Dangerous at Both Ends, Tricky in the Middle

Send Us Your QuestionsThis was our very first episode back in September 2023, and I'm reposting it here because it's super relevant to our newest episode!In this podcast, we try something a little different: a debate! If you're familiar with debate club rules, one person must defend the topic and one must oppose it. We did this using the current research in the field and went head-to-head to hash it out.There are points involved, plus some hidden secret words we have to sneak in to earn bonus points!Debating topics in horse care and equitation is valuable. Jen and I do this for fun and learning, and we still love each other afterwards. Good learning comes from respectful debate and from exploring different ideas and research within the field.Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your QuestionsWe're back! Jen had the audacity to go and get married, and now I'm here editing this and complaining about her selfish behaviour… prioritising love over the podcast (how dare she!)

Send Us Your QuestionsIn this episode, we delve into the fascinating technique of shaping in animal behaviour and training. Shaping, also known as successive approximation, is a method where small, incremental steps are reinforced to guide an animal toward a desired behaviour. We break down how shaping works, from rewarding initial attempts to refining a behaviour until it meets the training goal.Throughout the episode, we explore real-world examples of shaping across various species, from dogs learning to sit on command to horses mastering complex tasks. We also discuss the importance of timing, consistency, and patience, along with the common challenges trainers may face when using this technique.Whether you're an experienced trainer or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical tips and insights to help you incorporate shaping into your training toolkit.Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review, and share your thoughts with us on social media. Your feedback helps us continue to bring you valuable content. Join the conversation and let's shape the future of animal training together! Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your QuestionsIn this episode, we unravel the concept of extinction in behaviour modification, exploring how the strategic removal of reinforcement can effectively reduce and eliminate unwanted behaviors in animals. We start by defining extinction in a training context and discuss its application across various scenarios, from curbing a dog's excessive barking to managing more complex behavioural issues in horses.Along the way, we dive into the challenges of using extinction, including the notorious “extinction burst” and the importance of consistency and patience. We also compare extinction with other behavior modification techniques, offering a well-rounded perspective on when and how to use this powerful method.Whether you're a pet owner, an animal trainer, or simply fascinated by behaviour science, this episode offers practical insights and strategies to help you tackle even the most stubborn behaviours.Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review, and share your thoughts with us on social media. Your feedback fuels our passion for delivering valuable content. Join the conversation, and let's refine the art of animal training together! Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your QuestionsBarn Bonus 4 - What is Positive Punishment?Welcome to our fourth bonus episode of "Dangerous at Both Ends, Tricky in the Middle"! In this special "Barn Bonus" series, we dive into key behavioural terms that are crucial for understanding equine behaviour and training.In today's episode, we explore the concept of positive punishment. Positive punishment involves adding an aversive stimulus to decrease the likelihood of an unwanted behaviour. We'll break down what it means, how it works, and why it's a significant concept in horse training.Join us for a concise and informative discussion that will enhance your understanding of horse behaviour and improve your training techniques. Perfect for both new and experienced horse enthusiasts looking to deepen their knowledge.Tune in and let's get to the core of positive punishment in this quick yet insightful episode!If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out to Barbara and Jen at the links below. We'd love to hear from you! Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your QuestionsIn this episode, we delve into the art of desensitization in horse training, exploring how systematic desensitization can (in theory) help horses remain calm and confident in the face of challenging stimuli. Starting with the basics, we discuss how desensitization 'works', from identifying triggers to gradually increasing the intensity of exposure. Along the way, we highlight the role of counter-conditioning and share practical tips for integrating these techniques into your training routine.But fair warning—what began as a concise 25-minute discussion...  quickly turned into a lively, off-the-rails debate/exploration. Join us as we navigate through our own insights, laughs, and passionate tangents on the topic. It's a slightly unhinged

Send Us Your QuestionsBarn Bonus 3 - What is Negative Punishment?Welcome to our third bonus episode of "Dangerous at Both Ends, Tricky in the Middle"! In this special "Barn Bonus" series, we dive into key behavioural terms that are crucial for understanding equine behaviour and training.In today's episode, we explore the concept of negative punishment. Negative punishment involves removing something desirable to decrease the likelihood of unwanted behaviours. We'll break down what it means, how it works, and why it's an important concept in effective horse training.Join us for a concise and informative discussion that will enhance your understanding of horse behaviour and improve your training techniques. Perfect for both new and experienced horse enthusiasts looking to deepen their knowledge.Tune in and let's get to the core of negative punishment in this quick yet insightful episode!If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out to Barbara and Jen at the links below. We'd love to hear from you! Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your QuestionsIn this episode, we explore the roots of dominance theory, beginning with Schjelderup-Ebbe's 1922 research on domestic hens, and discuss how it has shaped our understanding of animal behaviour. The episode also dives into the intricate dominance behaviors within and between species, from wolves and primates to birds, showcasing the complexity of their social structures. Additionally, we scrutinise the scientific evidence that challenges traditional dominance-based training methods for dogs and horses, advocating for the more humane and effective approach of positive reinforcement/learning theory.Whether you're an animal enthusiast, a pet owner, or a behavioural science aficionado, this episode is packed with valuable information to transform your understanding of animal social structures and training techniques. Subscribe to our podcast, leave a review, and share your thoughts with us on social media. Your feedback helps us bring more valuable content to our listeners. Join the conversation and let's reshape the future of animal training together! 

Send Us Your QuestionsBarn Bonus 2 - What is Positive Reinforcement?Welcome to our second bonus episode of "Dangerous at Both Ends, Tricky in the Middle"! In this special "Barn Bonus" series, we dive into key behavioural terms that are crucial for understanding equine behaviour and training.In today's episode, we explore the concept of positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in behavioural psychology and horse training that encourages desired behaviours by offering rewards. We'll explain what it is, how it works, and why it's an effective technique for training your horse.Join us for a concise and informative discussion that will enhance your understanding of horse behaviour and improve your training techniques. Perfect for both new and experienced horse enthusiasts looking to deepen their knowledge.Tune in and let's uncover the benefits of positive reinforcement in this quick yet insightful episode!If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out to Barbara and Jen at the links below. We'd love to hear from you! Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Feeling like you're failing with your horse's training? You're not alone, and we're here to help. We explore the science behind habits, discuss the importance of consistent routines for both horses and their owners, and provide practical tips to overcome common barriers to habit formation. With insights from key research and real-life success stories, we'll guide you through setting realistic goals, tracking progress, and staying motivated.Plus, we answer listener questions about training routines, improving behaviour, and maintaining positive habits.  (Email

Barn Bonus 1 - What is Negative Reinforcement?Welcome to our first bonus episode of "Dangerous at Both Ends, Tricky in the Middle"! In this special "Barn Bonus" series, we dive into key behavioural terms that are crucial for understanding equine behaviour and training.In today's episode, we explore the concept of negative reinforcement. Often misunderstood, negative reinforcement is a fundamental principle in behavioural psychology and horse training. We'll break down what it means, how it works, and why it's important in creating effective training routines.Join us for a concise and informative discussion that will enhance your understanding of horse behaviour and improve your training techniques. Perfect for both new and experienced horse enthusiasts looking to deepen their knowledge.Tune in and let's get to the core of negative reinforcement in this quick yet insightful episode!If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out to Barbara and Jen at the links below. We'd love to hear from you! Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

 We are back, back

Join us as we return for an exciting season two of our podcast of Dangerous at Both Ends, Tricky in the Middle! We've been hard at work to bring you informative and entertaining episodes, along with new bite-sized bonus content focused on learning theory and horse training. Enjoy these snippets from upcoming episodes, fun bloopers, and a sneak peek at what's to come. Tune in for insightful discussions on horses, science, and even some air fryer recipes. #AirFrier Your support means everything to us. Get ready for more shenanigans and learning—season two is almost here! Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

In this urgent and eye-opening episode, Barbara and Jen dive into the recent revelations from the RTE documentary "Horses Making a Killing." We discuss the illegal practices and fraudulent activities uncovered within the equine industry, including falsified documents, unsafe transport conditions, and inhumane treatment at slaughterhouses.Join us as we break down the key points from the documentary, provide historical context, and highlight the broader implications for horse owners in the UK, Ireland, and Europe. We also include powerful interviews from a recent protest outside Shannonside Foods (15th June 2024) with Maddie and Kelly from My Lovely Horse Rescue, offering their insights.Listener discretion is advised due to the distressing nature of the content discussed in this episode. For those who find the topic too challenging, we offer alternative ways to engage with the material through a written summary and updates available on our Facebook and blog.Show Notes:PetitionFacebook Summary ArticleFull RTE DocumentaryRTE - Shannonside FoodsRTE - Significant Horse Abuse Exposed at keysite by secret RTE filmingRTE - Data probe reveals thousands of irish horses missing each yearRTE - Horses Expose Triggers Europe Wide Food Safety InvestigationsTune in for an important conversation that sheds light on the systemic issues within the equine industry and calls for urgent reforms to protect our horses.Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your QuestionsWelcome to a powerful and timely special episode of our podcast. In this edition, we tackle the investigation by RTÉ that uncovered shocking systems of animal-welfare abuse and food-safety failures in the horse-slaughter industry. We'll unpack:How hundreds of horses declared unfit for human consumption ended up in slaughterhouses. The Abuse that took place in the slaughter house, uncovered by RTÉ documentary.The mechanics of identity fraud and traceability failures in the equine food chain. First-hand interviews from protesters outside the slaughterhouse site and what it means for horse care, regulation, and public trust.For the first time on our show, we dive deep into the uncomfortable side of the industry, exploring why these failures matter for us as equine professionals, and how we as behaviourists and caretakers can respond.Join us as we listen, learn, challenge, and think about what real welfare, transparency and ethical oversight should look like in horse care.Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your Questions Here we talk about Extinction — when a behaviour reduces because it no longer “works” for the horse. We look at what extinction bursts are, what emotional responses can show up, and when extinction may or may not be an ethical or effective choice. Clear, considerate, and welfare-focused. Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your Questions This short episode dives into Shaping — reinforcing small steps toward a bigger behaviour. We explore how to break behaviours down, how to celebrate progress, and how shaping creates confidence and curiosity in learning. Ideal for anyone wanting more softness, clarity, and joy in their training. Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your Questions In this episode, we take a calm and honest look at Positive Punishment — adding something aversive to reduce behaviour. We discuss why it's widely used, why it can create fallout, and how it affects emotional state and trust. No judgement — just clear, science-based exploration to help listeners understand the implications. Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your Questions Here we explain Negative Punishment — removing something the horse wants to decrease a behaviour. We talk about time-outs, the role of clarity, and how to avoid frustration or confusion. A gentle, practical overview of a concept often misunderstood in training discussions. Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your Questions This bite-sized episode focuses on Positive Reinforcement: adding something the horse values to encourage behaviour. We chat about food rewards, scratches, marker signals, and what makes reinforcement actually reinforcing. Perfect for anyone curious about introducing R+ into training routines. Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

In this week's podcast on "Dangerous at Both Ends, Tricky in the Middle," we're bridging the gap between tradition and innovation in the equestrian world. Ever caught yourself wondering about the pros and cons of bitted versus bitless bridles? Well, you're not alone, and we're here to delve into this hot topic.We'll start by exploring the basics - what does going bitless or sticking with a bitted bridle mean for you and your horse? It's not just about comfort; it's a whole philosophy on how we communicate and connect with these animals.Then, we're getting into the nitty-gritty. Why do some riders swear by bitless, and others wouldn't dream of ditching the bit? We'll share stories from both sides of the fence, highlighting how this choice can affect everything from training to hacking.So, saddle up for an episode that promises to be as engaging as it is informative. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just horse-curious, join us for a conversation that's bound to stir the pot. Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your Questions In this quick bonus episode, we break down what Negative Reinforcement really is — and what it isn't. We talk about the role of pressure and release in horse training, how timing shapes the horse's experience, and how this form of learning can be used thoughtfully and ethically. Short, simple, and straight to the point. Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

In this episode of "Dangerous at Both Ends, Tricky in the Middle," we delve into the essential of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and the pivotal role of peer-to-peer support in the learning landscape. As give you a window into what that looks like for us. This episode is not just about the theoretical aspects of CPD; it's a deep dive into practical applications and real-world implications of learning from peers with cases we saw together. We explore how this approach fosters a supportive community, enhances skill sets, and cultivates an environment where knowledge sharing becomes a powerful tool for personal and professional development.Join us as we share our personal anecdotes, have far too much fun, plus the challenges we've overcome through peer support, and the invaluable lessons learnt along the way. Whether you're seeking inspiration to kickstart your own equine journey or looking to enrich your understanding of peer-to-peer learning's impact, this episode promises to be a treasure trove of insights.Tune in to discover our learning adventure together, reinforcing the notion that we're stronger and more resilient as a learning community. Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your QuestionsIn this episode, we explore a big and sometimes hotly debated question in the horse world: Is riding bitless safe?We look at what the research says, how bitless bridles actually work, and the factors that influence safety from training and communication to physical comfort and emotional wellbeing. We also unpack some of the common myths and assumptions (on both sides of the bit vs. bitless conversation).This isn't about declaring one method “right” or “wrong” it's about understanding the horse's experience, improving clarity in our cues, and making informed, welfare-focused choices that support the individual horse in front of us.Whether you're curious about trying bitless, already committed to it, or just want to hear a thoughtful discussion, this episode offers perspective, nuance, and plenty to think about.Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

This episode of "Dangerous at Both Ends, Tricky in the Middle," we delve into the multifaceted world of equine behaviour, exploring the lines between normal, abnormal, and unwanted behaviour from a human & horse perspective. This comprehensive discussion is designed to unravel the complexities of how we perceive and interact with our equine companions.Join us as we tackle the intriguing topic of what constitutes 'normal' behaviour in horses. What are the typical patterns and habits of these animals, and how do they vary across different environments and situations? We'll explore the natural behaviours exhibited by horses and how they adapt to the lives we share with them.Then, we shift gears to discuss abnormal behaviours. These can range from subtle changes in temperament to more pronounced issues like stereotypies or aggression. We'll examine the causes behind these behaviours, such as stress, environment, and health issues, and how they can be identified and managed.But what about behaviours that are not necessarily abnormal yet are considered unwanted from a human perspective? This part of the episode focuses on the challenges faced by horse owners and handlers in managing behaviours that may be natural for horses but problematic in human care settings. We'll discuss training approaches, management strategies, and the importance of understanding equine psychology to create a harmonious relationship between horses and humans.Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or simply love horses, this episode will enhance your understanding and appreciation of the complex nature of equine behaviour.Enrichemnt Video, private link just for podcast listeners - https://youtu.be/mdXzJkTV40I Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your QuestionsIn this festive episode, we share the story of the time we were hired by Santa Claus himself to help with some behavioural modification for one of his reindeer!This particular reindeer was having feelings about pulling the sleigh  and when you're part of a global overnight gift-delivery team, that's kind of a big deal.With Santa's permission (he was very generous and fully consented to the case being discussed  he loves education!), we walk you through:What the behaviour looked likeHow we assessed the reindeer's emotional state and motivationThe training plan we developedAnd how it all turned out on the big night ✨It's a light-hearted, cosy, story-style episode full of seasonal cheer, training insight, and a reminder that even magical animals deserve compassion, patience, and good reinforcement schedules.Grab a hot chocolate, curl up, and enjoy this one  it's a Christmas treat.

Hoof your way into the festive spirit with a jingle-bell jolly episode of "Dangerous at Both Ends, Tricky in the Middle"! In this Christmas cracker of a special, Barbara and Jen unwrap a truly magical case study: a behavioural modification journey of one of Santa's very own reindeer.Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at the North Pole? Join us as we dive into the enchanting world of Santa's sleigh team. We'll explore the challenges and triumphs of working with these extraordinary creatures, known for their high-flying antics and yuletide charm.In this episode, we share the tale of a particular reindeer who needed a little extra help to fit into the harness of holiday expectations. Was it Dasher's dashiness, Prancer's prance, or perhaps Vixen's vixen-like attitude? You'll have to tune in to find out! We'll discuss the behavioural strategies used, the importance of understanding reindeer psychology, and how even the most magical of creatures can benefit from a bit of expert guidance.So, grab a mince pie, cosy up by the fire, and join us for a festive frolic through the snow-dusted fields of reindeer rehabilitation. This episode is sure to leave you feeling more merry and bright, and you might just learn a thing or two about what it takes to be part of the most famous animal team in history! Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Welcome to a special debate club edition of "Dangerous at Both Ends, Tricky in the Middle," the podcast where equine enthusiasts gallop through the world of horses! In this thought-provoking episode, we transform 'this house' into 'this barn' for a spirited debate on a contentious topic: 'This Barn believes that a horse without a Job is a wasted horse.'With our bridles set aside, we delve into an animated discussion, each of us taking a stance regardless of our personal opinions. The debate promises to be a lively canter through various perspectives on equine employment and welfare. Is a horse's value intrinsically tied to its work? Or do these majestic creatures offer more beyond their traditional roles in our lives?We'll explore historical and modern viewpoints, hear expert opinions, and consider the emotional and psychological aspects of equine life. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or simply a horse lover at heart, this episode is sure to stirrup your thoughts and may even challenge some long-held beliefs.Saddle up for a ride through compelling arguments, insightful discussions, and perhaps, a gallop towards understanding the true essence of equine existence. Remember, in this barn, every opinion counts, but only one can trot away as the winner. Join us as we debate: Is a horse without a job truly a wasted horse?Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

In this episode of "Dangerous at Both Ends and Tricky in the Middle," we address a common question in the world of equine behaviour: What is learning theory?Join hosts Barbara Hardman and Jen Nash as we delve into the subtleties of this topic, debunk myths, and offer insights on how to attain your objectives and foster contented horses.Uncover the realities behind this fascinating question and develop a profound comprehension of equine behaviour. Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your QuestionsIn this episode, we take a closer look at how to recognise what's normal horse behaviour and what may be a sign that something is off.We talk about how horses communicate stress, comfort, curiosity, pain, and emotional wellbeing and why context is everything. From subtle posture changes to bigger behavioural patterns, we explore how to observe horses with curiosity rather than judgement.Understanding what is “normal” for an individual horse is key to good welfare, effective training, and strong relationship-building. This episode is all about tuning into the horse in front of us, listening to what they're expressing, and responding in a way that supports them.Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

In this episode of "Dangerous at Both Ends and Tricky in the Middle," we address a common question in the world of equine behaviour: how can I set my horse up for success?Join hosts Barbara Hardman and Jen Nash as we delve into the subtleties of this topic, debunk myths, and offer insights on how to attain your objectives and foster contented horses.Uncover the realities behind this fascinating question and develop a profound comprehension of equine behaviour. Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

In this episode of "Dangerous at Both Ends, Tricky in the Middle," we tackle a common question in the world of equine behaviour: Does positive reinforcement training create biting horses?Join hosts Barbara Hardman and Jen Nash as we explore the nuances of this topic, dispel myths, and provide insights into the use of positive reinforcement in horse training.Discover the truth behind this intriguing question and gain a deeper understanding of equine behaviour.  Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your QuestionsIn this episode, we break down Learning Theory, what it is, why it matters, and how it shows up every day in our interactions with horses (whether we realise it or not).We explore the core principles behind how animals learn, including reinforcement, punishment, shaping behaviour, and emotional associations. Most importantly, we talk about how understanding these concepts can make us clearer, kinder, and more effective in our training.If you've ever wondered why a behaviour happens, why something works (or doesn't), or how to build training that truly supports your horse's wellbeing, this episode is for you.Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your QuestionsIn this episode, we dive into one of the most important questions in horse training: How can we set our horses up for success?We talk about what “success” actually means from the horse's perspective, how environment and emotional state shape behaviour, and the small training adjustments that make a big difference. From clear communication to thoughtful reinforcement, we share practical ways to support your horse so learning feels safe, achievable, and enjoyable for both of you.This episode is all about building confidence, reducing frustration (in horses and humans!), and creating those lovely “ah-ha!” moments that make training feel good.Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie

Send Us Your QuestionsWelcome to our very first episode! The audio is a little rough around the edges (we were still finding our sea legs), but the conversation is a good one.In this episode, we explore a big question in the horse training world: Does positive reinforcement lead to biting?We dig into what the research says, where the concern comes from, and how training approach, timing, and clarity can shape behaviour. Whether you're new to positive reinforcement or already using it in your horse's training, this discussion offers food for thought, reassurance, and maybe a few laughs along the way.Meet Your Hosts Barbara Hardman (Bright Horse Equiation)www.brighthorse.ie