Send a text

After the Homestretch Website & Contact: https://www.afterthehomestretchaz.org/

summary

In this episode of the Paddock Pulse podcast, co-hosts Leah O'Meara and Leah Allesandroni interview Kirsten Ghaster, the vice president of After the Home Stretch, a thoroughbred aftercare program in Arizona. Kirsten shares her personal journey with thoroughbreds, the importance of aftercare, and the challenges faced in the industry. The conversation covers the adoption process, the significance of volunteers, and the emotional healing that horses provide. Kirsten emphasizes the need for community support and the evolving landscape of horse racing and aftercare.

takeaways

• Kirsten Ghaster is passionate about thoroughbred aftercare and has been involved for over 15 years.
• After the Home Stretch focuses on reconditioning, retraining, and rehoming thoroughbreds.
• Kirsten's personal experiences with loss led her to find solace in working with horses.
• The adoption process includes thorough vet checks and ensuring a good match between horse and owner.
• Warhorses, or horses that have raced 50 times or more, are often the most solid and reliable.
• Volunteers are crucial to the success of aftercare programs, providing essential care and support.
• Site visits and follow-ups are conducted to ensure horses are well cared for in their new homes.
• Caring for thoroughbreds requires patience and understanding of their unique needs post-racing.
• Equine therapy is a powerful tool for emotional healing and connection.
• The future of aftercare involves community collaboration and innovative solutions to support retired racehorses.

Sound Bites

• "I had lost my parents back to back."
• "Horses know when you're hurting."
• "It is critically important."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to After the Home Stretch

02:37
Kirsten's Journey and Connection to Horses

05:23
The Adoption Process and War Horses

07:40
Identifying Suitable Homes for Horses

10:31
The Role of Volunteers in Horse Care

13:20
The Legacy of Danielle and Future of the Organization

18:46
Building a Better Future for Horses

20:51
Understanding the Costs of Horse Care

21:45
Supporting Thoroughbreds in Challenging Environments

24:18
The Importance of Patience and Teamwork in Horse Care

25:24
Equine Therapy and the Healing Power of Horses

27:40
The Journey of Thoroughbred Ownership

30:09
Claiming Horses for Aftercare

33:29
Creating a Network for Horse Aftercare

36:03
The Importance of Community in Horse Welfare

keywords

thoroughbred aftercare, horse adoption, equine therapy, warhorses, horse rescue, volunteer opportunities, horse care, aftercare programs, community support, racing industry

Support the show

Please forward any questions directly to @paddockpulse, you can find us on twitter, instagram and facebook!

Thanks for Listening!!

Send a text

summary

In this episode of the Paddock Pulse podcast, Leah O'Meara and Leah Alessandroni welcome legendary jockey Mike Smith, who shares his incredible journey in horse racing. From his early days in New Mexico to becoming the winningest jockey in Breeders' Cup history, Mike discusses the influence of Louisiana on jockeys, his experiences with great mares like Zenyatta, and the challenges of returning to racing after injury, how passion & faith in God bought him back to the winners circle & into Triple Crown History. He reflects on his career highlights, including winning the Kentucky Derby and Triple Crown, and shares insights on riding strategies for major races. Mike's passion for the sport and his aspirations for the future shine through in this engaging conversation.

takeaways

• Mike Smith's journey began in New Mexico, influenced by his family's involvement in racing.
• Louisiana is known for producing exceptional jockeys due to its rich horse culture.
• Transitioning to California racing marked a significant turning point in Mike's career.
• Overcoming a serious injury required mental resilience and faith.
• Zenyatta's unique qualities made her a standout mare in Mike's career.
• Winning the Kentucky Derby was a dream come true for Mike, especially on a long shot like Jacamo.
• Riding strategies vary significantly between different racetracks, especially in major races.
• Mike emphasizes the importance of positioning and trip management in the Derby.
• The love for the sport keeps Mike motivated and engaged in his career.
• Mike's aspirations for the future include winning more Derbies and Triple Crowns.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Mike Smith

01:03
Mike's Early Life and Entry into Racing

04:16
The Influence of Louisiana on Jockeys

05:08
Transitioning to California Racing

08:11
Overcoming Injury and Mental Resilience

10:19
Celebrating the Great Mares of Racing

13:05
Winning the Kentucky Derby and Triple Crown

19:20
Riding Strategies for Major Races

23:52
The Unique Qualities of Zenyatta

31:02
Reflections on Career and Future Aspirations

keywords

Mike Smith, jockey, horse racing, Kentucky Derby, Triple Crown, Zenyatta, Breeders' Cup, racing history, Louisiana jockeys, horse training

Support the show

Please forward any questions directly to @paddockpulse, you can find us on twitter, instagram and facebook!

Thanks for Listening!!

Send a text

• In this episode of the Paddock Pulse podcast, hosts Leah O'Meara and Leah Alessandroni welcome Hall of Fame trainer Todd Pletcher, who shares insights from his illustrious career in horse racing. Pletcher discusses his early influences, including his father and renowned trainers like Wayne Lukas and Charlie Whittingham, emphasizing the importance of horse care and attention to detail in training. He reflects on the thrill of competition and the concrete results that come from hard work, revealing how his passion for the sport was ignited from a young age.
• As the conversation progresses, Pletcher delves into the pressures of training for prestigious races like the Kentucky Derby, sharing personal anecdotes about his experiences with Derby winners Super Saver and Always Dreaming. He highlights the challenges of maintaining a horse's form and the unpredictability of racing, while also discussing the characteristics that make a great racehorse. The episode concludes with Pletcher's thoughts on the importance of philanthropy in the racing community, showcasing his commitment to improving the lives of both horses and the people who care 

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Todd Pletcher

00:50
Todd's Early Influences and Career Beginnings

06:25
A Day in the Life of Todd Pletcher's Barn

09:37
The Pressure of Winning the Kentucky Derby

11:36
Preparing for the Derby: The Journey of Ted Noffey

19:20
Training Exceptional Fillies: Rags to Riches and Malathaat

21:59
Reflections on Success and Humility

25:20
Hot Seat Questions: Todd's Favorite Horses

30:25
Philanthropy in Racing: Giving Back to the Community

keywords

Todd Pletcher, horse racing, Kentucky Derby, horse trainer, Eclipse Awards, horse care, racing industry, thoroughbred racing, horse training, Paddock Pulse

takeaways

• "I kind of just grew up being the son of a trainer."
• "The one thing that you have to do is have the best bedding and the best hay."
• "The Derby is hard to win period. It's just a super difficult race to win."
• "When you get to a race like the Derby, every single thing just becomes so much more pressurized."
• "Rags to Riches is not being a Hall of Fame member... that part really annoys me."

titles

• Behind the Barn: Todd Pletcher's Journey in Horse Racing
• The Pressure of the Derby: Insights from Todd Pletcher

Sound Bites

• what about racing got you hooked: "I like the competition."
• thoughts on his first derby win "It was actually a relief."
• what make a great racehorse "First and foremost is this talent."

Support the show

Please forward any questions directly to @paddockpulse, you can find us on twitter, instagram and facebook!

Thanks for Listening!!

Send a text

Summary

In this episode of the Paddock Pulse podcast, Leah O'Meara & Leah Allesandroni meet with Robbie Timmons, former ABC news reporter, to discuss the importance of thoroughbred aftercare and the work done by Canter, a thoroughbred transition group. They explore the retraining process for retired racehorses, the challenges faced in finding them new homes, and the impact of social media on horse adoption. The conversation also highlights the significance of veterinary support, funding, and the misconceptions surrounding thoroughbred adoption. Personal stories and experiences with thoroughbreds are shared, emphasizing the emotional connections formed between horses and their adopters.

Links:

https://www.canterusa.org/

https://therrp.org/about-the-makeover/

https://www.upperville.com/news/25000-thoroughbred-hunter-derby-coming-to-upperville-in-2026/

Takeaways

Thoroughbreds are ideal for retraining after racing.
Canter focuses on transitioning, not rescuing, thoroughbreds.
The program has successfully reduced horse slaughter in the U.S.
Social media plays a crucial role in horse adoption.
Veterinary support is essential for rehabilitating retired racehorses.
The Thoroughbred Makeover showcases the potential of these horses.
Funding is primarily through donations, with no paid staff.
Misconceptions about thoroughbreds need to be addressed.
The adoption process includes thorough vetting of potential owners.
Personal stories highlight the emotional bonds formed with thoroughbreds.


Sound bites

"Every dollar goes to help thoroughbreds."
"Thoroughbreds are not livestock."
"We have made a lot of changes."


Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Thoroughbred Aftercare
02:45 The Role of Canter in Thoroughbred Transition
05:51 Challenges in Thoroughbred Adoption
08:36 Adjusting to Life After Racing
11:34 The Importance of Outreach and Education
14:14 Veterinary Support and Rehabilitation
17:11 Funding and Support for Thoroughbred Programs
19:48 The Financial Reality of Horse Rescue
20:59 Vetting and Adoption Processes for Horses
23:06 Legislation and Advocacy for Horse Welfare
24:23 The Importance of Euthanasia Resources
25:41 The Role of Racing Owners in Horse Welfare
26:56 Education and Awareness in the Horse Industry
28:39 Personal Stories and Connections with Horses
31:36 Progress in the Horse Racing Industry

Keywords

thoroughbred, horse racing, aftercare, Canter, adoption, retraining, equine welfare, veterinary care, horse rescue, equestrian

Support the show

Please forward any questions directly to @paddockpulse, you can find us on twitter, instagram and facebook!

Thanks for Listening!!

Send a text

Summary

In this episode of the Paddock Pulse podcast, hosts Leah Alessandroni and Leah O'Meara welcome Tanner Raisman and Timmy Schmidt, co-founders of Next Gen Thoroughbreds. The conversation explores their backgrounds, the vision behind their initiative to engage the next generation in horse racing, and their upcoming projects, including a partnership with First Rodeo Racing. The hosts and guests discuss the importance of inclusivity in the racing industry, share personal connections to racing, and highlight the excitement surrounding Derby Week. The episode concludes with fun hot seat questions that reveal the guests' favorite racehorses and inspirations in the industry.


Takeaways

Next Gen Thoroughbreds aims to engage a new generation in horse racing.
Inclusivity is a core value, with a belief that everyone has a place in the industry.
The founders come from diverse backgrounds, bringing unique perspectives to racing.
Upcoming projects include a Derby Week giveaway and experiences for fans.
Partnerships with organizations like First Rodeo Racing are crucial for growth.
The podcast serves as a platform to share insights and stories from the racing world.
Personal connections to horses can inspire newcomers to the industry.
The importance of mentorship and education in thoroughbred racing is emphasized.
The highs and lows of racing create a unique emotional experience for participants.
The industry is thriving, and now is the time to get involved.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Next Gen Thoroughbreds
00:58 Foundations and Backgrounds of the Founders
10:56 Current Projects and Future Aspirations
19:57 Partnerships and Collaborations in the Industry
24:42 Discovering the Missing Piece in Racing
25:03 Engaging the Next Generation of Fans
26:24 Experiencing the Thrill of Racing
26:50 Claiming Races: Luck and Strategy
28:17 The Highs and Lows of Racing Life
28:58 Hot Seat Questions: Personal Connections to Racing
31:56 Connecting with Next Gen Thoroughbred
32:58 The Time to Thrive in Racing

Keywords

Next Gen Thoroughbreds, horse racing, Tanner Raisman, Timmy Schmidt, Derby Week, First Rodeo Racing, thoroughbred industry, racing syndicates, equine education, podcast

Support the show

Please forward any questions directly to @paddockpulse, you can find us on twitter, instagram and facebook!

Thanks for Listening!!

Send a text

summary

In this episode of the Paddock Pulse podcast, Leah O'Meara and Leah Alessandroni sit down with Mark Taylor, CEO of TaylorMade, to discuss the intricacies of the horse racing industry, particularly focusing on stallions and breeding. Mark shares insights into his family's legacy in horse racing, the journey of the stallion Not This Time, and the dynamics of stallion fees. The conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities for freshman sires and introduces a new stallion, Arthur's Ride. Mark emphasizes the importance of hard work and market understanding in achieving success in the horse breeding business.

takeaways

• Mark Taylor's family has a rich history in horse racing.
• The journey of Not This Time showcases the unpredictability of the industry.
• Stallion fees can fluctuate significantly based on market demand and performance.
• Freshman sires often have the highest popularity in their first year.
• Understanding the metrics behind stallion evaluation is crucial for breeders.
• The horse breeding industry requires a blend of luck and strategic planning.
• Mark emphasizes the importance of teamwork in the breeding business.
• Arthur's Ride is a new stallion with potential, backed by a supportive syndicate.
• The rise of Not This Time's stud fee reflects his success and market demand.
• Mark believes in the importance of exposing more people to the horse racing industry.

Sound Bites

• "It's a mystery where these stallions come from."
• "We never wanted to be begging."
• "You have to gauge yearling average."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to TaylorMade and Mark Taylor

02:36
Mark Taylor's Family Legacy in Horse Breeding

05:29
The Journey of 'Not This Time' Stallion

07:58
Understanding Stallion Selection and Market Dynamics

10:28
The Rise of 'Not This Time' and Stud Fee Evolution

13:17
Freshman Sires and Their Market Position

16:35
Introducing Arthur's Ride: A New Stallion

20:55
Closing Thoughts and Hot Seat Questions

keywords

TaylorMade, Mark Taylor, horse racing, stallions, Not This Time, stud fees, horse breeding, Arthur's Ride, horse industry, family legacy

Support the show

Please forward any questions directly to @paddockpulse, you can find us on twitter, instagram and facebook!

Thanks for Listening!!

Send a text

Summary

In this episode of the Paddock Pulse podcast, the ladies welcome Stacie Clark Rogers from the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA) to discuss the critical issues surrounding the aftercare of retired racehorses. Stacie shares her journey in the horse racing industry and the evolution of aftercare programs, emphasizing the importance of placement programs and community engagement. The conversation highlights the TAA's initiatives, the role of the Jockey Club, and the need for education and funding to support aftercare efforts. As the holiday season approaches, the episode also touches on opportunities for giving back to support thoroughbred welfare.

Takeaways

Stacie Clark Rogers has a rich background in horse racing and aftercare.
The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA) was established to improve the welfare of retired racehorses.
Placement programs are essential for finding new homes for retired thoroughbreds.
The TAA collaborates with various organizations to enhance aftercare efforts.
Education and awareness are crucial for improving the perception of the racing industry.
The Jockey Club's traceability project aims to gather data on retired thoroughbreds.
Funding for aftercare comes from various sources, including the checkoff program.
Community engagement is vital for the success of aftercare initiatives.
The TAA has seen significant growth in funding and support over the years.
Holiday giving campaigns are an opportunity to support aftercare efforts.


Sound bites

"We have to want to learn."
"Education is everything."
"We are all in this together."


Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance
02:51 Stacey Clark Rogers' Background and TAA's Mission
05:38 Challenges in the Horse Racing Industry
08:26 The Importance of Aftercare Programs
11:27 Placement Programs and Their Impact
14:24 The Role of the Jockey Club and Data Collection
17:10 Success Stories from Placement Programs
19:54 Future of Thoroughbred Aftercare
21:35 The Evolution of Thoroughbred Aftercare
23:44 Understanding Funding and Accreditation in Aftercare
27:38 The Impact of Mandatory Checkoff Programs
30:59 Building a Sustainable Future for Thoroughbreds
34:22 Community Engagement and Education in Aftercare
38:11 Holiday Giving and the Spirit of Generosity

Keywords

Thoroughbred, Aftercare, Horse Racing, TAA, Placement Programs, Jockey Club, Fundraising, Community Engagement, Education, Horse Welfare

Support the show

Please forward any questions directly to @paddockpulse, you can find us on twitter, instagram and facebook!

Thanks for Listening!!

Send a text

In this episode of the Paddock Pulse Podcast, our hosts chat with handicapping expert Caitlin Benson, who discusses the upcoming 2025 Breeders' Cup World Championships, providing insights into various races, including the Juvenile, Distaff, and Classic. Caitlin shares her expert picks, betting strategies, and the significance of the Breeders' Cup in the horse racing calendar. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding horse performance, jockey influence, and the excitement surrounding this prestigious event.

Takeaways

• Everyone wants to know how to bet on horse racing.
• The Breeders' Cup is a significant event in horse racing.
• Caitlin Benson shares her insights on the Breeders' Cup races.
• Handicapping is both an art and a science.
• The Breeders' Cup Juvenile often produces future Kentucky Derby favorites.
• Understanding the horses' past performances is crucial for betting.
• Caitlin emphasizes the importance of jockeys in races.
• The Breeders' Cup Distaff features some of the best fillies in the country.
• Betting strategies can vary based on race conditions and horse performance.
• Caitlin's hot picks include lesser-known horses that could surprise.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Handicapping and Breeders' Cup
02:05 Breeders' Cup Juvenile Insights
08:09 Analyzing the Breeders' Cup Distaff
15:13 The Breeders' Cup Classic Preview
18:34 Performance Insights and Race Analysis
21:30 Track Bias and Surface Considerations
25:47 Betting Strategies for Breeders' Cup
27:40 Hot Picks for Breeders' Cup Weekend
30:00 International Competitors and Key Horses
34:27 Final Thoughts and Best Bets

Support the show

Please forward any questions directly to @paddockpulse, you can find us on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook!

Thanks for Listening!!

Support the show

Please forward any questions directly to @paddockpulse, you can find us on twitter, instagram and facebook!

Thanks for Listening!!

Send a text

summary

In this episode of the Paddock Pulse podcast, hosts Leah O'Meara and Leah Alessandroni share their personal journeys into the horse racing industry, discuss the recent September yearling sale, and look ahead to the upcoming November sale and Breeders' Cup. They emphasize the importance of education and outreach in the industry, celebrating the successes of the recent sales while also acknowledging the need to support the middle market. The episode concludes with gratitude towards their audience and a call for feedback on future topics.

takeaways

• Leah Alessandroni's passion for horses began in childhood.
• The University of Kentucky provided crucial opportunities for Leah Alessandroni.
• Internships are vital for breaking into the horse racing industry.
• The September yearling sale saw record-breaking sales figures.
• The Breeders' Cup is a significant event for the industry.
• Education and outreach are essential for fostering new talent in horse racing.
• The middle market in horse sales needs more support and growth.
• Investing in broodmares can be a smart financial decision.
• The podcast aims to educate and engage listeners about horse racing.
• Community support is crucial for the success of the podcast.

titles

• Behind the Scenes of Horse Racing
• From Passion to Profession: Leah's Journey

Sound Bites

• "It was like the Oprah of horse sales!"
• "We are here to help you."
• "We need to bolster the middle market."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to the Paddock Pulse Podcast

04:41
Leah Alessandroni's Journey in Horse Racing

10:22
Leah O'Meara's Path to Kentucky and Horse Racing

18:21
Recap of the September Yearling Sale

22:52
Looking Ahead to the November Sale and Breeders' Cup

34:35
The Importance of Education and Opportunities in Horse Racing

42:30
Thanking the Audience and Future Plans for the Podcast

keywords

horse racing, yearling sale, Breeders' Cup, equine education, podcast, thoroughbred industry, Leah O'Meara, Leah Alessandroni, Keeneland, horse breeding

Support the show

Please forward any questions directly to @paddockpulse, you can find us on twitter, instagram and facebook!

Thanks for Listening!!

Send a text

Interview with CHERI DEVAUX: training style, hard working beginnings & current super stars! HOW YOU CAN GET IN with their partnerships too.... https://www.youtube.com/shorts/d8VZyYcHSpE 

takeaways

• Cherie's journey began in a standardbred racing family.
• Mentorship played a crucial role in Cherie's career.
• Lady Eli's story highlights resilience in horse racing.
• Starting from the ground up is essential in training.
• Support from partners and friends is vital for success.
• Buying horses involves understanding their personalities.
• Breeders' Cup is a significant goal for trainers.
• Thoroughbreds have potential beyond racing careers.
• Community support is important in the racing industry.
• Cherie's story inspires others to pursue their passion.

summary

In this episode of the Paddock Pulse podcast, Leah O'Meara interviews champion trainer Cherie DeVaux, who shares her inspiring journey from a standardbred racing family to becoming a successful thoroughbred trainer. Cherie discusses her early experiences in horse racing, the importance of mentorship, and her connection with the remarkable horse Lady Eli. She emphasizes the challenges of starting a training career, the significance of community support, and her aspirations for the Breeders' Cup. Cherie also provides insights into buying yearlings and the potential of thoroughbreds beyond their racing careers.

Sound Bites

• "You have to start from the bottom."
• "Success begets success."
• "You have to be patient."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Cherie DeVaux

02:25
Cherie's Journey in Horse Racing

05:24
The Influence of Mentorship and Relationships

07:50
Overcoming Challenges in Training

10:35
The Story of Lady Eli

15:59
Starting as a Trainer

18:47
Building a Supportive Team

21:14
The Importance of Hard Work and Patience

27:04
Insights on Buying Yearlings

32:30
Current Horses and Breeders' Cup Plans

36:29
Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

keywords

Cherie DeVaux, horse racing, Lady Eli, training, Breeders' Cup, thoroughbreds, mentorship, career journey, horse buying, racing community

Support the show

Please forward any questions directly to @paddockpulse, you can find us on twitter, instagram and facebook!

Thanks for Listening!!