Optimized Equine Podcast

Optimized Equine Podcast

By Tamara Lee BarrettEducationSelf-Improvement
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Optimized Equine Podcast episodes

  • #10: The Power of Acceptance & Connection with Jessica Fry of Wild Hearts Equine Therapy

    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

    1 hr 24 min
  • #9: Can Competition Actually Be Beneficial To Horses?

    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.

    * Learn more about Tamara Lee Barrett on Instagram, Facebook and at bit.ly/OasisEq
    Devereaux Sporthorses can be found on Instagram, Facebook, and at www.devereauxsporthorses.com *
    Chapters
    00:00 Introductions
    01:20 Dev's Evolution in the Hunter Jumper World
    04:15 Judging and Aesthetics in Horse Shows
    08:12 The Role of Tack and Training in Equitation
    10:38 Bodywork for Horses before and during Competition
    17:45 Balancing Horse Well-being and Competition
    26:25 Can Competition Actually Be Beneficial To Horses?
    31:35 Creating a Positive Experience for Horses
    35:43 Understanding Horse Behavior and Environment
    38:43 The Importance of Connection and Awareness with Horses
    42:22 Applying Masterson Method in Everyday Interactions
    45:53 Navigating Bodywork and Horse Care
    50:30 Rehabilitation and the Journey of Horsemanship

    57 min
  • #8: Bridleless Cowboy Mounted Shooting with Ezra Yoder of No Reins Performance Horses

    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.

    Ezra aims to teach horsemanship alongside mounted shooting in clinics.

    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


    32 min
  • #7: Redefining Horsemanship in the Hunter Jumper World through Feel and Softness with Dev Branham

    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 and Dev explore the evolving landscape of horsemanship, emphasizing the importance of personal development, accountability, and the emotional connection between horse and rider. They discuss the justification of safety and other human-given story lines that influence horse training, as well as the challenges of understanding how the same “words” can be used with very different results or meanings in this space. The dialogue highlights the significance of authenticity, mentorship, and creativity in training, advocating for a deeper understanding of the horse-human relationship.
    Dev and Tamara explore the intricate relationship between science and “magic” in horsemanship, emphasizing the importance of feel, energy, and connection with horses. They discuss their personal journeys, future aspirations, and the significance of mentorship and community in the horse world. The dialogue also highlights proactive teaching methods and the role of intuition in creating safe and effective interactions with horses, ultimately advocating for a more connected and understanding approach to horsemanship.
    *Devereaux Sporthorses can be found on Instagram, Facebook, or at devereauxsporthorses.com*
    Chapters:
    00:00 Introduction and Background of Dev Branham
    02:59 Understanding Horsemanship - Natural or Not?
    06:02 Dev's Transition to New Training Methods
    11:55 The Evolution of Coaching and Clinics
    18:01 Bridging Traditional and Modern Horsemanship
    24:05 Communication and Emotional Awareness in Training
    30:00 Education and Language in Horsemanship
    30:36 The Justification of Safety in Horse Training
    32:40 Redefining Horsemanship: Personal Development and Accountability
    34:41 Activism in Equestrian Sports
    38:02 Navigating Language and Communication in Horsemanship
    42:22 The Importance of Authenticity in Horsemanship
    46:45 The Dynamic Nature of Learning and Growth
    50:25 Mentorship and Principle-Based Learning in Horsemanship
    54:53 Creativity in Training: Beyond the Toolbox
    58:45 The Emotional Landscape of Horsemanship
    01:02:00 The Intersection of Science and “Woo Woo” Magic in Horsemanship
    01:04:02 Understanding Feel and Energy in Horse Training
    01:06:00 Personal Journeys and Connections with Horses
    01:07:02 Future Aspirations in Horsemanship
    01:11:12 Mentorship and Community in the Horse World
    01:12:56 Proactive Approaches to Teaching and Learning
    01:15:05 The Importance of Intuition in Horsemanship
    01:18:58 Rethinking Safety and Connection with Horses

    1 hr 28 min
  • #6: Team Roping and Horsemanship with Jayde Slade

    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


    1 hr 31 min
  • #5: The Optimized Equine Clinic - Recap from Linden, AZ

    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.

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction
    01:31 Overview of the Clinic and Case Studies
    01:55 Case Study: The Older Horse with Stifle? Issues
    04:54 Handling Techniques and Building Trust
    06:46 The Balance of Patience and Assertiveness in Training
    08:50 Movement and Its Importance in Rehabilitation
    12:29 Understanding Appropriate Movement for Horses
    14:28 The Role of Circles and Curves in Movement
    19:13 The Importance of Quality Movement
    23:17 Trust and Movement: The Horse's Perspective
    26:19 Understanding the Rehabilitation Process for Horses
    28:30 Addressing Mental and Physical Aspects of Healing
    29:25 Evaluating Structural Issues in Horses
    34:53 The Role of Training in Equine Rehabilitation
    41:27 Building Trust and Comfort in Horses
    47:23 The Interconnection of Body and Mind in Healing
    48:48 Understanding the Horse's Stress and Trauma
    51:14 Rehabilitation Approaches for Horses
    53:46 Confronting Fear in Horse Training
    56:54 The Importance of the Nervous System
    57:49 Balancing Responsiveness and Calmness in Horses
    01:00:49 Posture and Movement in Young Horses
    01:05:10 The Role of the Hind End in Equine Movement

    1 hr 11 min
  • #4: Creating Connection to Facilitate Change During Initial Equine Assessments

    Summary

    In this episode of the Optimized Equine Podcast, Tamara and Vanessa discuss their processes for assessing horses, emphasizing the importance of understanding each horse's unique needs. They explore various evaluation techniques, treatment protocols, and the significance of engaging with horses to foster trust and communication. The conversation also delves into specific case studies, compensation patterns, and the careful balance of handling and training the horse while allowing them to (and inspiring them to when necessary!) express themselves. 


    Takeaways

    Horse owners provide valuable insights about their horses.

    Understanding a horse's history is helpful for assessment.

    Palpation helps identify tissue reactivity in horses.

    Differentiating between reactivity and restriction is important.

    Treatment should be tailored to the individual horse's needs.

    Engagement with horses is essential for effective training.

    Dull horses may need creative approaches to engage them.

    Movement, posture and balance are key to a horse's well-being in many ways.


    Chapters

    00:00 Understanding Horse Assessment and Maintenance

    10:31 Evaluating Specific Issues in Horses

    20:27 The Importance of Team Approach in Horse Care

    30:40 Engaging with Horses: The Psychological Aspect

    40:26 Navigating Different Horse Personalities

    50:43 Creating a Safe Space for Horses

    01:00:34 The Nuances of Working With Horses


    1 hr 5 min
  • #3: (Part 2 of 2) Equine Teeth and Jaws: The "Bits and Pieces" Are All Connected!

    In this episode, Tamara and Vanessa continue their discussion on teeth, jaws, bits, and headgear in horses.
    They explore possible culprits that can create tension in the TMJs, and what signs to look for as a horse owner that may indicate your horse has tension here. They also discuss the jaws as a representation of expression and a reflection of stress, fear and other tensions in the body. Also, how chronic tension in the mouth can affect dentition.
    The conversation delves into the importance of maintaining a horse's mouth through regular dental care and the role of movement and terrain in maintaining a healthy mouth. They also touch on the anatomy of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and its connection to the rest of the body, as well as the role of cranial nerves in jaw function and overall well-being.
    The episode concludes with a discussion on the considerations for dental work, including the angles and height of the teeth, and the importance of proper training and integration after dental procedures.
    Chapters
    00:00 Factors Contributing to Jaw Tension
    06:58 Training for Relaxation and Comfort
    09:25 Understanding the Anatomy of the TMJ
    17:12 The Importance of Balance in Dental Work
    30:56 Maintaining the Health of the TMJ

    48 min
  • #3: (Part 1 of 2) Equine Teeth and Jaws: The "Bits and Pieces" Are All Connected!

    In this episode, Tamara and Vanessa discuss the importance of teeth and jaws in horses. Vanessa shares her experience as an osteopath and how the jaw and teeth affect the rest of the body. They also discuss good practices for horse dentistry, including using hand tools versus power tools, working ambidextrously, and being cautious with sedation. They highlight the considerations for older and younger horses during dental procedures. Tamara explains the concept of tension producers and tension releasers in bits and headgear, and the importance of teaching horses to have a "conversation" with the bit. They discuss how some horses may have a negative association with the bit while others may be expressing tension that is already present in their bodies. The importance of understanding a horse's mouth and jaw as a reflection of their emotions and tension is emphasized. The TMJ (temporomandibular joint) is highlighted as a key area of expression and tension in horses. The discussion also touches on the selection of appropriate bits for horses, considering factors such as the shape of the mouth and the horse's comfort. The use of bitless options is also discussed.
    Takeaways
    Collaboration between like-minded professionals is important for treating the whole horse
    Good practices for modern horse dentistry
    Be cautious with sedation and consider the age, conformation and other factors during dental procedures
    Teaching horses to have a positive association with the bit can help release tension
    Understanding the difference between tension producers and tension releasers in bits and headgear is crucial Some horses may have a negative association with the bit, while others may be expressing tension from their bodies.
    The TMJ is an important area of expression and tension in horses.
    Understanding a horse's mouth and jaw can provide insights into their emotions and tension.
    The selection of appropriate bits should consider the shape of the horse's mouth and their comfort. Bitless options can be considered.
    00:00 Introduction and Overview
    02:37 Collaborative Dental Care
    10:37 Considerations for Dental Practices
    24:11 Bits and Headgear
    27:37 Teaching Horses to Have a Conversation with the Bit
    34:11 Understanding the Individuality of Horses
    35:29 The Impact of Jaw Tension
    45:37 Finding the Right Bit
    49:21 Bitless Options
    58:38 Factors Contributing to Jaw Tension

    1 hr 2 min
  • #2: The Lessons That Barnaby Brought

    In this episode, Tamara discusses her horse Barnaby and the valuable lessons he taught her. Despite facing physical challenges and a lack of a clear diagnosis, Tamara learned to trust her gut and listen to her horse. Vanessa provides insights into Barnaby's physical issues, including restrictions in his cranial and hind end structures. The post-mortem report revealed abnormalities, but a definitive diagnosis was never reached. Tamara emphasizes the importance of trusting your instincts and not letting others' opinions sway your decisions. They also emphasize the need for building a strong relationship with equine professionals and taking the time to understand their approach. The conversation highlights the importance of patience and perseverance in horse care.
    Takeaways
    Barnaby taught Tamara valuable life lessons despite facing physical challenges.
    Barnaby's physical issues included restrictions in his cranial and hind end structures.
    The post-mortem report revealed abnormalities, but a definitive diagnosis was never reached.
    It is important to trust your instincts and not let others' opinions sway your decisions. Trust your gut and listen to your horse when it comes to their health and well-being.
    Seek multiple opinions and build relationships with equine professionals to find the best approach for your horse.
    Avoid quick fixes and be patient and persistent in your horse care journey.
    Lessons and growth often come from the challenges we experience with our horses.
    Chapters & Timestamps
    00:00 Introduction and Background
    05:23 Observing Barnaby's Personality and Behavior
    16:20 Identifying Restrictions and Compression
    25:23 The Role of the Nervous System
    31:13 Differentiating Restrictions from Wear and Tear
    35:51 The Importance of Balance and Symmetry
    43:09 Head, Neck and Hind End Issues
    53:55 Lessons from Barnaby
    57:19 Building Relationships with Professionals
    01:03:06 Summary

    1 hr 4 min

About Optimized Equine Podcast

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to the Optimized Equine Podcast with Tamara Lee Barrett. Join me and my guests, as we discuss horsemanship, equine performance optimization, and explore the evolution of self through the…