Ever wondered what it actually takes to fly a horse across the world?

In this episode, we sit down with Bastian Schroeder from EquiJet to talk all things international horse transportation. Bastian shares how his love for logistics turned into a career helping horses travel between Europe and the United States, and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what really goes into getting a horse safely from one country to another.

We talk about the importing process, required paperwork, flights, designated airports, quarantine, costs, and how horses are cared for throughout their journey. Bastian also explains what goes into keeping horses comfortable while traveling and helps make a process that can seem incredibly intimidating feel a whole lot easier to understand.

Whether you've considered importing a horse from Europe or you've simply wondered how in the world horses travel on airplanes, this episode gives you a fascinating look at a side of the equestrian industry most of us don't get to see!

🐴From Europe to the U.S., we're talking horses, airplanes, quarantine, logistics, and everything in between.

In this fun and candid episode, we catch up on everything from life outside the barn to the latest happenings in the show ring. What starts as a lighthearted conversation about getting nails done quickly turns into a recap of a busy weekend at the horse show, where we celebrate a successful first big class, share memorable family moments, and laugh through the unexpected challenges that come with horse show life.

We also dive into the performances of our horses, discussing what went well in the ring, a few moments that raised questions, and how closely we pay attention to the small details that can tell us how our horses are feeling. From evaluating movement and conformation to preparing for the upcoming fall season, this episode is an honest look at the highs, lows, and constant learning that comes with owning and competing horses.

If you love authentic horse show conversations, behind-the-scenes updates, and the everyday realities of life with horses, this episode is for you! 🐴✨

Navigating the Future of the Horse Industry: Media, Leadership, and Community

Join Kelly and Ellie Morris as they discuss the evolving landscape of the horse world, touching on leadership transitions, the power of media in sport perception, and building a united community. This episode offers deep insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping our sport’s future.In this episode:

• Ellie Morris’s journey from hunter jumper competitor to social media influencer and industry consultant
• The impact of leadership changes in the US Equestrian Federation and what it means for members
• The crucial role of media in shaping public perception and driving industry growth
• Strategies for better sponsorship engagement through innovative media content
• The community’s role in fostering industry transparency and constructive dialogue
• The evolving culture of social media and its influence on rider development and industry reputation
• Comparing international show costs and sponsorship models with those in North America
• The importance of top-down leadership in cultivating a positive narrative and trust
• Future hopes: increased collaboration, transparency, and growth in the horse community

• Ellie Morris - LinkedIn
• Equestrian Economist YouTube Channel
• LA Morse Equestrian - TikTok & Instagram
• Equest ⁓ EAM Equestrian Consulting

• Twitter
• Instagram

• Consider the importance of grassroots sponsorship strategies and branded media content for show series.
• The industry’s future depends heavily on transparent leadership and community engagement.
• International comparisons highlight potential models for lowering costs and increasing exposure.

Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and episode overview
00:36 - Ellie’s background in the equestrian industry
01:40 - Her recent return to riding and social media influence
02:48 - Growing up in Chicago’s hunter jumper world and cultural shifts
04:15 - The differences between East Coast and Southeast horse communities
05:12 - Junior career reflections and social media pressures today
06:08 - The evolution of horse show culture and family influences
07:30 - Transitioning from show riding to adult riding and industry challenges
09:39 - Ellie’s consulting career and balancing family life
10:38 - Her perspective on the upcoming US Equestrian Federation leadership search
11:37 - Media’s power and potential in transforming industry perceptions
13:05 - Industry transparency, accountability, and the role of social media
14:53 - Thoughts on the open CEO position and structural changes within the federation
16:17 - The importance of leadership with corporate experience and industry background
17:31 - The challenges of filling key executive roles and what candidates are needed
20:28 - The future of sponsorships, branding, and media strategies in equestrian sport
22:00 - Media’s role in increasing visibility and public engagement
24:43 - Building community buy-in before expanding media exposure
25:42 - The importance of positive narratives and top-down leadership vision
27:00 - Structure, costs, and organization of horse shows across North America and Europe
32:00 - The balancing act between affordability and industry standards
36:59 - The influence of media coverage and sponsorship on event success
39:00 - Community-driven conversations and industry transparency
40:39 - Making the sport more approachable for all ages and backgrounds
44:18 - International comparisons in show costs and sponsorship models
45:25 - Innovative sponsorship strategies through media integration
48:56 - The positive trajectory of industry change and leadership’s role in it
50:18 - Ellie’s hopes for the upcoming year and industry growth
51:37 - The importance of honest dialogue and industry unity
52:22 - Connecting with Ellie Morris and resources for further engagementResources & Links:Connect with Ellie Morris:Additional Notes:

Is horse showing becoming too expensive for the average adult amateur?

In this episode of The Equestrian Adult Amateur Podcast, Alexis and I dive into one of the biggest conversations happening in the equestrian world today: the rising cost of horse ownership and competition. From skyrocketing horse prices to training, boarding, travel, and show expenses, we explore how the sport has changed—and what that means for everyday riders trying to stay in the game.

We also discuss the pressure social media has created, the rise of luxury "Instabarns," and how privilege and financial resources can shape opportunities within the industry. Most importantly, we talk about how these challenges affect adult amateurs, why so many riders feel isolated, and how we can start having more honest conversations about making equestrian sport more accessible.

Whether you're showing locally, competing on the national circuit, or simply trying to make your horse budget work, this episode is for you.

In this episode we discuss:

• Why horse showing has become dramatically more expensive
• The true cost of owning, training, and competing with horses
• How horse prices have changed over the last decade
• The financial realities facing adult amateur riders
• The impact of social media and "Instabarns"
• Creative ways riders are making the sport more affordable
• Why open conversations about money matter in the equestrian community

We'd love to hear from you! How has the cost of horse showing affected your journey? What tips or strategies have helped you stay in the sport? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

If you enjoy honest conversations about horses, horse showing, and life as an adult amateur, don't forget to like, subscribe, and join our growing equestrian community.

Are we giving young horses the foundation they actually need to succeed?

In this episode of The Equestrian Adult Amateur Podcast, we sit down with Katie Armstrong, founder of Building Better Hunters, to talk about one of the most important conversations happening in the hunter/jumper industry today: how we start young horses.Katie has dedicated her career to improving the way young horses are developed, believing that a horse's future is shaped long before it ever steps into the show ring. From building confidence and trust to establishing clear boundaries and safe handling practices, she shares why horsemanship—not shortcuts—is the key to creating successful hunter horses.

We also dive into the differences Katie has observed between imported and domestic horses, the importance of reading a horse's mind instead of just its movement, and why so many behavioral issues can be prevented with the right foundation. If you've ever wondered what separates a horse that's truly confident from one that's simply coping, this conversation is for you.

Whether you're an amateur rider, trainer, breeder, or simply passionate about better horsemanship, Katie's perspective offers valuable insight into developing horses that are happier, safer, and more successful throughout their careers.In this episode, we discuss:

* Katie Armstrong's philosophy behind Building Better Hunters

* Why foundation is everything when starting young horses

* Building confidence, trust, and respect from day one

* Preventing behavioral issues through better horsemanship

* The differences Katie has noticed between imported and domestic horses

* How to recognize when a horse feels overwhelmed or unsafe

* Why consistency creates confident, reliable hunter horses

* The future of young horse development in the hunter/jumper industry

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and leave a comment with your thoughts. We'd love to hear what you think makes a great young horse and how we can continue improving the future of our sport.

#Equestrian #HunterJumper #KatieArmstrong #BuildingBetterHunters #YoungHorseTraining #HorseTraining #Horsemanship #HunterHorses #EquestrianPodcast #HorsePodcast #USEF #YoungHorses #HorseDevelopment #HorseRiding #EquestrianLife

In this episode of the **Equestrian Adult Amateur Podcast**, Alexis and I sit down with our longtime trainer, Hannah Stone of Stone Performance Horses, for one of our most honest conversations yet. Hannah has spent years developing hunters, jumpers, and all-around horses in both the USEF and AQHA worlds, and she's sharing what she's learned from training horses—and riders—at every level.We talk about Hannah's journey into professional horse training, what she looks for when matching horses with adult amateurs, and why temperament is often more important than raw talent. We also dive into the realities of developing young horses, building confidence in the saddle, and the daily work that happens long before anyone steps into the show ring.Whether you're an adult amateur, a young rider, or simply passionate about horses, this conversation offers an inside look at the challenges, rewards, and relationships that define life in the equestrian world.In this episode, we discuss:• Hannah's journey from junior rider to professional horse trainer• The differences between the AQHA and USEF hunter/jumper worlds• What makes a great horse for an amateur rider• Developing green horses with confidence and consistency• Why personality and temperament matter more than talent alone• Building trust and communication between horse and rider• The "homework" riders should be doing between lessons• How confidence affects both horses and riders• Motherhood, business, and balancing life as a professional trainer• Behind-the-scenes realities of training horses for a livingIf you've ever wondered what separates a good horse trainer from a great one—or what professionals really think about developing horses and riders—this episode is for you.Be sure to subscribe for more conversations about horse showing, the hunter/jumper world, Quarter Horses, training, and the real experiences of adult amateur equestrians.#Equestrian #HorseTrainer #AdultAmateur #HunterJumper #AQHA #USEF #HorseTraining #YoungHorse #GreenHorse #ShowJumping #HorseShow #EquestrianPodcast #HorseRiding #Confidence #HorseLife

What happens when everyone tells you it's over?

In this episode of The Equestrian Adult Amateur, we share the incredible story of Wyatt, a Thoroughbred who suffered a devastating injury that many believed would end his career for good. Faced with difficult decisions, discouraging prognoses, and multiple professionals advising against continuing, Wyatt's team chose a different path. They chose patience, faith, and the willingness to trust the process.

What followed was a journey filled with setbacks, uncertainty, sacrifice, and determination. Through careful management, unwavering support from his owner, trainer, and community, Wyatt not only recovered but returned to the show ring and reminded everyone exactly who he was.

But this episode is about much more than one horse's comeback.

We dive into the realities of the equestrian world, the pressure many riders feel to appear successful, the role social media plays in shaping perception, and the lack of support that adult amateurs often experience. We talk about why the sport needs more real stories, more vulnerability, and more conversations about the challenges behind the highlight reels.

This episode is a reminder that horses don't care about followers, ribbons, or appearances. They care about partnership, trust, and showing up every day. Sometimes the greatest victories aren't championships—they're simply getting back in the ring when nobody thought you could.

Whether you've experienced a setback with your horse, struggled with confidence, or needed a reminder of why you fell in love with horses in the first place, Wyatt's story is one you won't want to miss.

In this episode:
• Wyatt's career-ending injury and unexpected comeback
• The emotional reality of horse ownership
• Trusting the recovery process when others doubt you
• The importance of community in equestrian sport
• Social media, pressure, and comparison culture
• Why adult amateurs need more representation
• The bond between horse and rider
• Inspiring listener stories from across the equestrian community

If Wyatt's story resonates with you, we'd love to hear about a horse that changed your life. Share your story in the comments.

#EquestrianAdultAmateur #HorseRecovery #Thoroughbred #HorseShowLife #AdultAmateur #EquestrianPodcast #HorseTraining #HorseRiding #HorseCommunity #ComebackStory #HunterJumper #EquestrianLife

This week on The Equestrian Adult Amateur, I'm sharing a horse show weekend recap as Sunny and Ollie continue preparing for one of our biggest goals of the season—the Big A Quarter Horse Show in Conyers, Georgia.

Going into the weekend, I felt like we were in a really good place. Sunny had some great trips, Ollie had been working well at home, and I was feeling excited about the progress we've been making. But as every equestrian knows, horses have a way of reminding us that confidence can change in an instant.After what felt like a great schooling session, Ollie stopped at the first jump during one of our rounds.

Suddenly, all the confidence I thought I had built started to disappear. What followed wasn't really about the refusal itself—it was about the mental game of horse showing. The self-doubt, the frustration, the second-guessing, and ultimately learning how to move forward.

In this bonus episode, I'm talking about the reality of developing a young horse, managing horse show nerves, building trust in the saddle, and why confidence is one of the most important skills an adult amateur rider can develop. Whether you're preparing for your next horse show, riding a green horse, or working through your own confidence struggles, I think you'll relate to this conversation.

Horse showing isn't always about championships and blue ribbons. Sometimes the biggest wins happen when you learn to trust yourself, trust your horse, and keep showing up after things don't go according to plan.If you've ever dealt with a horse refusal, struggled with confidence in the show ring, or found yourself replaying a round over and over in your head, I'd love to hear your story in the comments.

🎙️ Topics Covered:* Preparing for the Big A Quarter Horse Show* Developing a young horse* Building confidence in the horse show ring* Horse show nerves and mental preparation* Horse refusals and setbacks* Trust between horse and rider* Adult amateur riding experiences* Lessons learned from horse showing#EquestrianAdultAmateur #HorseShow #QuarterHorseShow #BigAQuarterHorseShow #HorseShowRecap #HorseTraining #YoungHorse #HorseRefusal #HorseShowNerves #AdultAmateur #HunterJumper #AQHA #HorseRiding #EquestrianLife #ConfidenceInTheRing

Why does it feel like no one outside the equestrian bubble cares about our sport? In this episode, we get honest about the stuff most riders only whisper about — the bitterness, the inequality, and the quiet competition between disciplines that nobody wants to admit is there.We dig into the hunter ring and the subjective side of judging, the "horse girl" stereotype, and why so many of us feel judged differently depending on what we ride. From there we get into the big one: why equestrian events struggle for attendance and attention, and how that's really a marketing and community problem more than a sport problem. (Yes, we bring up F1 and Boyd Martin's personal branding — because it proves this CAN change.)We also talk honestly about the dark side of being online in this community: trolling, the fear of speaking up, and how the internet makes the horse world look way worse than it actually is. Our take? Context matters. Know the people behind the video before you judge the clip. Is there bias in judging? Sometimes. Corruption? It exists in every industry — but it's not as rampant here as people love to claim.Then we get into amateurs vs. pros in show jumping — the stricter rules amateurs play by, the looser ones pros seem to get, and that uncomfortable conversation about money buying wins and how fairness actually gets enforced. We close on bias, gender inequality, and why the sport desperately needs more storytelling and more people willing to tell the truth.If you've ever felt like an outsider in your own sport, this one's for you.🎧 New episodes weekly. Subscribe and hit the bell so you never miss one.💬 Drop a comment: do you think money buys wins in our sport? We want to hear it.👍 Like & share if this hit home.#TheEquestrianAdultAmateur #EquestrianPodcast #HorseGirl #HunterJumper #AdultAmateur #EquestrianLife #ShowJumping #HorseWorld #Dressage #Eventing

In this episode of the Equestrian Adult Amateur Podcast, we dive into one of the most debated topics in the hunter/jumper world: when is someone truly ready to call themselves a professional?We discuss the differences between amateurs and professionals, the challenges young trainers face when building a business, and the realities of managing horses, clients, staff, and expectations. From developing a client base and earning trust in your local community to handling the long hours, travel, and sacrifices that come with the profession, we explore what life as an equestrian professional really looks like behind the scenes.We also tackle the subjective language often used in the horse industry—terms like "green," "broke," and "trained"—and why experience, horsemanship, and problem-solving are often more important than titles alone.Whether you're considering becoming a trainer, currently building your business, or simply curious about what goes into making a career out of horses, this conversation offers an honest look at the rewards and realities of the profession.### In this episode:* What separates an amateur from a professional* The challenges of starting a training business* Building a client base and earning trust* Why reputation matters in the horse world* The importance of grooms, barn staff, and support teams* Long hours, travel, and the sacrifices trainers make* Should horse trainers be certified?* The pressure facing young professionals today* Why choosing the right lifestyle matters more than chasing money* The skills every successful trainer needs to developAt the end of the day, horses aren't just a job—they're a lifestyle. This episode explores what it takes to turn a passion into a profession and whether becoming a pro is the right path for everyone.🎙️ Listen, subscribe, and let us know your thoughts in the comments:**Should there be more standards or certifications for equestrian professionals?**