Because of the Horse Podcast

What if your horse isn't being difficult, but is actually trying to tell you something?

We've all had those moments when something just isn't working with our horse. Maybe they're swishing their tail, becoming tense, resisting an exercise, or simply shutting down. It's easy to think we need to change our training approach or try a little harder. But what if the most important thing we could do is slow down, get curious, and really listen?

In this thoughtful panel conversation, Rachel Jessup, Kirsten Nelson, and Lynn Reardon explore the subtle ways horses communicate stress, pain, discomfort, and overwhelm. Together, they unpack the five defensive strategies of the nervous system, how physical and emotional challenges can show up as behavioral issues, and why recognizing the smallest signals can make such a difference in our relationship with our horses.

You'll discover how patience, observation, and breaking things into smaller, manageable steps can help your horse move from tension toward relaxation. Because sometimes the greatest progress doesn't come from doing more. It comes from noticing more, asking better questions, and meeting our horses where they are today.

Chapters & Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to recognizing when things aren't working with our horses

01:17 The subtle signs that may reveal deeper issues

03:42 Understanding the five defensive strategies of the nervous system

08:25 Recognizing physical signs of stress, tension, and discomfort

12:15 What to do when your horse is struggling or something isn't working

17:11 Why curiosity, observation, and awareness matter in training

21:02 Balancing our training expectations with where our horse is today

27:08 Looking deeper to understand whether the issue is training, pain, or overwhelm

30:52 The power of patience, small steps, and ending on a positive note

43:21 Final thoughts on listening, understanding, and supporting our horses

With so many training methods, opinions, and possibilities available to us, it can be surprisingly easy to become overwhelmed. Sometimes the most useful next step is not finding another technique, but slowing down long enough to notice what the horse in front of us is actually telling us.

In this panel conversation, Kirsten Nelson, Julie Robbins, and David Lichman explore the horse’s nervous system, physical and emotional wellbeing, and the role safety plays in learning. Together, they offer a thoughtful way to sort through different approaches without feeling as though you have to find the one “right” answer. From watching the eyes and breathing to using video, pausing when you feel stuck, and learning from the moments that do not go as planned, this conversation is an invitation to observe more closely, stay curious, and let your horse help guide the learning process.

Chapters & Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction and Panel Overview
00:33 – The Importance of the Horse's Nervous System
04:48 – Signs of Stress and Defensive Behavior in Horses
06:04 – Relaxation Response as a Foundation for Learning
07:12 – A Holistic Approach to Physical, Mental, and Emotional Fitness
10:48 – Physical Health Checks and Knowing When to Look Deeper
11:31 – Observing Horse Communication Through the Eyes and Breathing
14:58 – Using External Observation and Video Feedback
16:33 – What to Do When You Feel Paralyzed by Too Many Options
20:23 – Learning From Mistakes and Observing Ourselves
33:26 – Balancing Multiple Learning Methods
37:23 – Sorting Through Conflicting Training Advice
44:09 – Believing in Your Horse and Personalizing the Training
55:48 – Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

Resources

☆ The Zen and the Art of Animal Training by Jennifer Zellig – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C7F4X7X1
☆ Madison's work on horse communication – https://www.linkedin.com/in/madison
☆ Art of the Horseman Online Horse Fair – https://artofthehorseman.com

In this thoughtful conversation, Paula sits down with renowned horseman Martin Black to explore a lifetime shaped by generations of horsemanship, wild horses, and the traditions that continue to influence how we work with horses today. Martin shares stories of his family's deep roots in the American West, the mentors who shaped his understanding, and the lessons that can only come from years of quiet observation.

Together, they explore how a horse's environment, stress levels, and natural instincts influence behavior far more than many people realize. Rather than focusing on control, Martin invites us to slow down, pay attention, and see the horse in front of us as an individual. It's a conversation filled with wisdom that reminds us true horsemanship begins with understanding.

Chapters & Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction and Martin Black's Heritage
01:13 – Deep Family Roots and Historical Background
02:03 – The Black Family's Ranching Legacy in Idaho
03:28 – Horse Breeding and the Remount Program
05:27 – The Role of Horses in Western Development
07:24 – Wild Horse Gatherings and Trailing
10:51 – Bringing Young Horses into the Herd
12:56 – Training Young Horses and Herd Management
15:53 – Patience, Observation, and Timing
18:46 – How Environment Shapes Horse Behavior
22:37 – Natural Living and Healthy Horse Development
26:25 – Learning from Legendary Horsemen
35:38 – Refining Horsemanship Through Mentorship
44:52 – Understanding Stress and Desensitization
50:35 – Finding Balance Between Pressure and Relief
01:02:15 – Reading Horse Language and Behavior
01:12:47 – Wild Horses Compared to Confined Horses
01:17:18 – Breeding, Pasture, and Natural Behaviors
01:20:04 – The Future of Horse Care and the Industry
01:25:27 – Observation as a Foundation for Better Horsemanship
01:30:20 – Creating Environments Where Horses Thrive
01:34:30 – Why Experience Still Matters
01:38:56 – Science, Biomechanics, and Lifelong Learning
01:40:04 – Closing Thoughts and Resources

Guest Link:

☆ Martin Black Official Website: black.net

Resources:

☆ Get a Free Ticket To The Online Horse Fair --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/free-ticket
☆ Access All Horse Fair Presentations In Our Membership --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/membership
☆ Visit Our Merch Store --> https://shop.artofthehorseman.com/
☆ Follow Us On Facebook --> https://www.facebook.com/ArtofTheHorseman
☆ Follow Us On Youtube --> https://www.youtube.com/@Artofthehorseman
☆ Follow Us On Instagram --> https://www.instagram.com/artofthehorseman

In this heartfelt and illuminating conversation, sisters Linda Tellington-Jones and Robyn Hood share the story and philosophy behind the Tellington Method — a revolutionary, heart-based approach to training and understanding horses. They reflect on decades of work developing the T-Touch and the groundwork practices that have inspired horse lovers around the world to connect with greater empathy, mindfulness, and awareness.

From the early days of skepticism to widespread acceptance, Linda and Robyn describe how observation, intention, and compassionate touch can change not just a horse’s behavior, but their relationship with people. This episode is a celebration of softness, curiosity, and the incredible power of understanding horses from the inside out.

Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 | Introduction to Tellington-Jones Method
02:29 | The Evolution of Groundwork in Horse Training
08:28 | The Importance of Connection and Awareness
13:05 | Sisterly Influence and Shared Journeys
14:26 | Skepticism and Acceptance in the Horse Community
20:47 | The Role of Empathy in Training
22:05 | Understanding Horse Behavior through Swirls
27:54 | The Development of T-Touch Techniques
33:28 | Expanding T-Touch to Other Species
37:46 | The Power of Intention in Training
38:15 | The Power of Intention in Equine Work
41:23 | Understanding Horse Behavior and Communication
45:15 | Adjusting Goals and Expectations in Training
47:32 | Exploring the Tellington Method
54:25 | The Philosophy Behind T-Touch and Bodywork
01:00:11 | The Future of Tellington Method and Its Impact
01:14:09 | Podcast Outro

Resources
☆ Get a Free Ticket To The Online Horse Fair --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/free-ticket
☆ Access All Horse Fair Presentations In Our Membership --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/membership
☆ Visit Our Merch Store --> https://shop.artofthehorseman.com/
☆ Follow Us On Facebook --> https://www.facebook.com/ArtofTheHorseman
☆ Follow Us On Youtube --> https://www.youtube.com/@Artofthehorseman
☆ Follow Us On Instagram --> https://www.instagram.com/artofthehorseman

In this fascinating conversation, Paula is joined by Mark Rashid, Dr. Steven Peters, and Crissi McDonald, the authors of A Horse's Life: The Neuroscience of Equine Welfare. Together, they explore how neuroscience helps us better understand what our horses experience beneath the surface, and why that understanding leads to kinder, more effective horsemanship.

☆ Book Amazon Link: A Horse's Life: The Neuroscience of Equine Welfare
☆ Mark Rashid: https://www.markrashid.com/ 
☆ Dr. Steven Peters: https://www.horsebrainscience.info/ 
☆ Crissi McDonald: https://www.crissimcdonald.com/ 

Rather than viewing behavior as something to fix, this episode invites us to see every response as meaningful communication. Through heartfelt storytelling and practical science, you'll discover how patience, curiosity, and a deeper understanding of the equine nervous system can help build trust, support healing, and strengthen the partnership between horse and human. 

Chapters & Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction to the panel and the new book
00:59 – How the collaboration began and the book came to life
02:02 – Blending storytelling with neuroscience
04:15 – Understanding the horse's nervous system through real-life cases
06:59 – Why familiar horse stories take on new meaning through science
07:34 – The collaborative writing process and lessons learned
10:34 – Recognizing the difference between calm confidence and learned helplessness

Guest Links:

☆ Book Amazon Link: A Horse's Life: The Neuroscience of Equine Welfare
☆ Mark Rashid: https://www.markrashid.com/ 
☆ Dr. Steven Peters: https://www.horsebrainscience.info/ 
☆ Crissi McDonald: https://www.crissimcdonald.com/ 

Resources:

☆ Get a Free Ticket To The Online Horse Fair --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/free-ticket
☆ Access All Horse Fair Presentations In Our Membership --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/membership
☆ Visit Our Merch Store --> https://shop.artofthehorseman.com/
☆ Follow Us On Facebook --> https://www.facebook.com/ArtofTheHorseman
☆ Follow Us On Youtube --> https://www.youtube.com/@Artofthehorseman
☆ Follow Us On Instagram --> https://www.instagram.com/artofthehorseman

In this insightful episode, Darci shares her expertise in mental performance coaching for equestrians, guiding riders to better understand themselves and their horses through awareness, nervous system regulation, and connection. She explains how breathwork, self-reflection, and intentional practice can help riders manage anxiety, quiet negative thought patterns, and build confidence from the inside out.

Through her own experiences and success stories, Darci reminds us that personal growth is an ongoing journey and that true partnership with the horse begins with knowing ourselves. This conversation offers practical, heartfelt tools to help you stay grounded, present, and connected in and out of the saddle.

Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 | Introduction to Mental Performance Coaching for Equestrians
03:16 | Overcoming Fear and Building Confidence in Riding
06:05 | The Importance of Understanding Our Nervous System
08:51 | The Connection Between Human and Horse Emotions
11:25 | Tools for Expanding Our Comfort Zone
14:22 | Breath Work: A Key to Managing Stress
17:04 | Practical Applications of Mental Techniques Off the Horse
24:58 | Building Habits for Equestrian Success
26:50 | Transforming Negative Narratives
31:21 | Understanding the Impact of Childhood Experiences
33:38 | The Evolution of Personal Growth
39:40 | Navigating Anxiety and Confidence in Riding
43:26 | Introduction to Epops Performance
44:22 | Understanding Your Nervous System
44:27 | Podcast Outro

Resources
☆ Get a Free Ticket To The Online Horse Fair --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/free-ticket
☆ Access All Horse Fair Presentations In Our Membership --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/membership
☆ Visit Our Merch Store --> https://shop.artofthehorseman.com/
☆ Follow Us On Facebook --> https://www.facebook.com/ArtofTheHorseman
☆ Follow Us On Youtube --> https://www.youtube.com/@Artofthehorseman
☆ Follow Us On Instagram --> https://www.instagram.com/artofthehorseman

In this heartfelt and eye-opening conversation, internationally respected horseman Warwick Schiller shares how his approach to training has evolved from performance-focused techniques to a deeply relationship-based practice. He speaks candidly about his journey of self-awareness and how understanding energy, intention, and emotional regulation can completely transform the way we connect with horses.

Warwick’s wisdom reminds us that horses are mirrors, reflecting not just our actions, but our state of being. Through patience, presence, and collaboration, he shows that horsemanship isn’t about control or perfection, but about building trust and awareness, one thoughtful moment at a time.

Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 | Introduction to Warwick Schiller and His Journey
02:37 | The Passion for Horses and Personal Growth
05:31 | Understanding the Relationship with Horses
10:20 | Shifting Perspectives in Horsemanship
15:07 | The Importance of Energy and Intention
19:40 | Awareness and Communication with Horses
28:59 | The Importance of Awareness in Communication
29:50 | Reflections on Past Experiences with Horses
31:14 | Understanding Horse Behavior and Responses
32:36 | The Connection Between Horses and Human Relationships
34:31 | The Value of Allowing Horses to Say No
35:40 | Evolving Perspectives on Horsemanship
38:13 | The Shift from Skills to Relationship in Training
40:09 | Interspecies Empathic Communication and Collaboration
42:51 | The Power of Community and Collaboration
44:42 | Acclimatizing vs. Desensitizing Horses
47:00 | Steering Techniques and Avoiding Resistance
51:24 | Podcast Outro

Resources
☆ Get a Free Ticket To The Online Horse Fair --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/free-ticket
☆ Access All Horse Fair Presentations In Our Membership --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/membership
☆ Visit Our Merch Store --> https://shop.artofthehorseman.com/
☆ Follow Us On Facebook --> https://www.facebook.com/ArtofTheHorseman
☆ Follow Us On Youtube --> https://www.youtube.com/@Artofthehorseman
☆ Follow Us On Instagram --> https://www.instagram.com/artofthehorseman

In this powerful and compassionate conversation, Amanda Wilson shares her journey from a nervous rider to a confident, mindful trainer whose work blends body, mind, and emotion. Drawing on years of experience with the Wilson Sisters, Amanda reveals how understanding equine psychology and stress responses can completely transform the way we train and care for our horses.

She explores the importance of communication, observation, and nutritional balance, reminding us that horses mirror our energy and emotions. With a focus on connection over control, Amanda invites listeners to approach desensitization, bodywork, and behavioral training with empathy, awareness, and genuine curiosity.

Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 | Introduction to Holistic Horsemanship
03:32 | The Journey of the Wilson Sisters
06:06 | Understanding Equine and Human Psychology
09:12 | The Importance of Clear Communication with Horses
11:51 | Recognizing Stress and Relaxation in Horses
14:32 | The Role of Emotional Triggers in Horse Behavior
17:36 | The Impact of Physical and Chemical Stressors
20:10 | The Importance of Observing Body Language
22:49 | Nutritional Considerations for Horse Health
25:28 | The Role of Human Responsibility in Horse Care
28:33 | Desensitization vs. Flooding in Training
31:07 | Practical Applications of Trigger Work
34:01 | Conclusion and Resources for Further Learning
42:02 | Podcast Outro

Resources
☆ Get a Free Ticket To The Online Horse Fair --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/free-ticket
☆ Access All Horse Fair Presentations In Our Membership --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/membership
☆ Visit Our Merch Store --> https://shop.artofthehorseman.com/
☆ Follow Us On Facebook --> https://www.facebook.com/ArtofTheHorseman
☆ Follow Us On Youtube --> https://www.youtube.com/@Artofthehorseman
☆ Follow Us On Instagram --> https://www.instagram.com/artofthehorseman

In this thoughtful conversation, Wade Black shares his journey from growing up on a working ranch to becoming a respected educator and advocate for quality in the horse industry. With decades of experience spanning both Western and English disciplines, Wade brings a refreshing perspective on what it means to develop horses and people with integrity, patience, and purpose.

He discusses the need for higher standards in horse training, the role of life experience in shaping both horses and riders, and how true horsemanship is rooted in healthy relationships and community support. This episode is a call to raise the bar in equine education not through competition, but through care, curiosity, and connection.

Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 | Wade Black’s Journey in Horsemanship
05:31 | The Future of Equine Education
10:15 | Quality Standards in Horse Training
14:35 | The Importance of Life Experience in Horses
19:32 | Bridging Disciplines: Western and English Horsemanship
24:11 | Community and Support in the Equine Industry
28:59 | Promoting Healthy Relationships in Horsemanship
36:39 | Podcast Outro

Resources
☆ Get a Free Ticket To The Online Horse Fair --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/free-ticket
☆ Access All Horse Fair Presentations In Our Membership --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/membership
☆ Visit Our Merch Store --> https://shop.artofthehorseman.com/
☆ Follow Us On Facebook --> https://www.facebook.com/ArtofTheHorseman
☆ Follow Us On Youtube --> https://www.youtube.com/@Artofthehorseman
☆ Follow Us On Instagram --> https://www.instagram.com/artofthehorseman

In this deeply insightful episode, Paula sits down with Sarah Schlote, founder of Equusoma and a pioneer in trauma-informed horsemanship. Together they explore how understanding the nervous systems of both humans and horses can lead to profound healing and connection.

Sarah shares how trauma shapes behavior not just in people, but in our equine partners—and how curiosity, self-regulation, and awareness can transform the way we relate to our horses and ourselves. This conversation offers a thoughtful look at how emotional safety, compassionate observation, and nervous system attunement can create lasting change in human-animal relationships.

Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 | Introduction to Trauma-Informed Horsemanship
03:38 | The Journey to Equisoma: Bridging Human and Equine Healing
06:22 | Understanding the Human-Equine Relationship
08:52 | Addressing Trauma in Humans and Equines
12:00 | Creating Safe Environments for Healing
14:34 | Self-Regulation and the Nervous System
17:15 | The Impact of Guilt and Shame on Animal Owners
20:12 | Tools for Healing and Resolution
23:40 | Curiosity Over Judgment
25:57 | Understanding Coping Mechanisms
28:52 | Building Capacity for Emotional Awareness
31:47 | Processing Incomplete Responses
34:25 | The Role of Curiosity in Healing
36:39 | Human and Equine Parallel Experiences
39:32 | Creating Safety in Relationships
41:20 | Presentations on Nervous System Awareness
45:58 | Podcast Outro

Resources
☆ Get a Free Ticket To The Online Horse Fair --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/free-ticket
☆ Access All Horse Fair Presentations In Our Membership --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/membership
☆ Visit Our Merch Store --> https://shop.artofthehorseman.com/
☆ Follow Us On Facebook --> https://www.facebook.com/ArtofTheHorseman
☆ Follow Us On Youtube --> https://www.youtube.com/@Artofthehorseman
☆ Follow Us On Instagram --> https://www.instagram.com/artofthehorseman