As we like to say on the show, this is an enlightened space for riders and horse owners of all disciplines to learn best practices and to discover ways to better connect with their horses. Plus, we like to feel safe and have fun. And speaking of feeling safe and having fun, this episode is about Rider Fear.

Maybe it’s more common among women. Maybe it’s just more openly talked about among women. Maybe what we do, ride an animal that’s about 10 times our weight is a good, cold fact to consider. According to folks out there who do risk assessment, riding is risky --  about as risky as riding is fun, safe, rewarding, and something we feel deeply passionate about.

Rider fear for many of us might be one element that’s part of a greater calculus. We hope it’s down there with the paper clips, you know, tiny bits in the big cluttered drawer that is how we feel about horses. For some folks, though, we know it can be all-consuming.

Rather than invite experts in emotions, therapists or researchers, or whoever, Jec and I along with Amy Skinner share our thoughts and experiences. Please note that we are definitely NOT experts or therapists and this episode should not be interpreted as such. We also want to thank Connie Crawford for suggesting the topic

A few new shoutouts – Chill Angel makes luxurious dreamware of superfine merino wool. It’s breathable and soft. It’s cool when you need it to be cool and cozy when you need it to be cozy. That’s the brilliance of wool. Check out the sleepwear and loungewear and drop in cayuse20 to get 20 percent off.

Outdoor Pantry makes delicious meals and then freeze dries them. The bags of Venison Hunters Pie and Jamaican Jerk Chicken are excellent, with zero crappy ingredients. Try Pumpkin Pie or Beef Stroganoff. Drop in cayuse10 for a discount.

We thank Pharm Aloe Equine and Lucerne Farms for their support. Pharm Aloe offers aloe pellets and gel and other products to support horses’ GI health, immune system, and other processes. They have profiles of the quality of their products here. 

Lucerne Farms is a forage company based in Northern Maine. This summer, are you traveling – maybe going horse camping or heading to a competition? Lucerne bales, wrapped in plastic, are pretty much perfect for being on the road with horses. Check out their blends and distribution here.

Apologies in advance for a few audio glitches.

As always, we would love to hear from you. 

We would like to thank Kershaw knives, Redmond Equine, Kate’s Real Food and Patagonia WorkWear for their continued support. Buy some rocks from Redmond, check out the new flavor at Kate’s and check out the WorkWear sales. Please follow these brands and buy their stuff as they support us and what we’re doing. This month, we’re giving away a Patagonia WorkWear item to two lucky listeners. Check it out here.