Uncinched: The Unfiltered Horse Podcast

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What happens when something is very, very wrong behind closed doors?

In this first ever Real World Cases episode, we're stepping into the world of horse crime and taking a closer look at the highly publicized case surrounding Pure Gold Stables & Equestrian Center in Salem Township, Ohio. This episode is surrounding horse death and neglect so listeners discretion is advised.

But we're not here to play internet detective or hand down a podcast verdict.

We're here to ask the questions horse people actually want answered. 

What happened? What do we actually know? What can the physical evidence tell us? What warning signs might people miss? And how does something like this raise bigger questions about responsibility, barn culture, welfare, and the systems that are supposed to protect horses?

We'll break down the publicly reported facts, separate evidence from speculation, and bring in the horse-world perspective...Because sometimes the most important part of a real-world case isn't just what happened but instead what we can learn from it.

Support the show

Be sure to subscribe, review, follow along on our socials, and join us in uncinching the world of horses

Uncinched Confessions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1b1_id3GczKj-gNL__zjrL_9kzDW9C4VPa8fiudzMjjk/edit

Social Channels and Sites:

• https://www.instagram.com/uncinched.pod
• https://www.tiktok.com/@uncinched.podcast
• https://www.stableinstincts.ca
• https://www.qualiteaequine.com

Let's Chat! You know we love to talk...

Have you ever been given an opportunity and immediately thought, “Are they sure they asked the right person?”

Maybe you've wondered if you're experienced enough, qualified enough, or actually deserving of the opportunities you've worked your ass off to get. Maybe you've watched someone else in the horse industry and thought, “There's no way I'll ever be at that level.”

Yep. That's imposter syndrome.

In this episode of Uncinched, we're talking about the very normal experience of feeling like a fraud even when there is plenty of evidence that you aren't one.

We get into how imposter syndrome can show up and talk honestly about our own experiences with it, how it can influence the opportunities we say yes or no to, and how comparison, perfectionism, over-preparing, and constantly waiting to feel “ready” can keep us stuck.

And maybe...plot twist you're actually qualified.

We'll also share practical ways to work through those moments, challenge the thoughts that come with imposter syndrome, and stop letting self-doubt make decisions for us.

🎁 FREE WORKBOOK:
We've also created a free digital workbook to go along with this episode, complete with affirmations, reflection prompts, a “receipts” section to keep track of your accomplishments, and tools to help you work through those moments when your brain starts questioning whether you belong.

Find the workbook through the link in our episode description/socials and keep it handy for the next time imposter syndrome comes knocking.

Support the show

Be sure to subscribe, review, follow along on our socials, and join us in uncinching the world of horses

Uncinched Confessions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1b1_id3GczKj-gNL__zjrL_9kzDW9C4VPa8fiudzMjjk/edit

Social Channels and Sites:

• https://www.instagram.com/uncinched.pod
• https://www.tiktok.com/@uncinched.podcast
• https://www.stableinstincts.ca
• https://www.qualiteaequine.com

Let's Chat! You know we love to talk...

In Part 2 of our latest Uncinched Confessions, we’re back with more anonymous confessions from our audience answering the prompt: “What advice did you receive that ultimately took you down the wrong path?”

From well-intentioned advice that missed the mark to advice that probably should have come with a giant “proceed with caution” warning, our listeners sent in some stories that had us laughing, questioning everything, and occasionally saying, “Oh no… who told you that?!”

This is an audience-driven segment, which means these aren't hypothetical scenarios but instead we're sharing the real experiences, mistakes, and lessons our listeners have chosen to anonymously confess.

Because sometimes the best way to learn what not to do is to hear from someone who has already been there.

Support the show

Be sure to subscribe, review, follow along on our socials, and join us in uncinching the world of horses

Uncinched Confessions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1b1_id3GczKj-gNL__zjrL_9kzDW9C4VPa8fiudzMjjk/edit

Social Channels and Sites:

• https://www.instagram.com/uncinched.pod
• https://www.tiktok.com/@uncinched.podcast
• https://www.stableinstincts.ca
• https://www.qualiteaequine.com

Let's Chat! You know we love to talk...

We asked, “What’s some horse advice you’ve ever received that sent you down the wrong path?” And, as always, our audience understood the assignment.

In this episode of Uncinched Confessions, we’re diving into anonymous confessions from listeners about the advice they were given, believed, followed and eventually realized maybe wasn’t the best idea... And because there were WAY too many good ones to fit into one episode, this is Part 1 of 2.

No names, no judgment, just honest stories from horse people who are willing to admit that sometimes the advice we’re given isn't exactly the advice we needed.

Tune in, and maybe learn from someone else’s mistake before you have to make it yourself.

Support the show

Be sure to subscribe, review, follow along on our socials, and join us in uncinching the world of horses

Uncinched Confessions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1b1_id3GczKj-gNL__zjrL_9kzDW9C4VPa8fiudzMjjk/edit

Social Channels and Sites:

• https://www.instagram.com/uncinched.pod
• https://www.tiktok.com/@uncinched.podcast
• https://www.stableinstincts.ca
• https://www.qualiteaequine.com

Let's Chat! You know we love to talk...

The horse industry is facing challenges from every direction—rising costs, shrinking participation, lack of accessibility, burnout, and an increasingly divided community. In this episode of Uncinched, we're having an honest conversation about the realities contributing to the industry's decline and asking the difficult question: Are we accidentally pushing people away?

More importantly, we're talking solutions.

From creating welcoming environments for newcomers to supporting local businesses, mentoring the next generation, and fostering stronger connections within our equestrian communities, we're exploring what each of us can do to help ensure the future of horses remains bright.

Download the Digital Expense Tracker Mentioned in This Episode 

https://linktr.ee/Uncinched

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Interested in Sponsoring the Podcast or Working With Uncinched?
We're always looking to partner with brands, businesses, and organizations that align with our mission of supporting horse people and strengthening the equine community.

Contact us at: [email protected]

Support the show

Be sure to subscribe, review, follow along on our socials, and join us in uncinching the world of horses

Uncinched Confessions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1b1_id3GczKj-gNL__zjrL_9kzDW9C4VPa8fiudzMjjk/edit

Social Channels and Sites:

• https://www.instagram.com/uncinched.pod
• https://www.tiktok.com/@uncinched.podcast
• https://www.stableinstincts.ca
• https://www.qualiteaequine.com

Let's Chat! You know we love to talk...

What exactly is a horse’s topline, and why does everyone seem to be talking about it?

In this episode of The Barn Talk Series, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about topline in horses—what it is, why it matters, and how it impacts your horse’s movement, strength, posture, and overall performance.

We dive into the muscles that make up the topline and how they work together to support balance, collection, and healthy movement. Plus, we unpack the many factors that influence topline development!

Whether you’re trying to build muscle, better understand your horse’s body, or figure out why topline can be so challenging to develop and maintain, this episode is designed to give you practical and actionable knowledge.

Support the show

Be sure to subscribe, review, follow along on our socials, and join us in uncinching the world of horses

Uncinched Confessions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1b1_id3GczKj-gNL__zjrL_9kzDW9C4VPa8fiudzMjjk/edit

Social Channels and Sites:

• https://www.instagram.com/uncinched.pod
• https://www.tiktok.com/@uncinched.podcast
• https://www.stableinstincts.ca
• https://www.qualiteaequine.com

Let's Chat! You know we love to talk...

What exactly is Extreme Cowboy Challenges, and why are more horse people getting hooked on it?

In this episode of Guest in the Saddle, we sit down with horse trainer and Extreme Cowboy competitor Trevor Mertes to dive into the fast-growing world of Extreme Cowboy Challenges. From obstacles and horsemanship to strategy, confidence, and partnership, Trevor breaks down what the sport really is and how it's so much more than just going fast through a diverse obstacle course.

We also dig into Trevor’s story, approach to training, and how his experience working with horses—including competing in recent colt starting competitions—has shaped the way he approaches communication, problem-solving, and creating horses that work.

Whether you’re curious about trying an Extreme Cowboy Challenge yourself, looking for ways to build a more confident horse, or just want to learn about a unique corner of the horse world, this episode is for you. Who knows it just might  convince you to try an obstacle or two...

Support the show

Be sure to subscribe, review, follow along on our socials, and join us in uncinching the world of horses

Uncinched Confessions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1b1_id3GczKj-gNL__zjrL_9kzDW9C4VPa8fiudzMjjk/edit

Social Channels and Sites:

• https://www.instagram.com/uncinched.pod
• https://www.tiktok.com/@uncinched.podcast
• https://www.stableinstincts.ca
• https://www.qualiteaequine.com

Let's Chat! You know we love to talk...

Welcome back to our audience driven segment Uncinched Confessions.

In this episode, we get into Pat 2 of what’s an unpopular opinion in the horse world you’ll defend with your whole chest? And definitely bringing the heat!We’re diving back into the confessions you anonymously sent in. Some we agree with, some we don’t… but all of them are worth talking about.

Got thoughts? We know you do. Send them in… your confession might be next. Our next Uncinched Confession topic is: What piece of advice did someone give you that sent you down the wrong path?

Support the show

Be sure to subscribe, review, follow along on our socials, and join us in uncinching the world of horses

Uncinched Confessions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1b1_id3GczKj-gNL__zjrL_9kzDW9C4VPa8fiudzMjjk/edit

Social Channels and Sites:

• https://www.instagram.com/uncinched.pod
• https://www.tiktok.com/@uncinched.podcast
• https://www.stableinstincts.ca
• https://www.qualiteaequine.com

Let's Chat! You know we love to talk...

There’s nothing quite like the opinions people usually keep to themselves… until now. Welcome to our audience driven segment Uncinched Confessions.

In this episode, we asked our audience one simple question: what’s an unpopular opinion in the horse world you’ll defend with your whole chest? And let’s just say… you delivered. We’re diving headfirst into the confessions you anonymously sent in. Some we agree with, some we don’t… but all of them are worth talking about.

This is Part 1 of 2, so consider this your warning: we’re just getting warmed up. Part 2 drops May 7th, and you won’t want to miss what’s still to come.

Got thoughts? We know you do. Send them in… your confession might be next. Our next Uncinched Confession topic is: What piece of advice did someone give you that sent you down the wrong path?

 Uncinched Confessions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1b1_id3GczKj-gNL__zjrL_9kzDW9C4VPa8fiudzMjjk/edit

Support the show

Be sure to subscribe, review, follow along on our socials, and join us in uncinching the world of horses

Uncinched Confessions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1b1_id3GczKj-gNL__zjrL_9kzDW9C4VPa8fiudzMjjk/edit

Social Channels and Sites:

• https://www.instagram.com/uncinched.pod
• https://www.tiktok.com/@uncinched.podcast
• https://www.stableinstincts.ca
• https://www.qualiteaequine.com

Let's Chat! You know we love to talk...

In this Guest in the Saddle episode of Uncinched, we sit down with Melody Garner-Skiba of Rocking Heart Ranch and go down the rabbit hole (our favourite thing to do)!!

From the romanticization of horse life to tsocial media changing the horse landscape, we have an honest conversation about why transparency matters now more than ever. Melody shares her perspective on why breeding horses is, at its core, a business that needs to be approached with integrity, responsibility, and clear standards. We also break down key red flags to watch for when working with a breeder, helping buyers make more informed decisions. Beyond the business side, we talk about legacy and what Melody hopes Rocking Heart Ranch will ultimately be known for. (Hint: it’s not just about the horses… it’s about being good people.)

Want to see these horses in action?
🎟️ Catch them at the Trainer Showdown at Horse Expo Canada (April 24–26, 2026): https://horseexpo.ca/tickets/

📅 Or mark your calendar for the Young Guns Challenge (September 11–13, 2026): www.rockingheartranchltd.com/young-guns-challenge.html

📲 Follow Rocking Heart Ranch:
Facebook: RockingHeartRanchLTD
Instagram: @RockingHeartRanch
X: @rockheartranch
Website: www.rockingheartranchltd.com

Support the show

Be sure to subscribe, review, follow along on our socials, and join us in uncinching the world of horses

Uncinched Confessions: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1b1_id3GczKj-gNL__zjrL_9kzDW9C4VPa8fiudzMjjk/edit

Social Channels and Sites:

• https://www.instagram.com/uncinched.pod
• https://www.tiktok.com/@uncinched.podcast
• https://www.stableinstincts.ca
• https://www.qualiteaequine.com