Because of the Horse Podcast

In this thoughtful and transformative conversation, Don Jessop shares his lifelong journey in horsemanship and how the lessons learned from horses have shaped his understanding of leadership, learning, and personal growth.

Through stories of trust, connection, and humility, Don reminds us that true mastery isn’t about control, it’s about curiosity. He explores how our environment, our mindset, and our willingness to keep learning directly influence our relationship with the horse. From trail riding and energy management to teaching boundaries and emotional alignment, Don offers practical wisdom and perspective that reaches far beyond the arena.

This episode is a heartfelt reflection on how horses help us grow, not just as riders, but as humans learning to listen, lead, and love with intention.

Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 | The Journey Begins: Don's Early Connection with Horses
03:22 | The Art of Horsemanship: Learning and Evolving
06:13 | Lessons from Special Horses: The Teachers in Our Lives
09:22 | The Importance of Being a Student: Learning from Horses and Trainers
12:02 | Navigating Challenges: The Impact of Environment on Horsemanship
15:12 | Open Spaces vs. Controlled Environments: A Trainer's Perspective
24:02 | Trail Riding Tips for Confidence and Connection
28:06 | Managing Energy and Connection on the Trail
32:17 | The Importance of Dismounting and Reconnecting
36:24 | Stretching Lessons Over Time for Better Learning
40:05 | Establishing Boundaries for Trust and Leadership
45:15 | The Psychology of Horsemanship and Teaching
47:29 | Closing Reflections and Outro

Resources
☆ Get a Free Ticket To The Online Horse Fair --> https://www.becauseofthehorse.net/free-ticket
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In this inspiring conversation, David Lichman shares his lifelong journey in horsemanship and the lessons he’s learned about connection, communication, and care. Known for his compassionate approach to Liberty training, David explores how positive reinforcement and emotional awareness can transform our relationships with horses.

He reminds us that horses aren’t trying to be difficult, they’re trying to feel safe. Through stories, science, and soul, David invites us to see training as a dialogue built on trust, curiosity, and respect. From everyday handling to veterinary care, he offers practical ways to help horses feel confident and in control, deepening the bond we share with them.

Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 | Introduction to David Lichman and His Journey
06:10 | The Evolution of Horsemanship and Training Techniques
11:36 | The Role of Positive Reinforcement in Training
17:05 | Building a Relationship Bank Account with Your Horse
22:35 | Preparing Horses for Medical Procedures and Handling
28:20 | Emotional Well-being and Coping Strategies for Horses
33:34 | Conclusion and Resources for Further Learning
38:55 | Closing Reflections and 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
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In this enlightening conversation, Steve Edwards brings decades of hands-on experience with mules and donkeys, sharing the wisdom he’s gained from a lifetime of listening to and learning from these incredible animals.

Steve reminds us that mules aren’t stubborn, they’re smart, self-protective, and deeply aware. He explains how their instincts differ from horses, why groundwork is non-negotiable, and how patience and respect are the foundation of every good training session. From saddle fitting to feeding routines, Steve offers practical guidance to help owners care for their mules in a way that honors both their bodies and their minds.

This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the mule’s quiet intelligence — and a reminder that when we take the time to build relationship, these animals will give us everything they have and more.

Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 | Introduction to Steve Edwards and His Journey with Mules
03:18 | Understanding Mules: Differences from Horses
06:24 | Training Techniques for Mules and Donkeys
09:05 | The Importance of Groundwork in Mule Training
11:42 | Mules as Natural Protectors: Instincts and Behavior
14:44 | Key Principles for New Mule Owners
17:25 | Feeding and Health Considerations for Mules
20:02 | Saddle Fitting and Comfort for Mules
22:44 | Final Thoughts and Resources for Mule Owners
37:02 | Closing Reflections and 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 conversation, Andrea Wady shares her remarkable journey with horses, including a life-changing trek across Costa Rica with a rescue horse that taught her the meaning of true connection. Through stories of trust, curiosity, and courage, Andrea invites us to look beyond control and into relationship.

Together, we explore how observing with an open heart can deepen understanding, how freedom can live alongside safety, and how empowerment often begins with listening—especially for women rediscovering confidence later in life. Andrea reminds us that every step, every moment of presence, builds the bridge of partnership between horse and human.

Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 | Journey of Connection: From Horses to Humans
11:39 | Lessons from the Trail: Control vs. Connection
23:00 | Empowering Relationships: Bridging the Gap with Horses
23:23 | The Inner and Outer Smile in Horse Communication
25:37 | Liberty Mindset: Tools and Body Language
29:06 | Learning from Wild Horses: Observations and Insights
33:29 | The 1% Rule: Building Confidence in Equestrians
38:08 | Empowerment in the Horse World: Trusting Your Instincts
46:16 | Closing Reflections and 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 conversation, Lucy Klassen shares her transformative journey with horses and how understanding the nervous system can change everything about how we connect. Through her own path of trauma and healing, Lucy reveals how breath, awareness, and trust become the foundation for true communication between horse and human.

Her story is a reminder that growth with our horses begins within ourselves. When we slow down, listen, and create safety, both for us and for them—we open the door to deeper partnership, joy, and healing on both sides of the lead rope.

Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 | The Journey Begins: Connecting with Horses
06:58 | Transformative Experiences: From Burnout to Healing
11:31 | Understanding the Nervous System: A Foundation for Horsemanship
16:52 | Lateral Movements: Building Trust and Connection
22:16 | Wired for Connection: The Book and Its Insights
27:36 | Creating a Safe Space: Helping Horses with Trauma
32:55 | The Ripple Effect: Educating for a Better Horse World
38:36 | Podcast Outro + Music

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 conversation, we explore the inner landscape of horsemanship how our personal growth, mindfulness, and energy awareness shape the way we connect with horses. Together, we reflect on the power of presence, the quiet lessons nature teaches us, and the importance of self-reflection in becoming more grounded and aware partners.

From Morocco’s vibrant Teburida celebrations to the stillness of meditation and mental coaching at the World Equestrian Games, this episode bridges cultural experience with inner awareness. It reminds us that horsemanship is not just about training techniques, but about who we become along the way — calmer, clearer, and more connected.

Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 | Reflections on the Fair Experience
01:32 | The Mindset of Horsemanship
03:45 | The Journey of Personal Growth
08:56 | Lessons from the 10-Year-Old Girl
14:20 | The Role of Nature in Learning
18:45 | The Importance of Self-Reflection
30:12 | Expanding Perspectives Through Experience
33:49 | Judgment and Personal Growth in Horse Training
38:53 | Experiencing the Call to Prayer with Horses
46:53 | Competing at the World Equestrian Games
52:05 | Mental Coaching and Performance in Competition
58:56 | Sharing Knowledge and Non-Judgment in Horse Training
01:07:56 | The Nature of Wandering Minds in Meditation
01:12:53 | The Shift from Obedience to Connection
01:20:01 | The Importance of Presence in Horse Training

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, Paula Curtis sits down with Rachel Bedingfield, an expert in positive reinforcement and equine behavior, to explore the science and soul behind connection-based horse training. Rachel shares her personal journey and the experiences that shaped her compassionate, neuroscience-informed approach to horsemanship.

Together they discuss how understanding fear responses, encouraging movement, and nurturing play can create lasting change for both horse and human. Rachel reveals how empathy and curiosity lead to deeper trust, why the horse’s environment matters as much as the exercises we teach, and how joy and presence transform every interaction. This conversation reminds us that true horsemanship is a journey of learning, love, and continuous connection.

Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 | Neuroscience of Fear and Learning
02:31 | The Importance of Relaxation in Training
04:59 | Building Trust and Connection with Horses
23:29 | Understanding Horse Turnout and Routine
29:03 | The Importance of Mental Engagement for Horses
29:29 | Learning from Influential Horsemen
34:09 | Connecting Mind and Body in Horsemanship
37:00 | Techniques for Synchronizing with Your Horse
44:13 | The Role of Play in Horse Training
50:38 | Balancing Energy in Training
54:06 | Exploring Connection Training Resources
59:11 | Podcast Outro + Music

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 episode, Paula Curtis sits down with equine sculptor and educator Deanna Montero to explore how art can deepen our understanding of horses. Deanna shares how her journey with sculpture has transformed her horsemanship, helping her see, feel, and understand equine anatomy in a whole new way.

Together they discuss how studying structure leads to softer communication, how energy and relaxation influence movement, and how creativity bridges the gap between observation and feel. This conversation reminds us that awareness is an art form—and that both sculpting and riding ask us to slow down, listen, and connect with presence and curiosity.

Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 | Introduction to Horsemanship and Sculpture
05:56 | The Journey of Understanding Anatomy
11:04 | Anatomy and Its Impact on Riding
16:36 | The Role of Nosebands in Horse Training
21:27 | Observing the Whole Horse
23:29 | The Complexity of Riding Simulators
25:26 | Becoming an Educated Advocate for Horses
26:21 | Observing Energy and Tension in Horses
28:45 | The Importance of Self-Reflection in Riding
30:19 | Understanding Feel and Energy in Riding
32:51 | Artistic Expression in Equestrianism
35:20 | The Role of Playfulness in Horse Training
37:35 | Integrating Anatomy and Art in Equestrian Education
39:45 | Overcoming Fear Through Creative Expression
42:39 | The Process of Sculpting and Self-Assessment
45:31 | Podcast Outro + Music

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 episode, Paula Curtis talks with renowned horseman Jason Irwin about the evolution of his horsemanship journey—from learning hands-on skills from ranchers to developing the soft, feel-based approach he’s known for today. Jason shares how real-world experience shaped his understanding of horses and why developing feel, timing, and observation is at the heart of every good partnership.

Together they explore the balance between groundwork and riding, the importance of setting small, achievable goals, and how Liberty work sharpens communication and trust. From managing bucking to finding the right horse-rider match, this conversation is a treasure trove of practical wisdom for riders at every level—reminding us that good horsemanship is less about doing more and more about listening, learning, and refining together with the horse.

Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 | Introduction to North Star Livestock
07:27 | The Evolution of Training Methods
12:28 | Preparing Riders for Returning to Horses
19:26 | Setting Goals and Benchmarks in Horsemanship
25:06 | The Role of Clinics in Horse Training
32:06 | The Art of Horsemanship
39:17 | Groundwork vs. Riding: Finding Balance
46:58 | Understanding the Transition from Groundwork to Riding
52:43 | Recognizing Readiness in Horse Training
01:00:36 | Dealing with Bucking: Techniques and Strategies
01:10:45 | Building a Foundation Through Experience
01:16:02 | Finding the Right Match
01:20:47 | The Value of Clinics and Training
01:25:15 | The Journey of Horsemanship
01:32:05 | Podcast Outro + Music

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 episode, Paula Curtis sits down with horsewoman and author Katrin Silva, who shares her story of moving from Germany to New Mexico and finding her place between dressage and Western riding. Together they explore what it means to ride with awareness, adaptability, and empathy—no matter the discipline.

Katrin reflects on how horses have been her greatest teachers, guiding her to value inclusivity, fitness, and mindfulness as cornerstones of horsemanship. This is a conversation about embracing change, deepening partnership, and remembering why we ride in the first place—because of the horse.

Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 | Katrin’s Journey from Germany to the U.S.
09:54 | The Evolution of Dressage and Western Riding
20:13 | Bridging Disciplines: Western and Classical Dressage
28:59 | Understanding the Heart of Horse Training
33:07 | Practical Skills for Trail Riding and Beyond
33:59 | Endurance Running and Riding
36:37 | Mindfulness in Endurance and Horsemanship
38:24 | Setting Boundaries with Horses
40:14 | The Importance of Movement for Horses
44:29 | Rider Fitness and Its Impact
48:45 | Communicating Clearly with Horses
53:50 | The Therapeutic Role of Horses
58:22 | The Future of the Horse Industry
01:07:07 | Closing Reflections and 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