Best Usef Podcasts (2025)

1
Episode 42: Ask Us Anything--But We Can't Promise You'll Like Our Answers 28:21

Play Pause

4d ago28:21

28:21

Send us a text ### Scope Podcast - Listener Q&A In this engaging episode of the Scope Podcast, hosts Karen and Jen dive into an array of listener questions that cover essential topics in the equestrian world. - **OTTBs vs. Warmbloods:** Tune in as they discuss the pros and cons of Off-the-Track Thoroughbreds vs. warmbloods. - **Decline in Horsemans…

1
Episode 41: Is AI Smarter Than a Horse Trainer? 27:37

11d ago27:37

27:37

Send us a text Join hosts Karen Tanner and Jen Barker in this exciting episode of the **Scope Podcast**, where they dive into some of the most common questions Jen receives as a horse trainer. In this episode: - **Karen** poses typical inquiries like “How much does a Junior Hunter cost?” and “How do I teach my horse to change leads?” - **Jen** shar…

1
Horses Keep Us Going 1:10:47

12d ago1:10:47

1:10:47

It’s our last episode of the year and wow, what a year it’s been. Thanks for everybody for listening. And we’ve got a great show for you tonight, with fun guests who will make you laugh, hopefully teach you something, and inspire you to keep kicking on into 2026. Thanks for tuning in. Guests and Links Episode 143: Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winni…

1
Episode 40: Roll On--Tales and Tips from an Equine Relocation Specialist 22:01

18d ago22:01

22:01

Send us a text In this episode of *The Scope Podcast*, Jen Barker dives into the world of equine transportation with a special guest, her brother, John Barker an experienced truck driver and self-proclaimed "equine relocation specialist" for Johnson Horse Transportation. Join Jen and John as they explore the ins and outs of shipping horses, sharing…

1
Episode 39: The Customer is Always Right...Even If They Wave Red Flags? 🚩 21:44

27d ago21:44

21:44

Send us a text Join hosts Jen, a seasoned professional horse trainer and rider, and Karen, a dedicated horse show parent and former client of Jen's, as they dive into the fascinating world of horse training and client relationships in this week’s episode. In a fun and insightful game they call “Red Flag, Green Flag, Pink Flag,” Jen presents various…

1
Episode 38: We Didn't Make a Cent on This Gift Guide So You Should Definitely Trust Us. And Our Naughty And Nice Lists. 33:48

1M ago33:48

33:48

Send us a text 'Tis the season! Karen and Jen have made their lists and checked them twice...listen to find out who has been naughty and who has been nice! Also, Karen and Jen discuss great gifts for clients and sweet surprises for trainers--and even get some help from Adriane Potter of The Tack Room in Camden South Carolina. You won't want to miss…

1
Kate Sands 4* Eventer 1:06:48

1M ago1:06:48

1:06:48

Karen and Robby get to know Kentucky based, 4* Eventer Kate Sands. Kate shares her story of growing up in Kentucky and convincing her Dad to purchase an OTTB as a "re-sell" project and naming him after Bourbon only to end up keeping him and taking him all the way to the Advanced/4* level. Kate and her husband, now have their own farm in Georgetown,…

1
Episode 37: Boarder Beware? Barn Rules That Range from Reasonable to Red Flags 🚩 23:33

1M ago23:33

23:33

Send us a text **Want to see the red flags in all of their glory? This episode is also available on The Scope Podcast’s YouTube Channel!!** https://youtu.be/lNkNBJMJ3r4 Join hosts Jen, a seasoned horse trainer and rider, and Karen, a dedicated horse show parent and one of Jen's former clients, for a thought-provoking episode of The Scope Podcast! I…

1
2025 Mars Maryland 5* Interviews Continue 49:01

1M ago49:01

49:01

We're still pumping out interviews from the Mars Maryland 5*! This week we share interviews with Sydney Hagaman, Sophia Middlebrook, Allie Knowles, Arden Wildasin, Brooke Burchianti, Monica Spencer, Ryan Wood, Mary Bess Davis, Felix Vogg, Jonelle Price and Mia Farley. We will be back to our regular interviews in a week or two but in the meantime, w…

1
Episode 36: What's the Catch? Catch Riding, Working Student Positions and Labor For Lessons Arrangements 20:41

2M ago20:41

20:41

Send us a text Join hosts Karen and Jen in this insightful episode as they dive into the world of catch riding, working students, and the dynamics of working off riding lessons in equestrian sports. They explore the nuances of these important topics, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities available for young riders and their families. -…

1
A Life Without USEF? 2:20:10

2M ago2:20:10

2:20:10

It’s here! All the goodies on our holiday wish list for 2025. This month, we’re also talking to the founder of a brand new jumping and dressage circuit that wants to be the opposite of USEF. And ever wonder what goes into breed inspections for stallions and foals? You’re about to find out. Thanks for tuning in. Guests and Links Episode 142: Host: J…

1
Mars Maryland 5* Dressage Day 2 45:01

2M ago45:01

45:01

We had so many interviews from the MD5* high and plan on sharing them over the next couple weeks from the MD5* Radio which is provided by Taylor Harris Insurance Services during the Mars Maryland 5* at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory. This week is Dressage Day 2 and we talked to the Cross Country Course Designer Pierre le Goupil, Hayley Friel…

1
Episode 35: Could A Price INCREASE Help Make Equestrian Sports More Accessible?!? 23:50

2M ago23:50

23:50

Send us a text Join hosts Jen, a lifelong equestrian professional and rider, and Karen, a dedicated parent of an equestrian trained by Jen, as they dive into an essential conversation about accessibility in horse sports. In this episode, Jen presents a **five-prong plan** designed to open the doors of equestrian sports to new riders without the imm…

1
Maryland 5* Day Dressage Day 1 39:24

2M ago39:24

39:24

We are still on our MD5* high and plan on sharing our interviews over the next couple weeks from the MD5* Radio which is provided by Taylor Harris Insurance Services during the Mars Maryland 5* at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory. This week is Dressage Day 1 and we talked to Lainey Ashker, Jessica Phoenix, Tommy Greengard, Olivia Dutton, Shann…

1
Episode 34: Certified Success--Trainer Certification Programs Need Stamp of Approval From Industry Leaders 21:34

2M ago21:34

21:34

Send us a text Karen and Jen discuss the USHJA Trainer Certification Program and explore why it hasn't gained traction. They delve into the reluctance of well-known equestrian professionals to embrace the certification and suggest ways to encourage lifelong professionals to take the certification test and lead live teaching sessions. Karen, who is …

1
Episode 33: Left Behind—Balancing Client Expectations and Life on the Road 21:38

2M ago21:38

21:38

Send us a text Join Karen and Jen as they dive into the complexities of balancing client needs with the demands of life on the road. In this insightful episode, they explore the challenges faced by busy trainers who are frequently away at horse shows, leaving some clients behind. What happens when a trainer can't be there for every lesson? Should t…

1
Horse Girl Boos 1:23:49

2M ago1:23:49

1:23:49

Spooky season is here! This month, we’re talking about horse health tips you don’t want to skip on during fall, and preparing for the most festive time of the year. Guests and Links Episode 141: Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Journalist with Down Magazine Host: Jessica Payne, International Event Rider for Payne Equestrian Host: Ellie Woznica …

1
Episode 32: Bridging the Gap--Appreciation For Equestrian Professionals and Amateur Clients 32:59

3M ago32:59

32:59

Send us a text Before they get to the episode Karen and Jen begin with a hilarious exchange about a potential guest; Xavier Legette, horse lover, wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers Football team and former South Carolina Gamecock. X, have your people call our people! Now on to the show… Building on their previous discussion about the tensions …

1
Episode 31: The Great Divide—Discontent Between Equestrian Professionals and Amateur Clients 21:03

3M ago21:03

21:03

Send us a text In this thought-provoking episode, hosts Jen, a seasoned horse trainer and rider, and Karen, a devoted horse show parent and former client of Jen's, delve into the complex relationship between professional horse people and their amateur clients. They tackle the often contentious divide that exists in the equestrian world, exploring t…

1
Davis Equine Q & A 1:02:48

3M ago1:02:48

1:02:48

Karen and Robby welcome back Dr.'s Chad and Stephanie Davis for a round of Q&A. We had received many questions for them since their last time on the podcast that we had to have them back on to answer our listeners questions. We even get to have a fun round of somewhat Quick Fire Questions with their daughter Henley! For more information: https://da…

1
Episode 30: Pain, Pressure & Partying—A Recipe for A Circuit Addiction 35:27

3M ago35:27

35:27

Send us a text In this powerful episode, Jen and Karen sit down with Andrew Ellis, an equestrian known for his roles as a horse show manager, announcer, and starter. Andrew shares his gripping story of resilience and recovery following a devastating riding accident at the age of 13 that not only changed the course of his life but also set him on a …

1
Episode 29: Save the Tire Kicking for the Car Lot, And Other Horse Buying Do's and Don'ts 22:09

3M ago22:09

22:09

Send us a text Join Karen and Jen for an insightful episode that dives deep into the world of horse sales. With Jen drawing on her experience in selling and buying horses as well as opinions collected from other trainers, she sheds light on the common pitfalls and unprofessional behaviors that potential buyers often exhibit--like "kicking tires,' f…

1
Horse Show Hacks For The Win 1:22:33

3M ago1:22:33

1:22:33

Do you ever feel like you love horses but sometimes you feel lost? Or like you’re not good enough? We’ve all been there. This month, we’re talking about how to get yourself in the right headspace on those tough days. Plus, we have the best horse show hacks to share. Thanks for tuning in. Guests and Links Episode 140: Host: Justine Griffin, Award Wi…

1
Liz Lund - 3* Eventer 36:40

3M ago36:40

36:40

Karen and Robby get to know 3* Eventer Liz Lund. Liz runs her business out of Copeland Farms where she grew up riding and then travels to Ocala, FL for the winter to base out of Copeland Farm South. Liz talks about the very large lesson program where she and several other instructors teach over 300 lessons a month. On top of all that, Liz has a sma…

1
Episode 28: Dressed to impress--The Pressure of Perfection in Equestrian Sports 36:05

3M ago36:05

36:05

Send us a text In this thought-provoking episode, Jen and Karen dive deep into the whirlwind of controversy sparked by Jen's recent statements. Last week, Jen suggested that trainers should have a say in their riders' attire for the show ring and the social media images they share. The commentary ignited a firestorm of reactions from listeners, man…

1
Episode 27: From Swanky Scrim Sheets to Sponsored Soirees, How Your Barn's Brand is Everyone's Business 26:31

4M ago26:31

26:31

Send us a text Karen and Jen discuss the often overlooked role of clients in shaping a barn's brand. They explore the intricate relationship between branding and client expectations, from the necessity of custom tack trunks and horse clothes, to the financial contributions for horse show exhibitors parties. Tune in to hear how a rider's attire in t…

1
Emily Hamel - Getting Ready to Make Eventing History 35:38

4M ago35:38

35:38

This week, Karen and Robby welcome back previous guest, Emily Hamel. Emily updates us on everything she has been up to since September 2019. She shares how she is living the dream year round in Aiken and everything she has going on there. Emily and her longtime partner Corvette aka Barry is hoping to make Eventing history by completing Pau and bein…

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

4M ago32:03

32:03

Send us a text 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, whe…

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

4M ago30:43

30:43

Send us a text 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 Coug…

1
Making Show Jumping More Accessible 1:22:39

4M ago1:22:39

1:22:39

We’re doing our best to stay caffeinated thanks to a fun new horse brand of coffee. Also this month, we’re talking about our mental prep for the sport, and how do we make the buying and selling process of horses more transparent and accessible for everyone? Thanks for tuning in. Guests and Links Episode 139: Host: Justine Griffin, Award Winning Jou…

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

4M 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 24: Class Warfare--The Debate Over Proposed USEF Class Limits 26:46

4M ago26:46

26:46

Send us a text 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 mul…

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

5M ago16:48

16:48

Send us a text 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…

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

5M ago21:33

21:33

Send us a text 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 ho…

1
Jaclyn Burke - 3* Eventer 50:22

5M 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

5M ago27:00

27:00

Send us a text 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 purc…

1
Drag. Dat. Arena! 1:03:05

5M ago1:03:05

1:03:05

Did anyone else watch Mai Baum make his final run at Rebecca Farm and ball their eyes out? Just me? OK. This week, we’re talking about the hunters taking over Europe and sharing out best tips on how to keep thise arenas dragged, pristine and perfect for our horses. Thanks for tuning in. Guests and Links Episode 138: Host: Justine Griffin, Award Win…

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

5M ago21:37

21:37

Send us a text 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…

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

6M ago29:15

29:15

Send us a text 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 star…

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

6M 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

6M ago22:25

22:25

Send us a text 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 classi…

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

6M 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

6M ago12:15

12:15

Send us a text 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, Br…

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

6M ago15:23

15:23

Send us a text 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 tra…