Not Just A Pony Ride

Isabela Amaral is the proud mother of Fred Ginman — a resilient boy born extremely premature, diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, who now inspires others through his story of overcoming physical challenges. Together, they co-created the children's book “I Can, I Want To, and I Will!” — a powerful, heartwarming affirmation-based book that encourages children to believe in themselves no matter their circumstances. She believes in the power of love, creativity, and community to create a more inclusive and hopeful world.Amazon Link to their book: https://a.co/d/6N67coRConnect with Isabela and Fred at www.empowerkidsminds.comThis episode is proudly sponsored by Freedom Rider:  https://freedomrider.com/Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

In this episode, HETRA CEO Edye Godden is sharing with us how HETRA manages a healthy work culture. Tune in for real-world tools and reflections to help you lead with intention and keep what matters most at the center. Expect to hear: Getting to Know Your Team & Managing Conflict Work-Life Harmony and “family first” support.Setting Boundaries at WorkAlso, hear what tools we have used for staff development too!Clifton Strengths Finder Gretchen Rubin's ‘Four Tendencies' Quiz:  https://gretchenrubin.com/quiz/the-four-tendencies-quiz/Stay Interview - Get the copy of our questions on Patreon! patreon.com/notjustaponyrideLink for more information about HETRA University Live: https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HULLevelUpThis episode is proudly sponsored by Freedom Rider:  https://freedomrider.com/Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

In this episode we are taking a look at an equine-assisted group program that specializes in helping those who are healing from eating disorders.  Teresa Ryan BSN, RN is here to give us a look inside the inpatient program that partners with Take Flight Farms and Barb Cotten, LMHP - who is also on the episode - sharing about the equine programming they offer.Tune in to hear:A look inside the Eating Disorders Inpatient and Partial Hospitalization Program at Children's Nebraska How the hospital program partners with the equine program at Take Flight FarmsBenefits of the equine-assisted program for those with eating disordersProgram facilitation details like size, participants and examples of activitiesAdvice for starting a partnership for a program like this  Learn more about EAGALA on episode 42. Meet EAGALA! https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/MZRbOm8dzSbLearn more about Take Flight Farms:  https://omahaequestrian.org/take-flight/Learn more about the eating disorder program at Children's Nebraska:  https://www.childrensnebraska.org/specialties/eating-disorders-programThis episode is proudly sponsored by Freedom Rider:  https://freedomrider.com/Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

EAS services are different than going to soccer practice or getting therapy in an outpatient clinic.  When we miss a session in EAS, there are many assets still at stake-  volunteer time, scheduling time, getting the horse ready, allocating resources to different places to balance work loads etc. How do we give our participants grace while protecting our sustainability?  Expect to hear: The importance of clear communication regarding policiesHETRA Cancels vs. Participants Cancels vs. Not ScheduledCrediting participants who are billed up front Differences in managing cancellations for therapy services vs. other programming  Link to get our cancellation policy at Patreon:  patreon.com/notjustaponyride This episode is proudly sponsored by Freedom Rider:  https://freedomrider.com/Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

Learn all about a unique program at HETRA and how it has grown and developed in this episode with Edye Godden, OTR/L, PATH Intl. CTRI and the CEO of HETRA.  We wanted a program for our participants that weren't exactly ready to transition to adaptive riding, but wanted more independence.  It could be that the participant needs skilled intervention occasionally for things like the mount/dismount, posture, position, communication, behavior or mental health — but that they are ready to learn more horsemanship skills, wallah the Group Activity Program (or GAP Program) was born!  This episode is proudly sponsored by Freedom Rider:  https://freedomrider.com/Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

Seasoned psychotherapist Carol Odell's memoir “Girl, Groomed: A Therapist's Memoir of Trauma” (She Writes Press, April 22, 2025) is an unflinching exploration of her journey to confront and heal from the complex trauma of childhood sexual abuse within the world of Virginia's equestrian show-jumping circuit. Carol shares with us the impactful ways that horses helped her heal, including her unique experience in an equine-assisted therapy program.  57. Polyvagal Theory: The Science of Feelings Safe & Equine Connection:  https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/sCq6DZecuSbConnect with Carol Odell and get her book, “Girl Groomed:  A Therapist's Memoir of Trauma” at www.carolodellmsw.comThis episode is proudly sponsored by Freedom Rider:  https://freedomrider.com/Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

Part of managing our horses physical and mental health during lessons is making sure our participants are prepared for their next jump in horsemanship.  Let's talk about when to introduce the bit and bridle!  How do we stay fair to our horses while helping our participants improve their independence? Expect to hear: Reining in a Halter vs. Reining in a bridle Why does HETRA only use snaffle bits in sessions? Preparing horses for using bridles in lessons Preparing participants for using bridles - including HETRA's checklist.NEW Mini Course Launching May 1st! Equine Welfare: Sustainability & Success - learn more and register now here: https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/EASEquineWelfareMiniCourseGet the Level 2 Participant Skill checklist with a subscription to Patreon, learn more here:  patreon.com/notjustaponyrideThis episode is proudly sponsored by Freedom Rider:  https://freedomrider.com/Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

In this episode, we dive into the world of fidgets — what they are, why people use them, and how they can support focus, regulation, and sensory needs.  Our current occupational therapy student, Abi Cross from Creighton University is here to chat with us about the special considerations to using fidgets in the world of equine-assisted services.   Tune in to learn:Why fidgeting isn't just a distractionWho benefits most from using fidgetsHow to choose the right fidget tool for your needsSpecial considerations for mounted work in EAS when it comes to fidgets. Get the educational handout, “Utilizing Fidgets in EAS” here:  patreon.com/notjustaponyrideWant more education on working with participants who are neurodivergent? Get up to 5 DE CEU's with our mini course! Learn more here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/NeurodivergentEducationThis episode is proudly sponsored by Freedom Rider:  https://freedomrider.com/Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

 We all have a Steady Eddy in our barn. We love them and hate to retire them, but what happens when we need to? What happens if we have a horse who just isn't a great fit?  Shelby is here to talk to us about options and how to plan for success when we retire a herd member.Register for the LIVE Webinar:  Evaluation and Intake of EAS Horses:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/cKHMk8idThis episode is proudly sponsored by Jonathan Killian of Killian Insurance:  www.farmequineinsurance.comFollow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

Amanda Bubb is on the show to talk with us about all things Interactive Vaulting! One of the things she loves is that vaulting is that it is a great way to diversify programming for EAS centers while being incredibly resource friendly!  Expect to hear all of the nuts and bolts about interactive vaulting including:What is vaulting - what does a session look like?What are the benefits or risks?How do you evaluate participants for vaulting programs.Managing Equine Welfare and selecting equines for vaultingGetting certified, and much more!Amanda has worked in the EAS industry for over 20 years and holds many certifications. She is a PATH Intl. CTRI, ESMHL, Interactive Vaulting Instructor, and Therapeutic Driving Instructor Level 1 at Reins of Life Inc, a PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center.  She is also an Equestrian Vaulting USA Coach, a PATH Intl. Mentor, PATH Intl. Interactive Vaulting Certification Faculty, and Associate Site Visitor. Additionally, she is a CHA Level 4 Equine Facility Manager and Assistant Certifier and serves as an Adjunct Instructor in the Equine Department at a College.Connect with Amanda and learn more about Reins of Life at www.reinsoflife.orgAttend the vaulting workshop June 16-20, 2025  at Reins of Life! https://www.reinsoflife.org/path-intl-vaulting-workshopThis episode is proudly sponsored by Jonathan Killian of Killian Insurance:  www.farmequineinsurance.comFollow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

We just got back from PATH Intl. Region 6 Conference in White Bear Lake, MN (shout out to the River Valley Riders for hosting a great event).  During Shelby Schult's presentation on Equine Strategic Planning, there were a lot of questions around Equine Lease Agreements and how HETRA utilizes leases to bring horses into our programs.  It was such good discussion that we thought, let's bring it to the show! Expect to hear today: The pros/cons of taking horses on donation, purchasing or leasingWhat is an Equine ‘Care Lease' Agreement?What percentages are right for what horse owners? A review of the content in HETRA's Equine Lease AgreementPlease note lease agreements are a legal document that should be edited to fit your needs and reviewed by your own personal legal team.  Specific state laws and regulations may apply.  Access to HETRA's Equine Lease Agreement here: patreon.com/notjustaponyrideThis episode is proudly sponsored by Jonathan Killian of Killian Insurance:  www.farmequineinsurance.comFollow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

HETRA University was busy flying around the country for education this last weekend!  Shelby Schult took a team to Main Stay Therapeutic Riding in Richmond, Illinois for PATH Intl. Region 7 Conference and Kaiti Otte and Edye Godden took a team to San Antonio, Texas for the Horses and Humans Research Foundation. We  all took so much away from our time spent with these organizations and we're talking about the themes today!  Highlights from Region 7: Leadership in EAS Current climate of donor giving/relations and the shift of wealth from baby boomers to millennials and women driven donor interactions. Confidence and Self-Awareness in Leadership Performance based leadership and importance of reviews Enhancing Connection through Conversation - giving/receiving feedback.Highlights from HHRF Importance of Terminology - OUR WORDS ARE IMPORTANT!  EAS research that was approachable and easy to understand Equine Well Being Setting weight limits and weighing participants continues to cause questionsGet all the details and to register for the Equine Welfare Workshop here:   https://hetra.org/education/pre-conference-hetra-university-live.htmlThis episode is proudly sponsored by Jonathan Killian of Killian Insurance:  www.farmequineinsurance.comFollow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

So much great information we had to split it up! Don't forget to listen to PART ONE #112 to get the first part of her valuable insight! In PART TWO of this two part episode, hear Amy Causey tell us all about therapeutic Carriage Driving.  Amy is such a WEALTH of knowledge for the EAS field- fun fact, she holds all the certifications that are currently offered by PATH Intl. including, Certified Master Instructor, Interactive Vaulting Instructor, Therapeutic Driving Instructor and an Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning!In this episode expect to hear:  Becoming an ‘able bodied whip'  What makes a good carriage driving horse? Adaptations to driving tack for success Wheelchair accessible carts Emergency dismount procedures  Precautions/Contraindications for Carriage DrivingAmy Causey is currently the Director of Program Quality & Development at Equest Therapeutic Horsemanship in Dallas, TX.  She earned a bachelor's degree in Equine Science from Colorado State University and ran her own horse training business prior to entering the therapeutic riding industry.  Amy is a United States Equestrian Federation licensed judge in the Arabian, hunter, jumper, and hunt seat equitation divisions and enjoys officiating as well as coaching riders at horse shows. Get in touch with Amy and for more from Equest at www.equest.orgGet in on the FREE lunch and learn to learn more about Equine Welfare Programs here: https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/pl/2148644161This episode is proudly sponsored by Jonathan Killian of Killian Insurance:  www.farmequineinsurance.comFollow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

PART ONESo much great information we had to split it up! In PART ONE of this two part episode, hear Amy Causey tell us all about therapeutic Carriage Driving.  Amy is such a WEALTH of knowledge for the EAS field- fun fact, she holds all the certifications that are currently offered by PATH Intl. including, Certified Master Instructor, Interactive Vaulting Instructor, Therapeutic Driving Instructor and an Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning!In this episode expect to hear: Benefits of Carriage DrivingDifferent variables we can manipulate with Carriage Driving to increase/decrease the challenge. Programming Requirements and Barriers to a Carriage Driving ProgramCurrent Status of the Carriage Driving Program Availability Advice and what to look for in a mentor for Carriage Driving The certification process to become a Therapeutic Carriage Driving Instructor through PATH Intl. TUNE IN NEXT WEEK to hear:Becoming an ‘able bodied whip' What makes a good carriage driving horse?Adaptations to driving tack for successWheelchair accessible cartsEmergency dismount procedures Precautions/Contraindications for Carriage DrivingAmy Causey is currently the Director of Program Quality & Development at Equest Therapeutic Horsemanship in Dallas, TX.  She earned a bachelor's degree in Equine Science from Colorado State University and ran her own horse training business prior to entering the therapeutic riding industry.  Amy is a United States Equestrian Federation licensed judge in the Arabian, hunter, jumper, and hunt seat equitation divisions and enjoys officiating as well as coaching riders at horse shows. Get in touch with Amy and for more from Equest at www.equest.orgGet the first 100 episodes categorized here!:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/TheFirst100Get all the details and to register for the Equine Welfare Workshop here:  https://hetra.org/education/pre-conference-hetra-university-live.htmlThis episode is proudly sponsored by Jonathan Killian of Killian Insurance:  www.farmequineinsurance.comFollow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

 Shelby and Kaiti are talking about tack room essentials including what kind of equipment is in HETRA's tack room as well as how we stay organized when prepping our horses for over 150 sessions per week! Expect to hear  Types of “tack accessories” and adaptive equipment in our tack room Why we dismantle our saddles after each use How we organize our tack using a specific labeling system  How we make it easy for our “new to tacking” volunteers to learn How we improve efficiency for sessions with organization Watch the Tack Room Tour over on our HETRA University FB page! www.facebook.com/HETRAUniversity Gel-Eze leg wraps for help with saddle and participant slippage:  https://www.chewy.com/equine-management-gel-eze-under/dp/937206 Black Bar from Freedom Rider: https://freedomrider.com/product/handle-bar/ “Cord Wraps” to label halters/bridles: https://a.co/d/1mNYhG5 “Key Tags” we use to label saddles:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013T0RZC8?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_DGN92C0SA8H3Z7377VB4&skipTwisterOG=1&newOGT=1 Get all the details and to register for the Equine Welfare Workshop here:   https://hetra.org/education/pre-conference-hetra-university-live.html This episode is proudly sponsored by Jonathan Killian of Killian Insurance:  www.farmequineinsurance.com Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

HETRA's volunteer coordinator, Noah Bevington, is here to share his tips and tricks for keeping the chaos organized when it comes to scheduling our volunteers! He shares tips and tricks on: Communication with volunteers Consistency in scheduling Useful tools that help to streamline our scheduling process Overview of our board system and how we easily update and display the schedule  Learn how to streamline your scheduling process in Salesforce with the help of Equiforce: https://www.equi-force.com/ Get access to examples of our volunteer absence form, volunteer paperwork and our sign-up genius over at Patreon: www.patreon.com/notjustaponyride Get all the details and to register for the Equine Welfare Workshop here:   https://hetra.org/education/pre-conference-hetra-university-live.html Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

Erin is a lifelong horse woman and very accomplished professional in the equine and EAS world.  She is sharing her advice for folks on their journey to becoming involved!   Importance of taking risks and being open-minded.  Tips on networking with the right people EAS Horse burnout and education for prevention Benefits of 3 types of “paths” to instructorship: Internal mentorship, external mentorship and higher education More information about William Woods University including their hopeful program training and desensitizing horses for other EAS centers.  Dr. Erin Cardea is the Dean of Equestrian Studies and the Equine-Assisted Services instructor at William Woods University in Fulton, MO.  She is a Master Instructor, Certifier, and Lead Site Visitor for the Certified Horsemanship Association and is an Advanced Therapeutic Riding Instructor with PATH International. She also holds qualifications with the British Horse Society and the German National Equestrian Federation. Get connected with Dr. Cardea and William Woods at www.williamwoods.edu/eqs Get all the details and to register for the Equine Welfare Workshop here:   https://hetra.org/education/pre-conference-hetra-university-live.html Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

An oldie but a goodie podcast!  If you didn't catch this episode the first time around, listen in now!  Kaiti is shedding light on the #2 diagnosis served by the EAS industry, ADHD.  We're also highlighting our new mini course that is launching soon, "Unbridled Potential:  Support for Neurodivergent Participants in EAS".  Don't stop with this podcast, get more tips, tricks and activities with the course!  Get more information and to register for the course here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/NeurodivergentEducation Get all the details and to register for the Equine Welfare Workshop here:   https://hetra.org/education/pre-conference-hetra-university-live.html Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks

Lynn Thomas, Founder of ARCH and Lynn Moore, an ARCH professional share their passion for this association and how helpful the ARCH framework can be in helping their mental health clients go deeper, faster in the equine-assisted environment. Arenas for Change (ARCH) is a friendly, inclusive, supportive learning community, especially for therapists, transformational coaches, educators and equine professionals who are interested in applying story tools incorporating horses, other animals, and nature in their sessions, whether in an arena, an office, or online.  They offer both a community membership as well as certification options for a variety of professionals in an accessible, affordable way.   Learn more about ARCH: https://arenasforchange.com/ Check out Lynn Moore's center, Acres for Life:  https://www.acresforlife.org/

Everyone has heard of the different “learning styles”, we may know what they are - auditory, visual and kinesthetic - but how do we actually apply that information?  in this episode we discuss specific examples of how it applies to teaching participants in the arena and how using a combination of different styles can really help participants progress more quickly!  Get more information about the ‘Tap into Their Potential: Helping Participants who are Neurodivergent” mini course here.  Enter your email now to stay in the know, course launches January 1st!  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/NeurodivergentEducation Find your Learning Style: http://www.educationplanner.org/students/self-assessments/learning-styles

It takes a village for our centers to be successful, how are we thanking that village?  Our board of directors, sponsors, donors, volunteers, staff… what makes them feel most appreciated for a year well done? Shelby Schult, our Program Director is here to help us brainstorm some authentic, personal options that are resource friendly for any center! Listen closely for a pop-in from our CEO, Edye Godden,  for a deeper dive into thanking your board all year around!  Webinar + “Not Just a Pony Ride” Merchandise Gift Bundles:  https://form.jotform.com/241286374104150 Get our list of Stay Interview Questions over at Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/notjustaponyride

We're not talking about the kind of progress participants make from month to month or even week to week.  We're talking about within a single 30-45 minute session, how are you challenging your participants and upping the ante?  Riding patterns every week without a SPECIFIC focus on skill progression is not enough. Giving participants opportunities to grow in confidence safely with their skills in each session is what we're after, but how do we do that?  Cassidy Fredrickson, OTR/L, PATH Intl. CTRI and Lead Instructor at HETRA is here to help us figure it all out.   All About Observation Weeks:  Episode # 80 Goal Setting and Notes in Adaptive Riding Webinar:  https://vimeo.com/ondemand/goalsettingnotewriting Creating an Effective Lesson Plan Webinar:  https://vimeo.com/ondemand/easlessonplan

We are doing a  replay of a VERY popular episode, Season 2, Episode 40 of the show.   At the time of this episode, Shelby Schult was our acting Equine Operations Manager, which she was for 8 years, but is now our program director here at HETRA.  We are replaying this episode because number one it was a really popular listen but also we get a TON of questions on this topic through the show and when Shelby presents on Equine Welfare at conferences.  As you know we are really passionate about that around here, so that is why we decided to take this conversation LIVE!  We are doing 2.5 FULL days of equine welfare this coming March 14th -16th, 2025. Get all the details and to register for the workshop here:   https://hetra.org/education/pre-conference-hetra-university-live.html Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks This episode is proudly sponsored by Equiforce. ⁠https://www.equi-force.com/

2 Tips for going into episode 102… #1 it's a little longer than our typical episodes, so be prepared fr that, but #2 it's longer because it's JUICY. There was too much good information to make it any shorter!  Joe has such a fresh perspective on managing therapeutic riding centers.  Joe Wappelhorst is the ED at SIRE and he was able to not only grow their organization SUBSTANTIALLY in a short amount of time, but also really position them in a sustainable spot that they did not have before he arrived. What's unique about Joe is that he is not a grassroots horse person.  While the passion for the services SIRE offers definitely shines through, he really specializes in the business side of being an ED.  His perspective is super fresh and different from what is typical in the EAS industry… if you're wondering if any of these tips will be worth it…  I think his center success speaks for itself on that! Expect to hear conversation on: Alternative methods for billing participants Managing income/expenses Managing staff into the right positions with the right skills and trusting them Staff development Compensation for instructors  Careful selection & management of the board of directors  Succession planning for ED's Implications and suggestions for centers with smaller budgets.   Equine Strategic Planning webinar: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/equinestrategicplanning Register for the HETRA University Live Conference in Gretna, NE on March 13-15, 2025 https://hetra.org/education/pre-conference-hetra-university-live.html Follow us on social and plug in here: https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks This episode is proudly sponsored by Equiforce. ⁠https://www.equi-force.com/

Today we are gong to look at tone.  Everyone has heard it… high tone, low tone, fluctuating tone, spasticity … what does all that even mean!? Spoiler alert it's can be a little complicated and depending on the diagnoses can look very different from participant to participant.  Today we are going to do our best to simplify it and break down the basic differences between hyper- and hypo-tonia and how both impact our participants in the saddle.  Register for the LIVE WEBINAR:  Postural Corrections and Modifications for Adaptive Riding Participants, November 17th at 6:30 PM CT  https://form.jotform.com/242204635686055 Get a more complex look at tone in Episode 53:  Understanding Diagnoses in EAS: Cerebral Palsy  https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/9dNNl17b6Nb Register for the HETRA University Live Conference in Gretna, NE on March 13-15, 2025https://hetra.org/education/pre-conference-hetra-university-live.html This episode is proudly sponsored by Equiforce. ⁠https://www.equi-force.com/ Reference from today's episode:  Ganguly J, Kulshreshtha D, Almotiri M, Jog M. Muscle Tone Physiology and Abnormalities. Toxins (Basel). 2021 Apr 16;13(4):282. doi: 10.3390/toxins13040282. PMID: 33923397; PMCID: PMC8071570.

We're celebrating 100 episodes of the podcast!  Listen in to hear Edye Godden, CEO of HETRA and Erin Bevington, COO of HETRA, share their thoughts on how we have stayed adaptable as a center and why that is so important for sustainability.  We share great reflections and some laughs about the adventure to where HETRA has ended up today.   Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio This episode is proudly sponsored by Equiforce. ⁠https://www.equi-force.com/

As an adaptive riding instructor, you might find yourself in an uncomfortable situation you don't know how to navigate with your participants.  It could be oversharing, traumatic responses, panic attacks, being shut down and a lot more. As instructors we have a tendency to want to help our participants and step in to offer advice,  but we have to be careful to stay in our lane and offer the correct support and resources for our participants with mental health concerns.  Listen in to hear Hallie Sheade, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, share her advice when it comes to managing our “lane”.  Expect to hear her advice on: Educating yourself and gaining comfortability with MH What to say when you are in uncomfortable situations.  How to manage those difficult conversations when MH is a barrier to success. How to manage referrals or finding good resources. She also tells us about her unique EAS program offering mental health services and adaptive riding, specifically for those with mental health concerns who have been through their ground program.  Great ways to get a better MH Understanding: www.coursera.org  The Gift of Therapy by Irvin D. Yalom, M.D.  https://www.amazon.com/Gift-Therapy-Generation-Therapists-Patients/dp/0061719617   Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio This episode is proudly sponsored by Equiforce. https://www.equi-force.com/

As the EAS industry continues to expand and diversify, it is of utmost importance to keep the needs of our equine partners at the forefront of the movement.  The better you are to your horses, the longer they will be in your program.  It's about education and staying honest with yourself about what our horses need to stay happy, healthy, sane and sound.  Check out HETRA University Live, October 4-5, 2024: https://hetra.org/education/pre-conference-hetra-university-live.html Check out these Equine Welfare webinars now for just $10:  Seamless Transitions: Integrating New Horses into EAS Programs webinar: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/seamlesstransitions Avoiding Equine Burnout webinar:  https://vimeo.com/ondemand/avoidingequineburnout Evaluation of the EAS Horse webinar:  https://vimeo.com/ondemand/evaluationoftheeashorse Equine Strategic Planning webinar:  https://vimeo.com/ondemand/equinestrategicplanning

Evaluation of incoming participants is an important piece of the puzzle in so many ways. It helps your participant be as successful as they can be, but it also helps your instructors, volunteer team and horse team make important decisions and be prepared.  Listen to hear what Edye Godden, CEO at HETRA thinks the primary barriers are to thorough evaluations and why they are so important.  Get the CEU's and more details with Edye's on demand presentation, Evaluation of EAS Participants here:  https://vimeo.com/ondemand/evalofeasparticipants Join us at Patreon to get the webinar for free!  Learn more here:  https://www.patreon.com/notjustaponyride Follow us on social, buy merch and plug in with us here:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

Join us for a global conversation!  Vera, the President of HETI is here to talk to us today about the importance of connection with other professionals, not only locally, but on an international scale.  We discuss what HETI has to offer it's members as well as what sort of challenges and successes she has seen on a global scale for the EAS community.   Learn more about the Federation of Horses in Education and Therapy International:  https://hetifederation.org/ Learn more about the Leadership Adventures EAL Summit here:   https://www.equineassistedlearning.org/ Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

Executive function is the cognitive process of the brain that allows us to set goals, plan things, stay organized and make the right decisions while keeping our emotions in check.  It consists of a series of 7 skills: self-awareness, inhibitory control, non-verbal working memory, verbal working memory, emotional self-regulation, self-motivation and planning/problem solving. This episode will take a look at each one of these skills and how deficits in one or more of these areas might impact our riders in the arena.  We will talk about helpful strategies and ways to help our participants be successful despite challenges with executive functioning.  For more helpful learning strategies and an in depth look at ADHD checkout this webinar:  https://vimeo.com/ondemand/understandingadhdineas Learn more about the Leadership Adventures EAL Summit here:   https://www.equineassistedlearning.org/ Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

We have been getting a lot of questions lately about how to get involved in the Equine Assisted Services industry.  There are SO many ways to make an impact, listen in to hear the options and what all goes into each area of service.  Today we will cover options for instructors, therapists, coaches, educators, facility, horse and volunteer management as well as the different areas of programming and what qualifications you may need for each!  Be sure to check out all of these resources for a deeper look!:  Instructor Certification with CHA:  https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/TnWvIb51xLb Instructor Certification with a Therapeutic Horsemanship Degree at University:  https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/SIgG3H01xLb Adaptive Riding vs. Therapy Services:  https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/2ykDTlc2xLb American Hippotherapy Association:  https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/SGv2nM71xLb Horse Powered Reading: https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/wbbCxbY1xLb EAL Certification with Strides to Success:  https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/oOAeHSf2xLb EAL and EA Psychotherapy with the HERD Institute:  https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/JgvAWMh2xLb EAGALA:  https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/G2rdvI01xLb Graduate Students in EAS:   https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/UuE1rT71xLb Learn more about the Leadership Adventures EAL Summit here:   https://www.equineassistedlearning.org/ Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

Getting insurance coverage for your therapeutic riding center can be a daunting task.  How do we ensure we are adequately covered when it comes to our clients, our horses, our property and our equipment? Jonathan Killian of Killian Insurance Agency is here to answer all of our burning questions!  Listen in to hear from a seasoned professional who truly understands the EAS industry and wants to help us safeguard our missions.  Learn more about Killian Insurance Agency here:  https://farmequineinsurance.com/or email Jon at  killianinsuranceagency@gmail.com Learn more about the Leadership Adventures EAL Summit here:   https://www.equineassistedlearning.org/ Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

Kaiti & Shelby traveled from Gretna, NE to Dallas, TX for PATH Intl. Region 8 /LSTEN Conference hosted by Equest!  We love to travel to share presentations and learn, but another bonus is getting to see other centers!  Expect to hear in this episode:  Hear about out time at Equest's facility in Dallas What's trending in education for our industry?  Exciting sessions we attended Thoughts on EAL continuing as a trend…  Inside look at what we presented:  Preventing Equine Burnout, Understanding Seizures & Understanding ADHD  Register for HETRA University Live: Vol 2, the EAS Workshop in Gretna NE Oct 4 & 5 now! https://hetra.org/education/pre-conference-hetra-university-live.html Learn about Equest  https://equest.org/ Watch “Understanding ADHD in EAS” now! https://vimeo.com/ondemand/understandingadhdineas Watch “Seamless Transitions: Integrating Horses into EAS Programming” now!  https://vimeo.com/ondemand/seamlesstransitions Watch “Equine Strategic Planning” now!  https://vimeo.com/ondemand/equinestrategicplanning

Link to the FULL EPISODE:  https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/317-equine-assisted-therapy-in-ot-and-ptThis week's episode is a collaboration with some very special folks.  Rachel Harrington and Jessica Hill, are two Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants who, in partnership with Harkla, have a podcast called “All things Sensory”.  On their podcast they answer questions related to all things sensory, occupational therapy, parenting, self-care, nutrition, and health, all  from a therapist's perspective. If you want to know more about working with children who have sensory processing disorder—they are a WEALTH of information. In episode #317 [of the All Things Sensory Podcast] you will learn about the basics of what makes therapy partnering with horses unique and how HETRA does it differently.  Together Renee and I explain:  What a typical session looks like The evaluation process for our therapy participants  Details about the horses that work in our programs both physically and mentally. Pro's & Con's to this type of therapy and so much more! 

There are so many options when it comes to certifications, but how do you know which one is right for you?  Listen in to hear Diana Bezdedeann share why the HERD Institute might be a good fit for you!  They specialize in Equine Facilitated Learning & Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy with two tracks for beginners and advanced practitioners.  The HERD Institute prides itself on putting the horse first in a true partnership for participant benefit.   Learn more about the HERD Institute here:  www.herdinstitute.com Learn more about the Leadership Adventures EAL Summit here:   https://www.equineassistedlearning.org/ This episode is proudly sponsored by Stable Moments:  EAL for Complex Trauma. https://www.stablemoments.com/ Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

 How is your center protected when it comes to confidentiality?  It is important both legally an ethically to maintain proper confidentiality when working with our participants.  As instructors and therapists we have access to sensitive health care information such as diagnoses and medical paperwork and it is our job to protect that.  Listen in to hear how HETRA manages protected information with our volunteers, staff and others.  We'd love to talk with you about your confidentiality policies, fill out the form here: https://www.tfaforms.com/4890916 Get our confidentiality statement for our volunteers at our Patreon:  https://www.patreon.com/notjustaponyride

The kind of elopement we are talking about today means to leave a caregiver's supervision without permission or warning.  Elopement is a serious issue because elopement can put that person in a unsafe situation. In EAS specifically, this can be even more serious because of the inherent risk present in our facilities. We don't want participants darting into an open arena with lessons happening, wandering into pens with loose horses, stalls, equipment sheds those types of things and we need to #1 bring awareness to how we are preventing access to unsafe situations, but #2 learn more about elopement and how we can help keep everyone safe if that is something we know might happen. Get the Functions of Behavior Handout: https://notjustaponyride.ck.page/a8b7c28339 Sensory & Behavior:  https://vimeo.com/ondemand/sensoryandbehavior Understanding Autism in EAS: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/autismineas Resistance to the Horse:  https://vimeo.com/ondemand/resistancetothehorse This episode is proudly sponsored by Stable Moments:  EAL for Complex Trauma. https://www.stablemoments.com/ Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

When we talk about building workshops to help build leadership skills or corporate skills, we first have to define “leadership”.  Jeff defines leadership in one word: influence. Think about this – if you walk a 1200 pound horse into the arena, you can't hardly push/pull them one inch.  All you can do is exhibit influence, and that's what leaders do.  By looking at leadership with this definition, every person has influence.  Jeff Arnold from Leadership Adventures is here to give us a TON of great advice on developing leaders as well as how to build corporate relationships and get into the world of Equine Assisted Leadership Development.  Learn more about Leadership Adventures services and offerings here:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/leadership-adventures-inc- Learn more about the Summit here:  https://www.equineassistedlearning.org/ Get our list of Stay Interview Questions over at Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/notjustaponyride Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

What makes a good horseman or woman?  It's not just riding! It's learning all types of things about horses in different ways to make a well rounded experience.  Whether it's too hot, our horse is off or there are medical changes in our participant, the reality is sometimes we can't always ride.  In order to keep our participants engaged and continuing their progress we need to come up with an alternative. It's not that complicated, what tasks do we do everyday with our horses that we could teach our participants? With the proper tools, all instructors and therapists should be empowered to turn everyday tasks into lesson plans when we need a plan B.  Get the horse communication curriculum FREE here:  https://notjustaponyride.ck.page/d083633d85 Patreon subscription for free access to additional ground programming curriculum: https://www.patreon.com/notjustaponyride Energize and Mobilize Exercise Series:  https://www.patreon.com/notjustaponyride/shop Learn more about the Equicizer we use often for alternative programming here: https://equicizer.com/ This episode is proudly sponsored by Stable Moments:  EAL for Complex Trauma. https://www.stablemoments.com/ Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

Emily Dillard has the best of both worlds.  She is a School Psychologist and the Dean of Students at Explorer Academy, a unique school that serves those in special education.  She is also a PATH Intl. Certified Instructor and associate program director for Bison Strides, an equine-assisted services program in Fargo, ND.  Her worlds collided in a very special offering in which she organized the core competencies of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and overlayed them with equine assisted learning.  SEL can be a very difficult subject to engage students in, but Emily has found the horses make it motivating and fun for the kids to learn. Listen to hear how she organized the program including staffing logistics, liability, preparation and funding for the program.  Learn more about Bison Strides:  https://www.bisonstrides.org/ This episode is proudly sponsored by Stable Moments:  EAL for Complex Trauma. https://www.stablemoments.com/ Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

We all have a Steady Eddy in our barn. We love them and hate to retire them, but what happens when we need to? Shelby is here to talk to us about options and how to plan for success when we retire a herd member. Get more on Equine Strategic Planning with Shelby's on-demand webinar:  https://vimeo.com/ondemand/equinestrategicplanning This episode is proudly sponsored by Teaching Aids for EAS. Use code “HETRA” for 10% off your order now through May 10, 2024.  https://teachingaidsforeas.com/ Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

We are adding tools to our instructor toolbox today with another installation of Understanding Diagnoses. This episode is a little different, we aren't going to talk about a specific diagnosis but rather something that we see most commonly as part of neurodivergent diagnoses.  Stimming. Stimming is short hand for “self-stimulating” – it's a natural and instinctive behavior that people engage in to regulate their sensory experience. Things like hand flapping, rocking, repetitive vocalizations.  Stimming is a normal thing, but what happens when it interferes with our ability to participate safely in mounted sessions? I'm hoping this episode will help normalize stimming and help folks to understand exactly what it is and when it should or shouldn't be addressed. Get a whole lot more tools for your toolbox with this on-demand webinar:  Understanding Autism in EAS: Effective Strategies for Success. Click here:   This episode is proudly sponsored by Teaching Aids for EAS. Use code “HETRA” for 10% off your order now through May 10, 2024.  https://teachingaidsforeas.com/ Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

Barns are not meant to look like the Taj Mahal, but how the public perceives our place of business is important!  We should be advocating for our horses safety and mental health while also putting our best foot forward.  Listen to hear important things to consider when hosting any event or tour including, helpful signage, managing horse vices and unexpected safety tips.  Any person in your barn could be a potential donor, volunteer, staff member or participant, so being conscious of [what seems like minor] things is important!  Learn more about our Blue Jeans and Dreams event here:  https://hetra.org/events/2024-blue-jeans-dreams.html This episode is proudly sponsored by Teaching Aids for EAS. Use code “HETRA” for 10% off your order now through May 10, 2024.  https://teachingaidsforeas.com/ Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

When grief isn't expressed or addressed, it can lead to prolonged states of depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, and chronic health issues. It can also strain relationships, impair work performance, and diminish our overall quality of life.   On this episode, Sandy Lemen, Director of Programming at The Collective for Hope, is here to explain how we can help.  Anyone can provide support in this arena and it's her hope that everyone will. Showing up and holding space without judgement, without making it about us, without "silver linings"  – with validation and companionship instead - can go a very long way.  Listen to hear how we have created a program at HETRA, in partnership with our OTD Student JJ Simons, to help fill the gap for grief support in our community with the healing help of horses.   Find a grief support program near you at the National Alliance for Children's Grief:  https://nacg.org/ Learn more about The Collective for Hope here:  https://thecollectiveforhope.org/ This episode is proudly sponsored by Teaching Aids for EAS. Use code “HETRA” for 10% off your order now through May 10, 2024.  https://teachingaidsforeas.com/ Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

Sustainability and longevity of our programs is directly linked to high-quality services for our participants.  If our horses are unhappy, our programs aren't impactful.  If our volunteers aren't effective, our programs feel it.  If our instructors/therapists aren't doing their best, programs are successful.  We train our horses, volunteers and staff to our standard, but how do we ACTUALLY know that they are continuing that way?  At HETRA we started doing Observation weeks!  Listen in to learn how you can implement this strategy and why it's important no matter what size of program you have.  For FREE access to our observation checklist for instructors/therapists:   https://notjustaponyride.ck.page/3d704a234e To hear more about our volunteer training levels: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/volunteerstructure To here more about our horse leader training process (Part 1 of 3):  https://vimeo.com/ondemand/leadingpart1 This episode is proudly sponsored by Teaching Aids for EAS. Use code “HETRA” for 10% off your order now through May 10, 2024.  https://teachingaidsforeas.com/ Follow us on social:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

A continuation from episode 78- click here if you haven't heard PART ONE yet. https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/ZWaQ3Chl9Hb Nonprofit work and getting to change lives every day seems like a dream job until you read the fine print. Kimberly Thomas is hear to help us discover how to effectively work with a board of directors/leadership and how to activate engagement. Expect to hear:  What exactly should boards be doing for an organization? How to integrate new board members effectively What if board members aren't a good fit? Importance of a good board chair How does the board support the ED? Conversations around setting non-profit professionals' salaries.  Kimberly Thomas is the Executive Director of EPIC for Girls in Omaha, NE.  Ms. Thomas brings more than 25 years of experience in the non-profit sector.  Her passion is ensuring executive directors and boards are equipped with the tools necessary to succeed and helping them to step into their roles with confidence.  Learn more about EPIC for Girls here:  www.epicforgirls.org Get the Non-Profit Director Evaluation Form by becoming a member at Patreon.  Click here for more information: https://www.patreon.com/notjustaponyride This episode is proudly sponsored by Teaching Aids for EAS. Use code “HETRA” for 10% off your order now through May 10, 2024.  https://teachingaidsforeas.com/ Follow us on social:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

PART ONE:  Nonprofit work and getting to change lives every day seems like a dream job until you read the fine print. Kimberly Thomas is hear to help us discover how to effectively work with a board of directors/leadership and how to activate engagement. Expect to hear:  Variety of “types” of boards How your board changes as your organization grows Thoughts on Board Term Limits How to “evaluate” your board members: “Report Cards” Setting up expectations -- and more! Kimberly Thomas is the Executive Director of EPIC for Girls in Omaha, NE.  Ms. Thomas brings more than 25 years of experience in the non-profit sector.  Her passion is ensuring executive directors and boards are equipped with the tools necessary to succeed and helping them to step into their roles with confidence.  Learn more about EPIC for Girls here:  www.epicforgirls.org This episode is proudly sponsored by Teaching Aids for EAS. Use code “HETRA” for 10% off your order now through May 10, 2024.  https://teachingaidsforeas.com/ Follow us on social:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

Cheryl Eriksen has a masters in social work and is an accomplished author, blogger and a life long learner of equine communication.  Cheryl has spent decades as an equine professional and extensively studied equine behavior and how it is influenced by what the human brings to the relationship. Through her work in the field of equine assisted psychotherapy and learning, Cheryl has seen and experienced firsthand the healing power of the horse-human relationship. In this episode expect to hear her valuable tips for facilitators including the use of ‘clean language' for open communication and interpretation of horse behavior as well as how horses can help develop self-esteem and self-love.  Connect with Cheryl herewww.followmefriendbook.comwww.peacehorse.net This episode is proudly sponsored by Teaching Aids for EAS. Use code “HETRA” for 10% off your order now through May 10, 2024.  https://teachingaidsforeas.com/ Follow us on social:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

This week Cassidy Fredrickson is here to talk all things miniature horses. Our minis are busy at HETRA, from after school programs, mini camps, offsite visits and more!  Listen to hear about the logistics of our different programs and some important tips to consider when traveling and working with these important herd members.  Get the PDF download of the PERSONAL SPACE Curriculum here:  https://app.convertkit.com/forms/designers/6266309/edit Follow us on social:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio This episode is proudly sponsored by Equicizer: https://equicizer.com/

New Podcast Alert! We recently hosted HETRA University Live and the PATH International Region 7 Conference here in Gretna, NE! Listen in to hear key take aways and our thoughts on why education is so important for our industry professionals. Thank you to The BARN Therapeutic Riding Center and Rhythms of Grace for sharing their favorite things about conference with us on the episode! Follow us on social:  https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio This episode is proudly sponsored by Equicizer: https://equicizer.com/