In this episode, Alexis and I dive into a topic that so many riders can relate to — dealing with toxic trainers in the equestrian world. We’ve all either experienced it ourselves or watched someone else go through it, and it’s time to have an open, honest conversation about it.

We share our personal experiences and unpack what really makes a trainer “toxic,” from emotional manipulation to poor communication and blurred boundaries. We also talk about the responsibility that both trainers and clients share in keeping relationships professional and healthy — and why setting boundaries, being honest, and communicating clearly matter so much in this sport.

We even touch on whether horse trainers should be regulated, how to find the right fit for you, and how to protect your mental health and peace in a sometimes chaotic industry. At the end of the day, we both believe that training should be something you enjoy — not something that causes stress — and, as we like to say, communication is lubrication.

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