In this episode, we explore how a horse’s unique conformation and natural movement patterns directly influence the rider’s experience, posture, and progress.  Kaiti Otte, OT will discuss why we may pair different participants with certain horses including how different diagnoses and impairments may impact those decisions. 

Learn more about the EAS Workshop, HETRA University Live: Level Up and Lead! https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/hul-level-up-landing

Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

The world of equine-assisted services is always evolving—and sometimes that means letting go of long-standing tools we’ve relied on for years. In this episode of Not Just a Pony Ride, we dive into the recent ban on peacock stirrups, a staple in many EAS programs, and explore what this change means for safety, accessibility, and your organization’s budget. We’ll discuss:

• Why peacock stirrups are being phased out and the safety concerns behind the decision.
• Alternative stirrup options now available for adaptive and therapeutic riding.
• The financial impact of making the switch and how to plan for it.
• Strategies for managing change within your staff, volunteers, and participants.
• Tips for fundraising and budgeting to cover equipment updates.

Get our tips and example verbiage we used to apply for a grant to replace our peacock stirrups over on Patreon!:  www.patreon.com/notjustaponyride

Check out options for safety stirrups and LOTS more at  https://freedomrider.com/

 In this replay from episode #21, we’re diving into maintaining our Steady Eddy’s.  We all have them and we love them - but how do we balance keeping them happy, healthy, sane and sound with our budget?  Shelby Schult, HETRA’s Program Director explains how we do that at HETRA including discussing conditioning regimens, vet work, nutrition supplements and more. 

GLC Joint Supplement:  https://kbchorsesupplies.com/glc-direct/

Equine Sustainability Mini Course:  https://hetra.org/education/register-for-webinars.html

This episode is proudly sponsored by Freedom Rider:  https://freedomrider.com/

Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

In this episode, we dive into the challenges of having tough conversations in the equine-assisted services industry with leadership coach Cindy Schwarz from Ears Up Leadership. Why do we avoid hard discussions, even when they’re necessary? Cindy brings clarity and compassion to the topic, exploring the impact of scarcity mindset, our deep desire to be seen as "nice," and the emotional dynamics at play in tightly knit communities. Whether you’re running a program, working on a team, or just trying to speak up more effectively, this episode is packed with insights to help you lead with integrity and courage.

In this episode, we cover:

• Practical tips for navigating hard conversations with grace and clarity
• The power of behavioral congruence
• Tools for diffusing tension before it escalates
• Why leadership skills are really life skills (and how to grow them)
• How understanding yourself — and your teammates — improves communication and builds trust

Book recommendation from Cindy:  Crucial Conversations (Amazon):  https://a.co/d/10xbCFX

Reach out to Cindy and learn more about her business at Ears up Leadership:  https://www.earsupleadership.com/

Learn more about HETRA University Live: Level up and Lead here: https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HULLevelUp

This episode is proudly sponsored by Freedom Rider:  https://freedomrider.com/

Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

 In today’s episode, we’re diving into social stories — those short, purposeful narratives designed to help people better understand specific situations, events, or tasks. You’ve probably heard of them, especially in the context of supporting neurodivergent children, including those with autism, ADHD, or challenges with transitions and change.  Social stories can be incredibly powerful tools — if they’re done right. But writing them isn’t just about being creative; it’s about being intentional. 

That’s why today, we’re breaking down:

• What social stories are and who can benefit from them
• Why they work (and when they don’t)
• The step-by-step process to write a high-quality social story
• Real-life EAS examples to guide you
• A free downloadable resource to help you get started!

What to expect at your first evaluation video “social story”:  https://hetra.org/programming/participant-resources/getting-started.html

Access to the Neurodivergent mini course and other HETRA University webinars: https://hetra.org/education/register-for-webinars.html

Patreon link for the social story handout: www.patreon.com/notjustaponyride

This episode is proudly sponsored by Freedom Rider:  https://freedomrider.com/

Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

 In this episode, we explore how meaningful experiences and community connections can bring light and joy to older adults facing life-limiting illnesses. We’re honored to highlight our partnership with the Dreamweaver Foundation, an local organization dedicated to fulfilling dreams for seniors. Together, we’ve created unforgettable moments —where horses help bridge the gap between isolation and connection.

In this episode, we’ll cover:

• The impact of loneliness in older adults and how joy-filled experiences can transform their outlook
• Who qualifies for the Dreamweaver “Dream” program and how clients are selected
• What a typical “Dream Day” looks like
• What’s expected of community partners and how they help bring these dreams to life
• How YOU can get involved in making magic happen for someone in your community

Learn more about the Dreamweaver Foundation here www.dreamweaver.org or @dreamweaverfoundation on Facebook and Instagram

This episode is proudly sponsored by Freedom Rider:  https://freedomrider.com/

Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

 In this replay from episode #61, we’re diving into a powerful roundup of non-profit wisdom with highlights from our conversation with the former ED from the Papillion Community Foundation. Packed with actionable insights, this episode is your go-to guide for aligning your mission, building the right board, and leveling up your fundraising game.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why your budget and strategic plan are your true north stars
• Smart strategies for an effective strategic planning process
• Who should really be sitting on your board of directors
• What your board should be doing for you
• What donors and funders actually want to hear when you communicate your mission
• Pro tips for hosting fundraising events that bring in both dollars and community support

This episode is an edited collection of Joe’s best advice, want the full conversation and more about the Papillion Community Foundation? Go back and listen to [Episode #61].

This episode is proudly sponsored by Freedom Rider:  https://freedomrider.com/

Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

Isabela Amaral is the proud mother of Fred Ginman — a resilient boy born extremely premature, diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, who now inspires others through his story of overcoming physical challenges. Together, they co-created the children’s book “I Can, I Want To, and I Will!” — a powerful, heartwarming affirmation-based book that encourages children to believe in themselves no matter their circumstances. She believes in the power of love, creativity, and community to create a more inclusive and hopeful world.

Amazon Link to their book: https://a.co/d/6N67coRConnect with Isabela and Fred at www.empowerkidsminds.com

This episode is proudly sponsored by Freedom Rider:  https://freedomrider.com/

Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

In this episode, HETRA CEO Edye Godden is sharing with us how HETRA manages a healthy work culture. Tune in for real-world tools and reflections to help you lead with intention and keep what matters most at the center. 

Expect to hear: 

• Getting to Know Your Team & Managing Conflict 
• Work-Life Harmony and “family first” support.
• Setting Boundaries at Work

Also, hear what tools we have used for staff development too!

• Clifton Strengths Finder 
• Gretchen Rubin’s ‘Four Tendencies’ Quiz:  https://gretchenrubin.com/quiz/the-four-tendencies-quiz/
• Stay Interview - Get the copy of our questions on Patreon! patreon.com/notjustaponyride

Link for more information about HETRA University Live: https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HULLevelUp

This episode is proudly sponsored by Freedom Rider:  https://freedomrider.com/

Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

In this episode we are taking a look at an equine-assisted group program that specializes in helping those who are healing from eating disorders.  Teresa Ryan BSN, RN is here to give us a look inside the inpatient program that partners with Take Flight Farms and Barb Cotten, LMHP - who is also on the episode - sharing about the equine programming they offer.

Tune in to hear:

• A look inside the Eating Disorders Inpatient and Partial Hospitalization Program at Children’s Nebraska 
• How the hospital program partners with the equine program at Take Flight Farms
• Benefits of the equine-assisted program for those with eating disorders
• Program facilitation details like size, participants and examples of activities
• Advice for starting a partnership for a program like this 

 Learn more about EAGALA on episode 42. Meet EAGALA! https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/MZRbOm8dzSb

Learn more about Take Flight Farms:  https://omahaequestrian.org/take-flight/

Learn more about the eating disorder program at Children’s Nebraska:  https://www.childrensnebraska.org/specialties/eating-disorders-program

This episode is proudly sponsored by Freedom Rider:  https://freedomrider.com/

Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks