Spiritually Empowered Horsemanship

Tips and Tricks to Keep You Safe on the Trail In this episode, we talk about what it actually takes to have a safe, fun, and connected trail ride with your horse.Inside this episode, we cover:Why trail riding is not “just trail riding”The real reason so many people end up injured on the trailHow to build muscle memory that kicks in when sh*t hits the fanWhat groundwork you need before hitting the saddleWhy hind end control matters way more than you thinkHow to do a quick pre-ride check that sets you up for successWhy wearing a helmet isn't fear—it's respectStaying safe out on the trail comes down to partnership, communication, and mutual trust.

This episode explores trust in horsemanship—what it looks like, how it's built, and what it means when it breaks.If you've ever said “I don't trust my horse” or wondered why your horse won't trust you, this one is for you.We go deep into:Why trust is a two-way street between horse and humanWhat it means to lie to your horse (it's not what you think)How self-trust and self-awareness affect every interactionThe difference between confidence and trust—and why that difference mattersThis isn't about quick fixes. It's about building something deep, honest, and lasting—with your horse and yourself.If you've ever struggled with trust in your horsemanship journey, tune in. This episode might just be the mirror you didn't know you needed. Hit play now! The Secrets to The Horse Human Experience You've Always Wanted (Free) Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Uplevel Your Horse Care With Laura

The Secrets to The Horse Human Experience You've Always Wanted (Free) In this episode, we talk about cognitive dissonance. Unfortunately, we see it every day in the horse industry.We start by exploring where it shows up in our lives - our self-care and fitness routines. Things we rush that we know would be better if we were present. Then we move into exploring how it shows up in our interactions with our horses.Why do we so often fail to to better for our horses even when we know better?Is it procrastination? Or are societal expectations getting in the way?How do we honor both our needs and our horse's needs without losing ourselves in guilt or pressure?Why does striving to do better (even when it's messy) matter so much for the horse-human bond?This is an honest conversation full of self-reflection and reminders to slow down, tune in, and strive to do better.Hit play now. The Secrets to The Horse Human Experience You've Always Wanted (Free) Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Uplevel Your Horse Care With Laura

The Secrets to The Horse Human Experience You've Always Wanted (Free) Helping abused and neglected horses is  a huge topic in the horse world. In this episode, we share stories of working with traumatized horses. We dive into how they can teach us about trust, healing, and forgiveness.We talk about what it takes to rehabilitate a horse with trauma—and why not every horse can or should become a riding partner.If you've ever taken in a horse with a painful past, or are thinking about it, this will give you a fresh perspective.  You'll learn:Why it's important to recognize trauma in horses.How to meet a horse where they areHow your own healing journey may be tied to theirsWe also explore how traditional training fails to address trauma and offer a fresh approach. Whether you've found yourself with a traumatized horse without meaning to... or feel the pull to take on a rescue.. this conversation is for you. Hit play now. The Secrets to The Horse Human Experience You've Always Wanted (Free) Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Uplevel Your Horse Care With Laura

Spring is here. The weather's warming, the trails are drying, and you're ready to ride again! Before you saddle up and hit the road, there's one big question: Does your horse need a spring tune-up?In this episode, we unpack the truth behind the 90-day spring tune-up. A restart method that so many horse owners rely on. We talk about fear, confidence, and what builds a lasting horse-human partnership. Spoiler: It's not just sending your horse away to get “fixed.”We explore how to condition your horse and yourself, and why groundwork matters. Then we cover how avoid common mistakes - riding too soon, skipping emotional fitness, or expecting someone else to do the work for you.We also share personal stories. Like Laura and MJ's first trail ride, how walking home wasn't failure—it was wisdom. You'll hear why getting off is sometimes the bravest, kindest move you can make.This conversation is real, raw, and full of powerful takeaways for any horsewoman who wants more than surface-level results. If you crave connection, trust, and true partnership, this one's for you.

The Secrets to The Horse Human Experience You've Always Wanted (Free)Ever felt like your horse won't do what you're asking? You're left frustrated, confused, or maybe even questioning your ability. This episode is for you. We dive deep into why those challenging moments happen, no matter how experienced you are. And more importantly, how to respond in a way that builds trust, not tension.Whether your horse is resisting meds, refusing to be caught, or squirrely under saddle, they need help. We explore the subtle communication behind these behaviors so you can address them.We talk about emotional awareness, body language, energy, and intention. You'll learn how to slow down, listen deeply, and honor your horse's needs while still making progress.This episode is packed with insight for anyone seeking a true partnership with their horse. If you're ready to ditch “just get it done” culture and instead show up as the confident, compassionate leader your horse needs, hit play now. The Secrets to The Horse Human Experience You've Always Wanted (Free) Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Uplevel Your Horse Care With Laura

What Does It Mean When Your Horse Touches You?Ever wonder why your horse nudges you with their nose or presses against certain parts of your body? Is it affection, a request, or "disrespect"? In this episode, we're diving into what this communication means.We break down misconceptions around behavior and show you how to tune into your horse's subtle cues. We also dig into the energetic connection between horses and humans—including stories of horses detecting pregnancy, sensing emotions, and facilitating healing.If you've ever questioned your instincts about what your horse is telling you, this episode is for you. We'll walk you through practical ways to develop your awareness, trust your gut feelings, and create a two-way dialogue with your horse. By the end of this episode, you'll have a whole new perspective on your horse's language of communication. Hit play now! The Secrets to The Horse Human Experience You've Always Wanted (Free) Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Uplevel Your Horse Care With Laura

Join the FREE Natural Horse-Keeping CommunityOwning a horse with special needs—whether physical or behavioral, or emotional—can feel overwhelming. It's isolating to watch others enjoying their horses while fighting to help yours. In this episode, we dive deep into when the journey of horse ownership doesn't look the way you expected. From chronic health conditions to behavioral challenges, we explore how your mindset matters. Having the right support system in place when this happens can make all the difference.We tackle the tough conversations: When is it time to fight for a horse's future, and when is it kinder to let go? How do you separate outdated industry norms from what's actually best for your horse? And how can you find professionals who align with your values?This episode isn't just about horses—it's about becoming the best advocate, partner, and caretaker you can be. If you've ever felt lost, doubted yourself, or wondered if you're doing enough for your horse, this conversation is for you. Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Uplevel Your Horse Care With Laura

Transform Your Horse Human Relationship With CindyBringing a new horse home is exciting, but it's also a massive transition—for both of you. This episode discusses what a horse goes through when they get a new home. It talks about unhealthy expectations and how we can let those go. From herd dynamics to trust-building, we go over how to make the transition as smooth as possible.When a horse enters a new environment they face challenges. New owners often forget what the horse is going through in their excitement. We talk about why immediate riding isn't always the best idea, and how to recognize how well your horse is adjusting.This episode is packed with practical tips on diet transitions, biosecurity, and how to introduce a new horse to a herd safely. Whether you're bringing home your first horse or your tenth, this conversation will help you set up for success. Hit play now so you can create a better experience for both you and your new horse. Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Uplevel Your Horse Care With Laura

Connect With AmyIn this episode, we sit down with Amy Skinner, founder of Amy Skinner Horsemanship. Her unique horsemanship philosophy is built on balance, trust, and respect. Amy shares her journey of evolution as a horsewoman, a mother, and a teacher. She reveals how these principles have shaped her life and horse industry career.This episode dives into the often unspoken challenges of balancing motherhood and horses. Amy's candid reflections on vulnerability and adaptability offer insights that apply to all relationships, whether with horses or humans.Learn why balance isn't just physical but emotional too. Discover how trust is not something we demand but something we embody. Gain a refreshing perspective on respect that rejects outdated notions of dominance.Whether you're a seasoned equestrian, a new mom juggling it all, or simply seeking inspiration to navigate life with more awareness and intention, this episode will leave you feeling seen, inspired, and ready to take the next step with your horse. Hit pay now! Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Uplevel Your Horse Care With Laura

Uplevel Your Horse Care

Transform Your Horse Human Relationship With CindyIt's that time of year when many riders set goals for what they want to accomplish with their horses. This episode reflects on the importance of aligning our goals with our horse's well-being. If we don't put the horse first, is it really a goal worth reaching? We debrief our own horsemanship journeys over the last year. We discuss what went well, what didn't, why, and what lessons we are carrying into 2025. There is a paradigm shift happening in the horse world, and we share how we will be at the forefront of it (and you can, too).This episode outlines a step-by-step system for achieving your goals with your horse. If you have a big year planned, hit play now!  Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Help Your Horse Thrive With Laura

Join the Natural Horse Keeping FB GroupThe cold weather is here. Our horses need us to care for them slightly differently in this season. Should you blanket? Is your horse going to be okay when it snows? How much hay should you feed?In a perfect world, horses could live thrive in the winter without human intervention. It's not a perfect world. It's your job to help them out without compromising their natural defenses. This means avoiding over-blanketing and over-feeding supplements and grain. Hit play to learn how horses naturally adapt to the cold and what you can do to make life easier for them. This episode is packed with real-world advice rooted in compassion and practicality.If you're committed to meeting your horse's needs during winter, this episode is a must-listen.  Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Help Your Horse Thrive With Laura

Get The Horsewoman's Guide to Confidence!Every horse owner will have a herd-bound horse on their hands at some point. Solving this requires a deep understanding of equine psychology.It's natural for horses to seek safety in numbers. Their instinctual needs drive this behavior that we humans find so undesirable. So what can be done? The methods trainers use to stop this behavior often leave the horse shut down. There's a better way!You cultivate a calm, confident horse. Hit play now to find out how to help your herd-bound horse. Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Help Your Horse Thrive With Laura

Start a Fitting With KarenIn this episode, we're diving into the world of hoof boots with our guest, Karen Tomcoe Cox. Karen is a boot fitting expert for Scoot Boots and Equine Fusion Boots. She breaks down the essentials of when and why to use hoof boots. Our conversation includes tips on fitting and handling the most common hoot boot challenges. Boots can be super helpful in keeping your horse comfortable during the transition from shoes to barefoot. In this episode, we discuss how that works. Karen also highlights how proper nutrition, trims, and the environment build healthy hooves.If you've ever struggled with finding the right boot fit or want to try boots but don't know where to start, hit play now! Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Help Your Horse Thrive With Laura

Get the FREE Hoof Health GuideIn this episode, Laura steps forward as a hoof expert and total hoof nerd. We discuss how your horse's hoof is a powerful indicator of their overall well-being. Laura shares her journey of learning to trim so she can help her own horse and the horses at the rescues where she volunteers.Chronic abscesses, laminitis, thrush, and hoof pain are not normal. But you can help your horse grow a healthy hoof free of these issues! The episode covers how to assess your horse's hooves and the pros and cons of shoes versus barefoot care. We also touch on the significance of proper trimming, the dangers of contracted heels, and how to ensure your horse's hooves remain healthy across different seasons.Tune in to learn how to spot early signs of hoof issues and take proactive steps to keep your horse healthy and happy. Contact Karen (Laura's Boot Fitter) Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Help Your Horse Thrive With Laura

In this episode, we talk about how to know what your horse is thinking. We offer strategies for redirecting energy and heading off spooks. Your awareness is the key to smooth communication with your horse. This conversation addresses common areas of awareness that horse owners lack.You'll hear insights changing your mindset from trying to control—to improving communication. Learn how to:Recognize tension before it leads to a blow-upKnow what to do when nervous energy needs a physical outletFoster deeper connections through touch and presenceThis a must-listen for anyone looking to become a more effective horse partner. Tune in to learn how small adjustments can lead to big breakthroughs in your relationship. Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Help Your Horse Thrive With Laura

In this episode, we discuss the truth about bits and spurs. These tools are so often used to increase control, but that's not what they are designed for. With so much misinformation out there, you may have been pressured to use a bigger bit or spurs in the wrong situation. This conversation challenges that way of thinking. It emphasizes the need for a solid foundation before reaching for higher-level tools. If you've ever questioned whether you should “bit up” or “spur on,” we encourage you to hit play. Learn to deepen your communication with your horse instead of using tools to control them. Join us as we discuss how to ensure that your tools align with the needs of the horse in front of you. Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Help Your Horse Thrive With Laura

In this episode, we challenge the belief that owning a horse means you have to ride. Our conversation focuses on how the horse-human relationship isn't defined by saddle time. We share personal stories of how horses enrich our lives in ways beyond riding. There's so much more to horse ownership than those who focus solely on riding realize. If you've ever felt guilt for not riding your horse "enough," this episode is for you. There are many horses who, despite being well-trained, prefer not to be ridden—and that's okay. There is immense value in developing a strong bond through groundwork, care, and play.If you're feeling pressure to “do more,” or desire a deeper connection with your horse, this episode is for you. It's a refreshing reminder that the relationship with your horse is yours to define. No time spent with them is ever wasted. Hit play now to hear the episode. Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Help Your Horse Thrive With Laura

In this episode, we delve into the complexities of leadership within horse-human relationships. Leadership is crucial in building a healthy and balanced partnership with your horse. But, it often comes with challenges rooted in our own experiences and perceptions. We discuss the baggage humans bring into their roles as leaders—whether being overly dominant or too passive—and how this affects our horses.Cindy shares her personal journey of redefining leadership. She transitioned from the aggressive leadership she saw growing up to a more balanced approach. Laura adds her insights, discussing how she came up with her own version of leadership.You'll learn how to focus on self-awareness and trust as you become an inclusive leader. If you're struggling with confidence or want a deeper connection with your horse, this episode will help. Hit play now!  Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Help Your Horse Thrive With Laura

In this episode, we discuss fire safety. Tune in to learn how to prepare for fire season and protect your horses.Cindy, a member of the Sheriff's Mounted Posse, shares stories of large animal evacuations. Laura shares her evacuation plan as a member of a boarding barn.This episode covers:The importance of having a multi-step evacuation planUtilizing apps like Watch Duty for real-time fire updatesEnsuring that your boarding facility or personal property has adequate defensible spaceThe practical tips we share in this episode could make all the difference in a fire. Don't wait until you're under an evacuation order —listen now to learn how to keep your equine safe.Fetlock ID Band Livestock Marker Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Help Your Horse Thrive With Laura

Welcome back to part two of our "Back to Basics" series. This episode focuses on the foundational aspects of your horsemanship skills. Understanding the basics is crucial for all horse people, and we break it down here.This episode tackles topics like entering your horse's enclosure, setting the tone for your time together, and the proper way to open and close gates for safety. We also discuss the importance of leading with confidence and establishing patterns that promote mutual trust and understanding between you and your horse.You'll hear personal anecdotes and valuable lessons from our experiences, including how to navigate around other horses while ensuring your horse's comfort and safety. We delve into the nuances of grooming, the importance of properly fitting tack, and why regular equipment checks are vital. By mastering these basics, you can make whatever you do with your horse an enjoyable experience. Join us as we share practical tips, real-life examples, and a bit of humor to help you become a more confident and capable horse owner. Hit play now!Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Build a Coaching Business With Laura

The basic relationship principles discussed in this episode aren't taught in lessons or online programs. When they're skipped, they cause all kinds of issues that leave owners frustrated and horses unheard. Your relationship with your equine can make the difference between a close call and a total wreck when something happens that pushes you beyond your horsemanship skills or pushes your horse beyond their threshold of tolerance. Do you have the basics in place in your horse-human relationship? Hit play now to find out. Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Build a Coaching Business With Laura

This episode shares trailering safety tips to keep you and your horse safe during loading, unloading, and while on the road. Many wrecks happen in the trailer, and these basic tools can help you avoid them!We have different trailers, so you'll hear two different approaches to the same idea. At the end of the day, the goal is to plan for the worst while setting your horse up for success to avoid major accidents.  Unfortunately, many people unknowingly load and unload their horses unsafely. They're relying on their horse never to spook or get upset in a tiny metal box, and that's not realistic! Listen to learn how to position yourself in the trailer to stay safe. You'll also learn the order of when to tie and close dividers, etc., to avoid disaster.As with everything we do, we discuss taking your time and building confidence. When you honor yourself and your horse where you're at and work from that place, you'll see great results. If you've ever felt fear or worry while loading or unloading your horse, this episode is for you. Hit play now, and if you find our tips helpful, please leave us a 5-star review!Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Build a Coaching Business With Laura

Do you trailer your horse to trailheads, clinics, lessons, or shows? If so, this is an episode you don't want to miss. Knowledge is empowerment! Even if you have no mechanical skills or desire to learn, you must get to know your rig. This is essential safety information that most horsewomen lack. Get the trailer maintenance checklist here: https://spirituallyempoweredhorsemanship.com/horse-hauling-safety-checklist In this episode you'll learn to understand the basics of your truck and trailer. You'll discover how to identify issues before they become serious problems. Your horse is your family member and your friend. They set aside all their instincts and get on the trailer for you. It's your responsibility to ensure they stay safe on the road.This episode is for any horse owner who wants safe and stress-free travels with their equine. If you're often nervous when you haul, this will help a TON. Hit play now, and please leave a five-star review if you find this episode helpful!Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Build a Coaching Business With Laura

In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome our first guest, Dr. Steven Peters. As a board-certified neuroscientist with a lifelong passion for horses, Dr. Peters has a unique perspective. He shares his incredible knowledge of the equine nervous system in this episode. You will see how everything we talk about in Episodes 5 & 6 is backed by science.Dr. Peters shares how understanding your horse's brain can improve your training. Knowing what's happening in the brain makes it easier to use evidence-based methods instead of relying on outdated opinions.Tune in to learn about the intricate workings of your horse's nervous system. Discover how your horse's emotions impact their learning and how to support them best. Dr. Peters also discusses the vital role of trust and partnership between horse and rider. Your emotional state impacts your horse. It's science!Dr. Peters' insights will help you better understand your horse from the inside out. Hit play now to empower yourself with this cutting-edge info.Connect With Dr. Peters: https://horsebrainscience.info/Join the Clinic in Person: https://heartsoulhorsemanship.com/collections/upcoming-clinics/products/horse-brain-seminar-clinicConnect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Build a Coaching Business With Laura

In this episode, we discuss the science of energy releases in horses. Learning to understand your horse's nervous system can revolutionize your horsemanship. Listen in as we explain how the horse's sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems influence their behavior.Recognizing and respecting your horse's need for release can lead to profound breakthroughs. When you know the signs of a horse transitioning from stress to calm, you can learn to facilitate this. You'll become their quiet in the storm, a safe place for your horse no matter what's going on around you.Episode 6 offers invaluable knowledge on creating a trusting relationship with your horse. If you desire a more responsive and relaxed equine partner, hit play now! Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Build a Coaching Business With Laura

Download Energy Ball Exercise: https://spirituallyempoweredhorsemanship.com/energy-ball-exercise-pageIn this episode of the Spiritually Empowered Horsemanship Podcast, we explore energy work. Horses have heightened sensory awareness and intuitive abilities. When we learn to access those parts of them, we open the door to a powerful healing modality. You can deepen your connection with your horse by learning to work with the energetic field.You'll learn practical tips on how to become more attuned to your horse's energy. Plus, we share stories of how we've used these modalities with our own horses. Don't forget to download the "energy bubble" exercise so you can practice with your horse!There is a whole world of deeper connections out there for horses and humans. Understanding energy is the first step to tapping in. Tune in now to learn how you can get started.Connect With Your Hosts: Join the Pod Community Dive Into Horsemanship With Cindy Build a Coaching Business With Laura

In A New Perspective on Problem Solving, you'll learn how to approach struggles with your horse from a place of curiosity instead of fear, frustration, or uncertainty. There's a culture in the horse world that encourages equestrians to make their struggles with their horses mean something about their riding or horsemanship abilities. This episode puts that way of thinking to rest and empowers you with a step-by-step method to face your problems with your horse head-on. When you implement these steps, you'll learn to tackle issues in a way that creates a deeper rapport between you and your equine.We share real-life stories of problems that we're having with our horses right now and how we're responding with compassion and patience while still expecting appropriate behavior from our horses.Whether you're navigating training hurdles, physical issues, or simply seeking to do more with your horse without running into trouble, this episode offers valuable tools for getting where you want to go.Hit play to tune in now!Connect With Your Hosts: Cindy Laura Pod Community

In Episode 3, Life Lessons from Horses: Growth, Spiritual Awakening, and Surrender, we share how horses have changed our lives. They've pushed us to grow, awakened us to a deeper connection with life, and called us to surrender in moments that spiraled out of control.We have both experienced connections with horses on a level that we haven't found in a relationship with any other being. The more we've leaned into these bonds, the better our horsemanship journeys have become. The life lessons we share include:Learning to dance with fear.Navigating life's challenges with grace.Accepting that there are many things we cannot control.When you learn to recognize when a horsemanship challenge imparts a life lesson and actively engage with it instead of resisting it, you can quickly create change with your horse and in your life. Hit play to tune in now!Connect With Your Hosts: Cindy Laura Pod Community

In Episode 2, Awakening Awareness: A New Perspective for Hard Rides, we explore what it means to truly see your horse. If you've ever had a tough training session and wondered if you were missing something that could have helped you turn things around, this episode is for you.The Heart of Connection:Your emotions and energy influence your horse both positively and negatively. Understanding this connection is vital to knowing what's happening with your horse at any moment. A Deeper Bond: Horses don't lie, and we can't hide the truth from them either. They get confused and concerned when we stuff down fear or uncertainty in their presence. In this episode, we share stories of our most vulnerable moments with horses that ended up deepening those bonds.  Seeing Your Horse Holistically: Contrary to popular belief, not every horse problem can be solved by moving their feet. When you awaken to awareness, you'll learn a more compassionate way to engage with your horse that acknowledges the psychological aspects of horse behavior and leads to more mindful communication. Deepening Your Horsemanship:This episode discusses intuitive animal communication and the importance of emotional intelligence in riding. It invites you to explore new practices to deepen the understanding between you and your horse. Hit play to tune in now!Connect With Your Hosts: Cindy Laura Pod Community

Welcome to Episode 1 of The Spiritually Empowered Horsemanship Podcast. In Discover the Magic of Spiritually Empowered Horsemanship, we introduce the Who, What, Where, Why, and How of the Podcast.We're creating a space for passionate equestrians aiming to foster a deeper connection with their equine partners to explore, learn, and grow. Strong horse-human partnerships are based on mutual trust and respect, not dominance! In this episode, we discuss cultivating confidence and intuition and becoming a better steward of your horses' well-being. We challenge the norm of deferring to external experts, working to empower you to trust their innate knowledge and connection with your horse. You'll walk away feeling excited to take what you learn and try it with your horse.Hit play now to catch the Episode!Connect With Your Hosts: Cindy Laura Pod Community