Every rider wants their horse to look and feel like a champion. In this episode of Ask an Expert, world-class groom Emma Ford shares her top grooming and barn management secrets, developed through years of working with some of the best riders in the world. 

Episode Highlights:  

5:30: Defining great leadership as a groom and barn manager

16:20: Essential barn management must-haves

21:00: Preparing horses for travel

26:30: Show grooming tips for a polished look

31:50: Helping horses manage stress in new environments

47:00: Best practices for post–cross country care  

Meet the Expert, Emma Ford 

Emma grew up in North Devon, England, through Pony Club and the hunt field, earning her B certification before moving to the U.S. to pursue a career with horses. She managed advanced event horses for Adrian Iorio for seven years and later managed Phillip Dutton’s barn in Pennsylvania. Emma has groomed at nearly every CCI5* in the world, as well as the Olympic, World, and Pan American Games, and has also worked at top show jumping and dressage competitions. She is co-author of World Class Grooming, World Class Braiding, and Horsemanship and Grooming, and teaches grooming clinics worldwide. 

Brought to You By Ride iQ               

This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively within the Ride iQ app, where members have access to over 100 other expert interviews on a variety of topics.              

Podcasts are just part of what Ride iQ has to offer. As a member, you also have access to on-demand, listen-while-you-ride audio lessons with world-class coaches and an incredible community of horse people (members and coaches alike!).             

Interested in trying Ride iQ? An all-access subscription is $29.99/month or $299.99/year, and new members get a free 14-day trial. Sign up at ⁠⁠Ride-iQ.com today and start improving your riding and horse care with support from top professionals! 

Book Links: 

World Class Grooming 

World Class Braiding  

Horsemanship and Grooming