In this episode of Equine Assisted World, Rupert Isaacson speaks with Dr. Megan McGavern, a board-certified physician in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Megan shares the powerful story behind the founding of C.H.A.T.S.—Creative, Holistic, Adaptive, Therapeutic Solutions—and how it was born out of both professional insight and personal necessity.

When her son Cole faced significant challenges, and medical professionals told her to accept that he might never regain functionality, Megan refused to give up. Drawing on her medical training, clinical experience, and deep intuition as a mother, she created C.H.A.T.S. as a space where children like Cole could thrive. C.H.A.T.S. is not about traditional therapy or horseback riding—it is about building relationship, regulation, and readiness to learn through purposeful, adaptive, equine-based engagement.

What sets Megan apart is her ability to take science-based, evidence-backed practices—like Movement Method—and integrate them meaningfully into both therapeutic and clinical settings. After traveling to New Trails to learn Movement Method and Horse Boy Method firsthand from Rupert Isaacson, Megan returned home and applied what she had learned with her son Cole. The profound changes she witnessed led her to establish C.H.A.T.S. as a nonprofit organization. From there, she worked to bring Movement Method into the medical establishment, eventually helping to launch a neuroscience conference focused on the approach and its clinical applications.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

From Despair to Innovation: A Mother’s Mission (Starts at 01:45)

• The moment Megan was told to “accept the loss” regarding her son Cole’s future.
• Why she decided to go beyond traditional care models.
• The founding of C.H.A.T.S. and how it gave Cole a new chance at life.

Movement Method and Medical Practice (Starts at 20:10)

• How Megan found the Movement Method and incorporated it into her work.
• Practical ways she’s brought it into institutional and clinical settings.
• The role of science—not mysticism—in shaping her therapeutic philosophy.

C.H.A.T.S. in Action (Starts at 32:40)

• What makes C.H.A.T.S. distinct from other equine-assisted programs.
• Why it's focused on adaptability, safety, and authentic connection.
• How Megan uses observation, relationship, and responsiveness to meet each child’s needs.

The Dual Role: Mother and Medical Professional (Starts at 48:15)

• How personal experience reshaped her understanding of care.
• Advice for professionals who want to do more—but don’t know how.
• Why being present often matters more than having all the answers.

Memorable Moments from the Episode:

• Megan recounts hearing that her son might never regain function (04:02).
• The turning point where C.H.A.T.S. took form in response to Cole’s needs (11:50).
• Integrating Movement Method into medical care (24:35).
• A reflection on letting go of "being the expert" to simply be present (53:20).

Connect with Dr. Megan McGavern: 
🌐 C.H.A.T.S. Website: https://chats757.com 
 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coleshorsetherapy

See All of Rupert’s Programs and Shows: 🌐 Rupert Isaacson: https://rupertisaacson.com

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New Trails Learning Systems 
🌐 Website: https://ntls.co 
📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/horseboyworld 
📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/horseboyworld 
🎥 YouTube: https://youtube.com/newtrailslearningsystems

Tune in to this grounded and powerful conversation with Dr. Megan McGavern to learn how clinical science, determined parenting, and adaptive equine approaches are reshaping what's possible for children and families facing big challenges.

In this episode of Equine Assisted World, Rupert Isaacson sits down with Warwick Schiller, renowned horseman and creator of Attuned Horsemanship. Warwick is widely recognized for his transformative approach to horse training, which focuses on attunement, connection, and creating a sense of safety for the horse. Through his Journey On Podcast and extensive teaching, Warwick has helped thousands of riders and trainers understand the deeper layers of horsemanship and how true awareness changes everything.

Together, Rupert and Warwick explore the concept of attunement—how being truly present and aware influences both horses and people. They discuss how small, subtle shifts in attention can have profound effects on behavior, trust, and emotional regulation. They also dive into sleep deprivation in horses, the power of following rather than controlling, and what it really means to develop a deep partnership with an equine partner.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Understanding Attunement and Connection (Starts at 02:20)

• The definition of attunement and why it matters in horsemanship.
• How attunement applies to both horses and people.
• Warwick’s journey to understanding deep connection.

The Role of Awareness in Building Trust (Starts at 16:10)

• The difference between “trusting you won’t hurt me” and “trusting your awareness to keep me safe.”
• How observing small signals from your horse builds trust over time.
• The science behind attunement and safety in mammals.

The Power of Giving Up Control (Starts at 36:27)

• Why giving up control doesn’t mean losing control.
• How allowing horses to make choices increases connection.
• Exercises for developing attunement by matching steps and mirroring behavior.

How Sleep Deprivation Affects Horses (Starts at 56:10)

• Why some horses struggle with sleep deprivation and what it means.
• How Warwick accidentally helped a sleep-deprived horse by simply listening.
• The connection between feeling safe and being able to sleep.

Integrating Attunement into Riding and Training (Starts at 1:14:22)

• Why training should be about awareness, not just technique.
• The role of breath and relaxation in riding.
• How to ensure your horse is mentally and emotionally present before asking for movement.

Practical Tools for Creating Attunement in Everyday Training (Starts at 1:36:27)

• Simple ways to start building attunement today.
• The “look where they look” technique and why it’s so powerful.
• How mirroring movement builds trust and awareness.

Memorable Moments from the Episode:

• The story of the Mustang who overcame bolting through attunement (12:03).
• How giving a horse space to “say no” transformed its willingness (45:36).
• The unexpected link between sleep deprivation and emotional regulation in horses (1:04:00).
• The revelation that attunement and safety go hand in hand (1:42:38).
• Why trust is built on recognizing and repairing ruptures in connection (1:44:17).

Connect with Warwick Schiller:

📌 Learn More & Courses: https://warwickschiller.com
🎥 Video Library: https://videos.warwickschiller.com
🎙️ Podcast: Journey On Podcast
📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/WarwickSchillerAttunedHorsemanship
📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/warwickschiller

See All of Rupert’s Programs and Shows:

🌐 Rupert Isaacson: https://rupertisaacson.com 

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🌐 Website: https://ntls.co
📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/horseboyworld
📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/horseboyworld
🎥 YouTube: https://youtube.com/newtrailslearningsystems

Tune in to this inspiring conversation with Warwick Schiller to rethink your approach to horsemanship and connection!

 In this episode of Equine Assisted World, Rupert Isaacson sits down with Mary Wanless, a pioneer in the field of rider biomechanics. For decades, Mary has been at the forefront of reshaping how we understand equestrian training by focusing on the physics and physiology of riding. With a background in physics and a deep curiosity about what truly makes a great rider, Mary has worked to demystify the biomechanics of effective riding. Her methods help riders of all levels develop a clearer understanding of their own bodies and how they interact with their horses.

Mary shares her insights into postural restoration, neurology in riding, the importance of feedback loops in instruction, and the crucial role of feel in equestrian training. This episode is packed with wisdom that will transform the way you approach riding and teaching.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The Science of Rider Biomechanics (Starts at 02:20)

• How Mary's background in physics shaped her approach to riding.
• Why traditional riding instruction often fails to communicate the "how."
• Understanding postural restoration and its impact on riding: https://www.posturalrestoration.com/

Understanding the Neurology of Riding (Starts at 16:10)

• The significant neurological connection between the hands and the brain—and why this leads riders to overuse their hands.
• The lack of neurological connection between the pelvis and the brain and how that affects balance and control.
• How the body’s fascial system (as explored in Anatomy Trains by Thomas Myers) influences rider biomechanics: https://amzn.to/4ibrGgN

Bridging the Gap Between Language and Experience (Starts at 36:27)

• How to verbalize the unspoken "feel" of great riding.
• The importance of the student-teacher feedback loop.
• The challenges of translating elite rider intuition into teachable concepts.

The Core Foundations of Effective Riding (Starts at 56:10)

• How to align your body for maximum effectiveness.
• Why bearing down and breathing correctly is fundamental.
• The importance of allowing the foot to rest rather than pressing.

The Role of Flow in Riding (Starts at 1:14:22)

• Flow state as the key to riding success.
• The connection between flow and joy.
• Why elite riders unconsciously access flow—and how you can, too.

Training Tools and Resources for Riders (Starts at 1:36:27)

• The Balloon Breathing Exercise and how it creates quietness in the mind: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDbm8LxfzaI
• Developing feel through systematic, science-based methods.
• How groundwork supports better biomechanics under saddle.

Memorable Moments from the Episode:

• The revelation that "feel" can be taught (12:03).
• Why cutting out the student-teacher feedback loop is detrimental to learning (45:36).
• The connection between breathing, bearing down, and core stability (1:04:00).
• A deep dive into why postural restoration matters for every rider (1:42:38).
• The surprising realization that joy is a subset of flow, and flow is the key to great riding (1:44:17).

Connect with Mary Wanless: 📌 Learn More & Courses: https://mary-wanless.com
📘 Online Training: https://dressagetraining.tv
📕 Books:

• Ride With Your Mind Essentials https://amzn.to/439QEcc *
• Ride With Your Mind Clinic https://amzn.to/43hgqvn
• Rider Biomechanics https://amzn.to/3D8j5wu

See All of Rupert’s Programs and Shows: 🌐 Rupert Isaacson: https://rupertisaacson.com

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New Trails Learning Systems
🌐 Website: https://ntls.co
📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/horseboyworld
📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/horseboyworld
🎥 YouTube: https://youtube.com/newtrailslearningsystems

Tune in to this enlightening conversation with Mary Wanless to revolutionize your approach to riding and training!

Robyn Hood, sister of Linda Tellington-Jones and a leading figure in the development of the Tellington TTouch Method, joins Rupert Isaacson in this insightful episode. Robyn has dedicated her life to refining and teaching TTouch, a revolutionary approach to working with horses, dogs, and other animals that fosters trust, connection, and healing. In this conversation, she delves into the origins of TTouch, its impact on equine well-being, and practical techniques that horse owners and equine-assisted practitioners can integrate into their work. Whether you're looking to deepen your relationship with your horse or explore a more mindful approach to training, this episode is filled with wisdom and practical insights. Learn more about Robyn’s work here: https://learn.ttouch.ca | https://ttouch.com

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The Origins and Philosophy of TTouch (Starts at 02:31)

• How Robyn and Linda developed TTouch.
• The inspiration behind the method and how it differs from traditional equine bodywork.
• Understanding the nervous system’s role in movement and behavior.

Key TTouch Techniques for Equine Well-being (Starts at 16:03)

• The Clouded Leopard touch and why it’s a cornerstone of TTouch.
• The importance of gentle, mindful contact in building trust.
• How to identify and respond to equine tension and discomfort.

Body Wraps and Their Impact on Equine Balance (Starts at 36:27)

• What body wraps are and how they work.
• How they help horses with proprioception, relaxation, and postural awareness.
• Practical applications for therapy horses and performance horses alike.

TTouch for Enhancing Human-Equine Communication (Starts at 56:02)

• How to interpret subtle equine body language.
• Why intention matters in touch and training.
• How TTouch principles apply to groundwork and riding.

Cross-Species Applications of TTouch (Starts at 1:14:22)

• How TTouch benefits dogs, cats, and even zoo animals.
• The surprising effects of touch on emotional regulation in animals.
• How to introduce TTouch to a new animal safely.

The Role of TTouch in Equine-Assisted Therapy (Starts at 1:36:27)

• How TTouch helps therapy horses stay physically and emotionally sound.
• Why the well-being of the horse is just as important as the well-being of the client.
• Best practices for integrating TTouch into equine-assisted work.

Memorable Moments from the Episode:

• How horses in equine-assisted therapy programs communicate their stress and how TTouch can help (12:03).
• The unexpected link between equine tension and emotional trauma (30:18).
• A fascinating case study on how body wraps helped a horse with chronic anxiety (49:52).
• The importance of mindful observation in horse training (1:07:15).
• How horses mirror human emotions and what that means for equine practitioners (1:22:40).
• The transformative effects of TTouch on performance horses, including those competing at the highest levels (1:48:15).

Connect with Robyn Hood & Tellington TTouch:

📌 Learn More & Courses: https://learn.ttouch.ca
📘 Official Website: https://ttouch.com
📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/TellingtonTTouchMethod

See All of Rupert's Programs and Shows:

🌐 Rupert Isaacson: https://rupertisaacson.com

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🌐 Website: https://ntls.co
📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/horseboyworld
📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/horseboyworld
🎥 YouTube: https://youtube.com/newtrailslearningsystems

Shea Stewart, renowned craniosacral therapist and founder of Equine Balance (https://www.equinebalance.net), joins Rupert Isaacson in this enlightening episode to explore the intersections of quantum biology, mitochondrial health, and equine-assisted practices. With a wealth of knowledge in human and equine well-being, Shea unpacks the impact of natural light, electromagnetic fields, structured water, and movement on health. Whether you’re an equine-assisted practitioner, horse owner, or someone seeking to optimize your well-being, this conversation is packed with transformative insights. Learn more about Shea here: https://www.equinebalance.net/about-us/

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The Role of Craniosacral Therapy in Human and Equine Health (Starts at 04:44)
  • How Shea’s journey into craniosacral therapy began.
  • The impact of craniosacral therapy on the nervous system, fascia, and overall well-being.
• Understanding Mitochondrial Health and Energy Production (Starts at 17:54)
  • Why ATP is essential.
  • How equine-assisted practitioners can optimize mitochondrial function for themselves and their horses.
• How Lighting Affects Equine and Human Well-being (Starts at 28:42)
  • The disruption of circadian rhythms by artificial lighting.
  • Practical solutions for barns and therapeutic settings.
• The Power of Natural Light and Circadian Rhythms (Starts at 42:45)
  • Importance of exposure to natural sunlight for sleep, mood, and energy regulation.
• Grounding, Electromagnetic Fields, and Their Effects (Starts at 56:02)
  • How EMFs impact mitochondrial function.
  • How to create healthier spaces for horses and clients.
• Cold Exposure and Seasonal Well-being (Starts at 1:14:22)
  • The benefits of cold exposure.
  • How it connects to vitamin D production, inflammation reduction, and resilience.

Memorable Moments from the Episode:

• The connection between quantum biology and equine-assisted therapy (12:03).
• How light exposure affects neurotransmitters like serotonin and melatonin (30:18).
• A discussion on why fly masks and blankets can impact mitochondrial function (49:52).
• The surprising ways equine-assisted therapy helps regulate brain activity (1:07:15).
• Why turning off WiFi at night can improve equine and human sleep quality (1:22:40).
• Practical strategies for optimizing barn lighting to support equine well-being (1:36:27).

Contact Shea Stewart
📌 Equine Balance (https://www.equinebalance.net)
📘 Facebook (https://facebook.com/equinebalance)

See All of Rupert's Programs and Shows
🌐 Rupert Isaacson (https://rupertisaacson.com)

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New Trails Learning Systems
🌐 Website (https://ntls.co)
📘 Facebook (https://facebook.com/horseboyworld)
📸 Instagram (https://instagram.com/horseboyworld)
🎥 YouTube (https://youtube.com/newtrailslearningsystems)

Norunn Kogstad, a Norwegian psychotherapist and psychiatrist, is the visionary behind Lundehagen, a therapeutic center that blends psychotherapy, equine-assisted therapy, and exceptional horse welfare practices. With decades of experience and a deep passion for human and equine well-being, Norunn has created a sanctuary where healing, connection, and joy thrive. Her unique approach integrates relational therapy and cutting-edge practices that transform lives for both people and horses.

In this inspiring conversation, Norunn shares her journey, her philosophy of equine care, and how fostering joy and belonging can heal emotional wounds.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The Foundation of Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (Starts at 0:47):
  Norunn explains what psychotherapy is, its historical evolution, and why horses play such a vital role in this healing process.
• Joy and Belonging Through Horses (Starts at 15:20):
  Discover how Norunn’s childhood experiences in nature with horses shaped her vision for Lundehagen and inspired her to create a space where clients and horses connect deeply.
• Relational and Conflict-Focused Therapy (Starts at 28:50):
  Learn about the therapeutic techniques used at Lundehagen, emphasizing relationships, empathy, and addressing self-defeating patterns.
• Holistic Horse Welfare Practices (Starts at 45:15):
  Norunn shares Lundehagen’s approach to ensuring the physical and emotional well-being of their horses, including the importance of choice and variety in their daily lives.
• Creating Joyful Therapy Sessions (Starts at 1:01:10):
  Hear real-life examples of how equine-assisted therapy fosters joy and resilience in clients, with horses as active participants in the process.
• The Intersection of Neuroscience and Equine Therapy (Starts at 1:18:40):
  Explore the science behind how horses respond to humans’ subtle signals and the profound impact this has on emotional regulation and healing.

Memorable Moments from the Episode:

• Norunn’s reflections on finding belonging in the mountains with her first Icelandic pony (16:40).
• Insights into the importance of allowing horses to opt out of sessions and how this empowers both horses and clients (46:20).
• A touching story about a chaotic client finding peace and joy during an equine therapy session (1:02:35).
• Norunn’s discussion on the role of physical conditioning and classical dressage in equine-assisted therapy programs (1:10:15).

Contact Norunn Kogstad
🌐 Website: https://lundehagen.no
📧 Email: mailto:[email protected]

See All of Rupert's Programs and Shows
🌐 https://rupertisaacson.com

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New Trails Learning Systems
🌐 Website: https://ntls.co
📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/horseboyworld
📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/horseboyworld
🎥 YouTube: https://youtube.com/newtrailslearningsystems

Healing Through Connection with Kim Barthel: Neuroscience, Safety, and the Power of Relationships

Kim Barthel is an award-winning occupational therapist, international speaker, and bestselling author whose work integrates neuroscience, trauma therapy, and relational healing. With over 40 years of experience, she specializes in supporting individuals with trauma, neurodivergence, and developmental challenges. Through her company, Relationship Matters, Kim emphasizes the critical role of safety and connection in fostering personal growth and resilience.

In this episode of Equine Assisted World, Rupert Isaacson dives into a transformative conversation with Kim, exploring her expertise in neuroscience, trauma, and the healing power of relationships. Kim shares profound insights into how emotional safety, attunement, and the body’s natural wisdom guide people toward healing and empowerment.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Kim’s Background and Journey (Starts at 00:02:57)
  Kim discusses her early career as an occupational therapist and her pioneering work in sensory integration and neuroscience. She highlights her path from a love of movement to becoming a global leader in trauma and relational healing.
• Understanding Emotional Safety and Connection (Starts at 00:10:45)
  Kim explains the science behind emotional safety and its role in neuroplasticity. She offers practical tools for therapists and equestrians to create trust and foster growth.
• The Role of Horses in Healing (Starts at 00:20:04)
  Kim shares her experiences with equine therapy, emphasizing how horses act as powerful facilitators of movement, connection, and relational healing.
• The Importance of Attunement (Starts at 00:42:45)
  Kim shares real-life examples of how attunement creates opportunities for healing, highlighting its importance when working with trauma and neurodivergence.
• Kim’s Work with Indigenous Communities (Starts at 01:20:04)
  Kim reflects on her work with Canada’s indigenous communities, focusing on reconnecting with cultural wisdom and integrating land-based learning to support healing and education.
• How to Address Shame in Trauma Work (Starts at 01:35:45)
  Kim discusses practical tools to help individuals navigate shame, explaining how sensory integration and compassionate attunement can transform self-beliefs.
• The Power of Somatic Practices (Starts at 01:40:30)
  Kim explains the benefits of somatic practices, such as the "Butterfly Tap," to help individuals ground themselves and reconnect with their bodies.

Memorable Moments from the Episode

• Kim recalls her first encounter with Temple Grandin, where Temple’s insights into sensory processing profoundly shaped her work (00:11:02).
• Rupert reflects on his time with Kalahari Bushmen, drawing parallels between their parenting approaches and the need for emotional safety in equine therapy (00:26:00).
• Kim discusses the interplay of neuroscience and movement, exploring how the brain creates new pathways through repetition and sensory input (00:30:00).
• Kim shares a moving story about a Ukrainian veteran navigating trauma and resilience during the early days of the conflict (01:19:00).
• Rupert and Kim explore how humor acts as a bridge to connection, allowing both clients and practitioners to find relief and authenticity during difficult moments (01:25:15).
• Kim reflects on the significance of self-regulation for practitioners, emphasizing the value of authenticity and self-awareness in trauma work (01:47:00).

Contact Kim Barthel

Website: http://www.kimbarthel.ca
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/KimBarthelOTR
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/KimBarthelOTR
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@labyrinthjourneys

See All of Rupert’s Programs and Shows

Rupert Isaacson's Programs and Shows: http://www.rupertisaacson.com

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New Trails Learning Systems
Website: http://www.ntls.co
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Linda Tellington-Jones, a pioneer in equine welfare and therapeutic riding, is best known for the Tellington TTouch Method. A globally celebrated horsewoman, author, and teacher, Linda has spent decades redefining equine care, integrating holistic techniques that enhance horse and rider communication. Her unique methods, which blend science, compassion, and creativity, have transformed practices in equestrian care and therapeutic settings worldwide.

In this inspiring conversation, Linda shares her lifetime of wisdom on equine well-being, human and horse emotional healing, and the role of gratitude and joy in achieving optimal health.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. The Foundation of Equine Welfare (Starts at 0:46): Linda discusses the importance of gratitude and recognizing the individuality of horses, emphasizing how these practices elevate both horse welfare and human-horse relationships.
2. The Science of Cellular Wisdom (Starts at 13:05): Drawing from years of experience and studies, Linda explores the cellular intelligence within horses and humans, explaining how TTouch methods enhance physical and emotional healing.
3. Practical Applications of TTouch (Starts at 29:34): Learn how Tellington TTouch techniques like "the lick of the cow's tongue" and "tarantulas pulling the plow" help horses overcome physical challenges like back pain and stiffness.
4. Enhancing Equine Assisted Programs (Starts at 45:20): Discover how gratitude, art, music, and sensory exercises transform equine-assisted therapy for clients and horses, creating a joyful and healing environment.
5. Rehabilitating Therapy Horses (Starts at 1:02:15): Linda shares strategies for incorporating therapeutic rehabilitation into equine-assisted programs, using real-life examples of transforming "crocked" horses into thriving partners.
6. The Connection Between Gratitude, Joy, and Healing (Starts at 1:20:50): Learn how gratitude fosters joy, and how both emotions play a crucial role in physical and mental well-being for both humans and horses.

Memorable Moments from the Episode:

• Linda’s reflections on gratitude as a starting point for equine care and healing (1:15:30).
• Insights into the power of light touch in activating the parasympathetic nervous system and fostering deep connection (29:50).
• A fascinating story about releasing fear through the "lick of the cow's tongue" technique (1:01:45).
• Linda’s innovative use of tools like Beamer Blankets and LifeWave pain patches to aid in equine rehabilitation (33:20).

Resources and Further Reading:

• LifeWave Pain Patches: https://www.lifewave.com
• Man on His Nature by Sir Charles Sherrington: https://amzn.to/3DpIy4h
• Molecules of Emotion by Dr. Candace Pert: https://amzn.to/3P9wffm
• HeartMath EMWave and Heart Coherence Tools: https://www.heartmath.com/emwave/
• Robert Monroe and the Monroe Institute: https://www.monroeinstitute.org
• HeartMath Podcasts: https://www.heartmath.com/addheartpodcast/
• The Song of the Cell: An Exploration of Medicine and the New Human by Siddhartha Mukherjee: https://amzn.to/4gsCoz0
• Center for Attitudinal Healing: https://www.ahinternational.org
• The Book of Ho'oponopono by Ulrich Dupree: https://amzn.to/3DtjvgZ
• Tellington TTouch Training: https://ttouch.com
• Learn TTouch Courses: https://learn.ttouch.ca
• LFRF Podcast with Linda Tellington-Jones: https://ntls.co/podcast

Contact Linda Tellington-Jones
🌐 Website: https://ttouch.com

See All of Rupert's Programs and Shows
🌐 https://rupertisaacson.com

Follow Us: Long Ride Home
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📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/longridehome.lrh
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New Trails Learning Systems
🌐 Website: https://ntls.co
📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/horseboyworld
📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/horseboyworld
🎥 YouTube: https://youtube.com/newtrailslearningsystems

Empowering Education and Healing Through Horses with Alex Northover

Alex Northover is the director of Making Momentum CIC, a community interest company in Cheshire, UK, that provides alternative education and therapeutic services for children and young people. With a background as a science teacher and extensive experience in equine-assisted methods, Alex merges academic learning, nervous system regulation, and interactions with horses to create transformational opportunities. Her innovative approach focuses on child-led learning, trauma-informed care, and movement-based education, offering life-changing support for children struggling in traditional education settings.

In this episode of Equine Assisted World, Rupert Isaacson speaks with Alex about her journey from teaching to building Making Momentum, the role of horses and other animals in therapeutic education, and her inspiring work with children dealing with trauma and school non-attendance.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Alex’s Journey to Making Momentum (Starts at 1:00)
  Alex shares her journey from being a science teacher to founding Making Momentum, where she combines her passion for education, horses, and trauma-informed care to create impactful programs.
• The Role of Horses in Emotional Regulation (Starts at 6:00)
  Horses, goats, and even chickens play a key role at Making Momentum, helping children with nervous system regulation and fostering emotional growth.
• Child-Led and Movement-Based Learning (Starts at 15:30)
  Alex discusses how tailoring education to each child’s interests and incorporating movement-based methods lead to breakthroughs in learning and emotional resilience.
• Teaching Academic Concepts with Horses (Starts at 25:00)
  Alex explains how she uses equine interactions to teach subjects like math and science, demonstrating how these methods engage children in innovative ways.
• Addressing Emotionally Based School Non-Attendance (EBSNA) (Starts at 33:15)
  Alex highlights the importance of understanding EBSNA as a response to trauma rather than defiance and shares success stories of helping children rediscover joy in learning.

Memorable Moments from the Episode

• Alex reflects on the challenges of working with school-refusing children and how emotionally based non-attendance stems from trauma (33:15).
• A heartwarming story about a child who used horses to regulate emotions and ultimately pass their GCSEs on the farm (42:00).
• The impact of incorporating personal interests—like Pokémon and French—into education, making learning fun and engaging for children (25:45).
• Alex shares her own journey of growing up horse-obsessed, working in riding schools, and building a lifelong connection to horses (49:30).
• Rupert and Alex discuss the importance of co-regulation with horses and the role of oxytocin in helping children achieve emotional balance and success (56:15).

Contact Alex Northover

🌐 Website: https://www.makingmomentum.co.uk
📧 Email: [email protected]
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/makingmomentumcheshire
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/making_momentum/

See All of Rupert's Programs and Shows

🌐 https://rupertisaacson.com

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Long Ride Home

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🎥 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@longridehome

New Trails Learning Systems
🌐 Website: https://ntls.co
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📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/horseboyworld
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Transforming Lives with Christine Dickson: Trauma, Trust, and the Wisdom of Horses

Christine Dickson is an international speaker, mentor, clinical hypnotherapist, IEMT Advanced Practitioner, and Equine Coach who helps people let go of negative past memories and build a creative and connected life of purpose and abundance. Her clients describe the work as transformational and have gone on to create the life of their dreams. She lives in the Los Angeles area with her horses, dog, and cats.

In this episode of Equine Assisted World, Rupert Isaacson sits down with Christine to explore how her diverse expertise combines to guide clients through healing and personal growth. Christine shares her journey of overcoming adversity, her unique approach to equine-assisted coaching, and how horses serve as powerful mirrors for transformation.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

Christine’s Background and Approach (Starts at 1:00)
Christine discusses her diverse background, starting as a clinical hypnotherapist in 2004 and later becoming an advanced IEMT practitioner and equine coach. She explains how her modalities, combined with equine-assisted coaching, provide unique tools for addressing trauma and fostering personal growth.

The Impact of Childhood Conditioning (Starts at 12:45)
Christine explains how childhood experiences, particularly in families with addiction or personality disorders, shape subconscious patterns. She highlights the profound effects of hypervigilance, empathy, and the struggle to cultivate self-awareness and healthy boundaries.

How Horses Facilitate Healing (Starts at 23:10)
Christine shares how horses act as mirrors for our emotions and behaviors, helping clients gain clarity and insight. By observing and projecting onto horses, clients can identify and address patterns in their own lives.

Reclaiming Authenticity Through Transformation (Starts at 31:45)
Christine describes her personal journey of overcoming adversity, rediscovering herself, and creating a life aligned with her values. Her work focuses on empowering clients to break free from subconscious programming and step into a thriving, authentic life.

A Unique Approach to Equine-Assisted Coaching (Starts at 41:20)
Christine highlights the wisdom of horses in facilitating healing, emphasizing their ability to guide clients naturally. Her approach involves creating a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to interact with horses and uncover deep insights.

Memorable Moments from the Episode

• Christine reflects on the subconscious patterns formed in childhood and how they drive behavior into adulthood (12:45).
• The story of Christine rediscovering herself after financial hardship and personal challenges, using tools like The Artist’s Way (31:00).
• How a simple visit to a barn as a child sparked her connection to horses, leading to her passion for equine-assisted coaching (22:00).
• Rupert and Christine discuss the transformative power of projecting emotions onto horses as a way to gain clarity (25:45).
• Christine highlights the wisdom of horses and their natural ability to guide healing without needing rigid frameworks (41:20).
• Christine shares a powerful client story about someone finding their voice after years of feeling silenced, thanks to equine-assisted sessions (1:34:00).
• A deep dive into the concept of "radical self-compassion" and how it allows individuals to navigate trauma and self-healing (1:40:15).
• Rupert and Christine discuss the interconnectedness of the human nervous system with horses, offering insights into how non-verbal communication fosters trust and healing (1:48:00).
• Christine opens up about overcoming a difficult childhood shaped by addiction in her family, explaining how those early experiences fueled her empathy and understanding in her work with clients (1:55:30).
• Christine courageously opens up about her experience with prosecution and jail, reflecting on how this period of immense personal challenge forced her to confront her own pain and rebuild her life with clarity, authenticity, and purpose (1:55:30).

Contact Christine
🌐 Website: https://www.onthepathcoaching.net
📧 Email: [email protected]
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristineDicksonOnThePath
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onthepath_mentor/

See All of Rupert's Programs and Shows
🌐 https://rupertisaacson.com

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Long Ride Home
🌐 Website: https://longridehome.com
📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/longridehome.lrh
📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/longridehome_lrh
🎥 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@longridehome

New Trails Learning Systems
🌐 Website: https://ntls.co
📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/horseboyworld
📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/horseboyworld
🎥 YouTube: https://youtube.com/newtrailslearningsystems

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