Farrier Jason Hillman CF , based in Chester County, PA , joins OTTB on Tap to tackle one of the most debated topics in Thoroughbred aftercare: hoof health . Jason shares insight into Thoroughbred feet, OTTB hoof care, and the real factors that impact long-term soundness , drawing from his experience working with a large Thoroughbred client base and retraining his own OTTBs. In addition to being a trusted farrier in the Mid-Atlantic, Jason is also an event rider . He competes his supermare Cruise...
Jul 03, 2025•58 min•Season 2Ep. 30
Virginia-based trainer Chelsey O’Brien returns to OTTB on Tap as she gears up for the 2025 Retired Racehorse Project Thoroughbred Makeover—this time with two OTTBs and twice the determination. Representing the nonprofit Pastured Place , Chelsey introduces us to The Pepsodent Show (“Peppy”), a charismatic 5-year-old gelding by VE Day. With a name that throws it back to the golden age of radio— The Pepsodent Show was a wildly popular 1930s–40s comedy series hosted by Bob Hope, not unlike today’s p...
Jun 26, 2025•46 min•Season 2Ep. 29
In this RRP Trainer Chronicles episode of OTTB on Tap , we sit down with adult amateur eventer, longtime Thoroughbred advocate, and sporthorse breeder Amanda Chance , who’s making her Retired Racehorse Project Makeover debut in 2025 with a true warhorse—an off-track Thoroughbred with over 50 starts (he raced a whopping 100 times!) Known for her candid blog and podcast Breed.Ride.Event. , Amanda brings a unique perspective to the OTTB world—combining her eye for conformation with real-world exper...
Jun 17, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Season 2Ep. 28
Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of substance use and mentions of suicide. If these topics are sensitive for you, please listen with care. Resources and support links are included at the end of the episode description. Ramon Moya didn’t grow up in the saddle—but the first time he sat on a Thoroughbred at 18, everything changed. Now a graded stakes-placed jockey and viral content creator, Ramon has made a name for himself both on the racetrack and online, where his point-of-view ...
Jun 12, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Season 2Ep. 27
Welcome back to RRP Trainer Chronicles , an OTTB on Tap Original Series following the riders and retrainers headed to the 2025 Thoroughbred Makeover. In this episode, we’re talking dressage, Thoroughbreds, and that all-important seat with Harley Whittaker of HW Dressage in Kirkwood, Pennsylvania. Harley didn’t grow up in a horsey family, but she’s built a thriving training business rooted in thoughtful, individualized care—and a belief that OTTBs absolutely belong in the dressage ring. She intro...
Jun 10, 2025•35 min•Season 2Ep. 26
In this first full trainer episode of our 2025 RRP Trainer Chronicles series, we’re joined by Stephanie Parkot, a dedicated adult amateur and mom of three from Corfu, New York, who’s making her Thoroughbred Makeover debut with a gelding she calls “the right horse at the right time.” Stephanie’s Makeover partner is Sterling Honor, a striking son of Honor Code, adopted through New Vocations. Together, they’re preparing to compete in Competitive Trail and Dressage—and doing it all while balancing b...
May 29, 2025•50 min•Season 2Ep. 25
What does it take for a 15.1-hand off-track Thoroughbred to storm around the 2024 Kentucky Three-Day Event and win the crowd’s heart? In this episode of OTTB On Tap , we sit down with eventer Ali Kuhn to hear the incredible story of Little Hail, her pink-wearing OTTB who went from years in a pasture to galloping across one of the sport’s biggest 4★ stages. Ali opens up about her journey as an OTTB retrainer, how a fateful call from John and Dorothy Crowell changed the course of her career, and w...
May 20, 2025•1 hr 14 min•Season 2Ep. 24
Meet the 2025 Retired Racehorse Makeover trainers we'll be following all season long! In this special kickoff episode of OTTB on Tap's original series, RRP Trainer Chronicles, we introduce you to four standout horsewomen—each with a different background, training philosophy, and off-track Thoroughbred (OTTB) partner. You'll get a first look at their plans for the 2025 RRP, how they came to love OTTBs, and the unique paths that brought them to this moment. Our featured trainers include: Stephanie...
May 15, 2025•56 min•Season 2Ep. 23
We’re back with another OTTB Training Diaries update following Niamh’s journey retraining her off-track Thoroughbred, Go Green (Oscar), for the 2025 Retired Racehorse Project Makeover. In this sneak peek of our April recap, we talk about the ups and downs of bringing along a sensitive young Thoroughbred—starting with Niamh’s creative fundraiser for the RRP, some minor training setbacks, and the realities of managing an OTTB’s conditioning, saddle fit, and emotional development in the early month...
May 08, 2025•5 min
🎉 BONUS EPISODE — In celebration of reaching 25,000 listens , we’re unlocking this previously Supercast-only episode of OTTB on Tap Evaluates: Vol 4 for everyone ! This episode is part of our exclusive Supercast series where we evaluate listener-submitted OTTBs using just a conformation photo and Jockey Club name to explore pedigree, structure, and sport potential. If you've been curious about what subscribers get, this is your chance to listen in. To follow along with the pedigrees and conform...
May 01, 2025•55 min•Season 2Ep. 22
In Part 2 of our conversation with Aubrey Graham of Kivu Sporthorses , we take a deeper dive into her practical approach to training off-track Thoroughbreds. Aubrey breaks down how to do less to get more—a mindset that emphasizes thoughtful observation, strategic timing, and letting the horse lead. From early groundwork to first jumps, she shares exercises, common mistakes, and how to build a training plan that prioritizes communication and trust. If you're retraining a young Thoroughbred or nav...
Apr 25, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Season 2Ep. 21
In this episode of OTTB on Tap , we sit down with Aubrey Graham of Kivu Sporthorses to explore the foundation behind her OTTB training philosophy. From her academic background in anthropology to her transition into the world of off-track Thoroughbreds, Aubrey shares how she became a trusted voice in the industry through her popular Thoroughbred Logic series. We talk about her role as a "middleman" between horse and rider, how she manages a large string of OTTBs each year, and what she wishes mor...
Apr 24, 2025•47 min•Season 2Ep. 20
Three plain brown wrappers. Three pedigrees packed with power. In this sneak peek of Volume 6, we introduce this month’s lineup of listener-submitted OTTBs—Fifty Pesos, Slew’s Resurrection, and Artie’s Cryptonite—and tease what makes each one stand out from the crowd. Plus, we read reactions from the owners featured in Volume 5. To hear our full evaluation—including deep dives into pedigree, conformation, temperament trends, and second-career suitability—head to ottbontap.supercast.com and subsc...
Apr 17, 2025•12 min
At just 14 years old, Kimber Houston is already making a name for herself in the world of Thoroughbred aftercare. Alongside her mom, Tanya, she runs Trotty By Nature —a Montana-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to retraining and rehoming Off-Track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs) with passion, purpose, and a serious love for 90s and 2000s hip-hop. In this episode, we chat about: How Kimber founded Trotty By Nature as a teen Their unique approach to OTTB retraining in Montana’s rugged climate Training phi...
Apr 10, 2025•49 min•Season 2Ep. 19
In this March recap from the OTTB Training Diaries, Niamh gets honest about a clinic experience with a big-name trainer that didn’t quite live up to the hype. But that wasn’t the only unexpected moment—this episode also dives into a revealing session with an animal communicator, a training ride with fresh perspective, and Oscar’s continued progress under saddle and in his mind. Plus, Niamh and Emily answer your Ask Us Anything questions on everything from barn routines to OTTB shopping advice. �...
Apr 03, 2025•8 min
We’re back with Danielle Montgomery for Part 2 of our deep dive into Turning For Home , one of the most effective and scalable Thoroughbred aftercare programs in the country. In this episode, we focus on what makes their approach so successful—namely, their partner farm model , lifetime safety net, and emphasis on long-term support for every horse that leaves the track at Parx Racing . With over 4,400 OTTBs rehomed and counting , Turning For Home has built a nationwide network of trusted partner...
Mar 28, 2025•40 min•Season 2Ep. 18
In this powerful first installment of our two-part interview with Danielle Montgomery, we explore the groundbreaking work of Turning For Home , a Thoroughbred aftercare program launched by the Pennsylvania Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (PTHA) at Parx Racing . Founded in 2008 as a direct response to growing public concern over racehorse welfare, Turning For Home became one of the first racetrack-based retirement programs to take full responsibility for transitioning off-track Thoroughbreds ...
Mar 27, 2025•40 min•Season 2Ep. 17
We’re back with another round of OTTB on Tap Evaluates , and this time, it’s all about the greys! In this teaser episode, we kick things off by revisiting our evaluations from Vol 4 , sharing listener feedback, and revealing how our predictions stacked up against real-world results. Did we get it right, or did these OTTBs surprise us? Then, we introduce the three grey Thoroughbreds featured in Vol 5 —each with an interesting pedigree and plenty of potential for sport. Two of them trace back to E...
Mar 20, 2025•15 min
What do off-the-track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs) and birds of prey have in common? More than you might think! In this episode of OTTB on Tap , Niamh sits down with Martin Whitley of the Recycled Racehorse Falconry Team , a one-of-a-kind program that retrains ex-racehorses for falconry work in the UK. With his sharp wit and wealth of experience, Martin shares how his passion for horses and birds of prey led to this innovative program. He walks us through the process of selecting and retraining OTTBs f...
Mar 13, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Season 2Ep. 16
February was full of big moments for Oscar—some great, some… a little dramatic. From tackling group lessons and finally settling on a saddle to his first canter and a confidence-boosting obstacle course challenge, his progress was anything but boring! In this episode, we’re sharing a sneak peek of our full OTTB Training Diaries – February Recap exclusively for OTTB on Tap Insiders. Want to hear how Oscar handled his first canter? What about the biggest lesson breakthrough that changed the game f...
Mar 06, 2025•11 min
Thinking about buying an OTTB? A pre-purchase exam (PPE) for an off-track Thoroughbred can feel overwhelming, but understanding how to interpret vet findings is key to making an informed decision. In Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Ashley Taylor, we break down the PPE process, common misconceptions about OTTBs, and how to evaluate soundness for long-term success. Dr. Taylor brings her sports medicine expertise to the discussion, helping buyers understand: How to assess past injuries and conf...
Feb 28, 2025•34 min•Season 2Ep. 15
What does it take to successfully transition an OTTB from the track to a second career? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ashley Taylor, an equine sports medicine veterinarian, owner of Twin Ponds Farm and co-owner of Sports Medicine Associates of Chester County. With a passion for rehabilitation, injury prevention, and optimizing equine performance, Dr. Taylor has built a career focused on keeping sport horses sound and helping OTTBs recover, strengthen, and excel in new disciplines. Her jo...
Feb 27, 2025•52 min•Season 2Ep. 14
We’re back with another round of OTTB on Tap Evaluates ! In this sneak peek of Volume 4 , we introduce three OTTBs, including two warhorses with impressive race records , and break down their pedigrees and post-track potential. Want to hear the full evaluation, including our deep dive into conformation and sporthorse suitability? Join Supercast for just $5/month to unlock this episode and more exclusive content. Plus, if you’re the owner of one of the horses we evaluated, contact us for a free m...
Feb 20, 2025•8 min
What happens to Thoroughbred broodmares when their breeding careers end? Too often, these mares are overlooked in the aftercare conversation, but Mareworthy Charities is working to change that. Founded by Kyle Rothfus, Mareworthy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to giving retired OTTB broodmares the retirement, rehoming, and second careers they deserve. In this episode, Kyle takes us behind the scenes of Mareworthy’s mission, sharing how the organization got started and what makes...
Feb 13, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 2Ep. 13
n this episode of OTTB on Tap , we sit down with Ashley Steele Norris, founder of Sunbriar Equestrian, to explore her inspiring journey in the OTTB world. Ashley shares how her childhood surrounded by horses, her time working under legendary eventer Jane Sleeper, and her passion for Thoroughbreds shaped her career. From training sensitive OTTBs to competing at the upper levels of eventing, Ashley brings valuable insights for anyone involved with Thoroughbreds. We spotlight two remarkable horses:...
Jan 30, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Season 2Ep. 12
In this episode of OTTB on Tap Evaluates , we dive into the pedigrees, conformation, and potential of three listener-submitted Thoroughbreds: Flowers Apriority , Cowboy Swagger , and Mr. Cellular . Join Niamh and Emily as they analyze each horse’s unique racing background, bloodlines, and suitability for sport horse careers. From standout sires like Grand Slam and Gone West in Flowers Apriority’s lineage, to Kentucky Derby winner Grindstone’s influence on Cowboy Swagger, and the athletic versati...
Jan 23, 2025•54 min•Season 2Ep. 11
In this recurring series from OTTB on Tap , we dive into the first chapter of Go Green’s (aka Oscar) journey as an OTTB transitioning from the track to his second career. Co-host Emily interviews Niamh about Oscar’s December training highlights, milestones, and personality quirks. From groundwork basics to learning to lunge, tackling cross-ties, and his first off-property adventures, Niamh shares how she’s setting a solid foundation for success on the road to the Retired Racehorse Project Makeov...
Jan 16, 2025•41 min•Season 2Ep. 10
In this episode of OTTB on Tap , we reconnect with Chelsey O’Brien, a standout trainer from our RRP Trainer Chronicles series. Chelsey shares what she and her Thoroughbred, UBie, have been up to since their incredible success at the Retired Racehorse Project (RRP) Thoroughbred Makeover, and she gives us an inside look at their post-Makeover goals. For anyone considering applying for the 2025 RRP Thoroughbred Makeover , this episode is packed with invaluable advice! Chelsey walks us through the a...
Jan 09, 2025•59 min•Season 2Ep. 9
In the second half of our conversation, Tom and Clare Mansmann of Pacific Farms in Hume, VA, share their expertise on advanced OTTB care and their innovative approach to rehoming Thoroughbreds. Topics include farrier and hoof care essentials such as managing expectations, X-rays, glue-on shoes, and hoof boots. They also address common challenges like ulcers and the physical transformations OTTBs experience while transitioning to their new lives. A key highlight of this episode is their Train to ...
Jan 03, 2025•44 min•Season 2Ep. 8
In the first part of this two-episode feature, Tom and Clare Mansmann of Pacific Farms in Hume, VA, share their rich equestrian history and passion for retraining off-track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs). From Young Riders to training with legendary equestrians like Jimmy Wofford, Karen O’Connor, and Jessica Ransehousen, Tom and Clare provide an inspiring look at the philosophy behind Pacific Farms and how they developed their love for OTTBs. Tom and Clare reveal their methods for evaluating OTTBs’ innat...
Jan 02, 2025•49 min•Season 2Ep. 7
