On The Rail - podcast cover

On The Rail

Welcome to On The Rail, the podcast exclusively for stock horse show amateurs, by amateurs. Join our passionate co-hosts as we explore every facet of the industry we all love, with engaging interviews featuring top competitors, seasoned professionals, and the Associations themselves. From behind-the-scenes insights to discussions on showing, economic impacts, and more, we cover it all. Saddle up and tune in every Monday to join our fellow amateurs on this exciting journey!
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Episodes

053. Amateur Power Hour with Scott Cooper

We dive into the world of APHA amateur competitor and life of the party, Scott Cooper. He shares insights into his daily life with horses in sunny California, even during challenging times like his favorite horse being out of commission. Scott also discusses his recent lease of a new horse and his summer goals while his beloved horse heals. We get a glimpse into Scott's show experiences, including how he manages nerves and prepares for the show pen. He shares his favorite class to show in and wh...

Aug 14, 202359 min

052. The National Championships with APHA

Join us as we sit down with Diane Alves and Melanie Cox-Dayhuff from the American Paint Horse Association (APHA) to discuss the improved and upcoming Eastern and Western National Championship shows. They share their respective roles within the organization, with Diane as chair of the APHA Western National Show Host Committee and President-Elect, and Melanie as chair for the APHA Eastern Host Committee and Immediate Past President. Gain insights into the APHA National Shows and the intent behind ...

Aug 07, 202342 min

051. Overcoming Addiction with Alex Gryskiewicz and Paige Wacker

Join us for an insightful and candid conversation with Paige Wacker and Alex Gryskiewicz. They share their inspiring journeys in the horse industry, reflecting on the titles they've won and the horses that hold a special place in their hearts. Paige and Alex bravely open up about Alex's journey with addiction and how it impacted their involvement in the horse industry. They shed light on the stigmas surrounding addiction and mental health in the equestrian world, offering valuable insights on se...

Jul 31, 202357 min

050. Roundtable: HorseshowING Moms

In this month's roundtable episode of On the Rail Podcast, we hear from remarkable horse showing moms who share their insights on balancing the demands of horse showing and family life. They discuss the challenges faced, strategies for effective time management, financial considerations, and advice for others in similar situations. Join us to gain inspiration from these incredible women as they navigate the complexities of parenting while pursuing their passion for horse showing. Don't miss out!...

Jul 24, 20231 hr 5 min

049. In The Pen with The Spell's

In the latest episode of On the Rail Podcast, world champion trainers Wade and Laura Spell reveal the secrets behind their successful training program and maintaining a positive barn dynamic with their customers. Despite the rigors of major horse showing, Wade and Laura Spell consistently light up the barn with their infectious enthusiasm and a sprinkle of mischief. How do they manage it? We dive deep into their experiences as married business partners, their career highlights, and their unwaver...

Jul 17, 20231 hr 10 min

048. Industry Insiders: Gals of the Pacific Northwest

Welcome to another episode of On the Rail Podcast! In this interview, we had the opportunity to sit down with Linsey Kimbrough and Crysta Kellar to explore the vibrant horse show scene of the Pacific Northwest. We explored the unique challenges and exciting opportunities that exist within this region. From discussing the specific endeavors of their WSQHA club, such as staying fresh and innovative with event ideas, securing sponsorship support, and fostering collaboration with other breeds and as...

Jul 10, 202357 min

047. Industry Insider with Dr. Stephanie Valberg on IMM

Embark on a compelling episode of On the Rail Podcast, where we explored the intricate world of myosin heavy chain myopathy (MYHM) and immune-mediated myositis (IMM). We had the privilege of being joined by esteemed expert Dr. Stephanie Valberg, DVM, PhD, DACVIM - Mary Anne McPhail Dressage Chair in Equine Sports Medicine at Michigan State University. Together, we unraveled the complexities of these conditions, gaining invaluable insights into their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments. D...

Jul 03, 202346 min

046. Industry Leader: Kirstie Marie Photography

Welcome to On the Rail Podcast, where we explore the captivating world of equestrian photography with Kirstie Jones, owner of Kirstie Marie Photography. Join us as we uncover Kirstie's unique photography style, her experiences capturing equestrian events, and her successful use of social media to grow her business and engage with her audience. In this episode, we delve into the importance of photo releases and the challenges of protecting intellectual property. Kirstie shares her meticulous proc...

Jun 26, 202351 min

045. Cracking the Equestrian Finance Code with Meg DePalma Pye

In this episode of On the Rail Podcast, we had the pleasure of interviewing Meg DePalma Pye, a finance expert and renowned AQHA World and Congress Champion amateur exhibitor. Discover how to avoid common budgeting mistakes for expensive hobbies like horse showing, save money without compromising quality, and create realistic budgets. Meg shares long-term financial considerations and provides tips on purchasing more expensive horses within a limited budget. Meg's expert advice will help you gain ...

Jun 19, 202359 min

044. Industry Insider with Coach Mary Meneely

Join us for an enlightening ride on On the Rail Podcast! In this episode, we had the pleasure of interviewing Mary Meneely, the visionary behind Mary Meneely Collegiate Equestrian Consulting. With a wealth of experience as an NCAA national champion coach and a parent of a college athlete, Mary offered invaluable insights into the recruiting and decision-making process for collegiate equestrian athletes. We explored the range of services Mary provides to aspiring riders, preparing them for the ex...

Jun 12, 202356 min

043. Helping Build the Next Generation with Helen Hardy

Join us on this episode of On the Rail Podcast as Helen Hardy, Manager of Youth Development & AQHYA at the American Quarter Horse Association, reveals the exciting opportunities available to young horse enthusiasts through AQHA's Youth Programs. Discover the Junior Master Horseman, Horse Judging, National Youth Racing Program, and AQHUniversity. Learn about AQHLead, the program empowering young adults in the industry. Delve into the Ranching Heritage Young Horse Development Program, where AQ...

Jun 05, 202351 min

042. Down the Center with Pinto Horse Association of America

Welcome to this week's episode of On The Rail Podcast. In our latest installment, we had the privilege of interviewing Darrel Bilke, Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer, of the Pinto Horse Association of America (PtHA), along with his staff members. Our discussion revolved around the PtHA and the highly anticipated 2023 Pinto World Championship Show. Throughout the episode, we explored the PtHA's mission to promote and enhance the Pinto horse breed, recent industry developments, and...

May 29, 202348 min

041. Roundtable: Drug & Medication Usage in Show Horses

Have you ever even thought to be concerned about liniment causing your horse to fail a drug test? Get ready for an eye-opening episode of the On the Rail podcast as we delve into the intricacies of equine drug medication usage rules. In this episode of the On the Rail podcast, we interviewed three guests from the industry: Ward Stutz, AQHA Director of Breed Integrity, Animal Welfare & Education; Dr. Billy Smith, Executive Director of APHA; and Dr. Stephen Schumacher, Chief Administrator of U...

May 22, 20231 hr 3 min

040. Industry Leader: Julie Broadway, President of the American Horse Council

On this episode of On The Rail podcast, we sat down with Julie Broadway, the President of the American Horse Council, to discuss the state of the horse industry in the United States. We explored the current state of the horse industry in the United States, including the economic contributions it made to the US economy and the major challenges it faced at the time. Julie shed light on how the COVID-19 pandemic had impacted the industry. We learned about the AHC's initiatives in promoting the inte...

May 15, 202347 min

039. Industry Insider with Amy Engelskiger

On this episode of the On The Rail podcast, we sat down with Amy Engelskirger, owner of Glamorous Threads English Apparel & Tack and AQHA amateur competitor. Amy shared with us her journey of balancing being a successful competitor and running a thriving business. We discussed her accomplishments as an amateur and the highs and lows of her experiences in the show ring. We also delved into the origin story of Glamorous Threads, and how it evolved into a full-fledged English Apparel & Tack...

May 08, 202342 min

038. Youth Futurity Project with APHA

Join us on this episode of On the Rail Podcast as we chat with representatives from the American Paint Horse Association (APHA) about their Youth Futurity Project. This initiative is a fantastic chance for young horse enthusiasts to showcase their training and horsemanship skills with their yearling or 2-year-old futurity horse project at the 2023 APHA World Championship Show in Fort Worth, Texas, from June 24-27. Our guests detail the eligibility criteria for the project, the entry fees, and th...

May 01, 202335 min

037. Roundtable: Horse Show Economics

We’re back with our next roundtable discussion on On The Rail podcast about the economics of putting on a horse show. We're joined by experienced show manager from Florida, Randall Roser, and facility manager of the Cowpokes Arena at C Bar C in Cloverdale, Indiana, Brice Howell. In this episode, we explore the ins and outs of the horse show industry, including the primary expenses involved in putting on a show, managing unexpected expenses, and determining entry fees. Our guests share their insi...

Apr 24, 202359 min

036. Industry Insider with Cyndy Hetzell

In this episode of On The Rail Podcast, we sat down with Cyndy Hetzell, who has been involved in 4-H and youth clubs for over 35 years. We explored Cyndy's journey assisting youth in the equine industry, particularly those involved in breed shows and 4-H. She not only shared her experiences but also offered invaluable insights on how to blend kids from a 4-H background with those in the breed show world. Cyndy also took us through the origins of the Garden State Paint Horse Youth Club that she s...

Apr 17, 202348 min

035. Industry Insider: Chelsea Sinclair on Equine Reproduction

On this episode of On The Rail Podcast, we sit down with Chelsea Sinclair, a faculty member at Clemson University's Animal and Veterinary Sciences department, as well as an accomplished breeder, competitor, and stallion owner/manager. Chelsea holds an MS and PhD in equine reproduction and has a wealth of knowledge to share on the topic. We start off by learning more about Chelsea's personal background in the horse industry before delving into her current breeding, raising, and showing activities...

Apr 10, 20231 hr 6 min

034. Industry Leader: Suzannah Fuhrman & GoHorseShow.com

Welcome to On The Rail! In this episode, we chat with Suzannah Fuhrman, the Co-founder and Executive Vice President of GoHorseShow.com. Suzannah shares her journey from her time working at ESPN to launching GoHorseShow and the monthly digital magazine, GoMag. GoHorseShow (GHS) is one of the leading websites and magazines for the horse showing community. Suzannah discusses her background in the horse industry, how she was able to utilize her experience and expertise to transition from ESPN to lau...

Apr 03, 202344 min

033. Roundtable: agree or disagree - Should Amateurs Be Paid for Giving Lessons?

Join us on the On The Rail Podcast for our upcoming monthly roundtable discussion, where we'll be delving into the controversial issue of whether amateur riders should be allowed to teach beginner lessons. With emotions running high on this topic, we can all agree, at least, that change is needed to attract and retain newcomers in our industry. Our expert panelists will share their diverse viewpoints and shed light on this complex issue. We invite you to join us for an engaging and thought-provo...

Mar 27, 202359 min

032. A Jog Into the International Judge's Seminar

Join us for the latest episode of On The Rail Podcast, where we talk with judging experts David Dellin and Sandy Jirkovsky about their experience as instructors at the 2023 International Equine Judges Seminar hosted annually by the Color Breed Council. David and Sandy provide a complete recap of the event weekend. They discuss the seminar's purpose and who it's intended for, emphasizing the importance of bringing together equine judges from all over to discuss and learn about the latest trends, ...

Mar 20, 202350 min

031. Taxes and Horses...Oh My! with CPA Greg Tambke

In this episode of On The Rail podcast, we sit down with CPA Greg Tambke to discuss the sometimes complicated intersection of taxes and the horse industry. We explore topics such as the IRS's beliefs around horse businesses verses hobby ventures, the frequency of horse industry-related audits, and what expenses amateurs can write off. We also dive into the nuances of reporting income from horse related winnings, including how to handle situations where a trainer is paid for the horse's winnings,...

Mar 13, 20231 hr 3 min

030. Horse Show After Hours with Liz & Jenna

In this episode of On The Rail, co-hosts Liz and Jenna are back for another "after hours" discussion, and this time they dive into a more serious topic: the current state of the horse show industry. While they usually keep things light and fun, this tone may be more serious than usual. Liz and Jenna feel it's important to address some of the issues that are affecting our side of the equestrian world. Before getting into the main topic, Liz and Jenna catch up on what's been going on in their live...

Mar 06, 202352 min

029. Industry Insider with Tara Landon

Join us for a very special episode of On The Rail Podcast, where we sit down with Tara and Doug Landon, the dynamic duo behind the March to the Arch benefit horse show. Doug started the event in 2005 after his own cancer diagnosis, and the show has since raised over $800,000 for cancer research. Tara and Doug take us behind the scenes of this leading horse show and discuss their plans for the 2023 edition. We also dive into the world of professional mane banding and braiding with Tara. With over...

Feb 27, 202348 min

028. Roundtable: AQHA World Show

Welcome to a special episode of On The Rail Podcast, where we are kicking off a new monthly segment that will be roundtable discussions of current hot topics in the industry. First up in this episode, a handful of passionate individuals in the Quarter Horse industry discuss the AQHA World Championship Show, analyzing what's working and what isn't and how we can improve it. Our panelists provide a wealth of insights and perspectives from their experiences as competitors and owners. We explore the...

Feb 20, 20231 hr 16 min

027. Horse Show After Hours: Life as a Non-Horse Guy in a Horse Girl World

In honor of Valentine's Day week, get ready for a hilarious ride with On The Rail Podcast! In this episode, we are turning the tables and giving our non-horsey significant others a chance to share their experiences. These brave souls have taken the plunge and fallen in love with us horse-crazy girls. Hear their side about the ups and downs of dating someone who's more in love with their four-legged friends than anything else, and get the guys' take on the crazy stuff we do that seems completely ...

Feb 13, 20231 hr 31 min

026. Amateur Power Hour with World Class DIY'ers

In this episode, we are delighted to chat with three World title winning APHA competitors who have smashed through the often perceived glass ceiling of being a DIY'er. This is a very candid conversation about the realities of being a DIY amateur competing regularly at the highest levels in the horse show industry. These ladies talk about how they got started, how they became successful, and most importantly, how they stay on top of their game. Get ready to have your self-imposed beliefs challeng...

Feb 06, 20231 hr 7 min

025. In the Pen with Kelly McDowall

This week we cover Horsemanship with trainer & judge Kelly McDowell. Kelly has coached many AQHA World Champions in Horsemanship, including the two-time reigning AQHA Amateur World Champion. We talk about what makes a standout horsemanship horse, what gets you noticed as a rider, and maybe even a little bit of what not to do! Is horsemanship really about a great rider or a great horse? Kelly has a unique way of coaching his clients that may surprise some of you, but there's no denying he get...

Jan 30, 202344 min

024. Industry Insider with Dr. Shelley Grissom

We're BACK (pun intended!) with another On The Rail Podcast episode for an in-depth discussion with leading equine chiropractor, Dr. Shelley Grissom. As our guest expert, she shares her knowledge and expertise on maintaining optimal spinal health in horses, including identifying common misalignments and addressing them with gentle adjustments, and exploring the connection between equine chiropractic care and overall well-being. This podcast is a must-listen for horse owners, trainers, and riders...

Jan 23, 202354 min
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