Stacy Westfall Horse Podcast

This episode explores how shifting between perspectives reveals critical blind spots in your horsemanship.  To illustrate this Stacy shares a 'backward' look at a common problems: a horse that spooks.  When you commit to looking from each of these angles, you are more likely to get the full picture, transforming how you interpret and address training situations. Key takeaways: Discover how alternating between perspectives exposes patterns you miss when fixed in one viewpoint Explore how the same situation (like a spook) transforms completely when analyzed from each of the four angles Learn why your interpretation of events is heavily filtered by which perspective you habitually default to This episode demonstrates the transformative power of intentionally changing viewpoints to solve persistent riding challenges. By using spooking behavior as a practical example, riders will gain a framework for applying this four-perspective approach to any training situation, allowing them to break through plateaus and develop deeper understanding of the horse-human partnership.

Horsemanship is often described as an art—but teaching it requires breaking that art into pieces. In this episode, Stacy reflects on the challenge of translating feel, flow, and intuition into teachable steps—and why both structure and flow must coexist within the art of horsemanship. Key takeaways: Building flow without foundation leads to instability—structure is what gives flow freedom Inspirational teaching often reflects flow, but lacks the tangible grip of mechanics Over-focus on structure can limit the experience of partnership and presence The artistic expression of riding emerges when steps become second nature This episode examines the contrast between structure and flow in horsemanship, offering insight into why both are essential—and how recognizing your own tendencies can bring more balance to your training. Ideal for riders who want to understand the 'why' behind the feel, and step into the dance themselves.

Stacy Westfall explores the hidden conversation happening between riders and horses—beyond conscious cues. Using the analogy of learning to float while swimming, she reveals how riders can unintentionally contradict their own instructions through subtle physical signals. In this episode: Discover why your horse reads your tension, breathing patterns, and hormone shifts as clearly as your intentional aids Learn to distinguish between helpful awareness and counterproductive anxiety by recognizing when your body is communicating mixed signals Understand why even experienced riders must consciously evaluate both their horse's readiness and their own physical state in challenging situations This episode demonstrates that skilled riding isn't just about technical precision—it's about mastering the subtle interplay between internal belief and physical communication. Your emotions will always "ooze out" of your body and become part of the conversation your horse is already listening to.

In this episode, Stacy explores the critical distinction between specific riding aids and your overall body intention. Riders often experience a disconnect between the small cues they apply (leg pressure, rein contact) and the broader message their body position and energy convey to the horse. Key takeaways: – The rider's body communicates more than just cues—it reflects intention, emotion, and unconscious signals – Clarity arises when physical aids align with internal intention and focus – Emotional states influence the horse, whether or not the rider is aware of them – Building awareness of your own body language is essential for clear communication – Questions are a natural part of the learning process for both horse and rider This episode demonstrates how critical it is to align physical cues with internal clarity. It's especially valuable for riders who want to improve communication with their horse through better body awareness—not just better technique.

This episode explores the two core elements inside the rider's mind: the information you rely on and the thoughts that either help or distract you. Stacy unpacks how both missing knowledge and unexamined beliefs can quietly interfere with clear communication and forward progress with your horse. Key takeaways: Gaps in understanding may look like missing information—but can also stem from mismatched or misapplied techniques Your body unconsciously reflects your true beliefs regardless of your intentions, creating mixed signals your horse can't interpret When your mind automatically creates meaning from every interaction Unexamined thoughts and stories can distort feedback and trigger self-doubt during key moments This episode examines the powerful concept of having "enough" knowledge to proceed confidently.  It's especially valuable for those balancing learning with leadership, offering insight into how to sort through mental noise and act with clarity in real time.

In this episode, Stacy explores how horses experience emotion—and more importantly, how they can learn to regulate it. Through stories, training examples, and thoughtful reflection, she illustrates how emotional elasticity allows horses to pause instead of panic, and process instead of simply react. Listeners will learn how to recognize a horse's natural default state, how that state influences outward behavior, and how training can help develop more thoughtful, responsive equine partners. Key takeaways: – The difference between raw instinct and thoughtful responses – What emotional regulation looks like in motion – How temperament plays into training outcomes – Why a horse's reactions aren't always what they seem This is part two in a series on The Horse's Mind. For a foundation on how physical behavior reflects a horse's thinking, listen to Part 1: Episode 331. To dive deeper, visit Stacy's website and take the free quiz on the four quadrants of horse and rider development. The results will highlight where to focus next—and follow-up resources will guide your next steps.

A horse's body reveals more than just physical movement—it reflects their thoughts, emotions, and understanding. In this episode, Stacy Westfall explores how a horse's behavior can show both their level of knowledge and their maturity. She shares why interpreting the horse's mind requires stepping outside of our automatic reactions and learning to see things from their perspective. Key takeaways: – How a horse's physical reactions reveal their level of understanding – The difference between confusion, disagreement, and emotional reactions – Why your horse might test a cue—and what their response tells you – How your own energy and behavior shape your horse's learning This episode examines the deep connection between a horse's mind and body, helping riders build clearer, more effective communication. Stay tuned for Part 2, where Stacy explores how horses can develop emotional flexibility.

When your horse hesitates, pins its ears, or struggles with a movement, what's really happening? It's easy to jump to conclusions—assuming resistance, pain, or a training gap. But the key to true understanding lies in separating observation from interpretation. In this episode, Stacy Westfall explores the importance of neutral fact-finding when assessing your horse's body, why riders often misread behaviors, and how small mindset shifts can lead to major breakthroughs. Key Takeaways: We naturally assign meaning to behaviors. Riders often assume their horse "won't" do something when the truth may be that they can't—yet. Seeing clearly takes practice. Developing the ability to separate facts from assumptions allows for better decision-making in training. Video is a powerful tool. Watching recordings of your rides can reveal overlooked details and refine your ability to analyze movement. Awkwardness doesn't always mean wrong. Some physical discomfort—like an unbalanced canter transition—is a normal part of building strength. Not all resistance is pain-related. Horses, like people, can develop habits or attitudes about work, even after an initial physical issue is resolved. Learning to assess your horse's body with clarity will improve your training, communication, and overall partnership. This episode is part of a four-part series based on the Four Square Foundation Quiz, designed to help you pinpoint your next best step. Tune in next week as Stacy explores the next quadrant: The Horse's Mind.

When training your horse, are you treating symptoms or addressing the real issue? In this episode, Stacy Westfall explains why accurate diagnosis is always the first step. She shares insights from decades of horse training, revealing how misdiagnosing a problem can lead to ineffective solutions, frustration, and even new challenges. Key takeaways: Misdiagnosing a training issue can lead to solutions that create new problems instead of resolving the root cause. Elite horses often mask training flaws, making it easy to apply ineffective methods to the average horse. Identifying the right starting point leads to improvement across all areas. Stacy created a free quiz to help riders pinpoint their biggest challenge and where to focus first. This episode explores how understanding both your horse's and your own thought processes can lead to lasting progress. Whether you're struggling with a specific issue or looking for a clearer training path, the first step is accurate diagnosis. Take the quiz at StacyWestfall.com to discover where to focus next.

Not every ride goes as planned—but what happens after the ride often determines whether you improve or stay stuck. In this episode, Stacy Westfall breaks down a "less than perfect" training session with her horse Ember, sharing how experienced riders turn these moments into stepping stones instead of setbacks. Key takeaways: Progress follows a cycle—planning, execution, evaluation, and adjustment—not a straight upward path. Understanding this cycle helps riders stay focused and adaptable. Training isn't linear—horses don't improve in a straight line, and recognizing this helps riders end their sessions with confidence, not frustration. The Four-Square model (rider's mind, rider's body, horse's mind, horse's body) provides a framework for evaluating challenges clearly instead of emotionally. By shifting from self-judgment to observation, riders create the mental framework needed for true advancement. This episode provides practical examples of how top riders gather information instead of frustration—so you can do the same.

This episode tackles the challenge many riders face when trying to balance structured training plans with intuitive horsemanship. Stacy Westfall uses an unexpected cooking analogy to demonstrate how mastering any skill requires both systematic planning and gut-level awareness. Key takeaways: Strategic time investment in foundational training during off-seasons creates both immediate progress and long-term flexibility Managing multiple horses at different training stages requires distinct approaches, from intensive skill-building to maintenance work Traditional planning tools reveal scheduling conflicts and opportunities that even experienced trainers miss when relying on memory alone The episode demonstrates how riders can develop their own "recipe for success" by combining careful planning with experiential wisdom, making it especially valuable for those managing multiple horses or complex training goals.

Do you find yourself using words like "trust" and "enjoy" when describing your horse training goals, but struggle to translate these concepts into action? You're not alone. Many riders grapple with the gap between their aspirations and day-to-day training decisions. In this episode, Stacy Westfall explores how to transform abstract horse training concepts into physical, observable actions. Key takeaways: Dreams remain intangible until we define what they look like in real-world situations Common phrases in horse training often mask deeper, more specific intentions The path from aspiration to action requires questioning your own assumptions Through real examples from her work with her horse Ember, Stacy demonstrates a questioning process that helps riders move beyond vague terminology to create meaningful, actionable training plans. This episode is essential for both goal-resistant and goal-oriented riders who want to bring their horse training dreams into physical reality.

What if your fuel—not your effort—is the problem? Stacy Westfall shares a surprising lesson in persistence, revealing why sheer determination isn't enough—and what actually sustains lasting effort. Understand why intense effort alone often leads to diminishing returns—and what to do instead. Explore the subtle but crucial difference between belief-driven and willpower-driven action. Learn how to recognize when you're operating from belief versus raw determination. This episode uncovers the essential relationship between belief and effective action, providing riders with practical tools for achieving their goals—without exhausting themselves in the process.

When riders set goals, they often strip away the emotional elements in an attempt to make them more "professional" or achievable. Stacy Westfall challenges this approach through a personal story of how a devastating show ring mistake unexpectedly launched her bridleless riding career. Removing emotions from goals may feel safer and more clinical, but those very emotions—both positive and challenging—signal that you're pursuing something meaningful You can feel hopelessly far from success, yet just a few perspective shifts can completely transform your path forward Community matters deeply in horsemanship, whether found in show environments, boarding barns, trail groups, or online programs, providing the structure and support needed for growth This episode demonstrates how embracing both the technical and emotional aspects of horsemanship creates more meaningful goal achievement. Particularly valuable for riders struggling to connect their dreams with actionable steps, it offers a framework for transforming setbacks into breakthrough moments.

Do you catch yourself saying "I'm behind" so often it feels like a permanent state of being? That nagging sense of always playing catch-up can follow us from the house to the barn, affecting everything from daily tasks to our horsemanship goals. Join Stacy as she shares her journey from thinking "being behind" was unchangeable to discovering a path toward relief. Key takeaways: Your body sends clear warning signals about feeling behind - do you know yours? While switching plans mid-execution might feel like relief, but Stacy shares it often creates a pattern that shows up in unexpected places, including your relationship with your horse What appears as a time management problem often masks a deeper issue with mental clutter that keeps you stuck in the "behind" cycle This episode examines the hidden connection between feeling perpetually behind and your effectiveness both in and out of the saddle. Riders juggling barn time with job and a busy life will gain specific strategies for breaking free from the "always behind" mindset, with immediate applications for both daily life and horsemanship progress.

When pursuing a meaningful goal or implementing a yearly theme, three specific challenges consistently emerge that can derail your progress. Join Stacy Westfall as she breaks down these obstacles and provides actionable solutions for navigating them successfully. Key takeaways: Our brains are wired to resist change in predictable ways, but understanding this resistance reveals surprisingly simple solutions for getting started on any goal, no matter how daunting it seems. The early stages of implementing change require a different approach than most people expect. Stacy shares how to use your brain's natural reward system (what she playfully calls "calorie-free cookies") to build momentum. The most significant barrier to achieving goals isn't what most people think - it's a hidden mindset trap that can make you abandon ship right when you're actually making progress. Overall, this episode examines why common approaches to change often fall short and provides concrete strategies for staying on track. Whether you're working with horses or pursuing personal growth, these insights will help you recognize and overcome the key obstacles that stand between you and your goals.

In this episode, Stacy explores how a fresh perspective on learning can transform your horsemanship journey. Through sharing her own mindset shift about future learning goals, she demonstrates how being specific with timeframes while staying open to possibilities can create powerful growth opportunities. Key takeaways: Learn why comparing your current learning to a previous period of growth can be motivating rather than intimidating Discover how slowing down to notice more layers can actually accelerate progress Challenge common misconceptions about what "learning more" means Listeners will walk away understanding that growth isn't about rushing forward or making dramatic changes, but rather about deepening understanding. Whether you're a beginner or experienced rider, this episode provides practical insights about goal setting, the importance of staying curious, and permission to explore your horsemanship journey with both the enthusiasm of a newcomer and the wisdom you already possess.

"If I could snap my fingers and give you a gift...” In this episode, Stacy shares what she considers one of the most powerful tools in any rider's journey. Drawing insights from the fascinating way children naturally approach familiar content, this episode reveals how riders can turn video from an overwhelming experience into a journey of discovery. Through practical tips and encouraging insights, Stacy breaks down the three stages riders typically move through and offers guidance for each phase. Whether listeners are still avoiding the camera or ready to deepen their understanding, this episode offers a fresh perspective on video review that could make 2025 their most insightful year of riding yet.

In this episode, Stacy explores why celebrating small wins matters, even - and especially - when faced with unexpected emotions about our progress. Through two student examples, she shows how awareness of subtle changes and acceptance of our journey's ups and downs leads to deeper understanding and growth. She shares her personal journey with the concept of "life is 50/50," from initial skepticism to discovering its transformative power in horse training. This mindset shift helps explain why resisting challenges actually magnifies them, while accepting both progress and setbacks creates space to notice the small wins we might otherwise miss. Listeners will learn how embracing both sides of progress - the expected and unexpected - leads to more sustainable progress.

In this episode, Stacy guides listeners through creating a year-end review from their horse's perspective. Building on her popular approach of sharing stories from the horse's viewpoint, she offers: Two ways to participate: follow along with the podcast or download a free interactive PDF workbook (click here to go to the page with the pdf) Examples from Enzo and Ember that demonstrate how to capture your horse's personality Creative prompts to help identify memorable moments from your horse's perspective A chance to practice seeing daily experiences through your horse's eyes This unique exercise combines storytelling with practical insights to help riders better understand their horses and deepen their partnerships.  

In this episode Stacy explores the nuanced concept of play in horses, identifying three distinct types of playful behavior: possessed play, repressed play, and reactive play. She challenges listeners to consider playfulness on a spectrum, both in themselves and their horses. Stacy highlights the importance of understanding and managing a horse's playful energy. She argues against two extremes: constant, unfocused play and complete obedience without any playfulness. The key is finding a balance where horses can experience play or ‘blow off steam' while still being responsive to their handler's commands. Through personal examples, she demonstrates how recognizing and appropriately channeling a horse's desire to play can improve training and relationship. Stacy emphasizes that play isn't just about wild energy, but about emotional and physical communication between horse and rider, and the ability to transition smoothly between play and work.

In this episode, Stacy Westfall shares a personal tip on the value of re-listening to podcasts, courses, and books to deepen learning and retention, especially when paired with implementing lessons in between. She introduces the replay of a special Thanksgiving-themed episode that features listener-submitted reflections on why they are thankful for horses. Originally aired two years ago, this heartfelt episode highlights messages from around the world about how horses bring joy, connection, and personal growth to their lives. Listeners share powerful insights, describing horses as sources of peace, strength, and purpose, as well as companions in triumphs and challenges. Stacy emphasizes the importance of gratitude and the transformative power of the horse-human relationship. This episode invites listeners to reflect on their own connections with horses while celebrating the inspiration these animals provide. Happy Thanksgiving—and enjoy the replay!

Stacy Westfall explores a common misconception in horse training: that professionals don't experience uncertainty or caution when facing new situations. Through parallel stories of her hesitation at a coffee shop and a horse encountering a trailer ramp, she reveals that professionals absolutely feel cautious, careful, and mindful – they just accept these feelings as a natural part of the process.  What sets professionals apart isn't an absence of uncertainty, but rather their approach: they do everything possible to prepare, then rely on "educated guesses" to bridge the remaining gap.  Stacy illustrates how everyone – even experts – faces resistance to new situations. The key difference is that professionals understand that "new is always new" and embrace the inherent uncertainty rather than fighting it. They prepare thoroughly, then lean into their experience to make informed decisions in unfamiliar moments. She encourages listeners to observe their own responses to new situations in daily life, as these patterns often mirror how they interact with horses.

In this episode, Stacy Westfall opens with an update on her current horses, and then introduces the main topic of how to train for something ‘before you need it.' Stacy discusses her approach to training Ember, a highly athletic and sensitive young horse she describes as "a lot of horse." Using the analogy of a sports car versus a luxury car, she explains how different horses require different handling while still aiming for a balanced "middle" response. Stacy emphasizes the importance of not denying a horse's natural characteristics but rather working with them constructively. She focuses particularly on the challenge of transitioning from loose rein to contact, especially during spook situations. To prevent secondary spooking (when a horse reacts to the rider's response to the initial spook), Stacy practices hundreds of take-hold-and-release exercises during each ride. The episode concludes with encouragement for riders who discover training gaps after problems arise, comparing preparation to fire drills - ideally practiced before needed, but still valuable to learn from past experiences.

In this episode, Stacy explores the concept of recognizing and embracing contradictions in horse training, sharing insights from a recent experience with her horse, Luna. Luna has started anticipating spins during trot circles, which could be viewed as a problem, but Stacy sees it as a potential training advantage. She explains how anticipation can create a draw toward certain movements, making them feel more like the horse's choice rather than a command. Stacy considers two solutions: changing the pre-spin routine or separating trot circles from the spin entirely. However, she chooses a third approach—embracing Luna's anticipation as a sign of her eagerness to engage. By doing so, Stacy encourages a cooperative training environment where the horse's motivation becomes a powerful tool. She also highlights how understanding and embracing contradictions is key in guiding horses through the learning process, especially in early stages of training.

In this episode, Stacy Westfall explores three key challenges in reading horse body language and how misinterpretation can affect horse-human relationships. Unlike human communication, which combines words and body language, horses rely solely on physical expression, making accurate interpretation crucial. The first challenge involves understanding that horses naturally fall into two categories: stoic (calm, less expressive) and animated (energetic, expressive). The second challenge occurs when horses become well-trained, often appearing less animated but not necessarily less engaged or emotional. Westfall uses her horse Newt as an example, showing how a horse can maintain its personality while developing focus. The third challenge involves the tendency to cluster behaviors and emotions, like associating playfulness with happiness or stoicism with boredom. Westfall cautions against these assumptions and recommends verbalizing what you think you're seeing in your horse to become more aware of your interpretations. This episode provides valuable insights for horse owners seeking to better understand their equine partners' communication styles.

Horse owners often encounter situations where our horses seem to "disagree" with our choices or training methods. This can trigger feelings of conflict and uncertainty within us, leaving us unsure of how to move forward. However, Stacy Westfall suggests that rather than seeing these disagreements as problems, we should view them as opportunities to develop greater empathy and understanding. Stacy shares her own experiences of receiving "negative feedback" from her horse, Enzo, and how she responds with a sense of amusement and compassion, much like a parent understanding the frustrations of a young child. She encourages listeners to recognize that horses, like young children, are simply trying to communicate their needs and desires, even if they don't align with our own perspectives.  By embracing these conflicting viewpoints with an open mind and a willingness to see both sides, Stacy believes we can navigate the challenges of horse training with greater success, fostering a collaborative partnership built on mutual respect and understanding.

In this episode, Stacy shares a unique perspective on foundational skills in horsemanship. She explains how this viewpoint can reveal subtle imbalances and growth opportunities. By stripping away advanced techniques to reassess basics, Stacy demonstrates how simple exercises provide insights into the animal's mind and emotions. The episode centers on the dual focus required in effective horsemanship: the rider's internal awareness (intuition, observations, curiosity) and external observation of the horse (focus, body language, responses). Stacy emphasizes that mastering this approach isn't just about physical techniques, but about cultivating a mindset of constant observation and adjustment. This episode offers valuable insights for equestrians and anyone interested in human-animal communication.

Here's a cleaned-up version: This episode explores the challenge of maintaining momentum when faced with interruptions in your horse training plans. Whether you're a planner or a go-with-the-flow rider, you'll find valuable insights for keeping your equestrian dreams on track. Using personal experiences and insights from students, Stacy covers: • The impact of interruptions at different stages of goal pursuit • Emotional responses to setbacks and the urge to change plans • Strategies for handling interruptions and maintaining focus • The importance of clearly defining goals for better adaptability • Transferring momentum to alternative actions when original plans change Delve into the psychology behind the desire to quit when facing obstacles, especially near the end of a goal's timeline. By understanding these impulses, you can better navigate setbacks and maintain your resolve. Stacy emphasizes the value of flexibility in goal-setting and execution, encouraging you to find creative solutions when interruptions occur.

In this episode, Stacy addresses a listener's question about riding horses in groups larger than two. She outlines six key points for evaluating and preparing a horse for trail riding, including at-home and on-trail assessments, making predictions, communicating with other riders, and self-evaluation during the ride. Stacy emphasizes the importance of understanding the horse's perspective, highlighting common misconceptions that lead riders to misjudge their horses' reactions when riding with others. She contrasts proactive riding, where the rider shapes the horse's energy preemptively, with reactive riding, which only addresses issues after they arise. The podcast underscores how consistent, intentional riding over time establishes a strong foundation, setting up a horse for lifelong success on the trails. Stacy's insights offer valuable guidance for riders looking to improve their horses' performance and comfort in group settings.

In this podcast episode, Stacy Westfall responds to a listener question from Laura, who has a highly trained and well-behaved horse named Parker. Laura says, “he's just so good. And me being new, I kind of wonder what I can offer him.” Stacy offers four angles for Laura to consider: 1. Use Parker's excellent behavior as a model to study and apply to her other horses. 2. Avoid the "infatuation" or "awestruck" phase, and instead focus on observing Parker's individuality and differences. 3. Recognize that training is not just about correction or reprimand, but also about supporting and guiding the horse's strengths. An excellent employer would do the same with an excellent employee. 4. Look for one thing that each of her other horses does better than Parker, to avoid becoming "barn blind" and losing sight of the nuances of each horse's behavior. Stacy emphasizes the importance of shifting one's paradigm to see training as a multifaceted process that can enhance even the most well-trained horse.

In this episode, Stacy addresses a common issue in horse training: anticipation. A listener from Denmark asks how to handle a horse that performs learned exercises without waiting for cues. Stacy explains that anticipation is initially a positive sign of successful training, likening it to the first half of a rainbow arc. However, as training progresses, excessive anticipation can become problematic. Stacy advises seeing this as a sign of clear leadership and effective teaching, rather than a failure. She introduces the concept of "teeter-totter" training, where the goal is to balance the horse's eagerness for upward transitions (like cantering) with an equal readiness for downward transitions. This approach aims to create a responsive, thinking partner in the horse. The key challenge is maintaining the horse's initiative while teaching it to wait for cues. Stacy recommends being proactive, redirecting the horse before it anticipates, and gradually refining the horse's responsiveness over time.

Stacy shares insights on transitioning horses from arena training to trail riding. She emphasizes the importance of embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, rather than avoiding them. The podcast highlights the differences between controlled arena environments and unpredictable trail settings. Stacy explains her approach to introducing her new horse, Luna, to trail riding, starting by leading her and gradually testing her responses to manufactured challenges. 5 key takeaways: 1. Embrace challenges: Viewing problems or questions as opportunities for growth is crucial in horse training. Avoiding challenges can lead to limitations in where and how you can work with your horse. 2. Consistency is key: Whether in the arena or on the trail, maintaining a consistent approach to handling questions and challenges that arise is essential for effective training and safety. 3. Gradual transition: When moving from arena to trail riding, start by leading the horse and gradually introduce controlled challenges to assess their readiness and build confidence. 4. Safety line concept: There's a metaphorical "safety line" in horse training. More training puts you further above this line, increasing your ability to handle various situations safely. 5. One-mile settling point: Many horses tend to settle into a rhythm around the one-mile mark of a ride, especially less experienced ones. This insight can help in planning and managing trail rides effectively.

Stacy Westfall discusses the overuse of the phrase "I'm sorry" in everyday situations and how it relates to horsemanship. She recounts observing excessive apologizing in a workshop setting and at grocery stores, questioning whether these apologies are genuine expressions of remorse or habitual responses. Westfall emphasizes the importance of understanding one's emotional defaults and how they impact interactions with horses. She encourages riders to examine why they apologize during lessons or while sharing arena space, suggesting that many of these apologies are unnecessary and may stem from misplaced feelings of inadequacy. Westfall advocates for clearer communication and understanding of riding etiquette to reduce the need for constant apologies. The podcast also touches on the emotions involved in buying and selling horses, prompting listeners to reflect on their initial emotional responses to these situations. 

This episode of the podcast explores the concept of "decision fatigue" and the challenges of navigating the "messy middle" or "miserable maybe" when faced with big life decisions. Stacy shares how this process can be similar to what a horse expereinces when being trained to approach and relax around scary objects.  Key takeaways: - Decision fatigue is similar to physical fatigue - making too many decisions can mentally "overwork" the brain - The period between first considering a decision and actually making it is rife with potential for decision fatigue - Setting boundaries and dedicated "decision-making time" can help manage this process Overall, this episode provides practical strategies for handling the challenge of big, complex decisions and avoiding the mental strain that can come with prolonged indecision.

In this milestone 300th episode, Stacy Westfall explores the challenges and benefits of choosing change. She reflects on her journey of creating weekly content for over a decade and how it has shaped her perspective on change. Stacy discusses the constant nature of change and the importance of distinguishing between changes we can control and those we can't. She shares personal experiences, including breeding her horse Gabby after losing another mare, to illustrate how choosing change can build resilience and prepare us for unexpected changes. Key points: Change is constant and inevitable, even when we try to keep things the same Choosing change often feels challenging due to the uncertainty it brings Recognizing "red flags" when considering change for the wrong reasons is crucial Building mental resilience through consistent habits helps in navigating both chosen and unexpected changes When others disagree with the change you choose (for example: choosing to sell a horse) you'll likely experience an additional layer of challenge  

In this episode, Stacy explains how she picks and maintains a theme when working with her horses. She shares how studying one theme over a longer period reveals the many angles that are possible. It also helps her see how the theme applies to non-horse parts of life as well. Key takeaways: • Focus on a specific theory while working with horses • Horses can learn what to pay attention to and what to ignore • The importance of believing in a horse's capabilities • How doubt can negatively impact horse training • Using journaling or discussions to improve horsemanship skills

This podcast explores the crucial difference between mimicking and understanding in learning processes, using examples from horse training and human skill acquisition. Stacy emphasizes that while mimicking is often the initial step in learning, it's merely the beginning. True mastery comes from developing a deeper understanding of the 'why' behind actions and behaviors. Stacy shares how young horses, like Lefty, start by copying behaviors without fully comprehending their meanings. Similarly, humans may imitate training techniques without grasping their underlying principles. This superficial approach can lead to incomplete learning and ineffective application of skills. Stacy stresses the importance of moving beyond imitation to develop nuanced understanding, which enables learners to adapt techniques to various situations and truly master a skill. Key takeaways: • Mimicking is a natural starting point in learning but shouldn't be the end goal • Understanding the 'why' behind actions leads to more effective application of skills • Observing patterns and questioning experiences deepens comprehension • True mastery involves adapting techniques to different contexts • Moving beyond copying requires active engagement and reflection on learning experiences

Stacy Westfall discusses marking behavior as a fundamental aspect of horse training. She explains how this technique, often used in clicker training, can quickly reinforce desired behaviors, or can accidentally mark a mistake as well. Stacy explains the powerful tool horses use with each other of simply not reacting, and why it works so well in a feedback loop. Key points include: The introduction of orphan foals Lefty and Stormy to an adult horse, Gabby Gabby's subtle communication and non-reactive responses to the foals' behavior The significance of not overreacting to accidental touches or movements when working with horses Stacy emphasizes that a deep understanding of marking behavior and its implementation can greatly enhance training effectiveness and improve overall communication between humans and horses.

Stacy Westfall introduces the concept of "allowing" versus "making" in horse training. She emphasizes that both approaches have their place, with "making" including positive actions like guiding or shaping behavior. The power of allowing is highlighted as a tool to influence a horse's mind and encourage desired behaviors. Stacy uses the example of teaching a horse to slow down. She first asks the horse to go, potentially "making" them if necessary, then allows them to slow down. This method teaches horses to seek opportunities to slow down and engages both "hot" and "cold" temperaments. There is value in allowing horses to make choices within a structured framework, fostering their intelligence and curiosity while maintaining control and safety. Stacy explains how this principle applies to basic interactions as well as advanced concepts like collection and self-carriage.

In this episode, Stacy discusses the importance of addressing predictable problems in horse training before tackling unpredictable ones. She argues that focusing on known issues is more effective, as it allows for better planning and addresses both the horse's and rider's thought patterns. Stacy emphasizes that riders often ignore or make excuses for predictable problems, making it challenging to choose to address them. She encourages riders to examine their own thought processes when facing recurring issues with their horses, as this self-awareness can lead to more effective solutions. Stacy illustrates her points with examples ranging from basic groundwork to advanced riding techniques. She notes that as riders progress, recognizing predictable challenges becomes exciting rather than frustrating, as it allows for targeted problem-solving. The key takeaways are: • Categorize challenges as predictable or unpredictable • Start by addressing predictable problems • Examine your own thought patterns and responses • Recognize that solving predictable issues can resolve unpredictable ones • View predictable challenges as opportunities for improvement

Stacy addresses the common feeling of being "behind" in horse training, offering a framework to reassess and recalibrate goals. She provides four key questions to ask yourself when feeling behind, then offers two action steps to move forward productively. Key points: • Recognize the difference between having a concrete plan and a hopeful wish • Evaluate your reasons for falling behind and practice self-compassion • Consider external factors and intentional choices that may have affected your progress • Use setbacks as learning opportunities to improve future planning and decision-making • Develop a realistic, step-by-step approach to achieve your horse training goals, rather than relying on vague aspirations This approach will help you transform feelings of being behind into constructive action.

In this podcast episode, Stacy Westfall introduces the concept of viewing a horse's behavior as an "invitation" that riders can choose to accept or decline. She explains that horses often present two types of invitations to riders: - Emotional invitations: When a horse becomes anxious, jumpy, or displays a particular emotional state, it can be seen as an invitation for the rider to join that emotional state.  - Training invitations: Horses may also invite riders to use certain aids or respond in specific ways during training or riding. For example, a lazy horse might invite the rider to do more work to maintain energy, while a hot horse might invite the rider to constantly apply the brakes. Stacy encourages riders to: - Recognize these invitations from their horses - Become aware of their default responses to these invitations - Consider choosing a different, more productive response - Look for invitations during their next 10 rides - Aim to break habitual patterns by responding intentionally to their horse's cues.

In this podcast, Stacy recaps her experience with the Tevis Cup Virtual Challenge. She shares that she will do it again, and what she will do differently next time.  She also shares an update on Lefty and Stormy, the two orphan foals that impacted her original spring plans. Key takeaways: • the challenges of tracking miles • the benefit of participating in a group event • unlocking ‘milestones' and learning the history of the trail   • physical improvements noticed by vets, chiropractors, and massage therapists • behavioral changes from the increased intentional work There is still time to sign up for the 2024 Tevis Cup Virtual, and if you are listening to this after the registration closes, you can begin thinking about signing up next year!

In this episode, Stacy emphasizes the importance of establishing contact with horses in order to achieve connection. Contact refers to physical touch, whether direct or through tools like reins or whips. Connection, on the other hand, has two meanings: the flow of energy through the horse's body in dressage, and the relationship bond between horse and human.  Through examples with her foals, show horses, and dressage horses, Stacy illustrates how contact precedes connection.  Key takeaways: With foals, she uses scratches to build positive associations with touch. For sensitive show horses, resetting cues with firmer contact can alleviate anxiety. To advance, riders must feel the horse's body to harness the energy flow, but this requires the horse's training progression. From ground work to riding, contact training enables connection Overall, Stacy stresses the necessity of contact to foster a willing, connected partnership.

When pursuing long-term goals with your horse, it's crucial to intentionally plan for both physical and mental recovery time. While most riders allow physical recovery for their horses after intense events, they often neglect their own need for mental rest and rejuvenation. By taking intentional breaks, postponing further work until a set date, and observing your body's and mind's recovery patterns, you can learn to better support yourself before, during, and after challenging events. Honoring your recovery needs allows you to show up fully for your horse and increases your chances of successfully achieving your goals together. Key Takeaways: • Plan recovery time for both physical and mental rejuvenation • Take intentional breaks by setting a restart date and sticking to it • Observe your recovery patterns to learn your needs • Proper recovery planning leads to showing up better for your horse • Increases likelihood of achieving long-term goals with your horse