How YEDA Is Creating Horse Kids Without Buying Horses... and How Trainers Can Benefit!

About this episode

The episode discusses how YEDA is supporting young equestrians and the challenges faced by trainers in the horse industry.

This week, Ric Weitzel, CRO of YEDA, joins us to talk all things YEDA and the important role youth programs play in the future of the horse industry. From catch-riding and lesson horses to scholarships, national championships, and creating opportunities for riders who don't have access to horse ownership, this conversation dives into the many ways YEDA is helping young equestrians find their place in the industry. We chat about the realities of building lesson programs, the challenges trainers face when trying to grow the next generation of riders, and why creating accessible entry points into horses matters now more than ever. The conversation also explores the financial side of the industry, the rising costs associated with participation, and what it takes to create sustainable programs that can continue serving riders for years to come. Along the way, we discuss coaching, mentorship, horse-and-rider matching, judging challenges, youth recruitment, and the often-overlooked work happening behind the scenes to keep equestrian opportunities available for young people. We also take a look at YEDA National Championship Week and the experiences, connections, and memories that make it…

People in this episode

Host: Crysta Brown

Guest: Ric Weitzel

Topics covered

• youth programs
• horse industry
• equestrian opportunities
• training challenges
• financial sustainability

Keywords

• YEDA
• youth equestrians
• horse ownership
• lesson programs
• national championships
• financial challenges
• coaching
• mentorship

Sponsors

NAC Equine Services

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: YEDA

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