The NOËLLE FLOYD Podcast

What Is Your Horse's Behavior Trying to Tell You?

Does your horse's behavior leave you feeling frustrated or confused? Whether they're spooky, stubborn, reactive, or distant, every action your horse takes is trying to communicate something important.

In this podcast, Josh Nichol, the founder of Relational Horsemanship, will guide you to decode those behaviors, uncover the root causes, and build a partnership rooted in trust and balance.

You'll learn how to understand your horse's relational needs, release stored tension, and create a safe, willing connection. With Josh's proven techniques like body mapping and energy awareness, you'll gain the tools and confidence to turn challenges into opportunities for growth.

In this podcast, you'll discover:

• What your horse's behavior is really saying—and how to respond effectively.
• How to address the root causes of tension, resistance, and reactivity.
• Simple, daily techniques to create trust, balance, and willingness. Imagine a horse that feels safe, willing, and eager to connect.

This podcast will show you how to make that vision a reality. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, this session is your chance to unlock the partnership you've always wanted.

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Exclusive NF+ Offer:

Josh Nichol's Horsemanship Case Studies Ready to elevate your horsemanship journey? Dive into "Josh Nichol's Horsemanship Case Studies," an NF+ exclusive that goes beyond theory into real-world practice. In this series, witness Josh working with three distinct horse-and-rider pairs as he transforms common challenges into breakthroughs in understanding and trust. If you're seeking a fresh, proven approach to overcome frustration and miscommunication, this case studies series is your next step. Now streaming exclusively on NF+ Plus, enjoy 25% off an annual NF+ membership with the code JOSH25 at noellefloyd.com. Embrace a new path to connection and let your horse's true message shine through.

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Learn more from Josh Nichols, or follow him on socials:

🌍 Website: joshnichol.com 📺 YouTube: @JoshNicholAHorsemansPursuit 📲 Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshnicholahorsemanspursuit/ 📲 Facebook: www.facebook.com/AHorsemansPursuit

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Start Your Journey with NOËLLE FLOYD+ Unlock more exclusive content, in-depth training, and behind-the-scenes insights with NOËLLE FLOYD+.

Start your journey today with a free trial – join the community and elevate your equestrian knowledge!

🌍 Website: noellefloydplus.com 📲 Instagram: instagram.com/noellefloyd

Show jumping has a problem—and no one is talking about it. Dangerous course designs are putting horses and riders at unnecessary risk, but the industry's resistance to change keeps real reform just out of reach. Riders are expected to "tough it out," officials move slowly, and speaking up could mean jeopardizing sponsorships and career opportunities.

Enter Harry Charles, the 25 year-old Olympic show jumper who's refusing to stay silent.

In this episode, Harry pulls back the curtain on what's really happening in course design, why these risks persist, and what needs to change before more serious accidents occur. He shares firsthand insights from his own near-career-ending fall, the backlash and support he's received for speaking out, and what he believes the future of show jumping should look like.

What You'll Take Away from This Episode:

• A New Awareness of Course Safety Risks – Why certain jumps are more dangerous and how they impact riders at all levels.
• Behind-the-Scenes at Elite Show Jumping – Harry's journey from growing up in an Olympic equestrian family to competing at the highest level.
• How to Advocate for Safer Riding – Practical tips for assessing course risks and making informed decisions in competition.
• The Future of Show Jumping – What's at stake for the sport's longevity if safety concerns aren't addressed.
• Why This Matters to Every Rider - Whether you're a pro or an amateur, understanding these risks can help keep you and your horse safer. From growing up in an Olympic equestrian family to challenging long-standing traditions, Harry's story is one of breaking barriers and pushing for progress.

Harry's book that he would read to the Horse World - Six Feet Above by Peder Fredricson

If you care about the safety, longevity, and evolution of show jumping, this is an episode you don't want to miss. Listen now and be part of the conversation that could change the sport.

You can read the full post discussed in this episode on the Heathcroft Farm Facebook page, home of the Charles family's show jumping stables, here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15tKduLBht/ And read Harry's interview after the post with Horse and Hound here: https://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/harry-charles-call-change-after-fall-at-double-883579

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You can follow Harry's journey on social media:

📱instagram.com/harrycharles_1 📱facebook.com/harrycharlesshowjumping 🌎 www.harry-charles.com You can keep up to date with the Charles' Show Jumping stables at Heathcroft Farm: https://www.facebook.com/heathcroftfarm

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If you enjoyed this conversation, don't forget to subscribe, like, and leave a review - it really helps us grow. You can also check out the rest of the series @noellefloyd_plus - just hit the playlist tab for more Dear Horse World episodes.

For even more expert-led workshops, in-depth courses, and exclusive lectures designed to elevate your riding and horsemanship, visit NoelleFloydPlus.com and start your 7-day FREE TRIAL today!

NF+ brings you direct access to top equestrian professionals, training insights, and a passionate community of riders dedicated to learning and improving.

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This episode is brought to you by Connaway & Associates Equine Insurance Services, Inc. The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance. Visit www.connaway.net to explore options, or get in touch today.

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Amazon Disclosure: Third-party books and products denoted on this page and website may be hyperlinked to the Amazon affiliate program. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

What if your horse could teach you more about yourself than any self-help book ever could? Horses have an uncanny ability to reflect our emotions, highlight our blind spots, and help us grow in ways we never imagined. But unlocking that power requires more than just skill in the saddle—it demands a willingness to look inward.

That's where Duey Freeman comes in.

Duey is a world-renowned therapist, educator, and equine professional who has spent decades helping people discover the life-changing lessons horses offer. As the co-founder of the Gestalt Equine Institute, he blends psychology, relational horsemanship, and a deep understanding of human development to show riders how their interactions with horses can lead to greater trust, connection, and personal breakthroughs.

In this episode, we explore how Duey's unique approach can help equestrians like you:

• Understand your horse's feedback: Learn how your horse mirrors your emotions and behavior, revealing what's holding you back.
• Build deeper trust: Use the subtle dynamics of relational horsemanship to create a bond that goes beyond training.
• Foster personal growth: Discover how your relationship with your horse can help you overcome fear, improve communication, and become more present in all areas of life.
• Navigate challenges with clarity: Gain insights into how attachment theory and Gestalt therapy can transform not just your riding but your entire perspective on partnership.

Whether you're seeking to improve your performance, strengthen your bond, or simply find more meaning in your time with your horse, Duey's wisdom offers a roadmap for growth—both in and out of the arena.

This is more than a conversation about horses; it's a conversation about life, love, and the lessons waiting in every ride.

If you've ever felt like your horse sees something in you that you don't, this episode will show you how to finally understand—and transform—what they're reflecting back.

Duey's book that he would read to the Horse World - The Faraway Horses by Buck Brannaman

Amazon Disclosure: Third-party books and products denoted on this page and website may be hyperlinked to the Amazon affiliate program. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Have you ever considered the story your saddle is telling? Throughout history, saddles have symbolized connection, partnership, and the journeys we take. But in your own rides, is your saddle telling a story of trust—or betrayal? We often assume a saddle that looks fine or feels "good enough" must be doing its job. But for countless horses, the effects of poor saddle fit are quietly devastating—causing chronic pain, behavioral issues, and eroding the trust between horse and rider. And for female riders, saddles designed for male anatomy may be holding them back in ways they don't even realize. In this episode, Noëlle sits down with Jochen Schleese, a Certified Master Saddler and Certified Equine and Saddle Ergonomist and founder of Saddlefit 4 Life®, to uncover the hidden truths about saddle fit. With decades of expertise, Jochen has helped countless horses move pain-free and empowered riders to feel balanced, comfortable, and confident. Together, they explore how an ill-fitting saddle impacts not just the horse's body, but also the emotional and mental connection you share. You'll learn to spot the subtle signs of poor fit, understand the overlooked needs of female riders, and discover practical steps to assess and improve your saddle—without breaking the bank. This conversation goes beyond saddle fit. It's about redefining partnership, choosing compassion over convenience, and showing up for your horse in the most fundamental way: by listening. If your ready to take the next step on your saddle fitting journey book a fitting online or onsite here: https://schleese.com/saddle-fit-evaluation/ Dear Horse World listeners and viewers can also sign up to receive a 5% discount off their saddle purchase via this form: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/61dd1e1842ca4f56a88be60e151c4512 Resources:

• Suffering in Silence: The Saddle Fit Link to Physical and Psychological Trauma in Horses by Jochen Schleese
• Explore Jochen's work and saddle fitting resources: saddlefit4life.com

In December, a Facebook post of ours sparked a big debate: does the USA put too much emphasis on riding position? Is there room for riders to find more fluidity and freedom in their style? Today, we're diving into those questions.

Your position in the saddle isn't just about looking pretty for the judge's panel. It's about communication, balance, and creating harmony with your horse. But here's the challenge—so much of what we're taught about position can feel rigid, exclusive, or even unattainable. And for many riders, it leaves them questioning: Am I good enough? Do I fit in here?

You're not alone in feeling this way, and that's exactly why today's episode is a must-listen.

We're joined by Nicole Shahinian-Simpson, a rider who's lived the highs and lows of equitation and show jumping at the highest levels. Nicki is one of only 11 riders in history to win both the ASPCA Maclay National Championship and the U.S. Medal Finals. She's competed on the world stage, represented the U.S. in international competition, and has nearly 35 Grand Prix victories to her name.

But what sets Nicki apart isn't just her accolades—it's her perspective. She knows firsthand how striving for "the perfect position" can create pressure that steals your joy and confidence as a rider. And she's here to help you rethink what good riding really looks like.

In this episode, Nicki dives into the realities behind position—how it impacts your horse, why the American equitation system is both a blessing and a challenge, and how to develop a functional, fluid position that works for you. She also tackles the often-unspoken topic of body image in riding: how the pressure to "look the part" can affect confidence, and why strength, individuality, and skill matter far more than fitting a specific mold.

Whether you're a junior striving to meet the standard, or an amateur who just wants to ride without overthinking, Nicki's insights will help you cut through the noise and focus on what really matters.

If you've ever felt like you don't "fit the mold" of a polished equitation rider, or wondered if the emphasis on position is holding you back, this episode will leave you feeling empowered, seen, and ready to ride your best.

Because your position isn't just about looking the part—it's about showing up for your horse.

Nicki's book that she would read to the Horse World - Champion Minded by Allistair McCaw

To find all the Dear Horse World episodes use this link: https://noellefloydplus.com/programs/dear-horse-world

Amazon Disclosure: Third-party books and products denoted on this page and website may be hyperlinked to the Amazon affiliate program. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Today on Dear Horse World, we're pulling back the curtain on one of our exclusive NF+ Office Hours sessions - where we connect our community with top experts to gain practical advice and deeper understanding.

In this recorded session, renowned horseman Tik Maynard breaks down the motivational pyramid of horses, a powerful tool to help you better connect with and understand your horse, alongside our NF+ Community Director Kylie, who is also a skilled horsemanship expert and clinical counselor.

Here's what you'll discover:

• The five core motivators that drive your horse's behavior.
• Why safety always comes first and how curiosity shapes learning.
• Practical ways to use comfort, play, and food to build trust.

This is just the tip of the iceberg of all the incredible resources we have available on NF+ so if this episode resonated with you - we'd for you to discover more.

Start your free trial of NF+ and gain access to a network of world-renowned horse experts and world-class equestrian content, designed to meet you wherever you are - no matter where in the world you're tuning in from.

Head to noellefloydplus.com today to start your journey.

Have you ever wondered what your horse is trying to tell you—or if they're trying to tell you anything at all? In this moving episode of No Stupid Questions, host Noelle Floyd sits down with writer, equestrian, and renowned animal communicator, Delaya Diana, to explore the mystical and transformative connection between humans and horses.

Delaya shares her journey from a strict Pentecostal upbringing to becoming a leading voice in equine spirituality, answering the kinds of questions so many horse owners wonder about:

• Why is this something I should consider?

• What does my horse truly want me to know?

• What is the most common reading?

• Can I communicate with my horse myself?

• How do I find a trustworthy animal communicator?

You'll also learn practical tips on:

• The Power of "No": Why it's transformative to give your horse the freedom to say no.

• Artifacts of Connection: How keepsakes can honor your bond with your animals or loved ones.

• Listening Without Bias: Becoming the observer to better understand your horse's needs.

• Why Mares Matter: The unique emotional and spiritual energy mares bring.

If you've ever wanted to connect more deeply with your horse or wondered if there's more to their behavior than meets the eye, this episode is a must-listen.

Delaya's insights will help you unlock new ways to communicate, trust, and connect with your equine partner.

Discover more about Delaya via her website: https://www.delayadiana.com/

Does the thought of goal-setting make you roll your eyes, freeze with anxiety, or shrink in self-doubt? You're not alone.

Maybe you're stuck in your riding, unsure how to move forward, or wondering if goals even apply to you. Perhaps the pressure to succeed makes tracking progress feel unbearable, or you're bracing for self-criticism if you fall short.

Here's the truth: goal-setting isn't easy.

It's not just a checklist—it's intentional work that helps you reflect, shift your mindset, and take purposeful action.

And it's for everyone, not just competitive riders. Whether you're riding for joy, growth, or performance, goals provide direction, build confidence, and make every ride meaningful.

Join Noëlle Floyd and Dr. Jenny Susser, an Olympic-level sport psychologist, as they tackle the mental hurdles holding you back. With actionable advice and practical tools, they'll help you break through barriers, set goals that work, and transform how you ride and think.

What You'll Take Away:

• Turn Fear into Focus: Get powerful strategies to manage nerves and ride with confidence.
• Set Goals Like a Pro: Learn how to create clear, achievable goals that keep you motivated and on track.
• Master Your Mindset: Discover how to stay present, block out distractions, and embrace the challenges that push you to grow.
• Ride With Purpose: Stop spinning your wheels—every ride can have meaning and direction when you know how to set the right intentions.
• Dr. Jenny's book that she would read to the Horse World - Evidence Based Horsemanship by Steven Peters & Martin Black and Illusions, the Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah by Richard Bach

Take charge of your riding journey. Whether you're overcoming fear, seeking progress, or building your relationship with your horse, this episode gives you the tools to move forward with confidence and purpose. Don't stay stuck—tune in and make every ride count. Your transformative year starts now.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Dr. Jenny's NF+ masterclasses—How to Control Fear and Anxiety and Performing Under Pressure—are designed to take you even further. These aren't just lessons; they're game-changing tools to transform your mindset and unlock your full potential as a rider.

You can watch or listen to Dr. Jenny's TEDx Talk here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hUsITcRCm2g

Amazon Disclosure: Third-party books and products denoted on this page and website may be hyperlinked to the Amazon affiliate program. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Happy Holidays from all of us at Dear Horse World.

We're sending our heartfelt thanks to our incredible listeners for joining us on this journey throughout the year. Your support and passion for the equestrian world mean the world to us!

As a token of our appreciation, we're thrilled to share an exclusive gift just for you: a special discount code for the NOËLLE FLOYD+ platform, because there's never been a better time to explore & learn with our platform.

Whether you're looking to deepen your knowledge in 2025, get inspired by exclusive content, or simply connect with your passion for horses over the holidays, NF+ has something for everyone.

👉 Use code 'DHW25' at checkout to unlock your holiday discount on annual memberships (offer valid until Dec 31.)

Thank you for being part of our amazing community. We can't wait to bring you more stories, insights, and inspiration in 2025, so make sure to hit subscribe to never miss an episode. Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a Happy New Year!

When it comes to training horses—or dogs—it's easy to focus on surface behaviors: bucking or barking, or bolting or biting. But what if the real story lies deeper—in unmet needs, misunderstood communication, or even the emotions we bring into the equation? In this episode, we're joined by Jerri Scherff, a trainer who doesn't just work with animals—she transforms relationships.

Though recently making waves with her hilarious Instagram reels, she's been known for the last decade for her thoughtful, open-minded approach to dog training. In this episode, Jerri shares the tools and insights that have helped her clients break through frustration and create lasting trust.

Here's what you'll discover:

• Barrel Racing Behind the Scenes: Jerri sets the record straight on the realities of barrel racing and shares the lessons it's taught her and her daughter.
• Dog vs. Horse Training: Surprising connections between these two worlds—and how understanding one can transform your approach to the other.
• The Power of Empathy: Hear Jerri's viral story about stepping in during a case of horse abuse, and how she used compassion and crisis understanding to help both the human and the horse.
• Turning Struggles into Growth: Why being "incompatible" can often offer the greatest opportunities for learning and connection.
• Jerri's Open-Minded Approach: Practical strategies for meeting your animal's unique needs while also managing your own emotions and expectations.

Jerri's book that she would read to the Horse World - Atlas of the Heart by Brene Brown

Whether you're grappling with training challenges, curious about animal behavior, or just looking for inspiration, this conversation is packed with relatable stories, practical advice, and fresh perspectives. Because the best partnerships aren't built through force or frustration—they're forged with empathy, patience, and understanding.

Tune in to explore how these principles can transform your relationship with your horse, your dog, and even yourself.

Watch Jerri's viral video on handling abuse: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_oPAEkyHqG/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D

Follow Jerri on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sailorjerrithedogtrainer/

Amazon Disclosure: Third-party books and products denoted on this page and website may be hyperlinked to the Amazon affiliate program. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.