Podcasts about new vocations

In this episode of OTTB on Tap, we catch up with Stephanie Parkot for a recap of her journey to the 2025 Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover with her Off Track Thoroughbred (OTTB), Sterling Honor. Stephanie went into the RRP Thoroughbred Makeover with a clear goal. She wanted to finish in the Top 10 in Competitive Trail. Not only did she set that goal, she achieved it.Stephanie shares how she adopted Sterling Honor through New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program and what it took to prepare a young Off Track Thoroughbred for the Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover at the Kentucky Horse Park. From months of training and hauling out to obstacle courses, to a last minute lameness scare just weeks before the event, Stephanie walks us through the real experience of preparing an OTTB for the RRP Makeover.We talk about why she chose to compete in both Competitive Trail and Freestyle, two disciplines that test a horse's confidence, focus, and partnership with the rider. Stephanie describes how obstacle work helped Sterling develop emotional regulation and bravery, and how cross training can benefit any horse transitioning from racing to a second career.Stephanie also shares the story behind her fun 80s themed freestyle routine, what it was like performing freestyle in the covered arena at the Kentucky Horse Park, and how she and Sterling worked through the challenging water obstacle during the Competitive Trail finals. Her creative solution in the water helped secure a Top 10 finish and marked a proud moment in her Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover journey.Whether you are planning to compete in the RRP Thoroughbred Makeover, retraining your own Off Track Thoroughbred, or simply interested in how racehorses transition to new careers, this episode offers an honest look at the preparation, persistence, and partnership required to bring an OTTB from the racetrack to a successful showing at the Retired Racehorse Project.Stephanie also reflects on what she learned from her second trip to the Kentucky Horse Park, how the experience shaped her approach to training Off Track Thoroughbreds, and what comes next for Sterling Honor after the 2025 RRP Thoroughbred Makeover.This episode discusses the Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover, training Off Track Thoroughbreds, OTTB Competitive Trail, OTTB Freestyle, New Vocations adoption, and preparing Thoroughbreds for second careers after racing.

On today's show, we speak with Carrie Brogden, a driving force in some new Thoroughbred competition options paying out big prize money in 2026! Then we meet an adoptable horse of the week and a new training tip with New Vocations' Bridget Heasley. Stay tuned!Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Carrie BrogdenNew Vocations Segment Additional Support Provided by: Retired Racehorse Project, UsRider, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we speak with Carrie Brogden, a driving force in some new Thoroughbred competition options paying out big prize money in 2026! Then we meet an adoptable horse of the week and a new training tip with New Vocations' Bridget Heasley. Stay tuned!Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Carrie BrogdenNew Vocations Segment Additional Support Provided by: Retired Racehorse Project, UsRider, and Listeners like You!

HITM: We're joined by Alexandra Beckstett and Jillian Eberlein to talk about their new Horse Radio Network podcast, The 10-Minute Tack-Up. Plus, Christa Lafayette, CEO of Etalon Diagnostics, is here to discuss horse markings and colors; including Ermine spots, Birdcatcher spots, socks, stockings, and multi-colored manes and tails. All that, and some mighty weird news!Auditor Post Show: Top snack foods, do we agree?HORSES IN THE MORNING Episode 3897 – Show Notes and Links:Hosts: Jamie Jennings of Flyover Farm & Glenn the GeekJamie and Glenn's Amazon StoreTitle Sponsor: Chewy EquineGuest: Alexandra Beckstett and Jillian Eberlein from The 10-Minute Tack-UpGuest: Christa Lafayette, CEO of Etalon DiagnosticsAdditional support for this podcast provided by: Equine Network and Listeners Like YouTimestamps:03:01 - Daily Winnies 04:00 - Jamie's gelding surgery & wolf teeth story12:09 - New “10 Minute Tack Up” podcast 25:51 - Krista on markings, spots & coat genetics39:47 - Weird News segment51:01 - Kentucky 3-Day listener meetup at New Vocations

HITM: We're joined by Alexandra Beckstett and Jillian Eberlein to talk about their new Horse Radio Network podcast, The 10-Minute Tack-Up. Plus, Christa Lafayette, CEO of Etalon Diagnostics, is here to discuss horse markings and colors; including Ermine spots, Birdcatcher spots, socks, stockings, and multi-colored manes and tails. All that, and some mighty weird news!Auditor Post Show: Top snack foods, do we agree?HORSES IN THE MORNING Episode 3897 – Show Notes and Links:Hosts: Jamie Jennings of Flyover Farm & Glenn the GeekJamie and Glenn's Amazon StoreTitle Sponsor: Chewy EquineGuest: Alexandra Beckstett and Jillian Eberlein from The 10-Minute Tack-UpGuest: Christa Lafayette, CEO of Etalon DiagnosticsAdditional support for this podcast provided by: Equine Network and Listeners Like YouTimestamps:03:01 - Daily Winnies 04:00 - Jamie's gelding surgery & wolf teeth story12:09 - New “10 Minute Tack Up” podcast 25:51 - Krista on markings, spots & coat genetics39:47 - Weird News segment51:01 - Kentucky 3-Day listener meetup at New Vocations

On today's show, the tables are turned and I'm in the hot seat to be interviewed by Kristen! Then we'll get back to the training content with New Vocations' Amanda Grace and meet a new adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Joy HillsNew Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Retired Racehorse Project, Spalding Labs, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, the tables are turned and I'm in the hot seat to be interviewed by Kristen! Then we'll get back to the training content with New Vocations' Amanda Grace and meet a new adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Joy HillsNew Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Retired Racehorse Project, Spalding Labs, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we chat with our friend Kyle Rothfus of Mareworthy to learn more about the organization's Mare Match service. Then we're back with New Vocations' Bridget Heasley for a new training tip and adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Kyle RothfusNew Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we chat with our friend Kyle Rothfus of Mareworthy to learn more about the organization's Mare Match service. Then we're back with New Vocations' Bridget Heasley for a new training tip and adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Kyle RothfusNew Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we chat with Linda Hauck of Tapestry Equine Products and learn more about her experience with ex-racehorse sensitivity, leading to the development of her innovative line of products. Then we sit down with New Vocations' Amanda Grace for a new training tip and adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionNew Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseGuest: Linda HauckAdditional Support Provided by: RideTV, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we chat with Linda Hauck of Tapestry Equine Products and learn more about her experience with ex-racehorse sensitivity, leading to the development of her innovative line of products. Then we sit down with New Vocations' Amanda Grace for a new training tip and adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionNew Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseGuest: Linda HauckAdditional Support Provided by: RideTV, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we got into the good stuff of dressage training and starting Thoroughbreds for the sport with Katherine Abrams. Then we chat with New Vocations' Bridget Heasley for a new training tip and adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Leigh Beamer and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Katherine Abrams New Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Horse Radio Network, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we got into the good stuff of dressage training and starting Thoroughbreds for the sport with Katherine Abrams. Then we chat with New Vocations' Bridget Heasley for a new training tip and adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Leigh Beamer and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Katherine Abrams New Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Horse Radio Network, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

Sharing the love with Retired Racehorse Radio. We chat with professional trainer and bloodstock agent, Kenny McPeek, on how he produces winning racehorses like Mystik Dan and Thorpedo Anna. We start off the new year chatting with Bridget Heasley from New Vocations to share a training tip and introduce you to our adorable adoptable horse of the week. Listen in...Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Kenny McPeekNew Feature: Track to TriumphNew Vocations Segment: Bridget HeasleyAdoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: State Line Tack, Cashel Company, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

In this episode the Retired Racehorse Radio crew is joined by Erin MacDonald from New Vocations for a chat about a common horse training conundrum; is my horse bored or is my horse confused?Host: Coach JennTodays contributors: Retired Racehorse RadioSupport provided by Ride TV

Sharing the love with Retired Racehorse Radio. We chat with professional trainer and bloodstock agent, Kenny McPeek, on how he produces winning racehorses like Mystik Dan and Thorpedo Anna. We start off the new year chatting with Bridget Heasley from New Vocations to share a training tip and introduce you to our adorable adoptable horse of the week. Listen in...Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Kenny McPeekNew Feature: Track to TriumphNew Vocations Segment: Bridget HeasleyAdoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: State Line Tack, Cashel Company, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

In this episode the Retired Racehorse Radio crew is joined by Erin MacDonald from New Vocations for a chat about a common horse training conundrum; is my horse bored or is my horse confused?Host: Coach JennTodays contributors: Retired Racehorse RadioSupport provided by Ride TV

On today's show, we're spending some time with Mike McMahon of Bourbon Lane Stable to learn why this partnership emphasizes aftercare -- and even named a bourbon after one of their retired racehorses. Then we chat with Erin MacDonald of New Vocations' Ocala branch for a new training tip and adoptable horse of the week. And we have a special guest for the holidays: stay tuned!Hosts: Leigh Beamer and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Michael McMahon, Thoroughbred Charities of America New Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Horse Radio Network, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we're spending some time with Mike McMahon of Bourbon Lane Stable to learn why this partnership emphasizes aftercare -- and even named a bourbon after one of their retired racehorses. Then we chat with Erin MacDonald of New Vocations' Ocala branch for a new training tip and adoptable horse of the week. And we have a special guest for the holidays: stay tuned!Hosts: Leigh Beamer and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Michael McMahon, Thoroughbred Charities of America New Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Horse Radio Network, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we're learning more about the new non-profit Stall 13 and an unusual case the organization has recently taken in -- just in time for the holidays. Then we chat with New Vocations' Bridget Heasley for a new training tip and adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Leigh Beamer and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Aubrey Graham New Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Horse Radio Network, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we're learning more about the new non-profit Stall 13 and an unusual case the organization has recently taken in -- just in time for the holidays. Then we chat with New Vocations' Bridget Heasley for a new training tip and adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Leigh Beamer and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Aubrey Graham New Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Horse Radio Network, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we're talking about the challenges and benefits of getting your Thoroughbred into the show ring against other breeds of horses with intrepid competitor Hannah Ong. Then we chat with New Vocations' Amanda Vance from the New York facility for a new training tip and adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Leigh Beamer and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Hannah OngNew Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: MyNewHorse, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we're talking about the challenges and benefits of getting your Thoroughbred into the show ring against other breeds of horses with intrepid competitor Hannah Ong. Then we chat with New Vocations' Amanda Vance from the New York facility for a new training tip and adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Leigh Beamer and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Hannah OngNew Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: MyNewHorse, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we're learning more about equine podiatry and how it can help our ex-racehorses with one of the best in the business, Travis Burns of Virginia Tech. Then we chat with New Vocations' Bridget Hollern for a new training tip and adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Leigh Beamer and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Travis BurnsGuest: Bridget HollernNew Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Equestrian+, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we're learning more about equine podiatry and how it can help our ex-racehorses with one of the best in the business, Travis Burns of Virginia Tech. Then we chat with New Vocations' Bridget Hollern for a new training tip and adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Leigh Beamer and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Travis BurnsGuest: Bridget HollernNew Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Equestrian+, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

This time we join Retired Racehorse Radio host Kristen and her guest Bridget Heasley from New Vocations about about setting, or re-setting boundaries for your horse.Host: Coach JennTodays contributors: Retired Racehorse Radio, Bridget from New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionListen to more podcasts for horse people at Horse Radio Network

This time we join Retired Racehorse Radio host Kristen and her guest Bridget Heasley from New Vocations about about setting, or re-setting boundaries for your horse.Host: Coach JennTodays contributors: Retired Racehorse Radio, Bridget from New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionListen to more podcasts for horse people at Horse Radio Network

In today's tip we join Retired Racehorse Radio co-hosts Joy and Jamie as they chat with Leandra from New Vocations about teaching a horse to move off the leg. Host: Coach JennTodays contributors: Retired Racehorse Radio, Leandra from New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionSupport for this episode provided by USRiderListen to more podcasts for horse people at Horse Radio Network

In today's tip we join Retired Racehorse Radio co-hosts Joy and Jamie as they chat with Leandra from New Vocations about teaching a horse to move off the leg. Host: Coach JennTodays contributors: Retired Racehorse Radio, Leandra from New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionSupport for this episode provided by USRiderListen to more podcasts for horse people at Horse Radio Network

On today's show, we're introducing our temporary co-host, our friend Leigh Beamer! We're reuniting with Natalie Holdren from our 2022 Making the Makeover series. And Bridget Heasley is back from New Vocations with a training tip and adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Leigh Beamer and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Amanda GraceGuest: Kirsten GreenNew Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: USRider, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we're introducing our temporary co-host, our friend Leigh Beamer! We're reuniting with Natalie Holdren from our 2022 Making the Makeover series. And Bridget Heasley is back from New Vocations with a training tip and adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Leigh Beamer and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Amanda GraceGuest: Kirsten GreenNew Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: USRider, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we're introducing our temporary co-host, our friend Leigh Beamer! We're reuniting with Natalie Holdren from our 2022 Making the Makeover series. And Bridget Heasley is back from New Vocations with a training tip and adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Leigh Beamer and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Natalie HoldrenGuest: Bridget HeasleyNew Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Cashel Company, Spalding Labs, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we're introducing our temporary co-host, our friend Leigh Beamer! We're reuniting with Natalie Holdren from our 2022 Making the Makeover series. And Bridget Heasley is back from New Vocations with a training tip and adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Leigh Beamer and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Natalie HoldrenGuest: Bridget HeasleyNew Vocations Segment - Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Cashel Company, Spalding Labs, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we are chatting with author, Christina Keim, on her new book, Unwanted -- The Causes & Effects of America's Horse Populus Crisis. We touch base with Erin MacDonald from New Vocations to get her approach to telling the difference between a horse who is asking for help (aka maybe some naughty behaviors arising) vs a horse who is asking for more of a challenge in their work. Plus, we introduce you to our adoptable horse of the week who happens to have ran in the Preakness! Stay tuned...Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Christina KeimGuest: Erin MacDonaldNew Vocations SegmentAdditional Support Provided by: Cashel Company, MyNewHorse, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we are chatting with author, Christina Keim, on her new book, Unwanted -- The Causes & Effects of America's Horse Populus Crisis. We touch base with Erin MacDonald from New Vocations to get her approach to telling the difference between a horse who is asking for help (aka maybe some naughty behaviors arising) vs a horse who is asking for more of a challenge in their work. Plus, we introduce you to our adoptable horse of the week who happens to have ran in the Preakness! Stay tuned...Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Christina KeimGuest: Erin MacDonaldNew Vocations SegmentAdditional Support Provided by: Cashel Company, MyNewHorse, Retired Racehorse Project, and Listeners like You!

We're back with Stephanie Parkot for round two of her RRP Trainer Chronicles journey—and wow, what a summer she and her OTTB Sterling Honor (by Honor Code, from New Vocations) have had. From tackling a Mounted Police Clinic with her son to braving the atmosphere of the Erie County Fair Hunter/Jumper Show, Stephanie shares the highs, the challenges, and the big takeaways as she and Sterling prepare for the 2025 RRP Makeover.Noise sensitivity, buddy sour moments, show-ring chaos—Sterling has tested her patience in all the classic OTTB retraining ways. But he's also shown just how much heart Thoroughbreds bring when given a chance. Stephanie breaks down what's working, from earplugs to confidence-building hacks, and why figuring out her horse's “comfort zone” has been such a game-changer.And remember that mounting block dance from her first episode? That's now a success story. Stephanie walks us through how she taught Sterling to stand still for mounting—a small detail with huge safety implications for any OTTB rider.As always, Stephanie keeps it real about balancing family life, motherhood, and horse training, sharing how a supportive husband, a training log, and even a backyard-built water obstacle are helping her get ready for Kentucky. With her trademark “flexible consistency” and a clear focus on progress over perfection, she's proof that the road to the Makeover is just as rewarding as the event itself.Photo by Megan Pattern

We're chatting with Mary Ormsby, Equine Operations Manager at Claiborne Farm, about a day in her life working on a bloodstock farm and why they support the RRP Broodmare Division. We chat with New Vocations for a training tip and introduce you to our adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Mary OrmsbyGuest: Bridget HeasleyNew Vocations Segment: Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Cashel Company, USRider, Retired Racehorse Project, Horse Radio Network and Listeners like You!

We're chatting with Mary Ormsby, Equine Operations Manager at Claiborne Farm, about a day in her life working on a bloodstock farm and why they support the RRP Broodmare Division. We chat with New Vocations for a training tip and introduce you to our adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Mary OrmsbyGuest: Bridget HeasleyNew Vocations Segment: Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Cashel Company, USRider, Retired Racehorse Project, Horse Radio Network and Listeners like You!

It's a Making the Makeover episode and today we chat with our Makeover Rider, Sam Fawcett, on she likes to introduce her horses to their first outings. We catch up with New Vocations for a training tip and introduce our adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!On today's episode, we chat with Jennifer Sweet, the President of the US Pony Club, on the benefits of getting involved with Pony Club, and how they provide opportunities to better connect with your retired racer in their second career. We get a training tip from New Vocation's own, Bridget Heasley, and introduce our adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Sam FawcettGuest: Amanda VanceNew Vocations Segment: Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Cashel Company, Spalding Labs, Retired Racehorse Project, Horse Radio Network and Listeners like You!

It's a Making the Makeover episode and today we chat with our Makeover Rider, Sam Fawcett, on she likes to introduce her horses to their first outings. We catch up with New Vocations for a training tip and introduce our adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!On today's episode, we chat with Jennifer Sweet, the President of the US Pony Club, on the benefits of getting involved with Pony Club, and how they provide opportunities to better connect with your retired racer in their second career. We get a training tip from New Vocation's own, Bridget Heasley, and introduce our adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Sam FawcettGuest: Amanda VanceNew Vocations Segment: Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Cashel Company, Spalding Labs, Retired Racehorse Project, Horse Radio Network and Listeners like You!

In this first full trainer episode of our 2025 RRP Trainer Chronicles series, we're joined by Stephanie Parkot, a dedicated adult amateur and mom of three from Corfu, New York, who's making her Thoroughbred Makeover debut with a gelding she calls “the right horse at the right time.”Stephanie's Makeover partner is Sterling Honor, a striking son of Honor Code, adopted through New Vocations. Together, they're preparing to compete in Competitive Trail and Dressage—and doing it all while balancing barn time with the demands of family life. Stephanie shares what drew her to off-track Thoroughbreds in the first place, the emotional rollercoaster of returning a previous adoption, and how she found the confidence to try again.She talks candidly about the realities of retraining a Thoroughbred in the dead of a New York winter, the importance of tailoring your program to your lifestyle, and how she's approaching the 2025 RRP Makeover with a mindset centered not on perfection, but on partnership and progress. One of her guiding philosophies? “Flexible consistency”—knowing when to adjust your expectations without losing sight of the goal. Another? Not waiting for the perfect moment.Whether you're a fellow adult amateur retraining an OTTB, curious about the Thoroughbred Makeover process, or simply looking for honest insight into what this journey really looks like behind the scenes, Stephanie's story is one of heart, resilience, and horse-first horsemanship.

Today we chat with Kristin Werner from the Jockey Club about the new OTTB Profile report. We catch up with Bridget Heasley from New Vocations and introduce you to our adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned.Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Kristin WernerGuest: Bridget HeasleyNew Vocations Segment: Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Cashel Company, Retired Racehorse Project, My New Horse, and Listeners like You!

Today we chat with Kristin Werner from the Jockey Club about the new OTTB Profile report. We catch up with Bridget Heasley from New Vocations and introduce you to our adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned.Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Kristin WernerGuest: Bridget HeasleyNew Vocations Segment: Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Cashel Company, Retired Racehorse Project, My New Horse, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we touch base with our Making the Makeover rider, Sam Fawcett, on assessing potential in a Makeover horse. We chat with New Vocations for a training tip and introduce our adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned...Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Sam FawcettNew Vocations Segment: Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Cashel Company, Retired Racehorse Project, Equestrian+, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we touch base with our Making the Makeover rider, Sam Fawcett, on assessing potential in a Makeover horse. We chat with New Vocations for a training tip and introduce our adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned...Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Sam FawcettNew Vocations Segment: Adoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Cashel Company, Retired Racehorse Project, Equestrian+, and Listeners like You!

Today Amanda Tucker from New Vocations joins Retired Racehorse Radio co-hosts Joy & Kristen with some tips on introducing a new horse to the pasture herd.Host: Coach JennTodays contributors: New Vocations Racehorse Adoption, Retired Racehorse Radio Support for this episode provided by USRiderListen to more podcasts for horse people at Horse Radio NetworkMentioned in this episode:New Purina Systemiq SupplementNot all probiotics are created equal. New Purina Systemiq Supplement remains live & active after the pelleting process and throughout the digestive system making it all the way to the hind gut. Systemiq was designed to support normal recovery after exercise and occasional gastrointestinal stress. Whether you're using a probiotic now or not, it's time to use a live and active supplement from a name you trust. Visit mq.purinamills.com to try Purina Systemiq probiotic supplement today.

Today Amanda Tucker from New Vocations joins Retired Racehorse Radio co-hosts Joy & Kristen with some tips on introducing a new horse to the pasture herd.Host: Coach JennTodays contributors: New Vocations Racehorse Adoption, Retired Racehorse Radio Support for this episode provided by USRiderListen to more podcasts for horse people at Horse Radio NetworkMentioned in this episode:New Purina Systemiq SupplementNot all probiotics are created equal. New Purina Systemiq Supplement remains live & active after the pelleting process and throughout the digestive system making it all the way to the hind gut. Systemiq was designed to support normal recovery after exercise and occasional gastrointestinal stress. Whether you're using a probiotic now or not, it's time to use a live and active supplement from a name you trust. Visit mq.purinamills.com to try Purina Systemiq probiotic supplement today.

On today's show, we introduce our 2025 Making the Makeover rider, Samantha Fawcett! We then catch up with Bridget Heasley from New Vocations on what bits she recommends for a standie's first outing, and introduce our adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned...Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Samantha FawcettNew Vocations Segment: Bridget HeasleyAdoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Cashel Company, Retired Racehorse Project, Horse Radio Network, Spalding Labs, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we introduce our 2025 Making the Makeover rider, Samantha Fawcett! We then catch up with Bridget Heasley from New Vocations on what bits she recommends for a standie's first outing, and introduce our adoptable horse of the week. Stay tuned...Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Samantha FawcettNew Vocations Segment: Bridget HeasleyAdoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Cashel Company, Retired Racehorse Project, Horse Radio Network, Spalding Labs, and Listeners like You!

On today's show, we connect with Patrick Cummings to learn more about the young organization National Thoroughbred Alliance and the role it has to play in the future of the racing industry. We ask New Vocations, Amanda Tucker, about best tips to safely introduce your new horse to his new pasture pals. Last, but never least, we wrap with our Adoptable Horse of the Week. Stay tuned!Hosts: Joy Hills and Kristen Kovatch Bentley of The Horseback WriterImage Credit: Retired Racehorse RadioTitle Sponsor: Kentucky Performance ProductsMedia Partners: The Thoroughbred Makeover and New Vocations Racehorse AdoptionGuest: Patrick CummingsNew Feature: Track to TriumphNew Vocations Segment: Amanda TuckerAdoptable HorseAdditional Support Provided by: Cashel Company, Retired Racehorse Project, Horse Radio Network, and Listeners like You!