Equine Assisted World with Rupert Isaacson

Russell Craig is a celebrated visual artist now based between Philadelphia, New York, and Wellington, Florida, who grew up in the foster care system from age five and spent a total of twelve years in the Pennsylvania prison system before building an art career that has taken him from a mural on the African American Museum in Philadelphia to the White House, the Democratic National Convention, and museum collections around the country.What makes Russell's story so striking is how directly his lived experience speaks to the populations equine-assisted practitioners are trying to serve — kids in foster care, people coming out of incarceration, and anyone navigating systems that were never built with their wellbeing in mind. He found his way through art, using it inside prison as both an escape and, eventually, as a plan for life after release.In this conversation, Russell and Rupert dig into what a horse-based program for foster kids and formerly incarcerated people would actually need to work — structure, mentorship, hands-on care, transportation, funding, and a real sense of separation from old environments — as well as the deeper parallels Russell sees between horses and his own experience of captivity and freedom.If you want to support the show, you can do so at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/LongRideHome✨ "When it's built on good structure, it will stand." – Russell Craig🔍 What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy Russell sees foster care and incarceration as a "funnel" that equine-assisted practitioners need outside mentorship to address responsiblyHow Russell first reconnected with art inside the prison system, and why it became his primary survival strategyWhy structure and a clear long-term plan — not just talent — turned Russell's art into a real career after releaseHow Russell draws parallels between leading a horse and his own experience of incarceration, and what that means for horsemanshipWhy Russell believes any foster-care equine program would need to feel like a true separation from a kid's old environment, not a day visitWhat Russell thinks foster care agencies would need to see before referring kids to an equine programWhy transportation and funding are the two biggest barriers to access for kids who could benefit from equine-assisted programsHow the parole system's rules can make it nearly impossible to stay out of prison, even for someone trying to build a stable lifeWhy Russell believes any program working with formerly incarcerated or at-risk people needs a spiritual or nature-connection componentRupert and Russell's shared idea for a "campus" model that combines equine therapy with green jobs, land restoration, and forestry trainingWhy Russell sought out an arts program from inside prison — and how that became his springboard after releaseRussell's closing advice to practitioners working with foster kids or people coming out of incarceration🎤 Memorable Moments from the Episode[00:03:00] Russell describes being placed in foster care at age five and ending up on the streets by twelve [00:09:00] Russell on reconnecting with art inside prison as a way to escape his surroundings and stay focused [00:21:00] Russell on training himself to look for "the awesome" even inside hard or painful situations [00:35:00] Rupert and Russell draw the parallel between leading a horse and Russell's own experience of incarceration [00:45:00] Rupert outlines NTLS's three certification programs: Horse Boy Method, Movement Method, and Takhin Equine Integration [01:11:00] Russell explains why kids in a foster-care equine program would need real separation from their old environment, not just a day visit [01:13:00] Rupert and Russell brainstorm a "campus" model combining horses with green jobs, land reclamation, and forestry training [01:39:00] Russell details the parole system's rules and how they can make it nearly impossible to stay out of prison [01:53:00] Russell describes seeking out an arts program from inside prison and turning it into his springboard after release [02:03:00] Russell's closing advice: keep pushing, don't do it alone, and connect with others doing the work📚 Contact, Projects, and Resources MentionedRussell Craig – Artist Search: Russell Craig artist New Trails Learning Systems – Horse Boy Method, Movement Method & Takhin Equine Integration https://ntls.co Rupert Isaacson / Long Ride Home https://rupertisaacson.com Patreon Support https://www.patreon.com/LongRideHome🌍 Follow UsLong Ride Home https://longridehome.com https://facebook.com/longridehome.lrh https://instagram.com/longridehome_lrh https://youtube.com/@longridehome New Trails Learning Systems https://ntls.co https://facebook.com/horseboyworld https://instagram.com/horseboyworld https://youtube.com/newtrailslearningsystems📊 Affiliate DisclosureLinks to books and products may include affiliate tracking. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the show.

What happens when curiosity meets compassion and data meets horsemanship? In this inspiring episode, Rupert Isaacson speaks with Dr. Pebbles Turbeville, CEO of the Horses and Humans Research Foundation (HHRF) — an organization that funds groundbreaking studies proving the power of horse-human interactions. For nearly two decades, HHRF has legitimized and advanced the field of equine-assisted services through rigorous, peer-reviewed research, helping programs worldwide access funding and credibility.Pebbles shares the foundation's origins, from founder Molly Sweeney's question of how horses help humans to the global network of researchers and practitioners now carrying that torch. Together, she and Rupert explore the science behind equine-assisted therapy, innovative studies linking brain scans to equine activity, and the growing focus on equine well-being — because healing must go both ways.If you’re in the equine-assisted world, this episode is your guide to the data, ethics, and compassion shaping the future of our field.If you want to support the show, you can do so at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/LongRideHome✨ “When we make horses healthier and happier, we make humans healthier and happier, too.” – Dr. Pebbles Turbeville✨ “Research legitimizes what we do. It helps the world see that playing with ponies is powerful medicine.” – Rupert Isaacson🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Horses and Humans Research Foundation began — and the story of founder Molly Sweeney ([00:03:00])How HHRF’s Shark Tank-style grant process ensures integrity and safety in research ([00:08:00])The challenges of funding equine-assisted research and why quality control matters ([00:10:00])Highlights of HHRF-funded studies, including brain mapping in therapeutic riding ([00:27:00])How horses’ well-being is now central to research — and what the Five Domains model means ([00:34:00])Why fitness, enrichment, and emotional health matter for therapy horses ([00:38:00])How HHRF bridges research and real-world application through free webinars ([00:45:00])The organization’s upcoming conference and equine well-being initiatives ([00:47:00])Innovative grants focused solely on equine welfare ([00:50:00])The role of emotional intelligence and kindness in both horse and human learning ([01:05:00])How collaboration, not competition, will shape the future of the equine-assisted world ([01:25:00])🎤 Memorable Moments from the Episode:The volunteer who changed everything: how one woman’s curiosity built a global research movement ([00:03:00])Pebbles on the irony of how hard it is to give away money – and what makes a great grant applicant ([00:10:00])The first study to measure both human and horse brain activity ([00:27:00])How understanding horse behavior and enrichment prevents burnout and aggression ([00:36:00])The power of the Five Domains: nutrition, environment, health, behavior, and mental state ([00:34:00])Rupert’s reflection on how emotional control and empathy are rooted in horsemanship ([01:06:00])Why interdisciplinary collaboration is the key to advancing the whole field ([01:25:00])📚 Contact, Projects, Thinkers, and Ideas Mentioned:Horses and Humans Research Foundation (HHRF) – https://horsesandhumans.orgDr. Pebbles Turbeville – CEO, Horses and Humans Research FoundationDr. Molly Sweeney – Founder, HHRFDr. Steven Peters – Keynote Speaker, HHRF Conference 2026Dr. Helen Sharp – Research collaborator and educatorDr. Beth Lanning, Baylor University – Neuroscience-based equine studiesChristina Wilkins – Equitation Science & Five Domains CourseSquare Peg Foundation – https://www.squarepegfoundation.orgHorse Boy Method, Movement Method & Takhin Equine Integration – https://ntls.co🌍 See All of Rupert’s Programs and Shows: Website: https://rupertisaacson.com📲 Follow Us:Long Ride HomeWebsite: https://longridehome.comFacebook: https://facebook.com/longridehome.lrhInstagram: https://instagram.com/longridehome_lrhYouTube: https://youtube.com/@longridehomeNew Trails Learning SystemsWebsite: https://ntls.coFacebook: https://facebook.com/horseboyworldInstagram: https://instagram.com/horseboyworldYouTube: https://youtube.com/newtrailslearningsystems📊 Affiliate Disclosure: Links to books and products may include affiliate tracking. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the show.

When most people think of the Thoroughbred industry, they picture racing, speed, and high stakes. But what happens to these horses after the finish line? And could their intelligence, courage, and sensitivity make them perfect partners in equine-assisted work?✨ “It’s a win-win situation for the equine-assisted world and for the Thoroughbred world — an opportunity to give back to society in a meaningful way.” – Suzi Pritchard-Jones✨ “Any living creature is made up of energy. Unless you can express that energy, it gets bottled up and becomes destructive.” – Suzi Pritchard-JonesIn this compelling episode, Rupert Isaacson speaks with Suzi Pritchard-Jones — a breeder and advocate working to bridge the gap between the racing world and the equine-assisted community. Suzi shares her vision for a more humane future for Thoroughbreds, both during their careers and beyond, where welfare, horsemanship, and second careers in therapy and education take center stage.From Ireland to Florida to the UK, Suzi is pushing for change within an industry often misunderstood and criticized, championing transparency, accountability, and empathy for one of the world’s most athletic and misunderstood breeds. Together, she and Rupert explore how Thoroughbreds — once the engine of civilization — can once again serve humanity through healing, learning, and connection.If you want to support the show, you can do so at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/LongRideHome🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why Thoroughbreds deserve a second chance — and how their traits suit equine-assisted work ([00:06:00])The evolution of the racing industry — from owner-breeders to syndicates — and how that affects welfare today ([00:18:00])How misconceptions about “hot” Thoroughbreds persist, and what really defines their temperament ([00:22:00])How better horsemanship could transform the racing world ([00:28:00])Inside prison programs using retired racehorses to teach empathy and responsibility ([00:39:00])Creating unity between equine-assisted practitioners and the racing establishment to secure funding and respect ([01:00:00])How the in-hand Takhin method can help retrain racehorses and improve balance, confidence, and soundness ([01:17:00])Rediscovering the origins of the Thoroughbred — from the Barley Turk to modern breeding concerns ([01:23:00])Why equine-assisted practitioners must explain the science behind their work to earn support ([01:42:00])How the Newmarket Pony Academy and Autism & Racing initiatives are paving the way for social change ([01:45:00])🎙️ Memorable Moments from the Episode:Suzi recalls growing up riding out racehorses in Ireland and learning trust over dominance ([00:05:00])The lightbulb moment: seeing Thoroughbreds used in therapy for veterans at Ville, France ([00:15:00])The evolution of the racing industry and its changing relationship with welfare ([00:18:00])How better horsemanship and “crazy time” for horses can prevent frustration and burnout ([00:28:00])Thoroughbreds and prisons: how touch, empathy, and hope transform both horses and inmates ([00:40:00])Creating transparency and accountability in racing welfare programs ([00:48:00])The challenge of funding and uniting the equine-assisted field ([01:00:00])How the in-hand Takhin method builds balance, confidence, and soundness in ex-racehorses ([01:17:00])Rediscovering the origins of the Thoroughbred — from the Barley Turk to modern breeding concerns ([01:23:00])The Newmarket Pony Academy and Autism & Racing initiatives leading social change ([01:45:00])📚 Contact, Projects, Thinkers, and Ideas Mentioned:Suzi Pritchard-Jones – Author of Barley: The Thoroughbred’s Ticking Time Bomb: https://amzn.to/492f7DdInternational Forum for the Aftercare of Racehorses (IFAR) – https://www.internationalracehorseaftercare.comThoroughbred Retirement Foundation – https://www.trfinc.orgThoroughbred Aftercare Alliance – https://www.thoroughbredaftercare.orgHorseback UK – https://www.horseback.org.ukSquare Peg Foundation – https://www.squarepegfoundation.orgNewmarket Pony Academy – British Racing School, UKAutism & Racing – Initiative founded by Bobby Beavers, UKHorse Boy Method, Movement Method & Takhin Equine Integration – https://ntls.co🌍 See All of Rupert’s Programs and Shows: Website: https://rupertisaacson.com📲 Follow Us:Long Ride HomeWebsite: https://longridehome.comFacebook: https://facebook.com/longridehome.lrhInstagram: https://instagram.com/longridehome_lrhYouTube: https://youtube.com/@longridehomeNew Trails Learning SystemsWebsite: https://ntls.coFacebook: https://facebook.com/horseboyworldInstagram: https://instagram.com/horseboyworldYouTube: https://youtube.com/newtrailslearningsystems📊 Affiliate Disclosure:Links to books and products may include affiliate tracking. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the show.

From a childhood marked by abandonment in Australia to building a groundbreaking equine-assisted program in New Mexico, Dr. Rebecca Evanko’s story is one of resilience, survival, and transformation. Joined by her husband, physician Dr. Marc Evanko, the two share how their own neurodivergence—autism and ADHD—shaped Wilder Wood Equine Therapy, a program centering female autism and authentic connection with horses.Together they discuss the creation of WRADIANCE©, a new diagnostic tool designed by autistic women for autistic women, and their unique counseling model that blends equine interaction with trauma-informed, neurodivergent-led support.✨ “For the first time, I said to myself: I’m not a problem. I’m autistic. I think differently.” – Dr. Rebecca Evanko✨ “There’s nothing wrong with either operating system—Android or Apple. They both work. It’s just different.” – Dr. Marc EvankoIf you want to support the show, you can do so at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/LongRideHome🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Growing up autistic, obsessed with horses, and left alone at 15 in rural Australia ([00:04:00])Surviving homelessness, finding mentors, and building resilience through horses ([00:06:00])Misdiagnosis, masking, and why female autism is so often overlooked ([00:10:00])Meeting Marc, ADHD as both challenge and superpower, and their shared love of horses ([00:21:00])Why true classical dressage informed their horse work at Wilder Wood ([00:27:00])Creating equine therapy and counseling programs rooted in lived autistic experience ([00:48:00])How WRADIANCE© was developed: 900+ narratives from autistic women worldwide ([00:57:00])The limitations of “gold standard” diagnostic tools and why WRADIANCE© is different ([01:00:00])Grief, tribe, and the importance of community for autistic women ([01:17:00])Joy as the opposite of suffering—and the role of horses in bringing it back ([01:53:00])🎙️ Memorable Moments from the Episode:Riding her horse through mist at 2 a.m. as a teen left alone in Queensland ([00:05:00])A kitchen accident leading Rebecca back to horses at age 52 ([00:27:00])Marc’s ADHD metaphor: starting to rake leaves, ending up at Home Depot, forgetting the rake ([00:32:00])Discovering that most autism programs weren’t designed by autistic people ([00:48:00])The “aha” moment: interviews don’t work—written narratives reveal female autism ([00:57:00])Women saying after WRADIANCE©: “I feel so heard. I feel so seen.” ([01:04:00])Why masking makes girls “fly under the radar” until adolescence melts them down ([01:12:00])The concept of learned helplessness vs. finding survival strategies ([01:45:00])Horses as partners in teaching self-reliance, not helplessness ([01:52:00])Rebecca’s memoir Joy—naming what she found on the other side of suffering ([01:53:00])📚 Projects, Thinkers, and Ideas Mentioned:Joy – Memoir by Dr. Rebecca Evanko https://amzn.to/4meH0uPWilder Wood Equine Therapy – https://wilderwoodequinetherapy.orgThe WRADIANCE© Protocol – female autism diagnostic tool in clinical trials https://wilderwoodequinetherapy.org/the-wradiance-instrument-and-protocol/Temple Grandin – Autism advocate, professor, and authorMovement Method & Horse Boy Method – https://ntls.co🌍 See All of Rupert’s Programs and Shows:Website: https://rupertisaacson.com📲 Follow Us:Long Ride Home:Website: https://longridehome.comFacebook: https://facebook.com/longridehome.lrhInstagram: https://instagram.com/longridehome_lrhYouTube: https://youtube.com/@longridehomeNew Trails Learning Systems:Website: https://ntls.coFacebook: https://facebook.com/horseboyworldInstagram: https://instagram.com/horseboyworldYouTube: https://youtube.com/newtrailslearningsystems📊 Affiliate Disclosure:Links to books and products may include affiliate tracking. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the show.

In this episode of Equine Assisted World, Rupert Isaacson sits down with Dr. Janet Varhus, DVM—a veterinarian whose decades of practice bridge old-school horsemanship, holistic care, and cutting-edge therapies like acupuncture, fascia release, and low-level laser treatment. From endurance riding roots to working alongside Linda Tellington-Jones, Dr. Varhus offers a rare, practical roadmap through the complex world of equine health.Together, they explore ulcers, fascia, posture, contaminated feeds, and how barns can combine tradition with holistic practices to keep therapy horses sound, safe, and thriving.If you want to support the show, you can do so at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/LongRideHome✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why posture reveals hidden health issues (Starts at 00:29:00)The role of ulcers in behavior, stress, and performance (Starts at 00:33:00)Glyphosate in grain feeds and what to do about it (Starts at 00:34:00)Herbs and natural remedies for ulcers and liver health (Starts at 00:54:00)Low-level lasers: how they heal nerves, trauma, and chronic injuries (Starts at 00:57:00)Why companionship and enrichment matter as much as feed and shelter (Starts at 01:19:00)The difference between movement, enrichment, and true exercise for horses (Starts at 01:20:00)How to give horses choice, voice, and options for play (Starts at 01:32:00)🌟 Memorable Moments from the Episode:Janet on diagnosing ulcers with acupressure and laser points (00:17:00)Why “I see you” is her starting point with every horse (00:29:57)Why at least half of horses she sees suffer from ulcers (00:33:12)The dangers of glyphosate in grain feeds—and humic acid as a solution (00:37:39)How low-level lasers cut healing time in half for horses, dogs, and even people (01:13:00)Living in a barn with her horses: “They come in for coffee with my husband.” (01:38:06)🤝 Connect with Dr. Janet Varhus, DVM:Email: jvarhusdvm@yahoo.com🌐 See All of Rupert’s Programs and Shows:Rupert Isaacson: https://rupertisaacson.comEquine-Assisted Programs: https://newtrailslearning.com📲 Follow Us:Long Ride HomeFacebook: https://facebook.com/longridehome.lrhInstagram: https://instagram.com/longridehome_lrhYouTube: https://youtube.com/@longridehomeNew Trails Learning SystemsWebsite: https://ntls.coFacebook: https://facebook.com/horseboyworldInstagram: https://instagram.com/horseboyworldYouTube: https://youtube.com/newtrailslearningsystems🧺 Affiliate Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. If you purchase through them, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the show!

In this inspiring episode of Equine Assisted World, Rupert Isaacson sits down with Melissa Connor, Executive Director of Renew Therapeutic Riding Center in Holland, Michigan. Recorded just weeks after Rupert visited the center, this conversation highlights what it takes to create a truly horse-centered therapeutic program—where equine well-being is as prioritized as human healing.Melissa shares her decades-long journey through the equine-assisted services field, how she shaped a program with excellence in horse care, and the practical systems Renew uses to maintain a thriving herd of 22 horses. From rider conditioning and pasture management to financial sustainability and healthy organizational culture, Melissa offers a rare, transparent view into what truly ethical equine-assisted work looks like behind the scenes. If you want to support the show, you can do so at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/LongRideHome ✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Creating a Culture of Equine Well-Being (Starts at 01:00)Why therapeutic horses deserve the same quality of care as competition horsesHow listening to horses and honoring their vocation sets the foundationThe importance of movement, friendship, and forage (the three F’s)Evolving Out of the "Donated Horse" Mentality (Starts at 09:00)Melissa’s early experiences with horses in VirginiaWhy therapeutic programs shouldn’t accept broken-down or unsuitable horsesHow to reframe our value system when it comes to horses in serviceSetting Standards for Horse Acceptance & Retirement (Starts at 20:00)How Renew handles free leases and vet care capsWhy written agreements and ongoing owner relationships are criticalWhat happens when retirement is needed—but the owner steps backToplines, Thriving, and Conditioning (Starts at 29:00)Rupert’s reaction to seeing three glowing, fit therapy horsesThe conditioning system at Renew: riding, groundwork, and professional lessonsWhy not all conditioning needs to involve riding—and how Teke work will integrateTime Management & Staff Structure (Starts at 37:00)How Renew blocks out weekly time for horse conditioningUsing shared digital logs and notes to communicate across staffWhy excellence in horsemanship is a hiring priorityFinding Skilled Riders for Conditioning (Starts at 41:00)Where and how Renew recruits advanced, balanced ridersWhy setting the bar high helps attract the right peopleBuilding a team of instructors with both equestrian and teaching skillsTurning Horses Out—Even in Michigan Winters (Starts at 47:00)How Renew designed their pastures and shelter for 24/7 turnoutThe mental and physical benefits of herd life and freedom to moveManaging blankets, individualized care, and daily wellness checksFunding a High-Standard Therapeutic Program (Starts at 56:00)Renew’s journey from a small leased parcel to a built-from-scratch facilityStrategies that work: storytelling, Chamber of Commerce, and Rotary clubsWhy inviting donors to the farm changes everythingCommunity Culture, Conflict & Longevity (Starts at 1:10:00)How Renew fosters staff cohesion, continued education, and joy at workMelissa’s perspective on conflict resolution and non-toxic leadershipBuilding systems that ensure sustainability beyond one leaderThe Future of Equine Assisted Services (Starts at 1:33:00)Why mentorship is urgently needed in our fast-growing fieldRecruiting not just horse people, but professionals in governance and financeMelissa’s dream: long-term impact and positive life change with every ride🌟 Memorable Moments from the Episode:Rupert’s reaction to seeing perfect toplines on therapy horses (29:00)Why “the barns are for humans, not horses” (07:00)Melissa’s powerful response to someone offering broken equipment (14:00)The reality of owners not reclaiming their horses after years in service (22:00)One donor’s lunch meeting that became the start of Renew’s land purchase (1:05:00)🤝 Connect with Melissa Connor & Renew TRC: Website: https://renewtrc.org Facebook: https://facebook.com/renewtrc Instagram: https://instagram.com/renewtrc🌐 See All of Rupert’s Programs and Shows: Rupert Isaacson: https://rupertisaacson.com Equine-Assisted Programs: https://newtrailslearning.com📲 Follow Us: Long Ride Home Facebook: https://facebook.com/longridehome.lrh Instagram: https://instagram.com/longridehome_lrh YouTube: https://youtube.com/@longridehomeNew Trails Learning Systems Website: https://ntls.co Facebook: https://facebook.com/horseboyworld Instagram: https://instagram.com/horseboyworld YouTube: https://youtube.com/newtrailslearningsystems🧺 Affiliate Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. If you purchase through them, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the show!