The Dressage Radio Show

We chat with Meagen Davis about what it was like to compete at the World Championships at Aachen, Germany! Next, we talk with Caryn Vesperman, one of the newest minted R Judges, as she shares her journey and what it took to reach this milestone. And finally, we talk about something every experienced horse person can relate to—what we wish we knew when we started! We share some of the lessons we’ve learned along the way and the things we might have done differently if we could go back to the beginning.

Links:

• Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | Facebook
• Title Sponsors: Purina
• Premier Sponsor: Kentucky Performance Products
• Guest: Meagan Davis
• Guest: Caryn Vesperman
• Guest: David Wightman - Facebook | Instagram
• Book Club: The Imperfect Ride by Andrea Monsarrat Waldo
• Dressage Radio Show: Website | Facebook

In this episode of the Dressage Today Podcast, sponsored by KPP and Tribute Equine Nutrition, Aviva and Stephany interview USEF “r” Technical Delegate from Eastern Pennsylvania Jen Koch, the latest Unsung Hero in their ongoing series.

Jen represents the kind of quiet, steadfast leadership that keeps dressage thriving behind the scenes through her professionalism, deep knowledge of rules and her genuine desire to help riders have positive, fair experiences in the competition environment. But what makes her truly extraordinary is the way she shows up for people and for the sport—consistently, generously and without ever seeking recognition.

Jen’s service extends far beyond helping individuals, and her commitment to youth development is unmatched. As president of the Youth Dressage FUNdation, she helps run the Region 1 Youth Dressage Team Challenge every year in Virginia. She has also served on the USDF National Youth Programs Committee, held multiple USDF Group Membership Organization leadership roles, and currently serves on the Board of Trustees of her local horse park.

Jen works tirelessly to create opportunities for young riders, strengthen community programs, and ensure the future of dressage is bright, inclusive and well-supported. This would be impressive on its own—but she does it all while working full-time as a teacher and pursuing her master’s degree. We loved talking with Jen, and we know you will enjoy learning more about her.

In this episode, Aviva and Stephany also catch up on what’s been going on in their lives, and Aviva answers a new Ask the L question from Heather about virtual showing. Aviva details her experiences with virtual showing from a judge’s point of view and discusses how various groups do it differently.

As always, if you like what we do, please share it with your friends on social media, hit the “LIKE” button and subscribe!

About This Episode’s Sponsors: Tribute and KPP AirWise™

Tribute

At Tribute Equine Nutrition, caring for horses has always come first. As a family-owned company safely making feed right here in the USA, they’re celebrating America’s 250th anniversary by supporting programs that make a difference through horses. Every bag of Tribute sold helps support PATH International’s Equine Services for Heroes programs helping veterans through equine-assisted services. They’ve also introduced limited-edition Patriotic Horse Treats for summer. Ready to try Tribute? Start with a free personalized feeding plan and your first bag free at TributeEquineNutrition.com.

AND

KPP AirWise™

Is your horse suffering from respiratory problems like intermittent coughing, nasal discharge, seasonal allergies, poor performance, or difficulty breathing during exercise? Kentucky Performance Products has a new supplement—AirWise®—that can help.

Formulated using a synergistic blend of high-quality, potent antioxidants and micronutrients, AirWise is research-proven to help horses maintain healthy respiratory function. It has been shown to promote normal respiratory rates, enhance lung function, support a healthy inflammatory response in airways, and maintain immune health. To see if AirWise—available through veterinarians—is right for your horse, speak with your vet, visit https://www.KPPusa.com, or call 859-873-2974.

Connect with the Hosts: Email Aviva Nebesky ([email protected]) | Email Stephany Fish Crossman ([email protected])

Connect with the Show: Website (DressageToday.com) | Socials (@DressageToday) Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest

Guest: Jennifer Koch | Email Jennifer: [email protected] | Connect with Jennifer on FaceBook

Our Sponsors this month: Tribute and KPP AirWise™

This week on The Dressage Radio Show, we kick things off with Debra Reinhardt USDF Vice Pres, as we break down the qualifying process for the U.S. Dressage Finals and what riders need to know to make their way to Nationals. Then we go behind the scenes at Aachen with Megan Laffin and Allie Conti, who share their experiences as grooms at one of the biggest dressage competitions in the world. And finally, we chat with international coach, trainer and competitor David Wightman about his success developing young riders—from Young Riders and the Festival of Champions to international competition—and what it takes to help the next generation reach the highest levels of our sport.

Links:

• Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | Facebook
• Title Sponsors: Purina
• Premier Sponsor: Kentucky Performance Products
• Guest: Debra Reinhardt, USDF Vice President - Website
• Guest: Megan Laffin & Allie Conti
• Guest: David Wightman - Facebook | Instagram
• Book Club: Stable Core Training by Joyce Kramer
• Dressage Radio Show: Website | Facebook

This week on the Dressage Radio Show, Reese & Megan talk about the real economics behind buying and selling horses. Jessica Gaston shares the surprising numbers behind selling one quality horse, while Dr. Jill Stowe, equine economist and University of Kentucky professor, helps us explore the bigger disconnect between the true cost of producing, training, marketing and selling a horse and running a horse facility—and what the market expects to pay. Heidi Basler give us a FEI World Equestrian Championships in Aachen Report!

• Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | Facebook
• Title Sponsors: Purina & Farnam Endure Gold
• Premier Sponsor: Kentucky Performance Products
• Guest: Dr. Jill Stowe - Facebook
• Guest: Jessica Gaston - Website | Facebook | Instagram
• Guest: Heidi Basler - Website | Facebook
• Book Club: Stable Core Training by Joyce Kramer
• Dressage Radio Show: Website | Facebook

In this episode of the Dressage Today Podcast, sponsored by Farnam, KPP and Tribute Equine Nutrition, Aviva and Stephany talk to USEF ‘S’ judge Sue Kolstad to ask about her unique perspectives as a judge, her priorities when judging, how to handle mistakes and for any secrets she could provide to help our listeners the next time they show. We cover everything from corners to riding that pesky centerline!

A professional in the dressage world since 1977, Sue is a USDF bronze, silver and gold medalist and has nearly 50 years of experience training horses to the Grand Prix level, managing farms and coaching students to championships, medals and Young Riders’ honors.

After exploring many disciplines including hunters, jumpers, eventing, endurance, driving and Western, Sue found dressage to be her greatest inspiration and now spends most of her time judging and teaching clinics while still actively showing and selling horses for the sport.

During her formative years, Max Gahwyler, M.D., an internationally recognized judge with a passion for dressage theory and an early pioneer of dressage in the U.S., was one of Sue’s most influential mentors. After completing her Century Club ride, she appreciated that Gahwyler helped initiate the program with The Dressage Foundation in 1996. Sue, who also happens to be a dressage historian and talented artist, featured Gahlwyler’s horse and Century Club partner, Prinz Eugen, in a drawing.

Today's podcast provides a fascinating look at how to better ride your dressage tests from a judge’s point of view. We hope you enjoy the episode, and as always if you like what you hear, please like and share our podcasts on social media!

One final note: We had to hold our Ask the L segment this month because our interview with Sue ran long due all the useful information she provided us with. Check back next month for our latest Ask the L.

About This Episode’s Sponsors: Tribute, Farnam, and KPP InsulinWise®

At Tribute Equine Nutrition, caring for horses has always come first. As a family-owned company safely making feed right here in the USA, they’re celebrating America’s 250th anniversary by supporting programs that make a difference through horses. Every bag of Tribute sold helps support PATH International’s Equine Services for Heroes programs helping veterans through equine-assisted services. They’ve also introduced limited-edition Patriotic Horse Treats for summer. Ready to try Tribute? Start with a free personalized feeding plan and your first bag free at TributeEquineNutrition.com.

Farnam

This episode is brought to you by Farnam, celebrating 80 years of trusted equine care, and Endure Gold Killer Fly & Mosquito Control, a new fly spray for horses.

When your horse needs to stay focused, it helps to take flies out of the equation. Endure Gold uses brand-new, EPA-approved ingredients never before seen in equine care to annihilate flies, ticks, and mosquitoes.

This advanced formula delivers fast knockdown and up to 14 days of fly protection you can trust. Discover fly protection with Endure Gold from Farnam.

KPP InsulinWise®

Is your horse showing signs of metabolic dysregulation? Weight gain, unhealthy insulin levels that can lead to unsoundness, issues with the structural integrity of the laminae within the hoof. InsulinWise® has been research-proven to support a decrease in insulin dysregulation. A synergistic blend of polyphenols and amino acids, InsulinWise helps maintain normal metabolic function and healthy insulin levels, support a healthy body weight and normal fat distribution, and sustain normal structural integrity of the laminae in the hoof. To see if InsulinWise—available through veterinarians—is right for your horse, speak with your vet, visit KPPusa.com, or call 859-873-2974.

Connect with the Hosts: Email Aviva Nebesky ([email protected]) | Email Stephany Fish Crossman ([email protected])

Connect with the Show: Website (DressageToday.com) | Socials (@DressageToday) Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest

Guest: Sue Kolstad

Our Sponsors this month: Tribute, Farnam, and KPP InsulinWise®

First, we chat with Jackie Jolie, creator of AnimaSol, about red light therapy and what AnimaSol offers to our equine community—and our canine friends, too! Next, we meet Alexandria Andrasko and her incredible Norwegian Fjord mare, Corgi Hill Flinka. Hear about their journey from a young Fjord mare to competing at the FEI level, and how Flinka became the 2026 BreyerFest Celebration Horse! And finally, we catch up with Vee Dravilas about her 2026 show season and the incredible accomplishment of earning a spot on the Region 2 Junior Team for the North American Youth Championships—riding her trainer’s horse!

• Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | Facebook
• Title Sponsors: Purina & Farnam Endure Gold
• Premier Sponsor: Kentucky Performance Products
• Guest Name: Jackie Jolie - Website | Facebook
• Guest Name: Alexandria Andrasko - Facebook | Instagram
• Guest Name: Vee Dravilas
• Book Club: Stable Core Training by Joyce Kramer
• Dressage Radio Show: Website | Facebook

Sophie Meyer, joins the show to share how she helped organize the American Dressage Mentorship Program at Reese's, Maplecrest Farm, over the past weekend. She gives us an inside look at the program and the opportunities it provides for riders and parents looking to grow in the sport. Next, we welcome Evvie Lancione, USDF Senior Content & Programs Coordinator, for an update on the USDF L Education Program. We discuss the current program and the exciting updates and changes that are in the works for 2027. Tune in for an episode full of encouragement, education, and insight for every dressage enthusiast! The show wraps up with a chat about the disappointment of receiving a score that isn't what you hoped for.

• Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | Facebook
• Premier Sponsor: Kentucky Performance Products
• Guest Name: Sophie Meyer
• Guest Name: Evvie Lancione, Senior Content & Programs Coordinator - Website
• Book Club: Stable Core Training by Joyce Kramer
• Dressage Radio Show: Website | Facebook

In this episode of the Dressage Today Podcast, we welcome Michele Wellman, dressage trainer, contributor to Dressage Today and owner of By Chance Farm in Fredrick County, Maryland. Since founding the farm in 2002, Michele has been working for more than two decades to expand boarding, riding and showing opportunities for local dressage riders. Last month, however, an F2 tornado struck the farm and caused major devastation to their barn structures. While much of her beloved farm was destroyed, no horses or people were lost or injured during the powerful storm that swept through Libertyown, Maryland.

Michele tells us about her vision for By Chance Farm, the devastating tornado that turned her world upside down and the incredible response she’s received from horse people across the country in the storm’s aftermath. It’s a tale of love and loss, as well as one of a community rallying around one of their own. We know you’ll enjoy hearing her extraordinary story.

In this podcast, Stephany and Aviva also share their thoughts on two of the newest rule changes taking place in the dressage world—no longer allowing the double bridle in Third Level and the penalty change for using your voice in the show ring. And in a new Ask the L, Aviva shares her thoughts on proper and improper use of the whip in competition.

We hope you enjoy this episode, and as always if you like what you hear, please like and share our podcasts on social media!

As always, we are grateful for our sponsors! This month, we are sponsored by KPP Summer Games Electrolyte and by Farnam Endure Gold Fly Spray. Check out the links below to see these terrific products!

Summer Games® Electrolyte - Electrolytes, Vitamins and Minerals - KPP

Meet Endure Gold

About This Episode’s Sponsors: KPP and Farnam

When your horse loses significant amounts of electrolytes and fluids as he sweats, problems such as dehydration, muscle cramping, fatigue, tying up, and colic may occur. Even in mild forms, these conditions can have a negative impact on your horse’s ability to perform and recover after exercise.

Research shows that electrolytes help regulate nerve and muscle function and maintain a healthy fluid balance. Summer Games® Electrolyte is formulated to replenish electrolytes and trace minerals that are lost when your horse sweats, regardless of the season. It also stimulates the thirst response, so he continues to drink and stay properly hydrated. For more information, visit KPPusa.com or call 859-873-2974.

Farnam

This episode is brought to you by Farnam, celebrating 80 years of trusted equine care, and Endure Gold Killer Fly & Mosquito Control, a new fly spray for horses. When your horse needs to stay focused, it helps to take flies out of the equation. Endure Gold uses brand-new, EPA-approved ingredients never before seen in equine care to annihilate flies, ticks, and mosquitoes. This advanced formula delivers fast knockdown and up to 14 days of fly protection you can trust. Discover fly protection with Endure Gold from Farnam.

Connect with the Hosts: Email Aviva Nebesky ([email protected]) | Email Stephany Fish Crossman ([email protected])

Connect with the Show: Website (DressageToday.com) | Socials (@DressageToday) Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest

Guest: Michele Wellman of By Chance Farm in Fredrick County, Maryland | Facebook | GoFundMe

Our Sponsors this month: KPP and Farnam

This week, we're focusing on women's health with three inspiring guests who share their unique perspectives on health, wellness, and life in the equestrian world. Jennifer Flory joins us after singing the National Anthem at Pony Cup. A professional opera singer and equestrian, Jennifer discusses riding during pregnancy, balancing motherhood and horses, and the importance of caring for your voice and overall health. Kerri, an adult amateur rider, shares a remarkable story about how pain while sitting the trot led her to seek medical attention. That decision resulted in the discovery of an ovarian mass, highlighting the importance of listening to your body and not dismissing persistent pain. Dr. Wendy from Intention Health & Wellness rounds out the episode with practical insights into women's health, whole-body wellness, and proactive care. She discusses ways women can prioritize their health so they can continue to thrive both in and out of the saddle. Join us for an informative conversation about recognizing your body's signals, prioritizing wellness, and supporting women's health throughout every stage of life.

• Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | Facebook
• Title Sponsor: Farnam Endure Gold
• Premier Sponsor: Kentucky Performance Products
• Guest Name: Jennifer Flory - Website | Instagram
• Guest Name: Kerri Montgomery - Facebook | Instagram
• Guest Name: Dr. Wendy Enneking - Website
• Book Club: Stable Core Training by Joyce Kramer
• Dressage Radio Show: Website | Facebook

Medical Disclaimer: This podcast episode is intended solely for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Guest Dr. Wendy Enneking holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and is a licensed Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN); she is not a Medical Doctor (MD). Views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this show.

We are talking all things education, development, and the future of our sport! We chat with Sarah Delahanty from USDF about youth programs and the incredible opportunities available to young riders as they grow in dressage. Next, we are joined by Fie Andersen of Equito to discuss training young stallions! Fie shares her experience, insights, and what goes into developing young horses with the goal of creating successful dressage partners. And last, we had the pleasure of speaking with USDF Certified Instructor Susan Harris Perellis of Spring Run Farm of KY! Susan celebrated an incredible milestone; her 50th year hosting a show at her farm and sharing her passion for dressage, education, and creating opportunities for riders. Join us for another episode filled with inspiration, education, and stories from the dressage community!

GUESTS AND LINKS FOR EPISODE 795:

• Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | Facebook
• Premier Sponsor: Kentucky Performance Products
• Additional Sponsors: US Rider, Spalding Labs
• Guest: Sarah Delahanty - USDF Youth Programs
• Guest: Fie Andersen of Equito | Facebook
• Guest: Susan Harris Perellis | Spring Run Farm | Facebook
• Book Club: Stable Core Training by Joyce Kramer
• Dressage Radio Show: Website | Facebook