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Choosing a guiding word for the year can be transformative, and for me, embracing “enough” has been a journey of self-acceptance and growth. This episode starts with my reflections on the concept of being "enough" and how it guides us toward contentment, even as we strive for personal improvement. Along the way, we address a listener's query from Honduras about horseback riding techniques, underscoring the crucial role of open communication with instructors to achieve balance and alignment in riding.

Joining me is Quentin Dhondt, a former student whose journey from horses to a career in biology is nothing short of inspiring. Quentin shares how his experiences with thoroughbred Leo and his first horse, a quarter horse named Jesse taught him invaluable life lessons, from embracing responsibility at a young age to developing confidence and skills. His story is a moving testament to how horses have shaped his passion for animals and personal development, and now we celebrate the pivotal role these majestic creatures have played in his life.

Horseback riding is more than a sport; it's a reflection of teamwork and perseverance. Quentin and I explore how riding helped us both overcome doubts and build confidence, translating these lessons into life skills like patience and emotional connection. We discuss the power of consistent effort and the importance of embracing failures as stepping stones to growth. Wrapping up, we reflect on the dreams and aspirations within the equestrian world, celebrating the journey of self-discovery and transformation that comes with growing up around horses.
And as always I wish that All your blues be ribbons.

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Picture this: You've been out of the saddle for weeks, recovering from surgery, and now it's time to face your beloved horse again. How do you overcome the fear and regain your confidence? Join Dr. Sandra Holt and Nora Dhondt in this episode of The Horse Fix as they share valuable insights and personal experiences about reconnecting with your horse after a prolonged break. We promise you’ll walk away with practical strategies to stay calm, breathe, and set yourself up for a safe, enjoyable return to riding.

Beyond riding, what does it take to build a genuine relationship with your horse? We explore how seemingly simple acts of grooming, petting, and just 'being there' without any work expectations can transform your bond. Nora highlights how these moments, especially when dealing with moody mares, can make your partnership more affectionate and willing. By treating every interaction as a nurturing opportunity rather than a task, you’ll learn how to make your horse look forward to your time together. 

Finally, discover the grounding and therapeutic nature of horses that goes far beyond the stables. Horses teach us patience, offer emotional healing, and provide a space for reflection. Whether it's volunteering at a therapeutic riding center or simply spending time with these majestic animals, the benefits are profound. From making life decisions to finding peace, the bond with horses proves invaluable, and even non-horse owners can reap these rewards. Tune in for an episode that not only speaks to your love for horses but also touches on the deeper aspects of personal growth and well-being.

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Can participating in horse shows truly shape a child's character? Join me as I chat with parents Candy Bobo, Clay Funderburk, and Samantha Beasley, who share their heartfelt stories and insights into the transformative power of horse shows for young equestrians. From learning responsibility and accountability to understanding the value of sportsmanship, we'll explore how these experiences help children grow in unexpected and beautiful ways.
      In this episode, we emphasize the crucial role trainers play in fostering a safe and supportive environment for young riders. The panel discusses the balance parents must strike between preparation and presence, ensuring their children feel supported and confident on show days. You'll hear firsthand accounts of the emotional rollercoaster at the horse shows and tips for helping your child navigate the highs and lows while maintaining a focus on fun and learning.
     Beyond the ribbons and accolades, what are the real rewards of horse showing? This episode delves into the invaluable life skills children gain from participating in these events. From integrity and leadership to teamwork and dedication, horse shows offer more than just a platform for competition—they provide a foundation for personal growth and lifelong memories. Tune in to hear from my guests about the community spirit and the immense pride that comes from watching their children flourish in this unique and challenging sport.

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In this episode I talk about sticking to it -where we tackle the essence of grit and the art of not giving up.  We delve into the incremental nature of self-growth, and why the search for progress is more powerful than the quest for perfection.  From the journey I'm on with my mare, Electra, once labeled untrainable, to the universal battles we all face, this episode is an homage to the tenacious spirit that prevails in the face of adversity.

This conversation isn't just about sticking it out—it's a blueprint for rekindling passion and honing the skills required to navigate life's storms. Reflect with us on those challenging moments that we all encounter and discover how your passion can be the fuel to push through. Join us for an inspiring reminder of the resilience that lies within, ready to carry us through life's hurdles, no matter how daunting.

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Horse ownership is a journey of responsibility and emotional connection, and in this episode, I'm thrilled to be joined by the ever-sparkling Nora Dhondt as we traverse the highs and lows that come with the territory. Our heartfelt discussion kicks off with the delicate issue of horse neglect, a serious and complex matter. We tackle this sensitive subject by weighing in on the necessity of understanding the full narrative before casting judgment, yet we also stress the importance of advocacy when a horse's welfare is at stake. As we chat, Nora and I pull back the curtain on the interpersonal dynamics at play within equestrian circles, particularly the challenging role of boarding stable proprietors.

As Dr. Sandra Holt, I'm proud to share how Nora's own stable's unique policy fostered an environment where boarders were encouraged to nurture bonds through hands-on care with their equine companions. Highlighting the profound connections that can blossom between horse and rider, we reminisce about a young boy and his horse Leo, and their journey in the Hunter Jumper discipline. These narratives not only showcase the deep bonds formed but also illuminate the therapeutic influences horses can have on individuals grappling with disabilities or PTSD. Our conversation underscores the significance of being a voice for these noble creatures, advocating for their proper care and celebrating the remarkable relationships that enrich the lives of both human and horse.

Wrapping up our conversation, Nora and I underscore the pivotal role of groundwork in horsemanship, drawing analogies to foundational life lessons that resonate beyond the stable. From the importance of respect and connection in horse training to the parallels with parenting, we share personal tales that exemplify the far-reaching impact of these principles. To all our listeners, we extend a warm invitation to keep the dialogue thriving by reaching out through our Horse Fix Facebook group. As we say farewell, Nora and I express our gratitude for your company on this journey, and we leave you with a fervent wish for a life adorned with the metaphorical blue ribbons of success and happiness.

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Have you ever witnessed the transformative effect of a horse's gentle nuzzle, or the way trust can be silently woven between human and animal? I'm Dr. Sandra Holt, and this episode is a heartwarming testament to the power of connection and redemption. Joining me is Joel Ashford, pastor and leader of Big Love Ministries, who unveils the strength found in commitments and the profound lessons we learn from our equine friends.

Joel's journey from the depths of addiction to the beacon of hope he is today is nothing short of miraculous. We traverse his early struggles, the pivotal moment of change in a Harris County jail cell, and the birth of his ministry—a story laced with the promise of hope for anyone grappling with their darkest hour. His insight of the horse underscores the therapeutic might of these majestic creatures, showcasing their role in mending broken spirits and guiding lost souls back to a path of purpose.

As our conversation winds down, I share a slice of my own story, detailing how I confronted personal loss and the struggle to reclaim faith. From the despair of a seemingly endless winter to the rejuvenation of spring, our narratives intertwine, revealing the resilience of the human spirit. This episode promises listeners more than just stories; it offers a heartfelt embrace, encouraging you to hold fast to your commitments, foster trust, and perhaps find in your own life a way to turn your blues into ribbons.

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Life has a way of testing our ability to adapt, a lesson poignantly illustrated by the recent loss of my mother at the age of 93. Her legacy of resilience in the face of constant change has profoundly shaped my outlook, especially as I navigate my own challenges. This episode is a deeply personal exploration of coping with life's unexpected turns and the art of maintaining composure through adversity. Drawing inspiration from Phil Haugen's personal development philosophies, I delve into the journey of bouncing back with grace and redefining discipline after missing a key horse show.

Equine enthusiasts will connect with the second thread of this discussion, where I address a listener's concerns about managing a strong-willed horse. Echoing Phil's  emphasis on the power of subtle cues, I talk about  horse and human communication, advocating for a blend of gentle guidance and clear intent. Then, I move from the saddle to the soul, underscoring the value of personal growth, tranquility, and adapting our communication styles for a more harmonious partnership. Join me as I intertwine heartfelt storytelling with practical advice for both horse lovers and those looking to harness the flow of life's currents.

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Get ready to venture into the captivating world of horse training, racing, and their profound impact on youth, as I, Dr. Sandra Holt, have an intriguing conversation with Thoroughbred racehorse owner and expert, Dr. Gearald Farris. 
First I solve a horse fix challenge for listener, Luca, from Switzerland and unravel the secrets of enhancing his horse's balance and straightness, with a strong focus on rhythm and cadence. In the fix, discover how using the cognitive side of a horse's brain can  be the strongest training tool you possess.
We then gallop into the exhilarating realm of horse racing, unearthing insights about the unique traits of each horse,  and the delicate balance of building a connection without fostering too strong an attachment. Dr. Gearald takes us through the  concept of "claiming" in horse racing, and explores the significance of breeding, using the story of his filly, Barely Cooking, and her successful offspring as a case study. We round off our conversation by discussing the positive influence of horses on young people, including Gearald's own touching experiences of a childhood dream becoming reality and the legacy passed on to his daughters and granddaughter. You won't want to miss this enlightening episode if you're aiming to broaden your perceptions on horse ownership, training, the racing world and the remarkable role horses can play in shaping the lives of the younger generation.

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Ever wondered why we attribute human traits to our horses or pets? This intriguing concept, known as anthropomorphism, is the key theme for this episode of Horse Fix. We journey into this fascinating world and discuss how, despite our pets' inability to fully understand us, they can still offer us immense emotional comfort. Hal Herzog's insights shed light on how naturally we talk to our pets and ascribe thoughts and meanings to other facets of our lives. 

The exploration doesn't stop there. We delve into the striking similarities and the curious differences between horses and humans. You'll gain insights into common health problems, behavioral issues, and even sensory perceptions that both species share. Plus, we'll unpack the instinctual fear response horses have, the benefits and risks of teaching them to contemplate consequences and why it's crucial to respect these unique quirks. More than just a casual chat, this episode uncovers how by acknowledging our shared traits and respecting our differences, we can foster safer, more fulfilling relationships with our beloved equine companions. Tune in and let's unravel these connections together.

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Have you ever found yourself navigating tough times, feeling overwhelmed by guilt or worry? I've been there, and in this heartfelt episode, I share my personal experience of visiting my 92-year-old mother in the hospital after she sustained a brain injury and a cracked spine. By discussing strength, perseverance, and faith, we explore how to deal with guilt, empathy, and worry while leaning on our inner resources to get through life's challenging moments.

Listen in as we uncover the power of looking at the positive side of "what ifs" and the importance of having faith in oneself to overcome adversity. We also discuss the comforting role of prayer and the emotional solace that can be found in connecting with our horses or whatever brings us joy. This episode is a reminder to embrace the sunshine in your life, and let it guide you through getting better at handling those tough times. 

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May all your blues be ribbons