Curious Equestrian

By Produced by Theresa McCaffrey, hosted by Anna Louise ClaydonKids & Family Pets & Animals

Curious Equestrian episodes

July 23, 2024 Inside the life of an Equine Vet
Behind the Scenes with an Equine Vet: Insights from
Join Nikki Pursey, Veterinary Surgeon / Director / Owner of Farr and Pursey Equine Veterinary Services
Join us for an eye-opening episode of Curious Equestrian as we go behind the scenes in the life of an equine vet
Nikki Pursey.
Nikki shares the rewards and challenges of being an equine vet, from the joy of assisting in horse births to the realities of high injury and suicide rates in the profession. She also discusses equine care's intricacies, including the importance of weight management, the changing landscape of horse health, and the mental resilience needed to thrive in this demanding field. Whether you're a horse owner, an aspiring vet, or simply curious about veterinary life, this episode offers a deep dive into the world of equine veterinary services.
curiousequestrian.co.uk
1 hr 2 min
July 02, 2024 The Healing Power of Herbs: Enhancing Equine Wellbeing
The Curious Equestrian Podcast: Harnessing the Power of Plants with Jane Acton
Join us on this insightful episode of The Curious Equestrian Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of equine wellness with ethnobotanist and entrepreneur Jane Acton. Discover the incredible journey of how Jane left behind urban life to create a thriving social enterprise, Common Flora, which focuses on the power of plants to benefit both people and horses. Learn about the magic of equine skin oil, the significance of herbal medicine, and the revitalizing connection between humans, horses, and nature. Whether you're an equine enthusiast or simply curious about alternative wellness, this episode is packed with inspiration and knowledge. Subscribe now on Spotify and don't miss this enlightening conversation!

In this episode of the Curious Equestrian Podcast, we dive into the world of equine herbal medicine with ethnobotanist and entrepreneur Jane Acton. Jane shares her journey from academia to establishing Common Flora, a social enterprise focusing on organic herbs and equine care. Discover the benefits of marigold and comfrey, learn how to approach equine skin conditions naturally, and explore the symbiotic relationship between humans, horses, and the environment. Jane's inspiring story encapsulates her passion for horses, plants, and community support, offering valuable insights into integrating natural remedies into equine care.
Learn more about Jane and Common Flora: https://www.commonflora.co.uk/
1 hr 15 min
June 15, 2024 Building Confidence in Equestrianism with Alex Fleming
On this episode of The Curious Equestrian Podcast, we discuss equestrian mindset and confidence-building with confidence coach Alex Fleming.
Alex shares her journey of overcoming traumatic experiences with horses and offers invaluable tips on strengthening your mindset, both in and out of the saddle. From tackling PTSD and anxiety to managing negative self-beliefs and fostering trust with your horse, this episode is packed with actionable insights for riders of all levels.
Alex also invites listeners to participate in her free events and follow her Coaching for Confidence platforms. https://www.coaching4confidence.co.uk...
1 hr 16 min
June 02, 2024 The Magical Bond: Why Children Connect So Deeply with Horses
In this heartwarming episode of the Curious Equestrian Podcast, Anna sits down with Lynn Henry, the inspirational founder of Think Like a Pony CIC. Lynn shares her incredible journey from a non-horsey background to becoming a beacon of hope and empowerment for children through the magic of ponies.
Discover how ponies helped her son overcome anxiety and a speech impediment and how her innovative approach to horsemanship transforms the lives of children every day. Think Like a Pony is the world's first horsemanship program for children, established in 2009. Their holistic riding school, therapeutic interventions, and Online Club empower children to develop confidence, resilience, and powerful communication skills.
The program fosters empathy, understanding, and communication with horses, with a robust syllabus developed by the Think Like a Pony Club.
Join Anna and Lynn as they discuss the profound bond between children and horses, the unique training sessions that build confidence and communication, and the importance of empathy and ethical training in the equestrian world.
Lynn's passion and wisdom will leave you inspired to see the world through the eyes of a pony.
Tune in for an episode filled with touching stories, practical tips, and the enchanting world of Think Like a Pony. Whether you're an equestrian enthusiast or simply looking for uplifting insights, this episode is not to be missed!
This podcast is produced by
Horsemanship Journal⁠ , your go-to resource for equestrian knowledge and inspiration. Stay connected with us for more exclusive articles, docuseries, and podcast episodes that help you grow as a rider and deepen your understanding of horses.
Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review to let us know what you think!
1 hr 31 min
May 19, 2024Sustainable Farming with Heavy Horses: Hitch In Farm's Success Story
Welcome to another episode of the Curious Equestrian Podcast! 🎙️ In today's episode, we explore the unique and fascinating world of Hitch In Farm, run by Mike and Ellie Paddock in Carmarthenshire, West Wales. 🐴
Join us as we dive into life off the grid on a 52-acre farm where a team of 14 heavy horses takes on everything from logging and ploughing to charioteering. 🌳🚜 Discover how this dynamic duo has transformed their farm into a haven for working horses, teaching both people and animals the art of sustainable farming. 🌾
In this episode, you'll learn:
How Ellie and Mike got together to create a farm powered entirely by horsepower.

The process of training new and young horses to become reliable working partners.

The challenges and triumphs of rescuing horses bred for meat and breeding their own ideal working foals.

The importance of understanding the unique needs and capabilities of each horse on their farm.

Insights into natural horsemanship and the inspirations behind their gentle training methods.
Whether you're an equestrian enthusiast or simply curious about sustainable farming, this episode offers a heartwarming and educational look into the life and work at Hitchin Farm. Don't miss the chance to get inspired by their incredible journey and dedication to preserving traditional skills with a modern twist.
🔗 Follow Hitchin Farm:
YouTube: Hitchin Farm
Instagram: @hitchin_farm
Facebook: Hitchin Farm
📌 Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction to Hitchin Farm
2:00 - Life Off-Grid with Heavy Horses
10:00 - Training Young Horses and Rescues
20:00 - The Role of Stallions and Mares in Farm Work
30:00 - Balancing Ecology and Farming
40:00 - Overcoming Challenges and Building a Community
💬 Subscribe and leave your comments below! What did you find most interesting about Mike and Ellie's journey? Have you ever considered using horses for farm work? Share your thoughts with us!
🌟 Curious Equestrian is Produced by Horsemanship Journal Horsemanship Journal (horsemanship-journal.com)
#CuriousEquestrianPodcast #horsemanshipjournal #HitchinFarm #WorkingHorses #SustainableFarming #NaturalHorsemanship #HeavyHorses #FarmLife #Equestrian
58 min
May 05, 2024 The Art of Modern Horsemanship: Insights from David Stuart
Join Kate as she dives into the world of modern horsemanship with renowned horse trainer, Dave Stuart. In this engaging conversation, Dave shares his journey from a childhood on a family cattle property to becoming a respected figure in horse training. He offers a treasure trove of insights gained from experiences at clinics with legends like Ray Hunt and from his own extensive practice in training and teaching. This episode explores the evolution of horsemanship, emphasizing the importance of patience, understanding, and connection in developing both horse and rider. Tune in to discover how Dave's approach can transform your horsemanship journey, fostering deeper bonds and more effective training strategies.
David returns to the UK, bringing with him decades of expertise and insights. Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in one of his clinics or camps during his 2024 UK Schedule:
4-Day Horsemanship Clinic at The Spinney, Newmarket: 6th - 9th August
7-Day Horsemanship Camp at Dudgeley Farm, Shropshire: 10th - 16th August
5-Day Horsemanship Camp at Street Farm, Cumbria: 17th - 21st August
4-Day Horsemanship Clinic at Lister Tower, Lyndhurst: 23rd - 26th August
4-Day Horsemanship Clinic at Grants Farm, Somerset: 29th August - 1st September
4-Day Horsemanship Clinic at Kentrigg Farm, Nottingham: 5th - 8th September
Each clinic and camp provides an invaluable opportunity to enhance your horsemanship skills under Dave's expert guidance. Whether you choose to join for a few days or the duration, these sessions are designed to cater to your individual needs and goals in horsemanship.
For more information or to book your spot, please contact Tina at [email protected]. or visit: https://totalhorsemanship.co.uk/pages/david-stuart for more information
31 min
May 01, 2024 Senior Equestrians: Thriving at Every Age with Andrea Wady
Join Andrea Wady in this inspiring video discussing how senior equestrians can thrive at every age. Andrea shares valuable insights on staying active and engaged in the equestrian community as a senior horse rider.
In this episode, Andrea focuses on a vital yet often overlooked topic: empowering older horse riders. Together, we explore the challenges and stereotypes ageing equestrians face in the saddle and in everyday life. Our conversation tackles the realities of ageing, from navigating menopause to adjusting riding techniques and managing horse care as one's physical and mental capacities evolve.
We delve into broader issues, too, discussing how to resist being marginalized in riding lessons and life decisions and the importance of maintaining an empowered decision-making role in our interactions with horses.
Andrea shares invaluable advice on preserving and enhancing our equestrian lifestyle as we age and setting new, ambitious goals for the future.
This episode is a beacon of inspiration for older horse riders and a crucial listen for younger equestrians planning a lifelong journey with horses. It's about refusing to be boxed in by age and embracing every phase of life with confidence and joy.
Learn more about the Wise Riders Community: https://andreawady.com/wise-riders/
Curious Equestrian is produced by https://horsemanship-journal.com/
1 hr
March 24, 2024 Equestrian Resilience: Nicole Sherwood's Tale of Triumph, Healing, and Horses
Nicole Sherwood shares her compelling journey through the world of horsemanship. From early challenges with a spirited pony to finding her path in Western riding, Nicole's story is one of deep connection, perseverance, and discovery.

Listen as Nicole opens up about the highs and lows of her equestrian adventure, revealing the transformative power of equine partnership. Through tales of triumph and moments of uncertainty, she highlights the invaluable lessons learned along the way—both in and out of the saddle.

Nicole's introspections provide a unique lens on resilience; her experiences shed light on how horses bring joy, challenge us to evolve, and guide us through life's most arduous moments.

Follow Nicole on Facebook @urban horse school or Instagram
Nicole sherwood (@urban_horse_school) • Instagram photos and videos
57 min
March 19, 2024 Transforming Lives with Horses: Inside Athena Herd's Equine Therapy & Mindfulness Programs
This episode takes us into the heart of the Athena Herd Foundation, a place where transformation is as natural as the rain nourishing the earth.

Founded by the visionary Jennifer Geach and Graham Green, Athena Herd is not just a sanctuary for horses but a haven where humans and horses forge deep, healing connections.

Through the conversation, we uncover the origins of Athena Herd, from its inception to becoming a leading force in equine-facilitated interactions. Jennifer and Graham's stories are a testament to the power of passion, vision, and the courage to follow an unconventional path.

As we dive into their narrative, we discover a world where horses are respected as sentient beings, living in harmony with their natural instincts on a track system designed to mimic their ancestral environments. This approach promotes their well-being and enhances the therapeutic experiences for those who seek solace and understanding among the herd.

Graham shares his transformative journey from the corporate world to discovering the profound impact of mindfulness and emotional intelligence, facilitated by the gentle wisdom of horses. With her deep equestrian roots, Jennifer recounts the evolution of her relationship with horses.

The Athena Herd Foundation stands as a beacon of hope and transformation, offering profound lessons on mindfulness, compassion, and the strength found in vulnerability.
1 hr 13 min
February 24, 2024 The Most Essential Lessons in Horsemanship: Insights from Bernd Hackl
In this episode of the Curious Equestrian podcast, Anna Louise Claydon warmly welcomes the esteemed horseman Bernd Hackl, known affectionately as Bernie.
With over three decades of experience, Bernie shares his wisdom on the deep connection between horses and humans. He advocates for empathy, understanding, and a return to traditional, hands-on horsemanship.
Bernie's philosophy is rooted in self-awareness and the pursuit of a genuine bond with our equine companions.
Listeners are invited to reflect on their approach to horse training, inspired by Bernie's dedication to changing the equestrian world through kindness and mutual respect.
Learn more about Bernd: berndhackl.de
For more information about UK clinics with Bernie:
https://www.facebook.com/BlackfordGlen/
[email protected]
Horsemanship Journal produces the Curious Equestrian Podcast. For more podcasts, articles and videos, visit horsemanship-journal.com
Timestamps:
0:00 – Introduction
2:41 – The Journey into Horse Training
4:00 – Understanding the Horse's Perspective
8:29 – Challenges in Horse Training
13:19 – The Importance of Patience and Understanding
17:31 – The Significance of Inner Self in Horsemanship
19:58 – The Color of Energy
20:54 – Dealing with Difficult Horses
22:25 – Breeding and Behavior
28:09 – The Essence of Good Horse People
31:15 – Authenticity of Horses
31:54 – Approach to Horse Training
33:33 – Understanding Horse Psychology
34:59 – Extreme Trail Training
38:39 – Challenging Horse Abilities
39:11 – The Western Riding Route
40:46 – Learning from Horses
43:14 – Facing Tough Things Underneath the Surface
47:51 – The Future of Horse Training
50:37 – Purpose within the Equestrian Community
55 min

About Curious Equestrian

From the publisher's feed

Ask why before how. Conversations with researchers, vets and trainers, for anyone who cares about horses. Each episode takes a real question about horse behaviour, training, care or welfare and asks what the evidence says. No gurus, just better questions. Hosted by Anna Louise Claydon, produced by Theresa McCaffrey. Follow for each new episode, if you it's useful, a rating helps other horse people find us.