The truth about saddle fitting will transform how you think about equestrian equipment forever. Master saddle maker Jochen Schleese pulls back the curtain on centuries of tradition to reveal shocking facts about how conventional saddles damage both horses and riders.

A defining moment came when Schleese's own competitive horse was eliminated from team selection due to mysterious, intermittent lameness. Years later, he witnessed groundbreaking research showing how traditional saddle designs slowly destroy shoulder cartilage – the exact issue that ended his horse's career. This revelation became his life's mission: to revolutionize saddle design using scientific principles rather than outdated traditions.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn when Schleese explains how a gynecologist's anatomical insights transformed saddle design for female riders. Despite women comprising the vast majority of equestrians worldwide, most saddles are still built around male pelvic structures, causing discomfort and potential health issues for women. Through pelvis casts and biomechanical studies, Schleese pioneered gender-specific designs that accommodate fundamental differences in human anatomy.

You'll discover why "follow the money" explains the prevalence of poorly fitted saddles, how to identify ethical versus unethical saddle fitters, and practical tips for finding equipment that serves both you and your horse. Whether you're a competitive rider or weekend enthusiast, this episode provides crucial knowledge to protect your horse's welfare and enhance your riding experience.

Head to https://schleese.com/ to learn more about scientifically-designed saddles that prioritize both horse anatomy and rider comfort. 

🐴 This episode is brought to you by Pegasus.

Pegasus is the game-changer horse shows have been waiting for. It’s the first modern, cloud-based platform built just for equestrian events—free to use, no contracts, and ready for any discipline, anywhere.

From fast entries to real-time results, Pegasus makes shows run smoother for organizers and easier for riders to stay informed and on schedule. Check it out at www.thepegasus.app

To stay up to date with the latest from Pegasus, head to LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and subscribe to The Oxer, the #1 weekly newsletter for global equestrian industry happenings. 🗞️

Lyndsey Dillon, an equestrian lawyer based in Ireland with practicing certificates across multiple countries, shares her expertise on protecting all parties in horse transactions with special attention to riders' often overlooked interests.

If you buy and sell horses - even to a neighbor down the road - you don't want to miss this episode.

Key Themes and Takeaways

🧑‍⚖️ 0:07 – Riders Deserve Commission

• Riders who produce and compete horses should receive a commission (~10%) upon sale.
• If an owner resists putting that in writing, it’s a red flag they never intended to honor it.

🎙️ 0:37 – Overview of Episode

• Covers: (1) Owner–Rider relationships, (2) Legal process of horse sales, (3) The role and risks of agents.

📍 2:05 – Lyndsey’s Background

• Equine-focused lawyer, licensed in Ireland, England & Wales.
• Primarily works remotely, attends select horse shows and consultations in person.

📘 5:18 – What Equine Lawyers Actually Do

• Services include: liability waivers, NDAs (less powerful in Europe), bill of sale contracts, staff employment contracts, syndicate structures.
• Her niche: Advocating for riders, who are often legally unrepresented yet central to the horse’s value.

🏇 11:27 – Rider Contracts and Commission Agreements

• Lyndsey drafts agreements protecting riders’ rights to a future commission if a horse they’ve developed is sold—especially if sold shortly after being pulled from their program.

📚 13:09 – Equine Law is a Patchwork of Other Legal Fields

• It blends litigation, contract law, tort law, employment law, and commercial law.
• No formal “equine law” discipline in law school—must be self-taught through experience.

💸 15:28 – Riders Are Often Exploited Financially

• Without contracts, riders lose rights to commissions or credit for increasing a horse’s value.
• Protecting these interests early avoids major disputes later.

📈 17:45 – Commission Standards

• 10% is typical for riders, but can vary based on seniority, results, and negotiating power.
• Riders are advised to ask early—most owners won’t volunteer it.

⚖️ 20:54 – Riders Often Don’t Feel Empowered to Ask

• Many fear losing access to owners if they seem “difficult.”
• Especially true for less wealthy riders who rely on owners for top horses.

🏢 23:53 – Most Riders Are Running Complex Businesses

• Many riders manage staff, facilities, schedules, clients—yet rarely receive the legal protections afforded to owners and buyers.

📉 28:40 – Shortage of Knowledgeable Equine Lawyers

• There’s demand, but quality matters. Lawyers need sport-specific insight to draft enforce

🐴 This episode is brought to you by Pegasus.

Pegasus is the game-changer horse shows have been waiting for. It’s the first modern, cloud-based platform built just for equestrian events—free to use, no contracts, and ready for any discipline, anywhere.

From fast entries to real-time results, Pegasus makes shows run smoother for organizers and easier for riders to stay informed and on schedule. Check it out at www.thepegasus.app

To stay up to date with the latest from Pegasus, head to LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and subscribe to The Oxer, the #1 weekly newsletter for global equestrian industry happenings. 🗞️

In this special episode of the Pegasus Podcast, we explore the powerful connection between horses and healing. 

Host Jen Tankel is joined by three incredible guests: Lynn Thomas, Co-Founder of Horses for Mental Health; Jen Grant, Head of Marketing at Zoetis Equine; and Seen Through Horses ambassador Jodie Morton. 

Together, they discuss how horses are playing a transformative role in mental health services, the impact of the Seen Through Horses campaign, and their shared mission to raise awareness and support for equine-assisted therapy. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the healing power of horses.

Join the Seen Through Horses Campaign:

• Social Media: @horsesformentalhealth on Instagram and Facebook
• Website: horsesformentalhealth.org
• Donate: horsesformentalhealth.org/donate
• Video: Veterinarian Mental Health & The Power of Horses

Connect with Ambassador, Jodie Morton:

• Social Media: @greengoldandblues on Instagram and Facebook
• Website: greengoldandblues.com

Learn More About Zoetis Equine: 

• Social Media: @zoetisequine on Instagram and Facebook
• Website: ZoetisEquine.com
• Blog: Expanding the Hoofprint for Healing
• Video: Long Live the Horse

Reference:

1. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Mental health by the numbers. NAMI. https://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-by-the-numbers/. Accessed January 2, 2025. 

GEQ-01320

🐴 This episode is brought to you by Pegasus.

Pegasus is the game-changer horse shows have been waiting for. It’s the first modern, cloud-based platform built just for equestrian events—free to use, no contracts, and ready for any discipline, anywhere.

From fast entries to real-time results, Pegasus makes shows run smoother for organizers and easier for riders to stay informed and on schedule. Check it out at www.thepegasus.app

To stay up to date with the latest from Pegasus, head to LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and subscribe to The Oxer, the #1 weekly newsletter for global equestrian industry happenings. 🗞️

Scott Neuman, Director of Competitions and International Memberships for the American Quarter Horse Association, offers a candid look at the evolving landscape of Western equestrian competitions in this revealing conversation.

Neuman shares his eye-opening research that no horse show manager reported being able to run a profitable event with fewer than 100 stalls booked—a threshold that many smaller venues simply cannot reach. This startling reality frames our discussion about why local shows are disappearing while major events continue to grow.

The conversation traces how America's shift from family farming to corporate agriculture has fundamentally altered Western horse sports. As people moved from rural to urban settings, horse ownership transformed from an affordable backyard activity to an expensive proposition requiring boarding facilities. This economic shift created a cascade effect: higher costs led to demand for better quality horses, which in turn drove competitors toward premium show venues with superior amenities.

Despite these challenges, Neuman highlights innovative solutions the AQHA has implemented, including popular ranch-style events that connect back to Quarter Horses' heritage, beginner divisions that allow weekend leasing, and versatility competitions that appeal to a broad audience. These adaptations are helping maintain the crucial "pyramid" structure of the sport, where a broad base of participants eventually feeds the upper echelons of competition.

Perhaps most fascinating is Neuman's insight into Western riding's international growth, particularly in Mexico, Brazil, and surprisingly, parts of Asia. The "Yellowstone effect" has reinvigorated global interest in ranch activities and Western horsemanship, creating opportunities for American expertise abroad.

Whether you're a competitor, show manager, or equine business owner, this episode delivers crucial perspective on where Western horse sports have been and where they're headed. Listen now to understand the market forces shaping the industry's future.

🐴 This episode is brought to you by Pegasus.

Pegasus is the game-changer horse shows have been waiting for. It’s the first modern, cloud-based platform built just for equestrian events—free to use, no contracts, and ready for any discipline, anywhere.

From fast entries to real-time results, Pegasus makes shows run smoother for organizers and easier for riders to stay informed and on schedule. Check it out at www.thepegasus.app

To stay up to date with the latest from Pegasus, head to LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and subscribe to The Oxer, the #1 weekly newsletter for global equestrian industry happenings. 🗞️

Pegasus App Co-Founder and Pegasus Podcast Co-Host Jen Tankel talks to Dr. Liberty Getman, DVM, DACVS, Equine Technical Services, a distinguished board-certified equine surgeon and sports medicine specialist, about how elite equine athletes are meticulously trained and cared for.

Learn the secrets behind maintaining a horse's health, addressing lameness, and optimizing performance, all while drawing parallels between human athletes and the athletic demands of the horses she treats.

--

Every equestrian competitor knows, a great performance horse score requires the right balance of preparation, feel, and focus. It also requires a happy, healthy horse. Zoetis has been supporting horses, riders, and veterinarians for more than 70 years. With regenerative medicine devices like Pro-Stride APS, Zoetis is always by your side in the barn, down the centerline, and everywhere in between.

Be sure to Visit ZoetisEquine.com or follow @Zoetis Equine on Facebook and Instagram to learn more.

 --

Zoetis Equine Resources:

Blog by Dr. Getman on Caring for Elite Equine Athletes Competing on the World Stage

The Future of Equine Joint Management with Orthobiologics

Zoetis Equine Lameness Solutions

New Research Provides Clarity Around the Treatment of Equine Osteoarthritis

References in the Episode:

1. Linardi R, Dodson M, Moss K, et al. The effect of autologous protein solution on the inflammatory cascade in stimulated equine chondrocytes. Frontiers Vet Sci.
2019;6(64):1-9.
2. Bertone AL, Ishihara A, Zekas LJ, et al. Evaluation of a single intra-articular injection of autologous protein solution for treatment of osteoarthritis in horses. Am J Vet Res. 2014;75(2):141-151. doi: 10.2460/ajvr.75.2.141.
3. Muir R, Reisbig N, Baria M, et al. The concentration of plasma provides additional bioactive proteins in platelet and autologous protein solutions. The American J of Sports Medicine. 2019;47(8):1955-1963.

All trademarks are the property of Zoetis Services LLC or a related company or a licensor unless otherwise noted.
© 2024 Zoetis Services LLC. All rights reserved. PRS-00082

🐴 This episode is brought to you by Pegasus.

Pegasus is the game-changer horse shows have been waiting for. It’s the first modern, cloud-based platform built just for equestrian events—free to use, no contracts, and ready for any discipline, anywhere.

From fast entries to real-time results, Pegasus makes shows run smoother for organizers and easier for riders to stay informed and on schedule. Check it out at www.thepegasus.app

To stay up to date with the latest from Pegasus, head to LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and subscribe to The Oxer, the #1 weekly newsletter for global equestrian industry happenings. 🗞️

Ever wondered how a college side gig could morph into a full-time career as a leading social media influencer in the equestrian world?

Western sports and lifestyle mega-influencer, Nick Luciano, joins Pegasus App co-founder Sam Baynes on The Pegasus Podcast.

Check out the show highlights:

- The story behind Nick's video that became the 4th-highest viewed video on TikTok
- How platforms like TikTok and Instagram are reshaping the cowboy lifestyle
- The complexities of media rights in the equestrian world
- Nick's commitment to positivity, and his entrepreneurial ventures like Luciano Western Wear
- The significant impact of his mental health initiative "Club Bulletproof" and the challenges he faces in maintaining an inclusive, supportive community.

Get inspired by Nick’s innovative approach to content creation, community-building, and his resolve to revolutionize the equestrian industry through both social media and technology. This episode is packed with insights and inspiration for anyone passionate about Western sports and the cowboy lifestyle.

Before you listen...

Every equestrian competitor knows, a great performance horse score requires the right balance of preparation, feel, and focus. It also requires a happy, healthy horse. Zoetis has been supporting horses, riders, and veterinarians for more than 70 years. From regenerative medicine devices like Pro-Stride® APS, to expert-recommended Quest Gel® (moxidectin), Zoetis is always by your side in the barn, down the centerline, and everywhere in between.

Visit ZoetisEquine.com or follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more information on our expert-informed horse care solutions.

🐴 This episode is brought to you by Pegasus.

Pegasus is the game-changer horse shows have been waiting for. It’s the first modern, cloud-based platform built just for equestrian events—free to use, no contracts, and ready for any discipline, anywhere.

From fast entries to real-time results, Pegasus makes shows run smoother for organizers and easier for riders to stay informed and on schedule. Check it out at www.thepegasus.app

To stay up to date with the latest from Pegasus, head to LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and subscribe to The Oxer, the #1 weekly newsletter for global equestrian industry happenings. 🗞️

Pegasus App Co-Founder and Pegasus Podcast Co-Host Jen Tankel talks to Dr. Holly Helbig about her remarkable journey from the world of events to equine healthcare.

Gain a unique perspective on what it takes to thrive in the demanding field of equine veterinary medicine and biosecurity.

Dr. Helbig also provides practical advice for handling outbreaks in horse barns, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and standardized protocols.

If you’re passionate about equine health or involved in horse shows, this episode is packed with invaluable insights and actionable tips.

--

Every equestrian competitor knows a great performance horse score requires the right balance of preparation, feel and focus. It also requires a happy, healthy horse. Zoetis has been supporting horses, riders and veterinarians for more than 70 years.

From Core EQ Innovator® and Fluvac Innovator® EHV-4/1 —vaccines that can be administered by your horses’ veterinarian—to a stall-side testing kit called Stablelab® that your vet can use to measure Serum Amyloid A levels in less than 10 minutes.

Be sure to Visit ZoetisEquine.com or follow @Zoetis Equine on Facebook and Instagram to learn more.

 --

Zoetis Equine Resources:

·      Checklist: Equine Vital Signs for Horses That Travel 

·      Video: Stablelab® EQ-1 Handheld Reader for Biosecurity

·      Horse Owner Blog: Show-Stopping Biosecurity: A Horse Show Veterinarian’s Personal Experience

·      Horse Owner Blog: Biosecurity: Trusted Protection. Fast Detection.

·      Veterinarian Blog: Show-Stopping Equine Infectious Diseases 

Zoetis Equine Products Mentioned:

·     Stablelab® EQ-1 Handheld Reader

·     Core EQ Innovator® 

·     

🐴 This episode is brought to you by Pegasus.

Pegasus is the game-changer horse shows have been waiting for. It’s the first modern, cloud-based platform built just for equestrian events—free to use, no contracts, and ready for any discipline, anywhere.

From fast entries to real-time results, Pegasus makes shows run smoother for organizers and easier for riders to stay informed and on schedule. Check it out at www.thepegasus.app

To stay up to date with the latest from Pegasus, head to LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and subscribe to The Oxer, the #1 weekly newsletter for global equestrian industry happenings. 🗞️

This episode is brought to you by Kerrits Equestrian.

Pegasus Co-Founders Jen Tankel and Sam Baynes talk with the team behind Kerrits, arguably every rider's beloved apparel brand. 🥕

In this episode with Sara Florin, Vice President of Kerrits Marketing, and Mary Hallissey, Vice President of Kerrits Sales, we discuss:

• The founding story of Kerrits
• How Kerrits harnesses authenticity to stay visible in the online search arena 
• The significance of inclusive marketing that resonates with riders across disciplines and body types
• How to stay relevant in an industry full of new brands
• And more 🥕

🐴 This episode is brought to you by Pegasus.

Pegasus is the game-changer horse shows have been waiting for. It’s the first modern, cloud-based platform built just for equestrian events—free to use, no contracts, and ready for any discipline, anywhere.

From fast entries to real-time results, Pegasus makes shows run smoother for organizers and easier for riders to stay informed and on schedule. Check it out at www.thepegasus.app

To stay up to date with the latest from Pegasus, head to LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and subscribe to The Oxer, the #1 weekly newsletter for global equestrian industry happenings. 🗞️

Ted Stovin, the founder of EverythingCowboy.com, pulls back the curtain on the bull riding and rodeo worlds. 

Venture with us as we navigate the rich tapestry of cowboy culture and learn how individuals from farriers to former hockey players have carved out a niche in the modern rodeo scene, embracing an athleticism that's reshaping the identity of the Western world.

Strap in as we unravel the shifting economics of bull riding, where the infusion of media attention and savvy investments have catapulted the sport into the limelight. 

Delve into the growing phenomenon of bull ownership, and discover how celebrities like Larry the Cable Guy are getting in on the action. 

We also break down how the professional realm of this rugged sport balances the allure of prize money against the lucrative potential of sponsorships and merchandise, revealing the intricate financial ecosystem that fuels local rodeos and global spectacles alike.


In this episode, we discuss:

• Why there's so much prize money in the bull riding and rodeo worlds
• Celebrity involvement in the bull riding scene
• What the English world can learn from bull riding
• And more.

🐴 This episode is brought to you by Pegasus.

Pegasus is the game-changer horse shows have been waiting for. It’s the first modern, cloud-based platform built just for equestrian events—free to use, no contracts, and ready for any discipline, anywhere.

From fast entries to real-time results, Pegasus makes shows run smoother for organizers and easier for riders to stay informed and on schedule. Check it out at www.thepegasus.app

To stay up to date with the latest from Pegasus, head to LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and subscribe to The Oxer, the #1 weekly newsletter for global equestrian industry happenings. 🗞️

On today’s edition of The Pegasus Podcast, we are interviewing Jodi Lynch Findley, host of The Thriving Equine Professional Podcast.

After working at Zoetis for a decade, she founded her own brand called JodiSpeaksLife.

Through her brand, she gets invited to speak to college students all across the United States.

Jodi spotlights the value of real-world experiences and the critical role of networking as she narrates her ascent from a 'horse girl' to a professional speaker and mentor. 

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why young professionals are hungry for change.
• How to have a career in the equine space.
• The economic and political influence of the equine world.
• And more.

🐴 This episode is brought to you by Pegasus.

Pegasus is the game-changer horse shows have been waiting for. It’s the first modern, cloud-based platform built just for equestrian events—free to use, no contracts, and ready for any discipline, anywhere.

From fast entries to real-time results, Pegasus makes shows run smoother for organizers and easier for riders to stay informed and on schedule. Check it out at www.thepegasus.app

To stay up to date with the latest from Pegasus, head to LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and subscribe to The Oxer, the #1 weekly newsletter for global equestrian industry happenings. 🗞️