HoofNit™ Podcast

Marcy Tocker is a certified professional counselor who founded Grey Muzzle Manor Sanctuary, Inc. which offers Animal Assisted Psychotherapy. Horses are used because they are social and have an extraordinary ability to read nonverbal communication. The organization offers counseling services, group therapy, support groups, and corporate training they have several programs. Grey Muzzle Manor is committed to changing lives of both humans and animals.  Join us as Marcy shares her heart and the experiences that she has had along the way. 

Healing Strides of Virginia is a facility that provides a unique approach to Equine Therapy. They have been providing this service to the community for over 30 years. Equine Therapy is a form of therapy that uses horses to help individuals with a variety of mental, physical, and emotional challenges. Carol Young, the CEO of Healing Strides, shares her journey to the program and how it has grown to what it is today. She shares heartwarming experiences of how Equine Therapy has helped individuals in their personal growth and development. With the help of staff members, volunteers, and their herd of 28 equines, they are able to offer several services to the community. They have partnered with several certification programs and offer training to those interested in Equine Therapy opportunities. In October of 2024, they have a large event coming up that you won't want to miss. It's a wonderful cause that is making a significant impact on the lives of many individuals.

Meet Meg Hill - a jack-of-all-trades with a heart for horses. After graduating from St. Edward's University, Austin, TX with a degree in Art and Education, Meg has spent 40 years riding horses in all styles - English, Western, and even Sidesaddle! With a lifetime of personal experience, Meg has always known the magic of horses, and recognized their therapeutic power from a young age. Settling in North Carolina for the past two decades, Meg saw a need for equine-assisted services in her community, inspiring her to create Asheville Equine Therapy Inc. As a center member, they provide equine-assisted services and beginner riding lessons, driven by their goal to enhance lives for all. Their services cater to people with disabilities, special needs, PTSD, and trauma through equine-assisted services, adaptive/therapeutic riding, and horsemanship. Meg and her team strive to build true friendships and make a positive impact on all who cross their path with the help of these majestic creatures.

This Del Shields recommendation holds a unique significance. Katherine, with her devotion to God and attentiveness to His guidance, contributes to the exceptional nature of this recommendation. Angel Reins Stable, a sanctuary for both humans and animals, embodies rescue, love, and tranquility. Katherine graciously imparts her personal narrative about this extraordinary program, which aids survivors of human trafficking and veterans. The rescue horses undergo a process of restoration and repurposing, enabling them to leave their painful pasts behind and embark on a journey of healing. We invite you to join Katherine as she shares her heartfelt experiences and everlasting memories.

Kristen Marcus Executive Director, a passionate advocate for CHAPS, shares her story and the programs available to the public. These programs include Adaptive Carriage Driving, Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy and Equine Assisted Learning, and are designed to cater to individuals, groups of veterans, Pre-K children, and aged community members.
One of the benefits of human-horse interaction is its ability to provide both physical and mental-emotional benefits. Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy sessions work to reduce emotional reactivity, anxiety, depression, and improve coping, relationship and communication skills. CHAPS' professional staff and volunteers work closely with clients to ensure safe lessons and increase confidence, while every effort is made to ensure the safety of the client, horse, volunteers and staff.
CHAPS' instructors have a strong equine background, as well as an understanding of various disabilities, and each staff member earns a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education per year. The staff is comprised of outstanding individuals with a heart to help people, and they are committed to changing lives through therapeutic horsemanship.

Find your Freedom with Freedom Equine's unique experience. Simone tells us about her journey towards working with Horses at Freedom Equine Association's programs.  They offer Equine Assisted Learning, Therapeutic Riding and  Boutique Trail rides for an intimate exploration and adventure on horse back.
The dedicated team at Freedom Equine make a difference in lives of those that come to their facility for help. 

MG Tidwell and Justine Daniels have quite a program to share.  Their goal is Providing hope and improving the lives of those with physical, mental, and emotional challenges through equine-assisted services.  They have a large facility  in Texas.  MG and Justine share how they use horses for mental health and the other programs they offer.   Listen to how many volunteers they have Wow! 

Del Shields a well known musician who wears many hats,  Join us with this Podcast as we talk about Del's journey with singing and poetry then his travels with Best of America on Horseback.  He talks about his travels around the country, showcasing trail riding locations and meeting interesting people along the way.  Scheduling  historic rides at locations  that create lasting memories.   

Meet the two people that make Rock Ranch so special. Together they created a Faith based place to help people heal in so many ways. Rock Ranch is a non profit that has several programs designed in a welcoming environment. We hope you enjoy meeting them through this interview and learning about their Ranch. 

HoofNit with Lynn and Tyler from Horses for Mental Health. Tyler and Lynn join us for another interview to share the Seen through Horses Campaign results. 2023 was a great success join us as Tyler and Lynn go through the stats and what is coming.