In this episode of Talking About Horses, Patrick King interviews Karen Rohlf, a renowned horse trainer who blends traditional dressage with natural horsemanship. Karen shares her journey from a young rider to a professional trainer, emphasizing the importance of understanding the horse's emotional and mental well-being. The conversation explores the evolution of training methods, the significance of holistic approaches, and the need for effective communication between horse and rider. Karen highlights the concept of self-carriage and the distinction between acceptance and obedience in training, ultimately advocating for a more compassionate and understanding relationship with horses. In this conversation, Karen and Patrick explore the intricate relationship between horse and rider, emphasizing the importance of listening to the horse's needs and preferences. They discuss the concept of the 'happy athlete' in dressage, highlighting the significance of creating a harmonious environment for the horse. Karen introduces her Happy Athlete Training Scale, which prioritizes the horse's happiness and well-being as foundational to effective training. The conversation culminates in the announcement of a new online course designed to empower riders to foster better communication and understanding with their horses. Patrick and Karen explore the nuances of horsemanship, focusing on the importance of communication, connection, and emotional fitness in training. They discuss the concept of finding a 'sweet spot' in riding, the significance of understanding the horse's needs, and the role of experimentation in training techniques. Karen emphasizes the need for open conversations about horse welfare and the evolving landscape of horsemanship, encouraging riders to focus on one key area for improvement at a time. The discussion culminates in a powerful message about the potential for growth and improvement in ways that may not yet be imagined.