The Willing Equine

Welcome to season 5 of TWE podcast! After a long break from recording episodes in 2023, I'm so excited to be back. We kick off the first episode of season 5 by sharing some BIG life updates on the TWE herd, including moving homes, herd changes, and more! I also share my personal and business related goals for 2024. Then we dive into some myth busting! A while back I posted a photo on social media, asking commenters to share behaviors that they believed COULDN'T be trained with R+. In this episode and the one that follows, I'll be sharing my take, which is that R+ works for ALL behaviors! I'll discuss how you can go about teaching your horse that specific behavior using R+, and share some tips and tricks along the way. In this episode, we evaluate 3 behaviors. - Long duration ridden behaviors (dressage tests, jump courses, trail rides, etc.) - High school dressage movements - Tactile cues (Cues that look like traditional R- cues) So tune in to see just how you can teach these behaviors with R+! Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thewillingequine/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thewillingequine/support --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thewillingequine/support

Season 4 of The Willing Equine Podcast has been filled with so many wonderful discussions and interviews. I'm so grateful for everyone who joined me as a guest on the podcast, and for the thoughtful conversations that we shared. And of course, thanks to my listeners for following along! In this episode, we're taking a ride through some of this season's most popular episodes. We hope you enjoy! Show Notes: 4:45 - From Episode 55 // Mistakes As Learning Opportunities 15:59 - From Episode 57 // A New Outlook on Equine Assisted Therapy with Julia Alexander, LCSW 24:22 - From Episode 59 // The Hoof's Impact on Behavior : A Conversation with Alicia Harlov 35:00 - From Episode 60 // Behavioral Medication for Equines with Janna Dewey 43:05 - From Episode 63 // Bringing New Horses Home Podcast Transcript: https://www.thewillingequine.com/post/ep-70-best-of-2022 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

Have you ever wondered if R+ trained horses are safe around kids? Maybe you're concerned that if you give your horse a choice, they'll become dangerous around children! In this episode, I address these concerns, and discuss how R+ trained horses are actually safer around children! I share some personal anecdotes from my own experiences with horses and children, talk about some of the reasons why traditionally trained horses may be more prone to explosive and dangerous behavior, and share my process for helping horses be comfortable, confident, and safe around kids. Podcast Transcript: https://www.thewillingequine.com/post/episode-69----kids-and-horses --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode, I answer a listener's question about introducing a horse that has poor social skills to a herd I talk about the importance of being proactive with our weaning practices and foal management, addressing gut health and physical discomfort, how to set up your pastures to minimize resource guarding, and so much more Podcast Transcript: https://www.thewillingequine.com/post/episode-68-helping-horses-with-poor-social-skills --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode, I dive into operant and classical conditioning, and explain how positive reinforcement itself is not actually a 'method.' I talk about the importance of being flexible in our training styles, how every horse and human is an individual with a unique learning history, and how different training styles work for different learners. Podcast Transcript: https://www.thewillingequine.com/post/ep-67-r-is-not-a-method --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode, I share some tips on how to sift through all the media and marketing that we consume. I talk about how social media can't share the whole story, the importance of being educated on the latest research, and how to spot red flags in marketing. Episode Transcript: https://www.thewillingequine.com/post/episode-66----beware-of-flashy-marketing --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

This episode is dedicated to my gelding Cash, who passed away recently. I share his story and how he was a shining example of just how valuable a non-ridden horse can be. Podcast Transcript: https://www.thewillingequine.com/post/episode-65----senior-horses-and-the-non-ridden-equine --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode, we discuss the difficult topic of what should happen with our horses in the unfortunate event we are unable to care for them anymore. We discuss the importance of contingency plans, finding a suitable caregiver, providing clear written instructions, setting aside financial support, and so much more. Podcast Transcription: https://www.thewillingequine.com/post/episode-64-preparing-for-unfortunate-events --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode I dive into helping our horses transition through moving into a new home, whether you are moving your current horse to a new facility, sending them to a trainer, or bringing home a new equine partner! I share my process for making this transition smooth and stress-free, as well as some tips that trainers and facility owners should consider to help horses adjust to new homes. To learn more about helping your horse adjust, check out Episode 35 of my podcast, Aggression within the Herd, and Episode 50, Introducing New Horses, as well as this blog post. Podcast Transcript: https://www.thewillingequine.com/post/episode-63----bringing-new-horses-home --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

This episode is a continuation of the previous, Episode 61 // Ethical Horse Businesses, and ties in as well to Episode 44 // Lesson Programs with R+, with Steph K. I discuss the keys to a successful lesson program, including knowing when you are experienced enough, knowing when your horse is experienced enough, how a horse's personality type can impact their suitability to be in a lesson program, and so much more! Podcast Transcription: https://www.thewillingequine.com/post/episode-62-the-successful-r-lesson-program --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode, I answer a listener's question about whether or not it's possible to run an ethical horse business. In short - it is absolutely possible! I share my own experience growing up at a lesson barn, some simple changes businesses can make to improve the lives of their horses, the importance of having a good understanding of how to run a business, the benefits of working as a team with other like-minded equine business owners, and so much more! If you're interested in learning more about how R+ can be applied in a lesson barn setting, check out the podcast I did with Steph K of @stephkequestrian, Episode 44 // Lesson Programs with R+ Podcast Transcription: https://www.thewillingequine.com/post/ep-61-ethical-horse-businesses --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode I am joined by Janna Dewey! Janna Dewey is a Behavior Consultant for Behavior Vets located in Colorado where she specializes in working with animals who have behavioral sensitivities. Prior to working with pets, was a zoo keeper for 10 years at different facilities within show and education roles. She has always had a passion for working with equines and grew up working at different barns learning to ride various disciplines such as jumping, dressage, barrel racing, and polo. Janna loves to work with horses out on the trails and to help them feel comfortable in a variety of situations. She is earning her Master's degree in Counseling through Regis University in order to help those with sensitive animals. She also has a graduate certificate as an Equine Assisted Mental Health Practitioner and is a Certified Professional Bird Trainer. Janna is currently accepting equine clients both virtually and, within areas of Colorado, in person sessions. This leads us into a great discussion about behavioral medication for equines, when to consider medication, how success is defined by the individual, where to find a behavior vet, and the importance of having a team of equine professionals on your side. To learn more about Janna and the work that she does, you can reach out to her at Janna@behaviorvets.com, or head to the behaviorvets.com website. Podcast Transcript: https://www.thewillingequine.com/post/episode-60-behavior-medication-for-equines --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode I am joined by Alicia Harlov of The Humble Hoof, for a discussion about the relationship between hooves and behavior. Alicia Harlov is a full time hoof care provider on the North Shore of Massachusetts, and a member of Progressive Hoofcare Practitioners. She also creates The Humble Hoof podcast, where she interviews equine professionals about factors that affect hoof health. She loves educating owners on how to grow the healthiest hoof possible and believes that getting a horse sound is often a matter of finding the right pieces to the puzzle. https://thehumblehoof.com/ @thehumblehoof We talked about how hoof pain can impact behavior, the importance of open communication with our hoof care providers, preparing our horses for the farrier, and so much more! Podcast Transcript: https://www.thewillingequine.com/post/episode-59 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode I am joined by Julia Alexander and Bex Tasker for a discussion about grief and shame in horsemanship. We talk about perfectionism, getting "lost in our heads", allowing ourselves to be learners and to make mistakes, and so much more. It's a really important conversation that I hope you will take the time to listen to. This episode was recorded for TWE Academy in 2020, and we decided to release it to the public as a follow up to our most recent podcast episode, Episode 57 // A New Outlook on Equine Assisted Therapy with Julia Alexander, LCSW. To watch the accompanying video and to hear more conversations like this one, join the Academy! Enrolment opens in July, and you can jump on the First-to-Know List today. We would love to have you! More about Julia Alexander and the work that she does: Julia provides compassionate therapy, education and consulting services rooted in anti-racist, social justice and liberatory frameworks. She offers a safe and accepting space to alleviate shame, heal trauma and discover inner resilience. Her approach is founded on an unwavering belief in the healing power of safe connection, and a deep knowing that sustained relationship to nature plays a major role in human healing. She specializes in providing eco and equine-assisted psychotherapy in the areas of childhood relationship trauma, coming out, systemic oppression, and shame held by white-bodied people. She combines her expertise as a therapist and social justice educator to offer a unique form of equine-assisted psychotherapy rooted in the ethical inclusion of horses in human treatment. Through this work, she loves supporting people in exploring connection, dialogue, choice and consent. https://www.juliaalexandercounseling.com/ @juliaalexander_lcsw More about Bex Tasker and her work: Bex lives on a small farm in Western Bay of Plenty, New Zealand with her animals and young family. She runs classes for dogs and their humans, junior animal trainer classes and regular horsemanship clinics from her home property. She also travels around New Zealand and overseas to deliver clinics and lessons to horses and their passionate and dedicated humans. As well as the "real life" teaching, she has a thriving online membership community, and run regular coaching intensives with students from all over the world. In early 2019 she partnered with her good friend and experienced youth worker Brooke Friend to establish a successful youth programme, focused around ethical animal training, life skills and mental health. https://www.clickertraining.co.nz/ @positively_together Podcast Transcription: https://www.thewillingequine.com/post/ep-58----grief-and-shame-in-horsemanship --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode, I talk to a very special guest, Julia Alexander, and we have a wonderful conversation about Equine Assisted Therapy. We discuss some of the experiences we have had with Equine Assisted Therapy in the past, and how these past experiences have brought up thoughts and questions about the ethics and emotional state of the horses involved. We also share our plans for what the future of Equine-assisted therapy could look like, and how incorporating consent-based training and cooperative care could have a positive impact on the horses, clients, and therapists alike. More about Julia Alexander and the work that she does: Julia provides compassionate therapy, education and consulting services rooted in anti-racist, social justice and liberatory frameworks. She offers a safe and accepting space to alleviate shame, heal trauma and discover inner resilience. Her approach is founded on an unwavering belief in the healing power of safe connection, and a deep knowing that sustained relationship to nature plays a major role in human healing. She specializes in providing eco and equine-assisted psychotherapy in the areas of childhood relationship trauma, coming out, systemic oppression, and shame held by white-bodied people. As a social justice educator, she offers customized consulting, curriculum design and group facilitation to individuals, teams, and organizations who want to understand their experiences and beliefs in the context of systemic oppression. She combines her expertise as a therapist and social justice educator to offer a unique form of equine-assisted psychotherapy rooted in the ethical inclusion of horses in human treatment. Through this work, she loves supporting people in exploring connection, dialogue, choice and consent. https://www.juliaalexandercounseling.com/ @juliaalexander_lcsw Podcast Transcript: https://www.thewillingequine.com/post/episode-57 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

It is inevitable that at some point in your horse's life they will experience a stressful, or even traumatic, situation, such as trailering to the vet or evacuating in the event of a natural disaster. In this episode, I discuss several steps you can take to help your horse recover from traumatic events, as well as share some practical ways to prepare your horse (and yourself) to prevent the experience from becoming a traumatic one. www.thewillingequine.com Podcast Transcript: https://www.thewillingequine.com/post/ep-56----equine-trauma-prevention-and-recovery --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

Have you ever been in a situation with your horse that you looked back on and regretted? We've all been there; none of us are perfect...including myself. In this episode, I discuss a messy situation with Finn that lead to some unique learning opportunities. We can't change the past, but we can plan for the future and know better for next time! www.thewillingequine.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

2022 has arrived, and I have LOTS to share with you guys! So much so that I had to split this episode into two parts. In this episode, you will hear information about.... The TWE Academy, hear about some of my plans for 2022, and hear updates on each of the horses. Finn (Where did his mane and tail go?) Raven's (under-saddle and EPM) Cashmere (Is she here to stay?) River (Under-saddle and ??? Some big news here) Candy & Cash (Aging, weight, and pain management) June (You'll be seeing her around a lot!) Pumpkin (Fractured molars and ligament injuries) Plus... a discussion about creating a medical support team for your horses, problem-solving mysterious medical conditions, and how just one or two vet exams are not enough to rule out pain! For More Information On PSSM : Websites: http://equiseq.com/learning_center/health/polysaccharide-storage-myopathy-pssm https://www.immubiome.com/blogs/horse-resources-and-education/things-to-know-about-pssm https://pssmawareness.com/2020/11/what-is-pssm2/ Youtube: https://youtu.be/Sp223pUYBRE https://youtu.be/nKHIGDjwCmM https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV0WwcXotj6AuIxEKR-BD5A Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3gukeAibVssKRwlcGqcaRB?si=tDe3YE_YStK5x0Qtu5diaA&nd=1 https://open.spotify.com/episode/4plajNICEY8fPu3Sjzf1Gx Facebook Groups: 'PSSM & MFM Awareness' https://www.facebook.com/groups/pssmandmfmawareness 'PSSM Forum' https://www.facebook.com/groups/202978353056065 How to test your horse for PSSM1 & PSSM2: https://generatio.de/en (PSSM1 & 2 - UK & Europe) https://www.animalgenetics.eu/Equine/Genetic_Disease/PSSM.asp (PSSM1 - UK & Europe) http://www.equiseq.com/ (PSSM 2 - USA & rest of the world) https://www.animalgenetics.us/equine/genetic_disease/PSSM.asp (PSSM 1 - USA & rest of the world ) To Learn More About The Willing Equine : www.thewillingequine.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

2022 has arrived, and I have LOTS to share with you guys! So much so that I had to split this episode into two parts. In this episode, you will hear information about.... The TWE Academy, hear about some of my plans for 2022, and hear updates on each of the horses. Finn (Where did his mane and tail go?) Raven's (under-saddle and EPM) Cashmere (Is she here to stay?) River (Under-saddle and ??? Some big news here) Candy & Cash (Aging, weight, and pain management) June (You'll be seeing her around a lot!) Pumpkin (Fractured molars and ligament injuries) Plus... a discussion about creating a medical support team for your horses, problem-solving mysterious medical conditions, and how just one or two vet exams are not enough to rule out pain! www.thewillingequine.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

Are you interested in turning your horse out more but worried for their safety? Do they run the fences, call, stress, and in general act in a panicked way when turned out? Maybe they even act like they would prefer to be in their stalls and don't like the pasture! This episode is JUST for you. I explain my process to helping introduce horses to more turnout or to full time pasture life in a safe and low stress way. Low stress for them, and for you! I also share some of my personal stories of where "just turn your horse out" has not actually been the safest approach.  www.thewillingequine.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode we talk to the amazing Denise Fenzi! All about the similarities in dog training and horse training, bridging the gap between training methodologies, bringing positive reinforcement into our interactions with human learners, keeping in mind all the parties involved (owner/caregiver, trainer, animal learner, and society), and so much more!  "Denise Fenzi (she/her) has titled dogs in obedience, tracking, schutzhund, mondioring, herding, conformation, and agility. She has two AKC obedience champions, perfect scores in both schutzhund and Mondio ringsport obedience, and is well known for her flashy and precise obedience work. While a successful competitor, Denise's real passion lies in training dogs and solving the problems that her own dogs and her students' dogs present. She is a recognized expert in developing drive, motivation, and focus in competition dogs, and is known internationally as an engaging speaker and an expert in no-force training for sport dogs. She has consistently demonstrated the ability to train and compete with dogs using motivational methods in sports where compulsion is the norm. In addition to training and speaking, Denise is a prolific writer.  Denise thoughtfully and persistently works to break down the barriers that prevent people from obtaining a truly interactive and mutually enjoyable sport relationship with their dogs. Fenzi Academy is the culmination of her efforts as a forward step in providing progressive information to any trainer who wishes to learn." You can learn from Denise Fenzi through her many social media platforms or through her website(s)! https://denisefenzi.com/ https://www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

Have you ever wondered how to safely introduce new horses to each other? Or integrate a new horse to an established herd? In this episode I share with you my process and thoughts on the matter! I've successfully introduced many horses to herds and to companions with minimal to no bickering, injuries, or scary moments. The goal is peaceful introductions with safety in mind! Even the most intense resource guarders and poorly socialized horses CAN learn to safely interact with companions, and SHOULD have equine companions. www.thewillingequine.com Find The Willing Equine On... Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest, and even Twitter! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

"You don't want to ignore the horse. Everything we do with this type of bodywork, we are paying attention to what the horse is saying. And so, you have to adjust what you are doing to what the horse is saying so that they're as relaxed as possible - because it doesn't work if they're not relaxed." -

This is a two part series!  For our 48th episode on the podcast Brie Simpson of PATH Equestrian joins me to discuss "pure" positive reinforcement, LIMA (and the humane hierarchy) for human learners, damage control vs structured training, setting you and your horse up for success, transitioning from traditional training to positive reinforcement, and so much more! We hope you enjoy this episode and would love to hear if you have any questions for Brie and I on this subject. This is a topic that is near and dear to both of us and we hope that this episode helps you, as a listener and potentially someone working to incorporate R+ into your interactions with your horse, and encourages you! "Brie Simpson is the founder and owner of PATH Equestrian in Ontario Canada. She is studying to be a Certified Horse Behavioural Consultant (CHBC) through the IAABC and has been training and working with horses for over 14 years. She has dedicated her last 4 years to researching and studying equine behaviour, positive reinforcement training, the learning theory and equine enrichment. Brie is extremely passionate about improving the day-to-day life and basic handling of horses and wants to help advance the equine world into using more compassionate, humane and science-based methods of training." https://pathequestrian.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

For our 47th episode on the podcast Brie Simpson of PATH Equestrian joins me to discuss "pure" positive reinforcement, LIMA (and the humane hierarchy) for human learners, damage control vs structured training, setting you and your horse up for success, transitioning from traditional training to positive reinforcement, and so much more! We hope you enjoy this episode and would love to hear if you have any questions for Brie and I on this subject. This is a topic that is near and dear to both of us and we hope that this episode helps you, as a listener and potentially someone working to incorporate R+ into your interactions with your horse, and encourages you! "Brie Simpson is the founder and owner of PATH Equestrian in Ontario Canada. She is studying to be a Certified Horse Behavioural Consultant (CHBC) through the IAABC and has been training and working with horses for over 14 years. She has dedicated her last 4 years to researching and studying equine behaviour, positive reinforcement training, the learning theory and equine enrichment. Brie is extremely passionate about improving the day-to-day life and basic handling of horses and wants to help advance the equine world into using more compassionate, humane and science-based methods of training." https://pathequestrian.com/ Stay tuned for part two! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

We cover two topics, of similar nature, in this episode! To begin with... all the things you can do with young horses BEFORE you ever get on to ride! This can really help take away the pressure to get to those first rides, and put you WELL ahead of the game when it is the right time! Second, we discuss preparing for shows from home. Especially during this recent season in pretty much everyone's life with the pandemic. A lot of us haven't been traveling with our horses much and the shows have been largely virtual. It may be a bit of a surprise for your horse to suddenly return to the show arena after such a long time away, but it doesn't have to be!  ✦ www.TheWillingEquine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode I share with you my experience in how horses that are trained with clicker training, focused on positive reinforcement, respond to negative reinforcement (or pressure & release) training. I also provide suggestions for boarding and other situations where you horse may be handled periodically by people trained traditionally, how to help horses understand traditional handling, and give examples of situations I've been in where I had to switch over to negative reinforcement. ✦ www.thewillingequine.com ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode Steph K of @stephkequestrian shares with us her recipe for success in combining a thriving rescue/rehab program with a successful lesson program! We also discuss.. ✦ “Career training” for horses ✦ Personality/temperament changes in horses ✦ Rehoming rescue/R+ horses ✦ Instructor personality types and matching with the right students ✦ Personality/temperament matching of horses and humans ✦ And sooooo much more! If you want to learn more about Steph's program, check out her website at https://www.skequine.com/ or find her on Instagram @stephkequestrian --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

This episode began with answering a listener's question about bonding with their horse, took a deep dive into "toxic relationships" in the middle somewhere, and ended with 5 (or was it 6?) steps towards improving your relationship with your horse. We also look at operationalizing "willingness", choice, trust, and more. Plus, there's a whole tangent nestled in there about how first impressions are often not accurate! (Just because the horse looks like they have a choice doesn't mean they actually do). It's a bit of a whirlwind! ✦ www.TheWillingEquine.com ✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

I'm excited to share this wonderful conversation with Ryan Cartlidge of Animal Training Academy with you guys! In this episode we discuss...  ✦ What throwing spaghetti at the wall has to do with brave and resilient learning ✦ How our feedback towards other may directly impact their motivation to go out and train ✦ Flow charts and being a confident trainer ✦ Generalizing and trigger stacking ✦ And how we are not so very different from our horses! → Here is a little more information about Ryan  "Ryan Cartlidge is a certified professional dog trainer through the Karen Pryor Academy & the founder of Animal Training Academy & Kapiti Dog Trainer! He has been working internationally as a professional trainer since 2007, including in New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and the US. Ryan has trained teams, developed animal training programs, been published in leading industry magazines, spoken at international conferences, and delivered presentations in a university on animal behaviour. And now through the Animal Training Academy, he connects hundreds of animal behavior & training enthusiasts with a large (and growing) library of lessons and tutorials delivered by renowned animal experts." To find out more about Ryan check out the Animal Training Academy at www.animaltrainingacademy.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

As promised, here is the episode talking about Pumpkin! This episode is all about my beautiful mare Pumpkin, what she has taught me, how she has challenged me, how she's transformed over the years, and so much more! We talk about: "Slow", "resistant", and "lazy" horses. The different ways fear can manifest in behavior. How to recognize learned helplessness/shut down/going internal behavior. What can cause frustration and rage responses in us as trainers. How I responded then vs now to Pumpkin. Putting horses into boxes and the problem with treating rescue and "regular" horses differently. Plus a lot more! This is a bunny trail episode as we explore all the ways Pumpkin has made changes in me and my horsemanship.  www.thewillingequine.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

WELCOME BACK listeners! Looking forward to season three and a fresh new year! As we go into 2021 I wanted to talk about starting off the new year in such a way that we can avoid burnout, "enjoy the ride", and not get so focused on checking off that to-do list that we forget about the joy that the process can bring! In this episode I take you through some of my thoughts on the subject, how this relates to horse training, business, personal growth, and so much more.  I also share a little update about how I've been since the end of season two of the TWE podcast (aka, Tiger's passing), and give you a teaser about a coming episode where I share with you the journey I've been on with Pumpkin! ✨ Adele Shaw, CHBC ✨ www.thewillingequine.com/links ✨ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

I've gone back and forth on whether to do this episode or not... annnnnddddd here we are. Be warned, this is a very emotional episode. This episode is dedicated to my late mare Tiger (she's the podcast cover photo), and all that she taught me. I explain some more about how I lost her, her history, why TWE is even here, and expand on a recent instagram post I did about love that comes with conditions. ✦ www.TheWillingEquine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

It's not that common, horses not wanting to take food from a human, but it happens to varying degrees from time to time... So I think this is an important topic to address! What do you do when your horse doesn't want to take food from you, but you want to train with positive reinforcement? In this episode, we take a deeper look at the statement "my horse doesn't like food, or working for food" and problem solve why that might be! ✦ www.TheWillingEquine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

Brought to you by popular request... An entire episode about riding with positive reinforcement and clicker training. In this episode I talk about what it looks like, why the stopping for food isn't a big deal, how you build up to more complex behaviors, I compare the process between R- and R+ training under saddle of teaching a young horse to carry a rider, there's a brief discussion about completing with positive reinforcement trained horses, and so much more! ✦ www.TheWillingEquine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode I take a broad topic or "idea" and apply it to many areas of horse training. We dive into what balance looks like, how we can achieve it, what areas it's important to prioritize it in, and so much more! ✦ www.TheWillingEquine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

I can't tell you how many times I've heard, and continue to hear, about horses that can't be turned out with other horses because they are too aggressive or.. because the other horses are too aggressive towards them. It's unfortunate that the individual horses are often blamed for this, or that it's considered a problem that has no solution many times, when really there is a LOT we can do to provide our horses with the peaceful social lives they need ✦ www.TheWillingEquine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

This longer episode all about having conversations with family, friends, and professionals within the equestrian community who have a different approach to keeping or training horses than you do. It's also about dealing with negativity, skepticism, and criticism from those who don't understand why you keep and train horses the way you do. At the end of the episode I invite my listeners to share with me their own stories! I only mentioned sharing stories where you've made a positive influence on other people, but I'd love to hear of how someone else made a positive impact on your horsemanship journey as well. ✦ www.TheWillingEquine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode I talk about what trust in a relationship looks like, what creates trust, and how punishment impacts that trust... And I also briefly touch on how we can use other approaches to train/resolve problem behaviors without the use of punishment to maintain the relationship. ✦ www.TheWillingEquine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode, three of my students join me to talk about what confidence looks like for horses and for ourselves.. and how do we "train" confidence? What does confidence even mean? Is a horse born confident or un-confident? What are the factors that go into helping us feel confident; confident riders, confident handlers, and confident trainers. And what are the factors that go into helping our horses feel confident. -- This episode was recorded from a video conversation, so you'll have to forgive the fact that it sounds like I'm in a tin can. It wasn't originally intended for podcast listening. And a big thanks to Anastasia Konova, Kari Naumann, and Tessa Goddard for being willing to share with us this conversation!  ✦ www.TheWillingEquine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

Are you a perfectionist at heart? Or feel like maybe you should be? Then this episode is for you! I dive deep into my struggle with perfectionism and how it has impacted my horsemanship journey, my everyday life, my business, and more. ✦ www.TheWillingEquine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

If we are being honest with ourselves, there is really only so many hours in the day. How do we choose which behaviors and things to manage and which to train? In this episode I share a little about my own process and why for many situations management is all you need! While in others .. I think you're doing a disfavor to your horse to only manage the situation. ✦ www.TheWillingEquine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

I've been asked quite a few times how I achieve working, having horses, and being a mother .. how I manage all that. In this episode I get a little raw and personal with you guys and share my strengths and weaknesses, the challenges I've faced, and some tips and tricks I've learned along the way. ✦ www.TheWillingequine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

"Effectiveness is not enough" is something I say a lot (quoting Dr. Susan Friedman), and I mean it. R+ (positive reinforcement) is a VERY powerful and effective way to teach our horses behaviors we would like them to do and know, but it's not inherently more ethical or "morally sound" way of training. I explain why in this episode and also share some of the ways I modify my training to focus on ethical training practices. ✦ www.TheWillingequine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

Bex, of Positively Together, joins me all the way from New Zealand in this podcast episode where we answer a question we received from a student. "How to find the middle ground between seeing our horses as objects for our use (machines/sports equipment) and seeing them as over romanticized magical spiritual leaders?" ✦ www.TheWillingEquine.com ✦ www.ClickerTraining.co.nz ✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode I'm adding on to my previous episode about changes we can make to improve our horsemanship, improve our horse's lives, and ways we can make a world of difference in our relationships with our horses. These are practical every day application ideas that can sometimes magically cure a lot of behavioral issues. I also discuss the idea of making changes as you can, it's not an all or nothing kind of situation, and how to be okay with knowing that we are doing the best we can with what we know right now. ✦ www.TheWillingEquine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode I've collected together some ideas of ways we can work to have a kinder and more ethically minded approach to interacting and keeping horses. A lot of this episode is focused on training practices (R+ or not), but there are some practical husbandry ideas too. At the end I ask you guys for some help in prepping for the second part of this topic! I'd love to do a follow up with ideas from you guys. ✦ www.TheWillingEquine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

It's not uncommon to see horses appearing grumpy or offering behaviors seemingly out of control when the trainer is just learning to implement an R+ focused training program. This can make it look like the horse is not having a very "positive" experience and is frustrated, and at it's worst can become dangerous. Often times the cause for these issues is the human's understanding of the "Language" they are speaking with their horse, especially when it's a new one! Training with R+ is a different language than with traditional training, is not as simple as just adding a click and some food. - In this episode we dive into one reason why it's different, some changes you can make to help your horse, and briefly introduce some ideas that I recommend EVERY horse owner/trainer/and caregiver dive into further if they wish to train with R+. ✦ www.TheWillingequine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

Left brained, right brained, introverted, extroverted, lazy, friendly, stubborn, playful, dominant, submissive, gentle, sweet, rude, competitive, mean, sassy, funny.... Do any of these describe your horse? What's their personality type? Who are they? What are they born with and what develops over time? ✦ www.TheWillingequine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

In this episode I get a little more personal and talk about my journey to developing TWE. The ups, the downs, the challenges, and how I arrived here ... I hope this episode is inspiring to anyone who has their heart set on a dream but isn't sure how they are going to get there. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support

Let's be real, horse ownership isn't all rainbows and butterflies. In fact, there's a LOT of responsibility and stress that goes along with caring for these beings we love so much. In this episode I answer a listener's question about being responsible for a horse during tough times ... how to prepare for those inevitable medical bills and extenuating circumstances... And what to do when you really want to have your own horse but aren't sure you can support them should anything come up. ✦ www.TheWillingequine.com✦ Instagram.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ YouTube.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ Facebook.com/TheWillingEquine ✦ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thewillingequine/support