In this episode of the Optimized Equine Podcast, host Tamara Lee Barrett speaks with McKrell Baier, the Director of Bridge UP Giddy UP, and several students from the program. They discuss the origins of the program, its impact on the community, and the personal growth of the students involved. After meeting the students, the conversation highlights the importance of ethical horsemanship, the structured curriculum, and the future aspirations of the program to expand and promote equestrian education. The students share their experiences, emphasizing the transformative power of working with horses and the lessons learned beyond riding. 

Takeaways

The program aims to provide equestrian education and beyond to underserved communities.

Students are involved in an intensive year-round program that combines riding lessons with practical and theoretical knowledge for life in and out of the saddle.

The program emphasizes the importance of ethical treatment of horses and responsible horsemanship.

Students learn valuable life skills such as teamwork, communication, and emotional regulation through their interactions with horses.

The program aims to expand its reach and provide opportunities for more students to access equestrian education.

Community involvement is a key aspect of the program's mission and success.

The importance of lifelong learning in horsemanship is a central theme of the conversation.

The program seeks to change perceptions of equestrian sport by promoting ethical practices and transparency.

Students express how their experiences in the program have positively impacted their personal growth and confidence.

Chapters

00:00 The Bridge UP Giddy UP Story

04:36 The Structure and Commitment of the Program

07:04 Meet BridgeUP GiddyUP: Student Introductions and Experiences

22:11 Holistic Approach to Equestrian Education

26:42 The Lifelong Journey of Learning with Horses

27:40 The Importance of Breathing in Riding

29:06 Passion for the Process vs. Competition

30:37 Community Engagement and Equestrian Programs

32:29 Barriers to Accessible Equestrian Sport

35:47 Introducing Level Up Licensing Events

38:42 Equine Welfare and Competition Standards

42:20 Transparency in Equestrian Events

47:11 The Coexistence of Humans and Horses

49:36 Ecological Benefits of the Equestrian Lifestyle

50:40 Developing a Standardized Curriculum

53:43 Connecting with the Community and Future Plans

55:22 Tables Turned: Tamara’s Story

*You can follow and support Bridge UP Giddy UP on Instagram*

*United States Equestrian Society’s mission is “To Serve as a Driving Force in the USA for the Regeneration of Ethical and Accessible Equestrian Ecosystems.” Learn more about the curriculum, certifications, and Level Up Licensing Events at us-es.org*
*Learn more about Tamara on⁠ Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, ⁠X⁠ and at ⁠tamaraleebarrett.com⁠*

In this episode of theOptimized Equine Podcast, host Tamara Lee Barrett is joined by Carl Paoli, an elite gymnast, movement specialist, author, and coach. They explore the concept of 'feel' in movement, the journey of writing his bookFreestyle, and the importance of deliberate practice in achieving optimal performance. The discussion also emphasizes the significance of emotional intelligence in coaching and training, and the intricate relationship between performance and personal growth.

Tamara and Carl discuss the evolution ofThe Freestyle Way podcast. They reflect on key moments, guests, and the deeper philosophy behind the show. Additionally, they discussCarl’s Corner Turners—a few of the pivotal people who have shaped his life’s trajectory. He highlights the profound impact these individuals have had on his values, philosophy, and personal growth, illustrating the power of meaningful relationships in shaping our paths.

You can learn more about Carl Paoli, and his book free+style atfreestyleconnection.com. Also find him onInstagram,X, and theFreestyle Way podcast!

Learn more about Tamara on Instagram,Facebook,X and attamaraleebarrett.com

Takeaways

Human performance starts with a feel, a connection to the moment.

Practice provides information about ourselves.

Mastering the basics is essential for optimal movement.

Deliberate practice requires an aware and conscious approach.

Self-reflection is crucial for personal growth and understanding.

Intuition plays a significant role in performance and coaching.

The journey of writing a book can be an exercise in self-discovery.

Engaging with material can lead to deeper understanding and adaptation.

Optimal movement involves getting out of our own way.  

Most of us operate unconsciously throughout the day.

Deliberate practice helps reprogram our reflexive selves.

Being fully present leads to the best outcomes.

Animals reflect our emotional state back to us.

Anxiety can be managed through physical awareness.

Emotional fitness is the capacity to translate feelings into action.

The dialogue with animals teaches us about connection.

Trusting your reflexes can lead to growth and improvement.

Being in the moment is crucial for personal development. 

The podcasting journey can evolve through various formats and directions.

Authenticity in content creation is crucial for genuine engagement.

Diverse conversations can introduce listeners to new perspectives and ideas.

Corner turners are pivotal moments or people that change our life trajectory.

Parenting offers profound insights into personal growth and connection.

The importance of letting go of outcomes in creative endeavors.

Engaging with different mediums can enhance self-expression.

Personal experiences shape our understanding of the world.

Connection with others is fundamental to personal development.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction 

01:57 How I met Carl Paoli

04:02 Exploring the Book 'Freestyle'

05:13 Discussing Feel and Movement

11:47 The Journey of Writing and Reflection

19:58 Optimal Movement and Intuition

27:57 Deliberate Practice vs. Feel

36:19 Navigating Reflexive and Voluntary Behavior

39:31 The Role of Deliberate Practice in Personal Growth

43:43 The Power of Presence in Coaching

47:48 Learning from Others: The Dialogue of Connection

51:41 Overcoming Anxiety Through Physical Awareness

56:38 Emotional Fitness: Transforming Feelings into Purposeful Action

01:11:02 The Evolution of the Freestyle Way Podcast

01:14:01 Exploring Diverse Perspectives Through Conversations

01:17:00 The Challenge of Authenticity in Content Creation

01:19:57 Corner Turners: People That Shape Our Lives

01:25:01 Parenting: A Transformative Experience

01:29:59 The Connection Between Horses, Parenting and Personal Growth

01:36:08 Where to find Carl Paoli

* Learn more about Tamara Lee Barrett on Instagram, Facebook and at bit.ly/OasisEq Dev Branham of Devereaux Sporthorses can be found on Instagram, Facebook, and at www.devereauxsporthorses.com *

In this episode of The Optimized Equine Podcast, Tamara Lee Barrett interviews Patrick King, a renowned horse trainer and clinician who promotes Classical Principles for Modern Riders. They discuss the concept of 'Corner Turners,’ the importance of athletic relaxation for horses and humans to become effective learners, and the horses' desire for leadership in many aspects of their lives. Patrick shares his journey through various influences in his career, including his transition from Western to Dressage training, and emphasizes the significance of collaboration and continuous learning. The conversation also touches on “The Masters” in horsemanship, the purpose of advanced movements, airs above of the ground, and the evolving relationship between horses and humans throughout time.

* Learn more about Tamara Lee Barrett on Instagram, Facebook and at bit.ly/OasisEq

Patrick King Horsemanship & Dressage can be found on Instagram, Facebook, and at www.pkhorsemanship.com and www.academyforclassicalhorsemanship.com *

Takeaways

Relaxation is essential for effective learning in horses.

Leadership in training requires a clear plan and agenda.

The horse's confidence as a learner is a trainer's primary responsibility.

Intent behind the training is crucial for inspiring horses.

Collaboration among professionals enhances learning and growth.

Teaching is an art that requires experimentation and adaptation.

Continuous improvement is vital in both horse training and personal development.

The relationship with horses is about mutual benefit and understanding.

Advanced movements in dressage serve to develop the horse's strength and balance.

The journey of horsemanship is ongoing and ever-evolving.

Chapters

00:00:35 Defining Corner Turners

00:01:40 Introduction to Patrick King

00:03:55 Defining Relaxation in Horse Training and Its Value

00:05:52 A Shift In The Horse Industry

00:06:45 The Importance of Leadership

00:09:54 How Your Horse Feels About Himself When He’s With You (Tom Curtin)

00:12:56 Patrick’s Western Roots and Discovering Ray Hunt

00:14:22 The First Day On The Ranch With Ray & Caroline

00:16:43 Making a Horse That’s Good For Us VS. Making Us Good For The Horse

00:19:22 Can You Pet The Horse For The Horse, Rather Than For You

00:20:25 Allowing The Horse To Present Their Anxiety Aids In Letting It Go

00:24:05 Another Corner Turner For Patrick

00:26:40 Honest, Open Dialogue: A Key Component To Horse & Human Relationships

00:27:38 professional or Professional?

00:30:19 Patrick’s Inspiring And Adaptable Teaching Techniques

00:33:40 Dressage Is For Everybody (And Patrick Walks The Walk!)

00:36:01 Patrick’s Evolving Social Media Presence

00:40:36 The Value Of Planting The Seed And Walking Away VS. Tending To The Seed Daily

00:42:30 Turning The Corner To Dressage

00:44:59 Mark Russel And Learning to BE Together, Not Just DOING Together.

00:46:51 Body Control For The Sake Of Body Control VS. Bringing Value To The Horses’ Mind & Body

00:50:01 Obedience VS. Acceptance: “Just Because You Can Put The Body In A Place Doesn’t Mean That They’re OK Being There.”

00:53:07 “Asking” Or “Telling” In Horse Training

00:56:39 Another Corner Turner: Charles de Kunffy

00:59:30 Riding A Horse To Soundness

01:02:58 Patrick’s Role As A Learner

01:05:25 The Muddy Middle

01:07:24 Evolution Beyond The Masters?

01:12:12 The Art Of Optimization In Horsemanship Is A Beautiful Thing

01:17:24 Horses Role In Human Evolution: “The World That Horse Is Helping Us Conquer Is The One That Lives Between Our Ears”

01:19:20 How To Connect with Patrick King Horsemanship & Dressage

In this episode of the Optimized Equine Podcast Tamara Lee Barrett interviews Jessica Fry, founder of Wild Hearts Equine Therapy and assistant instructor for Mark Rashid. They discuss the unique philosophy, practices, and management that makes Wild Hearts Equine Therapy so special. Jessica shares her journey in establishing the therapy center, the rehabilitation of horses and humans, and the nurturing environment they create. The conversation highlights the transformative power of horses and emphasizes the importance of acceptance, connection, and compassion in the barn, and in our day to day lives.

* Learn more about Tamara Lee Barrett on Instagram, Facebook and at bit.ly/OasisEq

Wild Hearts Equine Therapy can be found on Instagram, Facebook, and at www.wildheartsequinetherapy.org/ *

Timestamps

00:30 Introduction to Jessica Fry and Wild Hearts Equine Therapy

01:44 Guiding Principles

05:10 The Power of Acceptance

08:12 Horse First, Client Led: Wild Hearts Equine Therapy

12:05: Heart Math and the Electromagnetic Field Around Horses and Humans

14:46: Rehabilitating Horses and a Forever Home

21:37: Track Systems and Equine Management

29:40: Preserving a Horse's "Horse-ness" in a Domestic World

30:37 The Horseman's Evolution and the Challenge of Describing It In Words

35:51: Defining Optimization

37:00 Turning A Corner: Discovering Mark Rashid

44:13: Integrating Horsemanship Principles Into Our Day To Day Lives

47:38: Change Can Be Paralyzing

50:48: The Inner Work

52:22: Removing The Head Trash That Gets In Our Way

53:33 How Jessica Determines When a Horse Needs A Break, or Retirement

1:00:00: Quieting Ourselves In Order To See and Feel Our Horses

1:02:32: Connecting With Horses By Caring For Horses

1:07:10: Connecting With Nature By Caring For Horses

1:10:36: Jessica Always Knew She Would Open an Equine Therapy Center

1:15:15: Horses Teach Us About Connection and Feel

1:19:01: The Seeds Will Sprout When They Sprout

1:20:54: How To Find Jessica and Wild Hearts Equine Therapy

In this episode of The Optimized Equine Podcast, host Tamara Lee Barrett is joined by Equine Osteopath Vanessa Helvey and Dev Branham of Devereux Sporthorses. They discuss the complexities of improving the horse's experience in the horse show world. They also explore the idea that domestic horse's CAN benefit from the competition experience when they are willing participants operating through feel instead of force. The trio advocates for a holistic approach to horse care and training that prioritizes the horse's needs while also supporting the rider's goals in competition.

In this episode of the Optimized Equine podcast, host Tamara Lee Barrett interviews Ezra Yoder from No Reins Performance Horses. Ezra shares his journey from growing up Amish to becoming a professional horse trainer specializing in Cowboy Mounted Shooting…which he actually competes in bridleless! He emphasizes the importance of connection between horse and rider, as well as his training philosophy that prioritizes the horse’s mental and physical well-being. We discuss tie-downs, and some of the challenges of retraining horses who have been ridden in them. Ezra also talks about his exhibition performances, clinics, and the other aspects of his business based out of Wooster, OH.  You can find Ezra and No Reins Performance Horses on Facebook Instagram and at [email protected]

Takeaways

Ezra Yoder trains horses for cowboy mounted shooting.

He grew up Amish and developed a love for horses early on.

Bridleless riding enhances the connection between horse and rider.

Ezra's first mounted shooting experience hooked him on the sport.

He balances training horses with competing and performing.

Ezra believes in cross-training to prevent burnout in green and experienced horses.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ezra Yoder and No Reins Performance Horses

03:03 Ezra's Journey: From Amish Roots to Professional Horse Trainer

05:56 The Transition to Mounted Shooting: A New Passion

08:44 Bridle-less Riding: The Art of Connection

11:39 Training Philosophy: Balancing Competition and Horse Well-being

14:00 Exhibition Performances: Expanding Horizons

16:49 Training Techniques: Cross-Training and Mental Health

19:53 Influences and Mentorship in Horse Training

22:49 Bodywork and Maintenance: Keeping Horses Healthy

25:49 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Ezra Yoder

Keywords

Ezra Yoder, No Reins Performance Horses, mounted shooting, bridleless riding, horse training, equine health, horsemanship, cowboy mounted shooting, horse exhibitions, equestrian sports

In this episode, Tamara Lee Barrett interviews Dev Branham of Devereux Sport Horses, based out of Tomball, TX. They discuss their similar journeys in horsemanship that both began in the traditional Hunter Jumper realm. They explore the evolution of training methods, the significance of emotional awareness in horses, and the importance of true dialogue between horse and rider. Dev shares his transition from traditional hunter-jumper training, emphasizing the need for kindness and clarity in training. They also touch on the challenges of blending traditional and feel-based training techniques and the role of education in shaping horsemanship practices.

In this conversation, Tamara Lee Barrett and Vanessa Helvey are joined by Horse Trainer and Team Roper, Jayde Slade. They explore the intricacies of horsemanship and team roping, the role of balance in horse training, and the importance of understanding the horse's perspective.

While we may come from different ends of the spectrum in the horse world, this open-minded discussion leads to interesting conversations and perspective shifts. Listeners will appreciate Jayde's ability to answer some tough questions on tack, tie downs, and more in a clear and thoughtful way.

You can find Jayde Slade on Facebook, Instagram, and at https://jaydesladeperformancehorses.com

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jayde Slade

03:38 Understanding Roping and Team Roping Classifications

09:15 Defining Horsemanship

15:14 Future Goals in Team Roping

18:17 Training Techniques and Individualized Programs

29:48 The Importance of Balance

33:49 Understanding Tack: Are Tie Downs A Necessary Tool?

01:07:31 Anatomy and Proprioception in Equine Performance

01:09:21 The Journey of Understanding Balance

01:13:56 The Interplay of Balance, Responsiveness, and Awareness

01:18:48 Addressing Fear and Tension in Horses

01:23:47 Bridging Horsemanship and Performance

Keywords: horsemanship, team roping, horse training, balance, tie downs, body work, training techniques, equine care, roping clinics, horse performance

In this episode, Tamara Lee Barrett and Vanessa Helvey discuss their recent clinic in Linden, Arizona, where they worked with various horses, each presenting unique challenges. They delve into case studies of an older horse with multiple issues contributing to his lameness, a "mystery horse" with physical and behavioral concerns, a reactive horse struggling with trust, and a young mare developing through balance work. The conversation emphasizes the importance of proper movement, the role of the nervous system in equine behavior, and the need for patience and understanding in horse training and rehabilitation.