl! If you like what you hear make sure to subscribe to the podcast on your player of choice, join our Adulting with Horses Clubhouse on Facebook where you can become part of the show! Also, it’s a great place to meet other horse crazy women. Thanks and see you next time!
If you like what you hear but want a little more, become a Patreon member for extra bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes content with video, and more! https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
58 min
June 26Book Barn: BTS of Author Life
Behind the Scenes of a Writer’s Life: One Coffee Spill at a Time
Ever tried writing a novel between horse quarantines and housekeeper surprises? Welcome to the anthology of chaos, caffeine, and creativity! In this bonus episode of Adulting with Horses, you’ll learn how two authors navigate the wilds of writerly life — from the perils of distraction to the magic of whimsical garden spaces.
In this episode, we discuss:
How daily distractions — dogs, housekeepers, and the ocean — fuel or hinder writing progress
The importance of hobbies outside of writing, from craft projects to garden adventures
How to carve out those rare, precious two-hour writing blocks in a busy life
The mental and physical toll of juggling multiple projects, from books to Cruise Ship gift exchanges
The power of whimsy to keep creativity alive when life gets real
Real talk about the grind, including timelines for books and the realities of editing and revisions

Upcoming Events:
July 15, 2027 Impressions of Saratoga with Natalie. Learn more.
August 1, 2027, Equestrian Book Market and Fair with Natalie and Heather. August 1, 2026 from 11am to 2pm. Rutledge Ridge Farm: 2301 Rutledge Road, Fallston, MD 21047. Join us and other amazing authors!
November 12-15 Equine Affaire, MA. Adulting with Horses Podcast booth in the Better Living Center.
August 20, 2027 "Hijinks on the High Seas" Cruise with Heather and Natalie. Register here. (Horse husbands very welcome!)
Links:
www.adultingwithhorsespodcast.com
Instagram @adultingwithhorsespodcast
Twitter @AdultingHorses
Facebook Group, The Clubhouse: https://www.facebook.com/groups/adultingwithhorsespodcast/
Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
Thank you for being a little weird with us, horse girl! If you like what you hear make sure to subscribe to the podcast on your player of choice, join our Adulting with Horses Clubhouse on Facebook where you can become part of the show! Also, it’s a great place to meet other horse crazy women. Thanks and see you next time!
If you like what you hear but want a little more, become a Patreon member for extra bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes content with video, and more! https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast
37 min