The Equestrian Connection

Shannon Beahen specializes in teaching her own consent-based approach to natural dressage and liberty, equine care and co-living, as well as the creation of species-appropriate habitats that promote dynamic movement and autonomous equine lifestyles. She is passionate about exploring and articulating the ethics of embodied horse-human relationships. And her hope is that, through teaching a deeper awareness of human-animal and human-environment relations, equestrian education ceases to be a privileged pastime that replicates outdated domination logics; and instead may just provide some of the seeds to birth a new earth. Shannon has been an Equestrian Canada certified Competition Coach since the late 90s, studying topics related to human-animal ethics, language and philosophy since 2008 (BA, MA, PhD Candidate). She holds certifications in horse-human trauma-recovery and lives on Vancouver Island where she tends acreage with her multi-species family. Connect with Shannon: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humminghorse_sb/ Website: https://www.humminghorse.com/

Franke Sloothaak is a true legend of show jumping: During his active career, he became World Champion and Olympic gold medalist, winning numerous major prizes. He trained and competed in top-level competition with more horses than almost anyone else. Today, he works behind the scenes, coaching students all over the world. In conversation with Christian Kroeber, he looks back on his career, recounting how he began teaching at the age of 15, how his time at Alwin Schockemöhle's stable shaped him, and his first appearances for the German team. What unites all the stages of his equestrian career is a keen eye for a horse's strengths and weaknesses. He discusses how seemingly minor details can be crucial and always returns to one key principle: His focus is on training horses in a way that promotes their health, improves their movement, and motivates them for long-term work with humans. An inspiring conversation full of horsemanship, about Franke's personal journey, his will to win, and current challenges in the sport. *Important to note: This podcast episode was originally recorded in German for the wehorse podcast. We used translation software to dub the episode for our English podcast, The Equestrian Connection.

Baylee Summer helps ethical horse trainers to create, launch, and sell online offers in just 4 months in her business mentorship program, “Ethical Trainer Alchemy, and she has helped dozens of trainers get their businesses off the ground and generate actual profit (instead of barely breaking even). Baylee has made it her mission to help them get booked out & well paid, so they can sustainably do the work we so desperately need—horse & human alike. I originally interviewed Baylee two years ago, on episode # 69, and today she is back to share her latest FREE offering, “How to Make Your First $5k Online,” which is a mini-course for ethical horse trainers & practitioners where they’ll get a step by step process to to take their work online, attract aligned clients, and generate thousands (even with a tiny following)—without sacrificing integrity OR client success. So, be sure to scroll down to get your free access. Connect with Baylee: FREE Mini Course: https://baylee-summer.mykajabi.com/make-your-first-5k-online Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bayleejoysummer/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/baylee.sheppard

Rebecca Haddock is a trailblazer in equine taping, with over 30 years of hands-on experience in the horse industry. She is the Owner and President of EquiTecs Equine Technologies Institue, a Certified EEKT and EEBT practitioner, and the author of Stick With Success – Equine Functional Taping Made Simple. Rebecca is known for blending science-based expertise with ranch-tested wisdom and humor, making her teaching both practical and engaging. Her work has transformed equine wellness education, from developing the first scientifically researched equine tape to creating innovative training programs now used in over 26 countries. In this episode, we discuss what Equine Taping is, when and why to use it, how it can benefit every horse, and so much more. Connect with Rebecca: Website: https://www.equitecs.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/equi_tecs/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EquiTape

Sabrina Hidiroglou is a Grand Prix Dressage rider and yoga teacher, helping equestrians get supple, calm, and confident - in and out of the saddle. Sabrina’s love for horses began early, and by age 8, she was taking regular dressage lessons, drawn to the precision and partnership of the sport. In 2008, Zinté F came into her life—a fiery young KWPN stallion who became her partner through every phase of her career. Around that same time, Sabrina discovered yoga. What started as a way to improve her position and confidence in the saddle quickly became a tool for navigating pressure, building strength, and staying grounded—on and off the horse. Sabrina became a certified yoga teacher in 2014 and began integrating yoga into her life as both a rider and coach. That same year, she and Zinté reached the FEI Prix St. Georges level, and now, they have competed at the Grand Prix. In 2019, Sabrina launched Yoga for Riders to support other equestrians and make it accessible for riders worldwide. Connect with Sabrina: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sabrinahidiroglou/ Website: https://www.sabrinahidiroglou.com/

Bérénice Roussel is a professional rider, holding a Diplôme d'État de la Jeunesse, de l'Éducation Populaire et du Sport, a specialized state-recognized diploma in France for becoming an expert equestrian coach or trainer, offered at the IFCE's training center at the Cadre Noir in Saumur. The training focuses on developing high-level coaching skills, including training design, athlete development, and secure, competent training methods for competitive equestrian sports. Bérénice is also the only French-speaking Balance Through Movement Method trainer and Lazaris Nerve Release Practitioner. Today we’ll be discussing her journey with Classical Dressage, the link between anatomy, biomechanics, nervous system and the spirit of the horse, and her experience learning in another country and language. Connect with Bérénice: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bereniceroussel_ecurieroquedor/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100005477957894 Website: https://berenicerousselequestrian.my.canva.site/

Sara is a certified professional in Equine Myo-manipulative Functional Therapy (EMFT), and the only person in Italy certified in Level 1 Neuro Fascial Conditioning™ and Rib Entrapment Syndrome Therapy™. She is also certified as an EQ Practitioner in emotional intelligence and self-awareness, and is studying to become an NLP Practitioner. Sara’s desire to combine self-awareness techniques with working with horses stems from the desire to seek clear and profound communication with the animal and find balance together. On this episode, we chat about EMFT, neuro-fascial conditioning, rip entrapment, how bridle fit can affect the horse’s fascial nerves and skull, and more. Connect with Sara: Website: https://www.saequine.it Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saequinetherapy

Sarah-Katrin Bourdeaux lives near Munich, Germany. After completing a degree in art history and archeology, she first worked in event management before moving into freelance marketing. The idea for her first book, “Do Puddles Eat Ponies,” came after years of writing a blog about her two horses and their experiences with day-to-day training, dressage, and horse shows. Blending humor, creativity, and an eye for detail makes her writing unique and authentic, and adored by fans all over the world. Sarah also shares her knowledge as a self-publisher with other aspiring authors in her online courses, which you can find on her website. Connect with Sarah: Order the Book (North America): https://trafalgarbooks.com/products/do-puddles-eat-ponies Website: https://www.sarahbourdeaux.de/ Instagram (English): https://www.instagram.com/sarah_bourdeaux_author/ Instagram (German): https://www.instagram.com/sarah_bourdeaux/

Elisse Miki is the founder of Equilibria Therapeutics, a multi-disciplinary therapist, educator, and one of the leading voices in the field of equine craniosacral therapy. Elisse holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, is a Registered Massage Therapist, and has advanced training in osteopathic manual therapy, with over 20 years of experience working with both human and equine bodies. Through her business, Equilibria Therapeutics, she offers not only hands-on sessions for horses but also certification programs, continuing education, and mentorship for equine professionals and bodyworkers. In this episode, we explore what craniosacral therapy actually is, why assessment matters before diving into treatment, and the many ways the horse’s body holds and tells their story. Connect with Elisse: Website: https://www.equilibriatherapeutics.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eqtherapeutics/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqtherapeutics/

John Haime is one of the leading Performance Coaches in high level sports and works regularly for some of the world's top show jumpers and eventers (as well as everyday, young riders in all disciplines).He is also the author of the popular best-selling book, “Ride Big” – a guide to confidence in equestrian sport embraced by equestrians at all levels. John’s experience ranges from working with some of the world’s leading athletes in the major professional sports leagues, regularly coaching leading C-level executives in Fortune 100 companies, and he has education in psychology, neuroscience, emotional intelligence, communication and executive coaching. In this episode, we’ll be discussing the impact and importance of confidence in equestrian sport, the purpose of a Performance Coach, and how you can go from Riding Small to Riding Big. Connect with John Haime: Website: https://equestrian.johnhaime.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnhaimeequestrian/ Order “Ride Big” the book: https://trafalgarbooks.com/products/ride-big The Pressure Guide (FREE DOWNLOAD): https://mailchi.mp/newedgeperformance/peakperformance

Pat Retzlaff is the co-founder of Mozambique Horse Safari and the book “One Hundred and Four Horses”. In this conversation, Pat shares how he and his family were forced to leave their farm in Zimbabwe during a time of political upheaval—and how they made the bold and brave decision to rescue and relocate over 100 horses across borders. We talk about the challenges they faced, what it took to rebuild their lives in Mozambique, and how that experience led to the creation of a unique safari company that offers unforgettable horseback experiences along the stunning Mozambican coastline. Whether you’re a traveler or someone navigating big life transitions—this episode has something meaningful for you. Connect with Mozambique Horse Safari: Website: https://www.mozambiquehorsesafari.com/ Order the Book: https://www.amazon.com/Hundred-Four-Horses-Mandy-Retzlaff/dp/0007477562?sr=8-1 Support the Horses: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/support-the-horses-of-mozambique-horse-safari Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mozambiquehorsesafari/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/africanhorsesafari/

If you are a woman who loves horses, if you love a woman who loves horses, if you are the parent of a girl, or the child of a woman who loves horses—this book is for you. Author Karin Winegar does the deepest dive yet into the nature of horse craziness, that incurable attraction and joy so many of us feel in the presence of horses. Karin’s latest book, “Horse Lovers: Unpacking the Female Fascination,” asks the question: Why are girls and women so very often horse lovers? Karin Winegar was born horse crazy in Albert Lea, Minnesota and never got over that stage — she even took her horse to college with her. She graduated from Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota and attended graduate school in English literature at the University of Minnesota. Her freelance work has appeared in publications ranging from The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal to Practical Horseman, Cowboys & Indians, Conde Nast Traveler and Sailing magazine. Karin's work has won Lowell Thomas Awards for both investigative reporting and for maritime journalism. She has won numerous awards in the equine industry including two AQHA Steel Dust Awards and the U.S. Equestrian Award. In this episode, we’re chatting about her latest book, Horse Lovers: Unpacking the Female Fascination. Connect with Karin: Website: https://www.karinwinegar.com/ Website: https://www.horsefeedpress.com/ Order the Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Horse-Lovers-Unpacking-Female-Fascination/dp/0578125234/ Order the Book on Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/p/books/horse-lovers-unpacking-the-female-fascination/cad3dc22ce4bc90a?ean=9780578125237&next=t

Tara Glidden is a passionate advocate for veterinary professionals and their well-being. With 22 years of experience in the veterinary field, Tara has worked in various roles, from veterinary assistant to registered veterinary technician. Their journey led them to Zoetis, where they spent 8 years in the companion animal division as an industry specialist and strategic account manager, gaining a deep understanding of both clinical practice and industry support. Now serving as the Director of Wellbeing and HR for 8 independently owned veterinary practices, Tara is dedicated to creating a workplace culture that supports both personal and professional growth. As a certified yoga, mindfulness, meditation, and breath instructor, they integrate these practices into veterinary medicine to help teams navigate stress and burnout. This episode is for those who work in animal support roles and also for horse owners (and animal owners in general) to perhaps see things from other perspectives when communicating with their animal support teams. We dive into their unique perspective on veterinary well-being, leadership, and the evolving landscape of the profession.