Podcast appearances and mentions of elise gaston chand

Elise Gaston Chand has held a number of titles in a few different fields, since she graduated from Randolph-Macon Women’s College (now Randolph-Macon College).  She started out as a reporter working on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.. Elise then entered the field of human resources, where she worked for 3 decades for marquee companies like read more>>> The post Because of Horses & the Pursuit of Professional Happiness With Elise Gaston Chand [re-release] appeared first on Time4Coffee.

Today’s guest on Because of Horses is Bob Cacchione — a living legend in the horse world — and one to whom so many owe immense gratitude for founding the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA)!   Though the IHSA has helped countless young equestrians explore their competitive riding talents and dreams, their origins were pretty humble. Bob was an 18-year-old sophomore at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, New Jersey when his parents told him they would no longer pay for his riding. Rather than have that be the end of it, Bob negotiated free use of horses at a local stable in exchange for giving riding lessons, where he then gathered what soon became a competitive team. Next, when he held a show using donated horses, nearby colleges caught wind of the event and what began as a small group of riders soon grew exponentially over the ensuing years. Now, it’s a huge network, including almost 400 colleges across the U.S. and over 8,300 riders in hunt seat equitation, western horsemanship, and reining.   Beyond all this though, the organization is about so much more! In a world where show-winners are often those who can afford the finest horses, the IHSA truly levels the playing field. Countless young riders and adult equestrians have Bob to thank for that! In this episode, Bob shares stories of alumni who have gone on to do incredible things in the horse world, gives his take on how he has seen the evolution of youth competition, his predictions on the future of riding, some incredibly touching (and funny!) stories from those who have been involved in the IHSA, and what makes IHSA so remarkable!   Topics of Discussion: [:24] About today’s episode with Bob Cacchione. [1:49] Bob shares why what they do at IHSA is so important for the horse community. He also describes how the events themselves are set up and how they level the playing field. [4:52] Bob highlights what’s especially remarkable about IHSA and tells the stories of alumni who have gone on to do incredible things in the horse world! [8:52] Why Bob believes many of those who ride with IHSA go on to remarkable careers in the horse world beyond competing. [12:50] When Bob’s parents stopped paying for his riding lessons at 18, what motivated him to create his own path? [15:22] Elise and Bob discuss the incredibly unique community IHSA is, as well as its broad impact and appeal. [18:34] Bob gives his thoughts on the horse world's evolution as well as his predictions on the future of riding. [20:35] What Bob would like the parents and young riders who listen to Because of Horses to know about IHSA. [22:16] Bob speaks about his retirement from IHSA. [24:05] What does Bob want his legacy to be? [25:45] In a life full of remarkable experiences, what stands out to Bob? [28:08] Has Bob had any “fan” moments when he has met somebody famous in the horse world? [29:31] If Bob could speak to ‘young Bob,’ what would he tell himself at 17 years of age? [31:35] Bob shares some funny and touching stories of meeting people who were involved in IHSA. [38:13] Bob shares some final words on IHSA. [41:45] Elise shares an important announcement about the Because of Horses podcast.   Mentioned in this Episode: The Hampton Classic Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) USEF USEF Convention EquestFile (Use coupon code: BOH10 to receive a 10% discount for two months off your subscription) A Parent's Guide to Riding Lessons: Everything You Need to Know to Survive and Thrive with a Horse-Loving Kid, by Elise Gaston Chand   Like what you hear? Because of Horses would love to hear your feedback! Please email elise@becauseofhorses.com to send Because of Horses your thoughts.   To Support the Podcast: Subscribe: RSS Feed, iTunes, Google Play, TuneIn, Stitcher, and Player FM

This week is a very special edition of Because of Horses! Your host, Elise Gaston Chand, talks with some of the horse world’s most accomplished equestrians — sharing their riding and training philosophies, their insights into horses, advice for aspiring competitors, and their fondest memories of the Hampton Classic Horse Show! These featured guests are Georgina Bloomberg, Kelli Cruciotti, Peter Wylde, Joe Fargis, and Chief Press Officer Marty Bauman.   For over 40 years, the Classic has featured world-class riders and horses — including Olympic and Pan American Games medalists — from around the globe, competing for $800,000 in prize money. With something for everyone, from the avid horse lover to the non-equestrian spectator, the Classic is one of the largest outdoor horse shows in the U.S.; a not-to-miss segment on the summer tour. Where else can you watch McLain Ward, Kent Farrington, and Anne Kursinski compete… then spot Bruce Springsteen watching his phenomenally talented daughter, Jessica, clear a course in record time? Or see Steven Spielberg, Jerry Seinfeld, Kelly Ripa, Brooke Shields, or Martha Stewart stroll by?   The Classic is also an event straight from the heart with fundraising and community support, animal adoptions onsite, championship competition for disabled riders, and one of the most anticipated classes during the week-long show: Leadline, with our littlest riders judged by two-time Olympic gold medalist, Joe Fargis.    The Classic runs August 25th through September 1st, 2019, in Bridgehampton, New York.   Ready to talk with the greats? Tune in!   About our accomplished guests: Joe Fargis is one of the greats of show jumping. He trained under the legendary Bertalan de Nemethy and is perhaps best known for his partnership with the Thoroughbred mare Touch of Class, with whom he won the individual and team gold medals at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. He also won the team silver medal at the 1988 Seoul Olympics with Mill Pearl. Joe was inducted into the Show Jumping Hall of Fame in 2007 and was awarded the US Equestrian Federation Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012. US Olympian, trainer and youth mentor Peter Wylde is one of the most well-respected horsemen in the sport of show jumping, not just for his extensive competitive success but also his commitment to the education of both amateurs and juniors. Peter is best known for his partnership with Turnabout Farms’ Fein Cera, who he rode to the individual bronze and the Best Horse award at the 2002 World Equestrian Games in Jerez, Spain, and the team gold medal at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Greece. Peter is a three-time grand prix winner at the Hampton Classic.   Georgina Bloomberg is a native New Yorker and international show jumper who grew up competing all along the east coast. She made her FEI World Cup Final debut in 2005 and was a member of the winning team in the Samsung Super League Nation’s Cup in France. Georgina was a member of the bronze medal-winning Pan American Games team in 2015 and competed in Gothenburg, Sweden in this year’s Longines FEI World Cup Finals. She is a noted philanthropist, focusing particularly on issues related to animal welfare. Kelli Cruciotti is an emerging star in U.S. show jumping, currently ranked 26th in the country by the United States Equestrian Federation, and a 2020 Olympic hopeful. Kelli enjoyed a storied junior career, with success in all three rings and a win at the coveted 2015 USEF/Pessoa Medal Finals, but today show jumping has become her main passion. After turning professional in 2016, Kelli has continued to pile up top results in the jumper ring at such prestigious shows as Devon, Harrisburg, the Hamptons, Capital Challenge, Washington and more. In 2019, she represented the United States in her first Longines FEI World Cup Final in Gothenburg, Sweden, finishing 16th on her mare, Hadja Van Orshof.   Topics of Discussion: [:18] About today’s special episode! [2:16] Elise introduces this week’s first guest, Georgina Bloomberg. [2:38] To Georgina, what makes the Hampton Classic a not-to-miss show? [3:59] How has winning last year’s opening Grand Prix affected Georgina going into this year’s competition? [5:55] Georgina tells a story that helps illustrate how the Hampton Classic has such universal appeal to horse lovers of all kinds. [7:43] Georgina gives her advice to young riders. [12:12] Elise thanks Georgina for joining her! [13:38] Elise introduces Kelli Cruciotti. [13:46] Kelli describes what she loves about the Hampton Classic. [15:46] Kelli reflects on the first time she competed at this iconic show. [16:39] Elise thanks Kelli for joining her! [16:55] Elise introduces Peter Wylde. [17:10] Peter explains why it is so important to first understand the basics (i.e. getting the rider/horse relationship and riding skills solid) before moving on to jumping. [18:31] Peter gives his recommendations on the sorts of things riders should be looking for when they observe and study top competitors in action. [21:17] Peter shares some of his favorite memories from his time spent at the Hampton Classic and why it has been a standout show for him, over the years. [23:25] Peter gives his advice to young riders attending the Hampton Classic for the first time this year. [24:20] Elise thanks Peter for joining her! [24:55] Elise introduces Joe Fargis. [25:20] Joe explains how valuing simplicity by focusing on and perfecting the basics helps riders to be — not just better jumpers — but better riders, overall. [26:35] Joe explains how riders can stop thinking about training as work, and instead focus on ensuring that the horse enjoys the experience even while they’re learning. [27:48] What about coaching talented young riders and helping them to build upon their skills through programs like the EAP is so important to Joe? [28:46] What is Joe hoping to teach young riders when he asks them a question (usually related to riding, horse anatomy, or their tack) during Leadline? And what are some of his favorite memories from judging at the Hampton Classic? [30:16] What is it like for Joe to be a part of a young rider’s journey and to see some of them go on to such terrific success? [30:49] Elise thanks Joe for joining her! [31:58] Elise introduces Chief Press Officer Marty Bauman. [32:04] Why Marty thinks the Hampton Classic holds such broad appeal — not just year after year — but decade after decade. [35:08] What does USEF recognition of the Classic as a Heritage Competition mean to Marty and the show? [37:31] Elise and Marty discuss what it’s like for equestrians to compete at the Hampton Classic. [39:45] Marty reflects on how far some of these young riders have come and how rewarding it is to be a part of the Classic’s incredible history. [45:12] What Marty would like listeners to know about the Hampton Classic. [50:15] Where to learn more about the Hampton Classic. [50:49] Elise thanks Marty for joining her. [50:57] Elise wraps up this week’s special episode.   Know Someone Inspirational, Whose Life Has Been Forever Changed Because of Horses? Because of Horses would love to get to share their story! To recommend someone please send an email to elise@becauseofhorses.com.   Mentioned in this Episode: The Hampton Classic Georgina Bloomberg EquestFile (Use coupon code: BOH10 to receive a 10% discount for two months off your subscription) The United States Pony Club A Parent's Guide to Riding Lessons: Everything You Need to Know to Survive and Thrive with a Horse-Loving Kid, by Elise Gaston Chand Joe Fargis Peter Wylde Extraordinary Horseman and Olympian:  Peter Wylde (Episode 86, Because of Horses) GGTFooting.com/BOHP Rising Star Kelli Cruciotti, Aiming for 2020 Gold (Episode 93, Because of Horses)  Chief Press Officer Marty Bauman United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Bruce Springsteen   Like what you hear? Because of Horses would love to hear your feedback! Please email elise@becauseofhorses.com to send Because of Horses your thoughts.   To Support the Podcast: ● Donate on Paypal to help keep Because of Horses running — all amounts are welcome! ● Subscribe: RSS Feed, iTunes, Google Play, TuneIn, Stitcher, and Player FM  

Elise Gaston Chand welcomes Kristen DeMarco, an equine specialist and mental health advocate to Because of Horses podcast. Kristen is the executive director of Gateway HorseWorks and has combined a lifetime of equestrian experience with her background in psychology to help humans partner with horses in new and innovative ways. She is passionate about helping individuals, teams, families and corporate groups improve their quality of life through guided interactions with horses.    Kristen studied communication arts and psychology at Villanova University in Philadelphia before working in the fashion industry. In 2011, she became a certified equine specialist through the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA). Kristen combined her expertise in corporate communication, psychology and equine behavior to create team experiences involving horses to promote positive change within organizations. In 2012, Kristen founded WorkHorse, a company which supports the organizational needs of corporate teams, school districts and other groups, to offer this programming to a wider audience.    In the summer of 2015, she founded Gateway HorseWorks, a Philadelphia based non-profit dedicated to offering equine assisted psychotherapy (EAP) to children, adults and families. Their mission is to offer transformative EAP services to assist in the recovery from mental illness, trauma and grief. The organization seeks to be a leader in the field of education and EAP services and is committed to the wellness of the mind, body and spirit of its clients as well as environmental sustainability.    Gateway HorseWorks values the promotion of self-discovery, growth and learning by establishing an environment based on integrity, trust, teamwork and communication. Under Kristen’s direction, the organization strives to be a leader in the field of EAP and is partnering with West Chester University to conduct cutting-edge research related to its use.    Topics of Discussion:  [:25] About today’s episode.  [1:05] Kristen explains how, in her work, horses become metaphors for exploring relationships and what you face outside of the arena.  [2:40] How Kristen found inspiration in a small pony she was rehabbing after her marriage ended in divorce.  [6:16] Kristen speaks about her other organization, WorkHorse, and explains how horses factor into helping corporate teams build their interpersonal, leadership, and disruptive innovation skillsets.  [8:16] Is it a benefit or a detriment for team members who are already familiar with horses to participate in the team-building exercises that WorkHorse provides?  [11:53] Kristen highlights some of the outcomes she has observed in her Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) approach through her nonprofit, Gateway Horseworks.  [16:26] The differences between traditional therapy and EAP.  [22:02] Kristen speaks about their community program, Stable Pathways, a trauma-informed equine-assisted psychotherapy pilot program specifically designed for women in the Chester County Women’s Reentry Assessment & Programming Initiative (WRAP) to address anxiety, depression, and hopelessness.  [32:55] What kinds of horses does Kristen have in her programs? What are their personalities like?  [38:52] The diverse range of jobs horses can fill, far beyond riding.  [42:18] The science of being around horses and how it has a profound impact on humans!  [44:51] About Kristen’s passion for educating the mental health community about EAP with a particular focus on underserved populations, and the kinds of responses she garners with her work.  [47:20] About next week’s episode of Because of Horses.  [49:14] Kristen’s thoughts on keeping the conversation going about EAP and mental health.  [52:57] Where to learn more and follow Kristen online.    Know Someone Inspirational, Whose Life Has Been Forever Changed Because of Horses? Because of Horses would love to get to share their story!  To recommend someone please send an email to elise@becauseofhorses.com.    Mentioned in this Episode:  Gateway HorseWorks  EAGALA  WorkHorse  Stable Pathways (Community Program on Gateway HorseWorks)  EquestFile (Use coupon code: BOH10 to receive a 10% discount for two months off your subscription)  GGTFooting.com/BOHP  Next week’s episode of Because of Horses  Gateway HorseWorks’ Instagram  Gateway HorseWorks’ Facebook  Gateway HorseWorks’ Twitter    Like what you hear? Because of Horses would love to hear your feedback!  Please email elise@becauseofhorses.com to send Because of Horses your thoughts.    To Support the Podcast:  Donate on Paypal to help keep Because of Horses running — all amounts are welcome!  Subscribe: RSS Feed, iTunes, Google Play, TuneIn, Stitcher, and Player FM   

Elise’s guests this week are all from Wyoming’s Red Reflet Ranch — co-owner, Bob Kaplan; and Horse Operations Team, Clay and Tammy Trollinger.    Red Reflet Ranch is both a working cattle ranch as well as an all-inclusive luxury resort that expands across 27,000 privately-owned acres nestled under the shadow of the Big Horn Mountains. The ranch is renowned for its five-star amenities, fine dining, and diverse outdoor activities (that, of course, include horseback riding).    Owned by Bob and Laurence Kaplan (who are both pilots, world travelers, and philanthropists),  the Red Reflet Ranch operates year ’round with something to offer everyone — no matter how diverse your interests or how discriminating your tastes.    In this week’s episode, Elise talks with Bob, Clay, and Tammy to get an inside look into the luxury ranch. They talk about the many activities offered there, the wonderful amenities, accommodations, experiences, and more. They also discuss the ranch’s evolution, history, and what they hope each guest takes away from their experience at the ranch.    Topics of Discussion:  [:18] About today’s guests.  [1:04] What inspired Bob and Laurence to operate the ranch as a luxury resort, on top of it already being a 24/7 working cattle ranch.  [3:16] About Bob’s big city roots in Chicago.  [4:30] Bob talks about the ranching community of Ten Sleep, Wyoming, how it is a true example of the western lifestyle, as well as an area full of history — including how it got its name.  [7:13] Activities guests can choose from activity-wise at the Red Reflet Ranch.  [10:37] About the Red Reflet’s landing strip for private aircraft and the options that exist for pilots.  [12:03] Tammy and Clay describe the wide range of activities for the horse-lovers.  [13:16] How Tammy and Clay balance an individual’s belief in their own horse-riding abilities with the reality of pairing them with the best horse.  [16:41] About their accommodations for horse-riders at any level.  [19:24] For someone interested in a full-on cowboy experience, what time of the year would be the best to visit? And what could that person look forward to?  [21:35] What sets the ranch apart from other luxury destinations.  [24:13] Rare animal sightings on the ranch!  [25:35] Bob talks about Red Reflet’s amazing cuisine and wine list.  [28:06] About Elise’s book, A Parent’s Guide to Riding Lessons.  [29:28] Breakfast at the Red Reflet.  [31:26] What is Roadkill Cantina and how did it get its name?  [33:57] What Bob, Tammy, and Clay want each guest to experience while they’re at the ranch.  [35:59] What stands out to Bob, Tammy, and Clay in terms of the ranch’s evolution, and what they see for the future of the ranch.  [39:15] How Bob, Clay, and Tammy get away or go on vacation.  [31:43] About next week’s episode of Because of Horses.  [32:13] Some of the furthest locations guests have come from to visit or stay at the ranch.  [45:38] Where to learn more about Red Reflet Ranch.    Know Someone Inspirational, Whose Life Has Been Forever Changed Because of Horses? Because of Horses would love to get to share their story!  To recommend someone please send an email to elise@becauseofhorses.com.    Mentioned in this Episode:  Red Reflet Ranch  A Parent’s Guide to Riding Lessons: Everything You Need to Know to Survive and Thrive with a Horse-Loving Kid, by Elise Gaston Chand  United States Pony Club  Young Rider Magazine  Next week’s episode of Because of Horses    Like what you hear? Because of Horses would love to hear your feedback!  Please email elise@becauseofhorses.com to send Because of Horses your thoughts.    To Support the Podcast:  • Donate on Paypal to help keep Because of Horses running — all amounts are welcome!  • Subscribe: RSS Feed, iTunes, Google Play, TuneIn, Stitcher, and Player FM    For Social Media Use:    Tweetables:    “An unusual thing about the ranch is that we try to do all these activities on the guest’s schedule — they don’t have to arrive at a certain time … or do anything but show up for lunch … and dinner.” — Bob Kaplan    “Every night is festive with a lot of conversation and a lot of visiting.” — Bob Kaplan    “The experience that I want guests to have [at the ranch is] … unique, special, and in some way motivational for them — and I’m amazed at how often that is the case.” — Bob Kaplan    “We want it to be a good experience for the guests in every way.” — Clay Trollinger    “Tammy and I would like every [guest] to go home and want to own a horse.” — Clay Trollinger    “Every guest that comes [to the ranch gets a] vacation that is really unique. We don’t have a set schedule so it keeps our jobs fresh too… but whatever you want we try to make it happen, [and] I think that’s one of the most unique parts of the ranch.” — Tammy Trollinger

Elise Gaston Chand has held a number of titles in a few different fields including working in human resources for 3 decades for companies like Starbucks and Yum! Brands-- owner of KFC, Taco Bell and Pizza Hut. Most recently, she started her podcast -- Because of Horses-- in October 2017.  If you’re curious about breaking into Human Resources or the horse industry or both? Well, you’re in luck! This Espresso Shots episode is your one stop shop to finding out ways to explore and break into either field. Elise Gaston Chand has loved horses since she can remember and today --in the longer T4C episode-- Elise tells us how she went from horse crazed toddler to successful author/podcaster. This mini-episode is longer than most and that’s because it’s so valuable and we want our Java Junkies to soak up every last word that Elise shares. So, whether you want a career in HR, the horse industry, or you just love fellow podcaster, Elise Gaston Chand, press Play and enjoy! The post 104: How to Break Into Human Resources & the Horse Industry w/ Elise Gaston Chand, Because of Horses Podcast [Espresso Shots] appeared first on Time4Coffee.

Elise Gaston Chand has held a number of titles in a few different fields, since she graduated from Randolph-Macon Women’s College (now Randolph-Macon College).  She started out as a reporter working on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.. Elise then fell into the human resources field, where she worked for 3 decades for companies like Starbucks and Yum! Brands-- owner of KFC, Taco Bell and Pizza Hut. She felt she had found the perfect career when, out of the blue, she was laid off. Elise felt this was a sign that she needed to be following her true passion, not just for the paycheck, but to have fun and work from home! She started her podcast -- Because of Horses-- in October 2017 and soon after and to this day, it doesn’t feel like work. Elise now gets to spend way more time with her loved ones and talk to people in the horse industry that she’s admired and adored since childhood. From journalism to HR to horses, Elise really knows her stuff! Plus, her amazing podcast Because of Horses can be found right here -- check it out! Press Play and listen to Elise share some valuable information and amusing anecdotes. The post 54: Because of Horses & the Pursuit of Professional Happiness w/ Elise Gaston Chand appeared first on Time4Coffee.

Elise’s guest on today’s Because of Horses is… herself! Today is May 18th, her birthday, so it’s the perfect time to “interview” herself and respond to listener emails! Elise answers frequently asked questions such as, “Why did you decide to do a podcast?” “How exactly do podcasts work?” and “How do you select guests?” She talks all about her early childhood adventures riding horses, about her horse of a lifetime, and up to her current experiences and involvement with horses. Summarizing Because of Horses in a nutshell, Elise talks about how it came into being, why she decided on the podcast format to help materialize her dream, all of the people that helped make this possible for her, and the guests who have told their inspirational stories on the podcast. Tune in to the week’s episode to hear more about the person behind the mic — Elise!   Topics of Discussion: [:48] About this week’s episode! [1:21] About Elise’s earliest memories about loving horses and about her first lessons in riding. [5:20] Some of Elise’s early adventures with her dogs and horse as a young girl. [8:00] Elise’s teenage highlights from the Shenandoah Valley Pony Club. [9:33] Elise’s experiences at Caveland Farm in Boyce, Virginia. [12:14] Elise’s college experience and the retirement of Whipper Snapper, and the beginning of her journalism career on Capitol Hill — then Human Resources. [16:08] The story of how Elise came to purchase her next horse — and her next horse, and her next horse! [18:53] How Elise’s Andalusian stallion, Novelisto, became a movie star. [19:55] About the people and motivational clarity that sparked Elise’s inspiration to begin her podcast, Because of Horses. [26:55] What Elise sets out to accomplish with Because of Horses, and about the types of guests she features. [31:25] Looking back and reflecting on previous episodes of Because of Horses. [33:32] Why Elise chose the podcast format to make her ideas come to life. [34:14] What sets Because of Horses apart from other horse podcasts. [36:53] Some of the exciting guests Elise is looking forward to interviewing in future episodes. [37:44] How Elise selects and finds future guests for the podcast. [39:28] So, what is a podcast? [41:25] About the production behind the podcast. [42:29] How long it takes to produce one episode and the process behind it. [46:36] Want to get the word out about an upcoming horse-related event? Email elise@becauseofhorses.com and it may be included on the events calendar at BecauseofHorses.com — it’s free! [46:46] More behind-the-scenes info on the production effort that goes into creating each week's Because of Horses podcast! [51:11] Travel plans coming up for Elise.   Know Someone Inspirational, Whose Life Has Been Forever Changed Because of Horses? Because of Horses would love to get to share their story! To recommend someone please send an email to elise@becauseofhorses.com.   Mentioned in this Episode: Breyer Horses Shenandoah Valley Pony Club Caveland Farm Baylor Scott & White Health Yum! Brands Mary Kay A Parent's Guide to Riding Lessons: Everything You Need to Know to Survive and Thrive with a Horse-Loving Kid, by Elise Gaston Chand Mayo Clinic Pediatric Rehabilitation Ben Masters The Plaidcast Dr. Niobe Thompson Equest Podfly Rev Because of Horses Facebook Page Because of Horses Facebook Group Royal Ascot Andalusian World Cup   Past Episodes and Guests Mentioned: Alan Day Kiki and Don Teague Jessie Haas Charles Hilton Templeton Thompson and Sam Gay Brandi Lyons Stacy Westfall Christoph Hess Al Dunning Donna Barton Brothers Wendy Williams   Like what you hear? Because of Horses would love to hear your feedback! Please email elise@becauseofhorses.com to send Because of Horses your thoughts.   To Support the Podcast: ● Donate on Paypal to help keep Because of Horses running — all amounts are welcome! ● Subscribe: RSS Feed, iTunes, Google Play, TuneIn, Stitcher, and Player FM

Elise’s guest on today’s Because of Horses podcast is Tom O’Mara, Co-Chair of the National Collegiate Equestrian Association’s Advisory Board, as well as a frequent guest on the Plaid Horse’s Plaidcast, where he keeps listeners updated on the latest NCEA news. He’s also a horse-show dad — and husband — who knows the competitive horse world like few others. Tom has three daughters and a son; Casey, Abby, Meg, and T.J. — all of whom have ridden competitively. The family of six have traveled on the road 35 weekends out of the year attending horse shows ... and his children competed at 34 Equitation Finals.   It would be easy to focus on Tom’s incredible professional and competitive accomplishments, as well as the difference he is making across the U.S. through the NCEA — but, at the heart of his infectious enthusiasm, his phenomenal knowledge, his terrifically positive energy, and his always-upbeat nature, is an incredibly engaged and justifiably proud father and husband who shares in his family’s passion and talent for the equestrian world.   Listen in to today’s show to hear more about Tom’s incredible drive to help bring the same opportunities that his own children have had to all young equestrians — as well as his advice and recommendations to young riders, a look at the NCEA and participating universities at the ground level, and the work he is doing behind the scenes to help grow the equestrian sport.   Topics of Discussion: [1:12] How Tom’s family’s horse show experiences brought them all closer together. [5:14] More about Tom’s children and their age differences. [6:18] What is it about horses, riding, and competing that is so beneficial to families? [8:15] The nuances of equestrian sport and the many ways it is great for children. [11:50] What led Tom to serve on the NCEA Advisory Board, and a brief history of the NCEA and NCAA. [22:49] Reading listener feedback! [24:25] How NCEA and NCAA help grow equestrian sport and support women. [29:59] The process of persuading universities and colleges to take on the equestrian sport, and an example of Tom's conversations with academic leaders. [41:10] The challenge: schools dropping their equestrian programs and how NCEA approaches potential concerns. [47:30] The caliber of female students required by equestrian sport: its all year ’round, no time- off schedule, while balancing their academics and maintaining their scholarships. [55:45] Tom’s advice and recommendations to young riders whose colleges or universities do not yet have an equestrian team. [1:04:08] About Tom’s regular appearances on The Plaid Horse’s Plaidcast and his predictions for Collegiate Equestrian. [1:12:20] Where to learn more about the Plaidcast, the NCEA, and find Tom online.   Know Someone Inspirational, Whose Life Has Been Forever Changed Because of Horses? Because of Horses would love to get to share their story! To recommend someone please send an email to elise@becauseofhorses.com.   Discover More About this Week’s Guest — Tom O’Mara The Plaid Horse Plaidcast CollegiateEquestrian.com (NCEA)   Mentioned in this Episode: CollegiateEquestrian.com (NCEA) NCAA.org Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) The Plaid Horse A Parent's Guide to Riding Lessons: Everything You Need to Know to Survive and Thrive with a Horse-Loving Kid, by Elise Gaston Chand   Like what you hear? Because of Horses would love to hear your feedback! Please email elise@becauseofhorses.com to send Because of Horses your thoughts.   To Support the Podcast: Donate on Paypal to help keep Because of Horses running — all amounts are welcome! Subscribe: RSS Feed, iTunes, Google Play, TuneIn, Stitcher, and Player FM

Following one’s passion isn’t always about making our own life better; sometimes we get a unique opportunity to fully harness the skills, talent, experience, connections, and interests we possess, in the service of someone we love.   This is precisely what happened to Elise Gaston Chand’s guest this week — Rupert Isaacson —  whose son, Rowan, was diagnosed with autism at two. In Rupert’s quest to help his little boy, he utilized every skill he possessed as an internationally recognized journalist and a New York Times best-selling author. Which is why, when they received the diagnosis, Rupert began an epic journey to Mongolia to find an approach that was both ancient... and radically new from the perspective of "modern" therapy.   Autism has reached pandemic proportions, affecting 1 in 58 children. Nobody can agree on its cause, but Rupert Isaacson has expanded his quest of helping Rowan to, now, helping improve the lives of autistic children and families, and to change the world's unhealthy view of autism. To this end, Rupert wrote two books (The Horse Boy and The Long Ride Home), filmed a critically acclaimed documentary, and established The Horse Boy Foundation. Through his partnership with neurologists and therapists around the globe, he has engaged science to prove his approach radically improves autists' lives. And he utilizes every opportunity to personally carry his message to the world — through clinics, conferences, personal appearances, and talking with anyone who'll listen. In short, Rupert is doing everything in his power to shift our thinking about autism and how to support autists in a more nurturing and effective way.   Join Elise Gaston Chand and Rupert Isaacson in this week’s episode of Because of Horses to learn how horses led to the remarkable "Horse Boy Method," how talking with adult autists like the legendary Dr. Temple Grandin has helped Rupert better understand what autistic children need, to learn about his journey through Mongolia with a film crew as he struggled to find anything that would help his young son, as well as Rupert's guidance and recommendations for other parents who are looking for answers.   Topic of Discussion: [1:56] The early days of receiving the diagnosis of their son, Rowan — what it was like, and where they initially sought help for better understanding of their son’s condition. [6:16] Rupert’s understanding of how autists experience autism; the insights he gained from his conversations with Dr. Temple Grandin. [9:37] Autism symptoms and challenges. [10:17] Their experience in Mongolia and with shamanism. [13:19] How therapeutic riding works (The Horse Boy Method) and how Rupert has translated that into homeschooling in their day-to-day lives. [16:30] Using Rowan’s experience to create an accessible method for all people -- a horse isn't necessary -- and the academic recognition they’ve achieved. [17:34] An explanation of shamanism. [20:41] Rupert’s efforts to support Rowan and how that is helping tens of thousands of people worldwide. [21:44] Spending time with Indigenous groups — what Rupert has learned from them. [23:26] About Rupert’s journey through Mongolia and bringing a film crew along. [25:36] Raw moments in Mongolia and what it was like being filmed. [28:27] Rupert’s journey during the writing of The Horse Boy novel. [31:37] When that healthy reliance on proven treatments becomes an impediment to utilizing new methods that have positive outcomes. [34:00] The Horse Boy novel’s review from Lee Grossman, former President of the Autism Society of America. [34:36] Rupert's perspective on how The Horse Boy has helped other people. [35:50] Rupert’s recommendations and guidance to parents raising autistic children. [37:39] What’s next for Rupert and Rowan. [38:50] Rupert’s dream: to serve one million families every week. [40:20] Rupert’s relationship with Rowan today. [43:13] The importance of being open to learning from your child and others.   Know Someone Inspirational, Whose Life Has Been Forever Changed Because of Horses? Because of Horses would love to get to share their story! To recommend someone please send an email to elise@becauseofhorses.com.   Discover More About this Week’s Guests — Rupert Isaacson Horse Boy Foundation The Horse Boy Facebook Page Rupert’s Amazon Author Page KidsMustMove.com/HorseBoyWorld.com/NTLS.co   Mentioned in this Episode: Dr. Temple Grandin   Like what you hear? Because of Horses would love to hear your feedback! Please email elise@becauseofhorses.com to send Because of Horses your thoughts.   To Support the Podcast: ● Donate on Patreon to help keep Because of Horses running — all amounts are welcome! ● Subscribe: RSS Feed, iTunes, Google Play, TuneIn, Stitcher, and Player FM   For Social Media Use:  

Elise Gaston Chand is a horsewoman with over 30 years experience in horse management, breeding, competition, and industry marketing and advertising. Elise was a horse-crazy kid raised by non-equestrian parents and is raising a young daughter who shares...