In this episode of the On The Rail podcast, we discuss horse training techniques for working with yearlings and two-year-olds. Special guests Amber Duckett, Gavin Pope, and Megan Seehafer share their expertise on prepping young horses for in-hand trail and lunge line classes, emphasizing the importance of early training and balancing it with horse welfare. Key topics include building trust, avoiding overworking, and ensuring positive show experiences. The conversation also delves into...

In this episode of the On The Rail podcast, we are joined by Carol Timke who discusses the Midwest Cash Incentive Challenge (MCIC) for Midwest horses, exhibitors, and owners. Carol shares her extensive experience in the horse industry, talks about the objectives and origins of the MCIC, and highlights the unique aspects of this inclusive program. The conversation covers various topics including the combination of different horse breeds in the MCIC, the importance of promoting non-pro...

In this episode of On the Rail Podcast, hosts Jenna and Liz engage with Megan Rechberg, a part-time litigation attorney and equine law specialist, to explore critical legal and ethical aspects of the horse industry. The discussion covers Megan's unique background, the essential role of contracts in equine transactions, and actionable advice for managing expectations and risks. The episode also addresses the impact of social media and AI on horse marketing, emphasizing the importance...

In this episode of the On The Rail podcast, the hosts discuss exciting giveaways and introduce a giveaway winner, Candace Mullin. They then welcome guest Alyssa Logan, an accomplished judge with AQHA Level 1, NRHA, and other certifications, as well as an assistant professor and collegiate judging team coach at Middle Tennessee State University. Alyssa shares her journey in the horse industry, from her beginnings as a horse-crazy child to her academic and judging career. The conversation...

In this episode of On the Rail Podcast, the hosts introduce Amy Zabel, the founder of the Fit for Halter Podcast. Amy shares her journey from being a horse owner since age 14 to running a podcast dedicated to providing practical content and community for amateur halter exhibitors. She discusses her transition from working with horses full-time to a career in nonprofit leadership and back to her love for horses through podcasting. Amy talks about the challenges and joys of launching her...

Hosts Jenna and Liz tackle a variety of critical and often controversial topics within the horse showing industry. They discuss the pressures and costs associated with horse showing, touching upon the expenses reported by participants and questioning the value it brings when balanced against the emotional and financial toll. They also delve into the issues within the training industry, highlighting the necessity for professionalism and business acumen among trainers, and the negative...

This episode meet Peter Canizzaro, a revered horse show announcer with over three decades of experience. Peter provides insight into his journey from a part-time role while juggling an education career to embracing the announcer's booth full-time, including the commitment and travel it entails. Born into a triplet set deeply rooted in the equestrian world, Peter, alongside his brothers, has navigated the intricacies of horse show announcing, from mastering the craft to developing a unique...

This episode of the On The Rail Podcast features Lori Bucholz, an AQHA Executive Committee member, who discusses her extensive involvement in the horse industry. Lori shares her journey from a young girl passionate about horses to holding significant roles within AQHA and other committees, emphasizing animal welfare, member involvement, and governance. The conversation covers topics including the importance of every AQHA member's voice, the process of rule changes within AQHA, the...

This episode features an in-depth conversation about the 2024 APHA World Show, including insights from key figures within the American Paint Horse Association (APHA). The discussion covers the show's schedule from June 21st through July 7th at the Will Rogers Center in Fort Worth, Texas, emphasizing its no-qualifying entry, diverse events beyond competition, and a strong focus on family involvement. The guests explore the importance of Fort Worth as a location, the broad spectrum of...

This episode of On The Rail Podcast, we get to see through the reins of Amber Duckett, an Idaho horse trainer and owner, who shares her journey from a young 4-H member to a professional trainer and owner of a successful stallion, One And Only Asset ('Marshall'). Amber's story highlights her DIY approach, the evolution of her career, and the special bond she has with Marshall, whose 'marshmallows' carry on his legacy. In addition, we explore the recent regulatory changes by the...

In this engaging episode of the On The Rail Podcast, listeners are treated to an in-depth conversation with Adam and Pasley Mathis, the dynamic duo behind Mathis Show Horses. The Mathis' discuss their evolution from horse enthusiasts to professional trainers, shedding light on their personal and professional journeys that led to their partnership and the establishment of their training facility in 2019. Key topics include their approach to horse training, emphasizing adaptability and...

In this episode of On The Rail Podcast, we dive into the ranch world, featuring an interview with Shannon Quinlan Hill, co-trainer of Hill Performance Horses in Sharpsville, Pennsylvania. Shannon shares her extensive background in the equine industry, spanning from showing hunters and cow horses to auction sale barn horses, influenced by her horse trainer and judge parents. The conversation covers her historic win in the Open Reining at Congress with Rough And Shiny, being the first woman...

In the latest episode of On the Rail Podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Julie Broadway, the President of the American Horse Council, to discuss the results of the 2023 National Equine Economic Impact Study. This research highlights the equine industry's significant $177 billion contribution to the U.S. economy and its role in supporting 2.2 million jobs. However, it also points to a slight decrease in the horse population, raising questions about the industry’s future....

In the latest episode of On the Rail Podcast, we chat with Jill Clark, DVM, a dedicated select amateur with a deep-rooted passion for the equine world. Jill shares her unique journey into horse showing, starting with her early roles in movies as a child that funded her first show horse. Jill discussed her significant contributions to the AQHA community through the Professional Horsemen Endowment Fund and the Professional Horsemen Academy. Inspired by a story from Bruce Walquist and...

We hosted a dynamic group of assistant trainers: Coltin Crystal, Crysta Brown, Lily Zomparelli, and Dillon Holden. They shared their unique perspectives from the trenches of the horse training world, giving us a glimpse into their personal journeys, from early experiences to their current roles in shaping the future of horse training. Our guests discussed the day-to-day realities of being an assistant trainer, the challenges they encounter, and the rewards that keep their passion alive. They...

We're thrilled to host Dr. Chelsea Sinclair and Susie Phillips, leading figures in the sphere of equine reproduction and breeding. They'll walk us through their early days in the industry, the evolving art of stallion management, and the intricacies of stallion ownership from economic, marketing, and mare owner perspectives. We'll also explore how they select stallion prospects, the current breeding programs, and their industry impact. Chelsea and Susie will also share invaluable advice for...

In our latest episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with Ward Stutz and Robin Frid to look into the heart of the AQHA Animal Welfare Commission. As Director of Breed Integrity and the chair of the commission, respectively, Ward and Robin offer us a unique glimpse into their dedication to horse welfare within the industry. They shared insights on the commission's mission, its critical role in promoting humane treatment, and how it navigates the challenges of balancing tradition with...

In this On the Rail Podcast episode, we're excited to introduce Jenna McGrath, also known as The Equimist, who joins us to share her insights into animal communication. As hosts intrigued by the possibility of connecting with animals on a deeper level, we explore Jenna's journey into becoming an animal communicator. She shares with us the evolution of her abilities, the challenges she's navigated, and the affirmations of her work's impact. We discuss memorable moments of connection between...

Today, we have the pleasure of talking with Meghan Tierney, the driving force behind MT Company Quarter Horses in Reddick, Florida. Meghan outlines her journey from Texas and Ohio to Florida, highlighting her transition into show management and the creation of a thriving breeding program with the celebrated mare, Pretty Assets. She also discusses her innovative contributions to the Virginia Maiden and Spring Breakout shows, raising the bar within the industry.   The 2024 Spring Breakout...

The Boys are back! In this heartwarming Valentine's week special of On the Rail Podcast, we are thrilled to bring back another episode featuring our non-horsey partners, Jason and Lantz. Last year, they stole the hearts of many and even climbed the charts, making it one of our most memorable episodes.    This year, we took a deep dive into the ups and downs of the past year, celebrating personal milestones like engagements and debating the profound impact of horses on our lives and...

This is the one you have asked for! In this episode of On the Rail Podcast, we dive into judging with Sandy Jirkovsky (APHA Director of Judges), John Pipkin (AQHA Director of Show Officials), and Bill Kaven (NSBA Judges). This highly anticipated episode offers a spicy follow-up to our discussions on hunter under saddle and western pleasure. Our expert guests unpack the intricate processes, standards, and challenges of judging, providing listeners with a rare glimpse of what happens in the...

In this episode of On the Rail Podcast, we explore the captivating story of David Miller, a former professional horse trainer who gracefully transitioned back to being an amateur. David shares insights from his extensive background in the Quarter Horse, Paint, and USEF worlds, highlighting his achievements as a World Champion, Congress Champion, and a member of the AQHA and NSBA board of directors.   Discover the pivotal moments that led David from a successful professional career to...

In this informative episode of On the Rail Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Steve O'Grady, a renowned veterinarian and farrier with a wealth of experience in equine podiatry. Dr. O'Grady shares his journey from farrier apprenticeship to veterinary science, highlighting his unique approach to hoof care. He discusses various hoof-related issues like managing mismatched front feet, club feet, low heels, and the complexities of navicular syndrome. Dr. O'Grady emphasizes the critical role of trimming...

Dive into the inspiring journey of Alyse Roberts in this episode of On the Rail Podcast. As the founder of Alyse Roberts Performance Horses, Alyse shares her transition from early equestrian experiences to creating a thriving training business.   We explore Alyse's dedicated path in specializing in hunter under saddle horses, providing an in-depth look at the current dynamics of this discipline. Alyse offers her perspective on industry changes and their influences on training and...