Best Usef Podcasts (2025)

1
Episode 24: Class Warfare--The Debate Over Proposed USEF Class Limits 26:46

Play Pause

11d ago26:46

26:46

In this episode, Karen and Jen tackle the contentious issue of class limits within USEF Hunter Jumper competitions. The hosts reference articles from The Plaid Horse Magazine by Robin Greenwood and Nina Thornton, and draw on their own experiences. As the hosts explore the pros and cons of class limits, the conversation flows into multiple scenarios…

1
Episode 26: What's a Nice Guy Like You Doing in a Sport Like This? Luke Tanner Speaks Up On Sportsmanship and Gender Dynamics in Equestrian Competition. 32:03

5h ago32:03

32:03

In this enlightening episode Jen and Karen welcome a special guest; Luke Tanner, Karen's son. As one of the few boys in a sport traditionally dominated by females at the amateur level, Luke shares his unique perspective on the equestrian community. Join the conversation as they explore Luke's experiences competing in horse shows, where he enjoyed a…

1
Episode 25: The Road Less Traveled—How Single Discipline Teams Offer an Alternative Route to NCEA/NCAA Equestrian Competition, with Head Coach, Tash Vitkovic 30:43

4d ago30:43

30:43

When you think NCEA/NCAA Equestrian, powerhouse teams such as Georgia, SMU, Auburn and the University of South Carolina probably spring to mind. But it was actually the College of Charleston that brought an NCEA Trophy back to South Carolina in 2025. Led by Head Coach, Natasha "Tash" Vitkovic, and Assistant Coach, Hope King, the Cougars clenched th…

1
Davis Equine - Dr's Chad and Stephanie Davis 1:28:10

8d ago1:28:10

1:28:10

Karen and guest co-host Margaret Rizzo-McKelvy from Mythic Landing Enterprises get to know Dr's Chad and Stephanie Davis. Chad and Stephanie run their equine vet clinic out of The Plains, VA as well as Virginia Equine Rehab and Performance Center and Be Safe Bracelets. We discuss Pre-Purchase exams, Soft Tissue Injuries and also how equine veterina…

1
Episode 23: Common Rider Injuries and Emergency Preparedness for Riders, Trainers and Parents 16:48

18d ago16:48

16:48

Certified Athletic Trainer, Tamara Harris discusses her role with The University of South Carolina Equestrian Team--from treating minor pains and strains and mixing the Gatorade "just right," to handling 911 calls in the event of an emergency. Tamara also offers up advice on what barns should include in their own emergency plans, and the medical su…

1
Episode 22: Importing a Horse on a Door Dash Salary!?! 21:33

25d ago21:33

21:33

Karen's son hopes to Door Dash his way to his first horse purchase--and he's considering importing--impossible right?! Well maybe not. Sure, its going to take A LOT of "Dashing," but importing horses isn't reserved for the super rich. In this episode, Karen has lots of questions for Jen on her experience traveling to Europe to try horses, importing…

1
Jaclyn Burke - 3* Eventer 50:22

1M ago50:22

50:22

This week, Karen and Robby get to know 3* Eventer Jaclyn Burke. Jaclyn shares her story of growing up in Chicago and getting her first pony Apache, that was later deemed not suitable for pony club to meeting her future husband while playing kick ball in DC. Today, Jaclyn works full time and runs Burke Equestrian at her farm Hablyn Hills where she t…

1
Episode 21: Add To Cart; Do Buyers Need Professional Advice or Just a PC to Purchase a Horse? 27:00

1M ago27:00

27:00

Karen and Jen, a dedicated horse show parent and a seasoned horse trainer, dive into some of the the crucial aspects of purchasing a horse. They explore the importance of enlisting professional help when making such an significant investment, discussing how expert guidance can prevent costly mistakes that often arise from online purchases or amatue…

1
Episode 20: Horse Show Etiquette—Cracking The Unwritten Code 21:37

1M ago21:37

21:37

From the fine art of cheering to the delicate balance of arrival times, Karen and Jen dissect some of the often unwritten rules of horse show etiquette. Discover why parents should steer clear of the in gate and the importance of timing when it comes to morning barn chores. From their two different perspectives, Karen and Jen explore the reasons be…

1
Episode 19: What's So Great About Pony Finals Anyway? 29:15

2M ago29:15

29:15

In a few short weeks, young riders and diminutive equines from all over the country will flock to Lexington, Kentucky for one of the most anticipated events of the year; USEF Pony Finals. Stepping into the Walnut Ring is the culmination of months, maybe even years of preparation and hard work. For some riders, Pony Finals is the start of an illustr…

1
Maya Clarkson - 2025 Young Rider 3* Champion 38:03

2M ago38:03

38:03

This week, Karen and Robby get to know Maya Clarkson. Maya joins us after being crowned the 2025 Young Rider 3* Champion at the Maryland Horse Trials with her horse Maks Mojo C. Maya shares her story of growing up in California and riding at a lesson barn to then moving to Germany for a year to work and ride show jumpers. Once back in the US, Maya …

1
Episode 18: Liza Boyd and her Team of Family Members set to Compete for €300,000 in The Baran Global Hunter Classic 22:25

2M ago22:25

22:25

The Baran Global Hunter Classic is an event like no other and Liza Towell Boyd has put together a team like no other! Liza, along with her daughter Elle Boyd, and her brother Hardin Towell, are traveling to Valkendwaard, Netherlands, to take on six other teams in a Nations Cup style competition that includes an under saddle, a classic hunter round …

1
Kenta Hiranaga - Japan to the US - Making his dreams come true! 21:00

2M ago21:00

21:00

Karen and Robby get to know Japan's 3* rider, Kenta Hiranaga. Kenta is here in the US training with Boyd Martin. We hear all about what he is doing at Windurra and what his future goals are. We wish Kenta the best of luck getting to LA2028! To follow Kenta's journey: https://www.instagram.com/kenta_usa_life_eventing/ Please support our sponsors: ht…

1
SPECIAL EPISODE: SCOPE ON THE ROAD--Pony Powerhouses Robin Greenwood and Brynn Garrett, and the Sunday Horse Show Wrap Up 12:15

2M ago12:15

12:15

Karen and Jen are on location in Raeford NC for the NCHJA Annual Horse Show and tracked down the legendary pony trainer, Robin Greenwood. If you're a pony rider who wants to move to the front of the model, put this episode at the top of your playlist. Robin gave us tips on turn out, bridle fit and more. Dual discipline pony rider, Brynn Garrett gav…

1
SPECIAL EPISODE: SCOPE ON THE ROAD--USEF Judge Mike Rosser, Horse Show Manager and Course Designer Patrick Rodes and the Saturday Horse Show Wrap Up. 15:23

2M ago15:23

15:23

Karen and Jen are on location in Raeford NC for the NCHJA Annual Horse Show. We've got the show day wrap up and so much more! USEF Judge Mike Rosser talks about some of his biggest pet peeves when he's officiating. Horse Show Manager and Course Designer Patrick Rodes discusses the many hats he wears, as well as the merits of more traditional style …

1
SPECIAL EPISODE: SCOPE ON THE ROAD--North Carolina Hunter Jumper Association Annual Horse Show Thursday/Friday Wrap Up! 12:30

2M ago12:30

12:30

Karen and Jen are on location in Raeford North Carolina covering the 43rd Annual NCHJA Horse Show! We've got interviews with a couple of the big winners from Thursday and Friday; Bridget Hickton and Ashley Lovegrove! Karen assesses the hospitality tent and roasts the winners who dodged the pod. Support the show…

1
The Perspective You Need with Green + Challenging Horses, with Zacarius Salmeron 1:10:12

2M ago1:10:12

1:10:12

This episode is proudly presented by Nikovian. Use code horseperson15 at checkout for 15% off your order. We’re living in a horse world that often rushes. Young horses are expected to mature fast, to progress on human timelines, and to succeed by a certain age—or else we worry they’ve “missed their chance” or they wont be sellable. But today, I’m j…

1
Episode 17: When Riders Move on; Navigating the Client/Trainer Breakup 29:31

2M ago29:31

29:31

Jen and Karen--an equestrian professional and her former client--tackle the complex emotions and practical steps involved when a rider leaves one barn for another. In this candid conversation, Jen opens up about the ego blow and sense of loss that can accompany losing a client, sharing insights into the professional side of these transitions. Meanw…

1
Caitlin O'Roark - 3* Eventer and Head Rider for Lauren Nicholson 31:38

2M ago31:38

31:38

This week, Karen and Robby get to know 3* Eventer Caitlin O'Roark. Caitlin shares her story of growing up in Virginia where her mom breeds sporthorses which led her, at a very young age meeting Lauren Nicholson. Caitlin eventually started taking lesson with Lauren and also David O' Connor. Today, Caitlin is know the head rider for Lauren where she …

1
Episode 16: A popular TikTok Activist, Discusses the Fight For Horse Welfare in a Bullying Culture 38:07

3M ago38:07

38:07

In this compelling episode, Karen and Jen sit down with TikTok activist Anna Propp, known as theinsidetrack.eq, to delve into her mission of raising awareness about horse welfare through her sometimes controversial videos. Anna shares her journey into activism, explaining how she became passionate about highlighting the inhumane practices in the eq…

1
USEF Responds to Frustrations Regarding Horse Welfare and Abuse in Sport 1:00:43

3M ago1:00:43

1:00:43

In the first interview of this kind, US Equestrian's COO and General Counsel, Sonja Keating, is speaking to the frustrations shared by USEF membership regarding the perceived lack of action and enforcement on horse abuse in sport in the United States. On May 27, the Chronicle of the Horse published an article entitled USEF Must Do Better in Fightin…

1
Caroline Howe: I Don't Think USEF Is Doing Enough Against Horse Abuse. Here's Why. 45:22

3M ago45:22

45:22

On May 27, the Chronicle of the Horse published an article entitled USEF Must Do Better in Fighting Horse Abuse, written by Caroline Howe. That same day, the United States Equestrian Federation sent an email to its membership which the Chronicle also published on its website, seemingly in response to Caroline’s piece, in which they call for the com…

1
Tommy Greengard - West Coast 4* Eventer 45:07

3M ago45:07

45:07

Karen and Robby get to know West Coast 4* Eventer, Tommy Greengard. Tommy tells the story of coming from non-horsey parents and finding his way to taking lessons at a large lesson barn. Tommy now runs his business out of Chocolate Horse Farm in Pataluma, CA. Tommy also shares with us what happened to him at the Kentucky 4* when he learned the wrong…

1
Episode 15. The TRUTH about what it takes to ride for an NCEA/NCAA D1 Equestrian Team, with former head coach, Boo Major 25:52

3M ago25:52

25:52

We don't think you'll find a more honest and informative discussion about what it takes to ride at the NCEA Division 1 level anywhere else! Boo Major, three time NCEA National Championship winning coach of the University of South Carolina Gamecocks, SPILLS THE TEA about what coaches are looking for in riders' resumes, how lesser known riders can se…

1
Episode 14. Equestrian Athletes. SMART goals require honest trainer/client communication. Or, Setting Goals like the boss that you are. 19:47

3M ago19:47

19:47

Karen and Jen discuss the importance of setting S.M.A.R.T. goals and why open and honest dialogue between trainers and clients is crucial to achieving these goals. Karen and Jen offer some unique insights into their own discussions regarding budgets, time commitments and when and why to pivot when it comes to goals. Whether you are the parent to an…

1
Sara Schulman - Advanced Amateur Eventer 32:00

3M ago32:00

32:00

Karen and Robby meet Sara Schulman. Sara is an inspiration to the Amateur in the sport of Eventing. While she works a full time job, Sara is able to train and compete and was even able to place 2nd at the 2024 Maryland 3*L where she held the position from start to finish. Sara is now competing at the Advanced level and have plans to go all the way …

1
Answering Your Questions on Fear, Anxiety while Riding, and Motivation w/ Dr. Jenny Susser - LIVE Call-in Show 1:12:39

3M ago1:12:39

1:12:39

This special LIVE episode is made possible by Nikovian. Use code horseperson15 to get 15% off your entire order at checkout. This episode is also supported by WeRideTogether.today. We all have a part to play in preventing abuse and misconduct in equestrian sports. Learn more on their website. Dr. Jenny Susser is a renowned, Olympic level sport psyc…

1
Episode 13. Equestrian Sports. Barn Culture and the Horse Show Social Scene, with Lifestyle Influencer and Horse Show mom, Katherine Robinson 24:16

3M ago24:16

24:16

We take a deep dive into barn norms when it comes to VIP Tents, tack room tailgate parties and dinners out at horse shows. Katherine Robinson, former barn mom in Jen's barn and current lifestyle influencer, drops by the studio to weigh in. We hit all the burning topics including, what happens when not everyone buys into the barn culture, who pays t…

1
Taren Hoffos - West Coast 4* Eventer 38:41

3M ago38:41

38:41

Karen and Robby meet 4* West Coast Eventer, Taren Hoffos. Taren shares her story of growing up in California where her family bought Copper Meadows and would hold events up to the 4*. Now Taren runs her business out of the family farm where she teaches lessons and hosts clinics. We had a great time getting to know Taren and we hope you do too! PC: …

1
Episode 12. Rider wellness. "We gotta do something." In the wake of tragedy, a North Carolina Trainer said this to her client and friend Kevin McKirahan. Fifteen months later, with his help, USHJA is offering ... 22:23

4M ago22:23

22:23

In September 2024, North Carolina Trainer Beverly Burnette lost a dear friend. A few weeks later, born from the tragedy, Kevin and Alex McKirahan gained a passion project that could change the lives of many USHJA members. This week, their hard work finally paid off as the USHJA announced that AllyHealth is now offered to members at every level for …

1
Horse Person MADE: Daniel Bluman & Bluman Equestrian 1:02:51

4M ago1:02:51

1:02:51

This episode is sponsored by Connaway & Associates Equine Insurance Services. Welcome to Horse Person: MADE — where we explore the stories behind the brands, businesses, and visionaries shaping the horse world. This isn’t just about entrepreneurship — it’s about the real, human journey: the risks, the resilience, the detours, and the drive it takes…

1
Episode 11. Equestrian Sports. A former member of the USEF Hearing Panel, Andrew Ellis, discusses the USEF rule violation system and social media whistle blowers. 26:18

4M ago26:18

26:18

Andrew Ellis, horse show manager, paddock master and former member of the USEF Hearing Panel, talks about the strengths and weaknesses of the USEF rule violation system, the responsibility we all share to protect our equine partners and the integrity of our sport and how social media whistle blowers fit into the equation. Support the show…

1
Yves Sauvignon - Top West Coast Trainer 46:08

4M ago46:08

46:08

Karen and Robby get to know Yves Sauvignon. Yves is native to France but moved to the West Coast to start Oakridge Training Stables in 1981. Since moving to the states, Yves has produced many top names in the sport and was a Gold Medal YR coach. Yves talks about how he always knew he wanted to be a trainer and the schooling he went through in Franc…

1
Episode 10. Rider Fitness. Dan Austin, NCEA Equestrian strength and conditioning coach and power lifting world record holder. 17:06

4M ago17:06

17:06

Dan Austin discusses a typical workout week for the equestrian athletes he coaches, how he got into coaching equestrians, his experience in the saddle and how he helps his team tap into the athlete mindset. Whether you have NCEA aspirations or are just looking for some tips to get fit for the show ring, you don't want to miss this episode! Support …

1
Gabriella Ringer - USEA U21 Athlete 36:24

4M ago36:24

36:24

Karen and Robby get to know West Coast 3* rider, Gabriella Ringer. Gabriella was just announced to the 2025 USEA Emerging Athlete Under 21 Program and she tells us all about the process and what's to come. She also tells us her story of growing up and riding at a Dude Ranch only to be upset when the only lesson barn around taught English. Thankfull…

1
Episode 9. Equestrian Athletes. Hunter Kay discusses why his high school hurdling career never got off the ground, working for famed trainers and dog rescuers Danny and Ron, and a potential pickleball ... 20:56

4M ago20:56

20:56

Hunter Kay confirmed that he is one of the top young professional riders on the East Coast by clenching the High Score Developing Rider Award during WCHR Week at the Winter Equestrian Festival this year. Hunter joins Karen and Jen in the studio to discuss his fitness routine, how barn workouts could help riders stay motivated and why swimming might…

1
Don't Let These Common Bitting Mistakes Hold You Back; Why Choosing a Bit for Your Horse Is a Bigger Responsibility Than You Think 1:01:08

4M ago1:01:08

1:01:08

This episode is presented by Nikovian. Use code horseperson15 for 15% off your order. The bit is one of the most powerful—and potentially harmful—tools we use, yet most riders choose one without fully understanding its impact. In this episode, we unpack why choosing a bit and understanding that bit is actually a huge responsibility that we really n…

1
Guide to Working Student Success Roundtable 1:01:59

4M ago1:01:59

1:01:59

Karen and Robby have a roundtable discussion with Alex Conrad, Bradley Champagne, Emma Yanek and Joe Bowersox about the do's and don'ts of becoming a working student. They share their experiences and Alex talks about what he learned from his time as a working student and uses today in his very successful business. Anyone thinking of becoming a work…

1
Episode 8. Rider Wellness. Sports Dietician Kristen Ziesmer discusses fueling riders' bodies for optimal performance on horse show days and training days. Spoiler alert; charcuterie boards and hard seltzers ... 25:51

4M ago25:51

25:51

Kristen Ziesmer, MS, RD, CSSD, LD, specializes in helping athletes reach their full potential with proper nutrition. She joins Karen and Jen to discuss macronutrients, hydration, and what to eat on show days, even if you're one of those people who says "I can't eat before I ride." Still wanting more after this episode? Tune into Kristen's show, Fem…

1
Episode 7. Rider wellness. Psychologist Rhea Merck discusses competition anxiety, parental pressure, coaching styles and Karen's boiled peanut trauma. 29:53

5M ago29:53

29:53

Licensed clinical psychologist and author, Rhea Merck has worked with student athletes for over a decade. She joins Karen and Jen in the studio to discuss the techniques she has used over the years to help equestrians reach their full potential in the show ring. Support the showBy Jennifer

1
Katie Sisk - Eventer/Vet/Mom of Twin Boys 51:28

5M ago51:28

51:28

This week, Karen and Robby get to know Eventer Katie Sisk. Katie lives in the Midwest where she runs her own veterinarian practice called Kaydence Sports Medicine and Rehab, competes at the 2* level and is a mom of twin 16 month old boys. Katie talks about how she is able to juggle everything with the help of her husband, family and friends. Katie …

1
What If Horses Could Heal the Trauma We're Too Ashamed to Talk About? 1:04:25

5M ago1:04:25

1:04:25

This episode is presented by Nikovian. Saly Glassman spent nearly four decades leading one of the largest retail investment practices in the world, but she walked away to help people heal through horses, and isn't looking back. In this episode, we dive into how Saly combined her passions for psychology, philanthropy, and horsemanship to create the …

1
Episode 6. Equestrian Sports. Are the new competition pre-requisites for USEF Licensed Hunter/Equitation Judges really in the best interest of the sport?? 23:04

5M ago23:04

23:04

Karen and Jen discuss a new USEF Rule that requires Licensed Hunter/Equitation Judges to have shown or trained a competitor at 3' for a 'r' rating and 3'6" for a 'R' rating. Is this inline with the judging criteria of other subjective sports? What impact could this rule have on the accessibility and fan appeal of the sport? Listen to find out what …

1
The Heart of Horse Care: Emma Chapman on 18 Years As a Pro Groom at the Top of Show Jumping 46:04

5M ago46:04

46:04

Emma Chapman has been a professional groom at the top of show jumping competition for almost 2 decades and in that time, she's learned a thing or two. Today, we get to learn from her. Emma, who manages WEG gold medalist Adrienne Sternlicht's operation, gives us an inside look at the essential role of grooms in horse care and competition. We also di…

1
Episode 5. Equestrian Athletes. Maria Falgione talks athleticism, work/life balance and how the current Houston Texans Strength Coach helped her career as a jockey. 22:13

5M ago22:13

22:13

Our first guest to the studio does not disappoint! Maria Falgione is a former NCAA Equestrian, stage and screen actress and professional jockey. She helped found Synutra Equine, maker of Synchill, and the sister company, Alexsyn, which has reworked some of Synutra's best selling products into human supplements. A true equestrian athlete, Falgione c…

1
Sara Kozumplik 5* Eventer Returns! 1:05:24

5M ago1:05:24

1:05:24

Karen and Robby catch up with another returning guest, 5* Eventer Sarah Kozumplik. The last time Sara was on the podcast was back in August 2019 and we had a lot of catching up to do! The last time Sara was on she was just working on helping develop a new Eventing facility in Florida, which turned out to be TerraNova. Sarah updates us on everything…

1
Episode 4. Equestrian Sports. Karl vs. McLain, the feud we've been waiting for. 18:11

5M ago18:11

18:11

Okay okay, we know we're a little late on this one, but we just had to discuss it...a real sports beef between equestrians Karl Cook and McLain Ward, that got keyboards clattering for a few weeks this winter. This heated debate got the whole hunter/jumper community talking, and of course, we have opinions. Support the show…

1
Valerie Pride 5* Eventer & FEI Level 3 Eventing Dressage Judge 57:05

5M ago57:05

57:05

Karen and Robby welcome back 5* Eventer and FEI Level 3 Eventing Dressage judge Valerie Pride. Valerie was on the MLE podcast back on October 21, 2020 and we had a lot of catching up to do. Valerie most recently judged at the Maryland 5* and explains everything that the Ground Jury has to do - it's not just judging Dressage. She also has some excit…

1
Episode 2. From Newbie to Elite Athlete; How to work out with Scope 13:57

6M ago13:57

13:57

Karen and Jen discuss how often to work out and what you should be working on. You'll learn more about the Scope Workouts, including how they can be used on their own or as a supplement to an existing workout plan. Support the showBy Jennifer

1
Episode 3. What you need to work out with the Scope 13:59

6M ago13:59

13:59

Karen and Jen discuss what you need to get started with the Scope Workout; from apparel to equipment, and even some items you can find around the barn that will work in a pinch. Support the showBy Jennifer