This exciting episode featuring a special guest, Alexa Linton, an osteopathic manual practitioner and equine sport therapist. Together, they dive into the innovative concept of the paddock paradise system and its benefits for horse welfare. Shelby and Alexa discuss the origins of the track system, its implementation, and how it can transform the way horses are kept, especially in challenging climates like the rainy Pacific Northwest. They explore how these systems can promote natural horse...

Join us this week on the Making Milestones podcast for an eye-opening conversation with Martha Figueroa, a passionate equestrian and advocate for marginalized communities in the Gaza Strip. Martha shares her journey of supporting both people and animals in war-torn regions, highlighting the critical role horses play amidst the ongoing conflict. In this heartfelt episode, Martha delves into the everyday challenges faced by Palestinian horse owners, the impact of military actions on their...

In this episode of the Making Milestones podcast, we delve into the intriguing intersections between horse culture and broader societal dynamics. Shelby explores how societal conditioning, capitalism, and the demand for productivity permeate the horse industry, challenging long-held beliefs about the necessity of work for fulfillment, both for humans and their equine companions. Through a critical lens, the discussion reveals how human emotions, societal biases, and the concept of 'earning...

This episode delves into one of the most debated topics in the equestrian community: the use of treats in horse training. Shelby explores the common fears and misconceptions surrounding rewards-based training and offers insights into why these fears might be unfounded. Join in as we unravel the truth behind the age-old belief that feeding treats leads to aggressive behavior in horses. We discuss the science of operant conditioning and how it applies to horse training, drawing parallels with...

Listen in as we explore the misconceptions surrounding equine behavior and how management practices play a significant role in shaping what many perceive as a horse's personality. Join us as we examine the ethical implications of buying and selling horses. We discuss how horses are often treated as commodities, the industry's pressure on riding and performance, and the often-overlooked emotional impact on horses when they are uprooted from their homes. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or...

In this episode, we delve into the often unspoken challenges faced by horse trainers, highlighting the misconceptions surrounding the profession. While many dream of turning their passion for horses into a career, the reality is often far from glamorous. We explore the pressures and risks trainers endure, from physical injuries to mental strain, and the often toxic dynamics within the equestrian industry. Join us as we discuss how to navigate these challenges while staying true to your values...

This episode tackles a deeply important and timely topic as we approach the fall and winter seasons: the rising costs of horse care and the difficult decisions horse owners face regarding their aging or injured horses. Shelby delves into the unsettling trend of rehoming horses that are no longer rideable due to age, injury, or health issues. She discusses the industry's mindset that often views horses as replaceable commodities and the social acceptability of endlessly rehoming them. The...

Welcome back to the Making Milestones podcast with Shelby Dennis of Milestone Equestrian. In this episode, she dives into the challenges and logistics of moving an entire farm, sharing the ups and downs of this significant life transition. This episode offers a raw and honest look at the complexities of balancing personal and professional life during a period of significant change.    Support the Podcast: Shop my clothing and bridles: http://shopmilestoneeq.com Check out free resources,...

 After a brief hiatus, we're diving into a bit of everything in today's episode. First, I'll share a personal life update, discussing the busy summer months, managing multiple business ventures, and the challenges that come with it. Next, we delve into the transitional stages of horsemanship, exploring the shift from traditional training methods to more science-based, rewards-focused approaches. We'll talk about the realism and effort required to change long-standing habits, both in ourselves...

Today, we're diving into a multifaceted discussion on some pressing issues in the horse world, recorded live while running errands. The focus? A tragic incident at a dressage competition where a horse died after bolting and running into a stone wall. We'll explore the underlying causes of such extreme behaviors, from training practices to environmental stressors, and why it's crucial to address them. This episode also touches on the role of the equestrian community, media, and organizations...

Welcome to a poignant episode of Making Milestones where we delve into the highs and lows of life, tackling issues such as financial struggles, seasonal depression, and the pursuit of dreams. We explore the roller coaster ride of adulting, highlighting how things like unexpected repair bills and new business ventures can test one's resilience. However, amidst the tumult, we spotlight the strength of community spirit and the magic of dreaming big. Support the Podcast: Shop my clothing and...

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Making Milestones podcast, where we uncover one of the most debated topics in the equestrian world - positive reinforcement vs negative reinforcement in horse training. We dissect these two methods, clarifying common misconceptions, and shed light on aversive pressure versus neutral pressure. Support the Podcast: Shop my clothing and bridles: http://shopmilestoneeq.com Check out free resources, webinars and more:...

Welcome to an enlightening episode of the Making Milestones podcast, where I shift focus from horse training to delve deep into the world of personal growth and spiritual awakening. Listen as I share my journey of self-discovery and transformation, shedding light on critical areas of self-awareness, ego death, and the value of authenticity. I also confront society's inherent flaws within our capitalist system and propose embracing spirituality as a reinvigorating solution. We explore the...

In this compelling episode of the Making Milestones podcast, Shelby about her transformative journey from a traditional to a modern, compassionate horse trainer. This shift not only revolutionized her approach to horse training but also challenged her identity and provoked a deep internal reassessment. This episode encompasses upturns and downturns as Shelby faced disillusionment, professional obstacles, and emotional turmoil on her path to transformation. Navigating through turbulent times,...

In this eye-opening episode of the Making Milestones podcast, we delve into an often overlooked issue within the equestrian world: misogyny. Despite being a predominantly female industry, gender biases still pervade, creating an oppressive undercurrent that female riders and trainers have to navigate.  We also delve into gender-related issues beyond women's experiences, acknowledging the struggles of non-binary individuals and members of the LGBTQ+ community.   Support the podcast: Shop...

Welcome to a captivating episode of Making Milestones podcast, where we delve deep into my personal narrative of neurodivergence. This episode presents my life's journey from being diagnosed with ADHD to embracing this newfound understanding and how it transformed my worldview and interactions, especially with horses. Support the podcast: Shop my store: http://shopmilestoneeq.com Subscribe to Patreon for Q&As, tutorials and more: http://patreon.com Check out my website / buy my book:...

How is horse welfare impacted by patriarchy and capitalism? Listen to find out. *note* sorry about the audio on this, I used a new mic and it was not great but didn't want to re-record as I felt it was a good discussion.   Order limited edition merch: https://milestone-equestrian.creator-spring.com/ Subscribe to Patreon: http://patreon.com/sdequus Shop my store: http://shopmilestoneeq.com See my blog, training help, webinars and more: http://milestoneequestrian.ca Order my book:...

Talking more about lessons I've learned in 2023 and things I want to work on in the new year.   Support my work: http://patreon.com/sdequus http://shopmilestoneeq.com http://milestoneequestrian.ca   Year end / new year journal prompts: https://instituteofyou.org/year-in-review-50-powerful-questions-to-reflect/  

Reflecting on 2023, the good the bad and the ugly...   Support me elsewhere: http://shopmilestoneeq.com http://patreon.com/sdequus http://milestoneequestrian.ca  

Talking about disconnection and how it enables abuse in and out of the horse world.   Other ways to support my work" http://patreon.com/sdequus http://shopmilestoneeq.com http://milestoneequestrian.ca  

A little life update, why I’ve been a little subdued and MIA, talking about the current world situation and my thoughts about it. This is not very horse related so if that bothers you, don’t listen.   Resources & charity...

Interviewing Temple Grandin about her work with animal welfare and neurodivergency/autism advocacy.   Check out her books and other info: https://www.templegrandin.com/templegrandinbooks.html https://templegrandin.com/   Support me/the podcast: Subscribe to Patreon: http://patreon.com/sdequus Shop my store: http://shopmilestoneeq.com Donate to Phoebe's surgery: https://gofund.me/a766d361 http://paypal.me/milestoneequestrian  

Talking about my experience in Paris, France at a Horse Welfare Conference on Hyperflexion that the FEI sent representatives to attend...   Help support the podcast / my work: http://shopmilestoneeq.com http://patreon.com/sdequus http://paypal.me/milestoneequestrian