In this episode, I sit down with Haleigh Holom, a mental performance coach who helps riders push past mental and physical barriers so they can reach their goals. We talk about some of the biggest challenges adult amateurs face—things I’ve struggled with myself—like comparison, performance anxiety, and fear in the saddle. I open up about my own journey with comparison, especially the frustration I used to feel when I couldn’t afford a “fancy” horse and would measure myself against others. Haleigh explained that the first step to breaking free from that cycle is recognizing when comparison sneaks in and then shifting the focus back to my own goals. We also dive into performance anxiety. I share my experiences with pre-show nerves, worrying about letting others down, and that mental spiral that can hit before a big ride. Haleigh talks about how she works with her clients—and how I can apply this myself—through: Mindset training to challenge self-limiting beliefs A consistent pre-ride warm-up routine to find calm Practicing gratitude and positive self-talk Striking a healthy balance when facing fears Using mindfulness and replaying positive riding moments in my mind We also talk about how past traumas can show up in the arena, and how signs like body tension, agitation, or trouble focusing can mean I’m sliding into anxiety. Haleigh reminded me how important it is to have a strong support system at the barn, and I’m so grateful for my trainers and barn family who encourage me every step of the way. Haleigh also shared about her workshops for riders, trainers, and parents, as well as her virtual coaching, clinics, and horse show support. I wrapped up the conversation feeling inspired and excited to have her back on the podcast in the future. My Biggest Takeaway:Our mental and emotional health is just as important as our physical skills. By reframing my thoughts, focusing on what I can control, and letting go of what I can’t, I can ride with more confidence, clarity, and joy. WATCH

In this episode of The Equestrian Adult Amateur, I sit down with Piper Klemm, the powerhouse behind *The Plaid Horse Magazine*, to dive deep into her journey through equestrian journalism and what continues to inspire her work in the horse world. Piper shares what it’s been like navigating the industry as a young woman, building credibility, and staying authentic in a space that’s often slow to change. She also opens up about being featured on our very own Docuseries *Inside the Ingate*—a vulnerable moment that brought both nerves and excitement. Her hope? That by telling her story, she can inspire and educate others in the equestrian community. We’re also joined by Geoff, a respected hunter and equitation judge, who brings his insight into what really matters in the ring. From memorable rounds to major pet peeves (like riders sitting the trot on their entrance), Geoff offers a candid look behind the judge’s booth. Together, we discuss: * The high cost of competing at elite shows like Devon—and why it’s time to debunk the “only billionaires can afford it” myth * The mental game behind showing and how to balance your passion with real life * The pressures of horse life and what it means to have a life *outside* the barn * The importance of building a career in all areas of the horse industry—from judging to teaching to course design We wrapped the episode with a little hype for the upcoming *Inside the Ingate* live show, and a powerful reminder: our stories matter. Whether you're in the big leagues or riding in your own backyard, your journey is valid—and worth sharing. WATCH

This week on the Equestrian Adult Amateur podcast, I sit down with three of the biggest names in the hunter ring: Nick Haness, Traci Brooks, and Carleton Brooks. Together, we talk about what it takes to build a winning program — from horse selection and team dynamics to mentorship, mental preparation, and behind-the-scenes organization. Nick opens up about what allows him to focus fully in the show ring, trusting that everything behind the scenes is taken care of. Traci and Carleton dive into their detailed approach to planning, communication, and developing top hunters and clients across the country. We also reflect on some of our funniest memories, career highlights (like winning at Devon), and what keeps them motivated for the future.

In this episode of the Equestrian Adult Amateur podcast, Alexis and I sat down with the incredibly inspiring Ina Forssén—the founder of equestrian fashion brand POMME and co-founder of Amiko and Friends. If you’ve ever dreamed of starting your own business, struggled to balance your barn life with your real life, or felt the pressure to fit into traditional equestrian style boxes, this conversation is for you. Ina has been riding since she was a kid and always had a passion for fashion alongside horses. She wanted something more modern, colorful, and expressive than what she was seeing in the equestrian world—so she built it. In 2019, she and her friend Pernilla launched POMME, a brand that's now known for bold, high-quality designs and standing out. But the road wasn’t easy. Launching right before the pandemic meant dealing with shipping delays, product challenges, and plenty of uncertainty. On top of that, Ina and her team faced criticism for doing things differently—especially online. Pernilla has received her fair share of unkind comments for simply being visible and confident in her marketing. But instead of backing down, they leaned in. They listened to their customers, stayed true to their brand, and kept showing up. As a fellow adult amateur, I couldn’t help but admire how Ina manages it all—riding, running businesses, motherhood, and everything in between. She credits her supportive husband and staying focused on what matters most. It was such a refreshing reminder that while we may not be able to do everything, we can do the things that count—with heart. Recently, Ina and Pernilla launched a new venture: Amiko and Friends, a membership-based platform offering high-quality equestrian products at more accessible prices. It’s their way of bringing transparency and affordability into a space that often feels intimidating or exclusive—and it’s all rooted in community, connection, and real-life rider needs. This episode was a reminder that there’s space for more color, more creativity, and more realness in the equestrian world. Ina’s story is proof that carving your own path—no matter how unconventional—can lead to something truly special.

Alexis and I are back—with a new recording location but the same honest conversations you’ve come to expect from us. In this episode, we dove into some of the real-life challenges we’re facing with our horses, especially Alexis’s gelding who’s been dealing with some tough hoof issues. That naturally led us into the hot topic of farrier fees, expectations, and the controversy surrounding the value of their work. I also shared a few listener comments that added even more depth to the conversation. We got real about the struggle of balancing horse life with the rest of life—trying to find time to ride, dealing with the relentless summer heat, and staying on top of hoof care. One listener sent in a beautiful message about being an adult amateur in the horse world, and we read it on air because it captured so much of what many of us are feeling. We also talked about competition—how our definitions of “success” in the saddle have changed over time. Whether you’re chasing ribbons in the show ring or just enjoying a quiet ride in the field, there’s space for every version of joy in this sport. As we wrapped up, we reflected on the pressures and stereotypes that exist in the equestrian world—and how important it is to support one another, no matter where someone is in their journey. We all make sacrifices to be here. Let’s choose to lead with empathy and respect. And finally, we gave a little teaser for an upcoming documentary that we’re really excited to talk more about soon. As always, thanks for listening—and remember to protect your peace and lift up your community. 💛 Watch

In this episode, I opened up about something really personal: the backlash and negativity I’ve been facing online and in my local equestrian community. As someone who’s always approached content with creativity and humor—often poking fun at myself and the culture around us—it’s been disheartening to see how easily that can be misunderstood or twisted. I talked about the weight of rumors, judgment, and the frustration that comes with feeling like you’re constantly defending yourself while just trying to build something meaningful. I’ve worked hard to grow a business I believe in, and like many of you, I’ve poured my heart into it. So when people turn on you or question your character, it stings deeply. I also addressed a specific recent situation where I made a comment that sparked some controversy. I took responsibility for it and offered a genuine apology—but I also want to make space for real conversations. I believe we should be able to speak up about issues that matter without tearing each other down. There’s no room for cruelty—especially when it comes to our horses. I’ll never support anything that condones harm or abuse. But I also won’t stand by while our community eats its own. Instead of dividing ourselves, let’s focus on connection, support, and growth. I ended the episode by inviting Anna—the person behind some of the public criticism—to come on the show and have an open conversation. My door is open, and my hope is that Safehouse EQ can continue to be a space where we build bridges, not burn them. Let’s be better. Let’s lift each other up. And let’s remember why we’re here: for the horses, and for the love of this community. WATCH

In this episode, I talked about some of the real challenges equestrian brands—especially in the apparel and clothing space—are facing right now when it comes to marketing. For a long time, our industry has relied heavily on reputation and word of mouth. But with the way technology and consumer behavior have evolved, that just isn’t enough anymore. I pointed out how, unlike other industries (like cookies—yes, cookies!), equestrian brands often look and sound the same online. There’s a lack of originality and a real missed opportunity to create distinction. We’re not just selling breeches and boots—we’re selling an identity, a lifestyle, an experience. I emphasized the importance of building strong editorial campaigns that tell a story and create emotional engagement. It's about more than just product shots—it's about painting a picture and connecting with your audience on a deeper level. Of course, I also know this isn’t easy. There’s a lot of fear and uncertainty around doing something different or innovative. But if you want to stay relevant, you have to be willing to evolve and meet your audience where they are—especially online. We also touched on how helpful it can be to bring in a professional—someone who understands both the industry and modern marketing strategy—to guide you. And I stressed the importance of first impressions on social media. That digital storefront matters. Ultimately, the takeaway from this episode is that equestrian brands need to embrace creativity, lean into storytelling, and make their content fun, engaging, and current. Social media isn’t just a place to sell—it’s where your brand builds trust, identity, and community. Watch

In this episode of The Equestrian Adult Amateur , hosts Alexis and Kelly provide a heartfelt update on their lives, sharing the latest happenings with their horses and how they’ve recently settled into a busy yet fulfilling routine. They dive deep into the challenges faced in the equestrian community, particularly the unrealistic expectations and pressures exacerbated by social media. Kelly opens up about the constant comparison to elite riders and trainers, emphasizing the need to uplift the stories of everyday riders—those who balance jobs, families, and financial limitations—bringing a more relatable perspective to the sport. They passionately discuss the importance of showcasing not only the successes but also the struggles and realities encountered by top riders. Throughout the conversation, they address the pressure to present a perfect, curated version of oneself online, highlighting the often-ignored struggles and setbacks that come with pursuing equestrian goals. Kelly encourages listeners to embrace their imperfections and set realistic expectations for themselves. The hosts also connect with two adult amateur riders, who share their personal journeys, discussing the delicate balance of their love for horses with everyday life demands. They touch on the complexities of being a business owner and the unique challenges that come with having a spouse involved in the riding world. Join us for this insightful and authentic conversation, as we keep it real about the highs and lows of equestrian life. Tune in for relatable stories and encouragement to embrace your own journey! Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes and share your thoughts with us! WATCH

In this episode of our podcast, I’m Kelly Berry, and I’m thrilled to welcome my co-host, Alexis, along with our special guest, Leslie Segars. Leslie is the trainer and owner of a barn specifically catered to adult amateurs, and she shares her inspiring journey in the horse world, highlighting her passion for creating a supportive environment for fellow riders. Leslie emphasizes the importance of having fun in this sport. She reminds us that there’s no pressure to compete if it’s not something we truly enjoy. Our conversation focuses on fostering genuine connections with our horses and cherishing the moments spent riding instead of getting caught up in the pressures of competition on fancy horses. We dive into the vital role Leslie plays in shaping a positive training atmosphere for her clients, ensuring they find joy in their riding journeys. This episode also highlights Lindsay Campbell, a hunter trainer who works with adult amateurs. Lindsay’s experience underscores the sense of community within the equestrian world, where clients support one another, regardless of their backgrounds. Additionally, Alexis and I share our own experiences as adult amateurs, discussing the challenges of balancing life and horses. I reflect on my journey toward becoming a professional, offering valuable tips for others navigating similar paths. We even brainstorm exciting plans for organizing a horse show designed to cultivate a fun and relaxed atmosphere for adult amateurs. Join us for this enlightening conversation filled with insights, laughter, and a reminder that the love of horses should always come first! Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes and share your feedback with us! WATCH

In this heartfelt episode of The Equestrian Amateur, I take you along on my recent trip to the beautiful Devon Horse Show, a place that holds a special significance for me. As I filmed season two of *Inside the Gate*, I encountered a whirlwind of highs and lows that shaped my experience. I’m so excited to share the relatable and down-to-earth stories of both top riders and amateur athletes, emphasizing the importance of showcasing the real struggles and joys of the equestrian sport. I also introduce the two incredible amateur riders featured in this season, Piper and Hannah, who add their unique perspectives and challenges to the mix. Filming was both exhilarating and exhausting, and I candidly discuss the difficulties of being away from home for an extended period, along with the frustrations I faced while trying to work with sponsors who didn’t fully support our vision. One of the key points I touch on is the need for a shift in equestrian marketing. I believe brands should represent their target demographic authentically instead of relying on the same old generic formulas. I encourage our community to voice their feelings about the current state of equestrian marketing and how we can collectively push for positive change. I also dive into a serious topic—the impact of internet bullying within our community. This negativity creates a fear that stifles brands and individuals from taking creative risks. I urge everyone to rise above the trolls, stay true to their values, and create content that aligns with their authentic messaging. Throughout this episode, I share my passion for Inside the Gate and my commitment to standing up against bullying to support my fellow equestrians. I recount how I overcame my fears and insecurities during my time at the Devon Horse Show and encourage you to believe in yourselves and your dreams, no matter how crazy they may seem. Be sure to tune in for this empowering conversation, and don’t forget to subscribe and join the email list for updates on future episodes. I can’t wait to share more stories with you! WATCH

In this engaging episode, hosts Kelly and Alexis welcome guest Nina to share stories from her first meeting with Kelly and her fascinating journey into the world of social media. Nina discusses her passion for horses and how she started posting horse-related content, quickly gaining a dedicated following in just a year. As a certified equine massage therapist, she delves into the benefits of equine massage, a profession she embraced after researching techniques to improve her own horse's health. Nina also shares her future aspirations, which include expanding her business to incorporate additional therapies like acupuncture and cupping. The trio discusses effective social media strategies, with Nina revealing her approach to posting consistently and producing engaging video content using a tripod for better stability. They touch on the realities of sharing personal equestrian experiences online, including the challenges and criticisms that often come with it. In a lively discussion, Nina joins a group of horse lovers who share their unpredictable and sometimes hazardous encounters with horses. They emphasize the importance of understanding horse behavior and the necessity of establishing mutual respect and safety when interacting with these majestic animals. This episode offers valuable insights for horse enthusiasts, aspiring entrepreneurs, and social media lovers alike, fostering a supportive community around equestrian passions. Join Kelly, Alexis, and Nina on this enlightening journey through the world of horses and social media! Watch

 Welcome back to *The Equestrian Adult Amateur*! In this episode, Kelly and Alexis dive into the sometimes pricey world of equestrian gear and horse care. They start by chatting about the costs of owning horses, especially when it comes to supplements and health care, which can really add up. They also discuss riding pants and how it can be hard to justify spending a bunch of money on something that’s just going to get dirty. But don't worry—they highlight the importance of sun shirts, especially as riders get older. Protecting our skin from the sun becomes more important, and those shirts are definitely worth the investment! The conversation shifts to the growing trend of tall boots. Kelly and Alexis talk about how tall boots have become a must-have for riders, moving away from just being a show requirement. Plus, the new styles made from softer leather make them way more comfortable to wear for riding. Another topic they touch on is saddle fitting and the importance of finding the right saddle. They share their thoughts on popular brands like Tad Coffin and Antares and explain why taking the time to choose the right saddle can make a huge difference for both horse and rider. Throughout the episode, the hosts share their favorite products for horse care—think grooming supplies, blankets, and supplements! They also invite listeners to chime in with their favorite show pants, creating a fun community vibe. Join Kelly and Alexis for this informative and light-hearted discussion filled with tips and recommendations that every equestrian can appreciate!  Watch  

In this episode of *The Equestrian Adult Amateur*, Kelly and Alexis are thrilled to welcome professional show jumper Taylor Land! This conversation was recorded at the premiere of a docuseries, Inside The Ingate, that features Taylor, which Kelly's media agency had the incredible opportunity to shoot. The hosts chat about their recent experience at a horse show where they watched Taylor compete and picked up some fantastic tips from her training style. Taylor emphasizes the importance of mixing up training routines and using clever hacks to keep horses engaged and at their best. Things get personal when Taylor shares a story about a recent fall that left her with a cracked rib. Instead of jumping right back into the arena, she took a break and opted for trail rides, which surprisingly helped her horses perform even better when she returned to riding! Kelly and Alexis reflect on the valuable lessons learned from Taylor about resilience, adaptability, and finding balance in the equestrian world. This episode is packed with inspiration and practical tips, making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about horses. With Taylor’s stories and insights, listeners are sure to feel motivated to embrace their own equestrian journeys! Watch

In this episode, I recount my recent experience at the Winter Equestrian Center in Ocala, where I had the wonderful opportunity to film a docuseries focused on equestrians and their real journeys. We are eager to capture diverse stories that reflect the unique challenges and triumphs in our community, and I believe this series will help fill an important gap in equestrian storytelling. We discuss how horse shows can often appear intimidating, yet we emphasize that every competitor, regardless of skill level or location, shares similar emotions and struggles during these events. We engage in a thoughtful conversation about horse show preparation, touching on key elements that contribute to a successful experience—from warming up to the final moments in the ring. Our conversations also highlight the impressive scale and beauty of the WEC facility and the joy we found in connecting with fellow equestrians. One of our friends had a remarkable experience, achieving unexpected success despite initial doubts about their horse’s focus. As we conclude, we want to remind our listeners of the importance of community and relatability in the equestrian world. We are all navigating this journey together, and we look forward to connecting with you in our next episode. Watch Cowgirl Up With Green

In this episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of interviewing Amanda Cerniglia, a veterinarian who specializes in acupuncture and chiropractic care for animals, particularly horses. We were excited to dive into Amanda's extensive background and experience in alternative therapies and how they can benefit our beloved pets. During our conversation, Amanda explained the principles of acupuncture, which involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote balance and treat various health issues. She shared how she assesses a horse's health by checking their pulse and tongue, helping to identify any imbalances that may exist. We were fascinated to learn how acupuncture can help with various conditions, such as pain management and metabolic disorders. Amanda also talked about the importance of personalizing treatments based on each horse's individual needs and overall constitution. She introduced us to additional techniques like electrical stimulation and moxibustion that can enhance the effects of acupuncture. Both Alexis and I shared our personal experiences with acupuncture and chiropractic treatments for our own animals, describing the positive impacts we've seen and why we highly recommend these holistic options to our listeners. We discussed how early intervention can significantly improve a horse's health and performance, making it an essential consideration for pet owners. Overall, we found this episode enlightening, and we hope it inspires our listeners to explore alternative therapies for their pets! Watch Here

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with professional showjumper Taylor Land, who shares her remarkable journey in the equestrian world. From a young age, Taylor has had a profound love for horses, and her path has been filled with challenges, injuries, and setbacks that have only fueled her determination to succeed. Taylor emphasizes the importance of resilience and self-belief, encouraging young riders—and especially little girls—to pursue their dreams with confidence and tenacity. As she competes in three-star events, she reflects on her experiences and expresses excitement about where her journey will lead next. Throughout our conversation, Taylor discusses her training and riding methods, highlighting the crucial role of fitness for both the rider and the horse. She introduces her top horses, including her ten-year-old, "Escobar," and her seasoned 16-year-old, "Caballero." She shares insights into her experiences with different horse temperaments, emphasizing the balance of talent and personality when choosing horses. Training routines are a major focus of our discussion, with Taylor detailing her approach that includes riding out, hill work, and footwork exercises to enhance control and foundational skills for both horse and rider. She also highlights the necessity of mental preparation, using visualization techniques and specialized exercises—like her favorite involving three ground poles—to ensure readiness for shows. As she primarily works with young adult amateurs, Taylor reinforces the importance of preparation and building confidence before stepping into the ring. This episode is packed with valuable tips and insights that any equestrian—whether seasoned or just starting out—can benefit from. Join us for an uplifting conversation filled with inspiration and practical advice from a true equestrian role model!

In this enlightening episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Stacy Anderson, a seasoned feeding consultant for Triple Crown Nutrition. With over 13 years of experience, she shared invaluable insights into the world of equine nutrition and the critical role it plays in maintaining healthy horses. We discussed the importance of forage and how to find the right forms and amounts of feed tailored to each horse’s unique dietary needs. Stacy emphasized the pitfalls of falling for supplement scams and relying too much on information found online. She made it clear that it’s best to seek advice from a trusted professional or feed representative who understands the specific requirements of your horse. Throughout our conversation, Stacy took us through her journey into equine nutrition, sharing how she became passionate about helping horse owners make informed dietary choices. She explained how to effectively incorporate forage and chopped hay into a horse’s diet and the balance between the quantity and quality of hay, which can vary significantly from horse to horse. Another important topic we touched on was the nutritional needs of young horses. Stacy recommended ensuring that the mare is in good health and properly nourished before breeding and emphasized the importance of providing a growth feed for foals after birth. We also addressed common misconceptions, particularly regarding alfalfa. Stacy clarified that there is no scientific evidence to suggest that alfalfa makes horses "hot," although some anecdotes suggest it may cause excitement in certain cases. She highlighted the varying caloric needs among horses and explained how some may require higher carbohydrate levels in their diets for stamina and endurance. I found this episode to be incredibly informative and a must-listen for anyone involved in horse care. Stacy’s expertise will surely help horse owners enhance their understanding of nutrition and ensure their horses receive the best care possible. Tune in for some valuable insights that can make a real difference in your horse’s diet! Watch

In this exciting episode, we dive into the transformative journey of motherhood and the joys of balancing it with our passion for horses. We’re thrilled to have Aly Black as our guest, who shares her inspiring story of becoming a mom and how it has shaped her equestrian life. Aly opens up about her experiences during pregnancy and how she approached the challenges of maintaining her connection to the equestrian world. She shares heartfelt insights into how she knew from the start that riding would always be a part of her life, even if it looked different than before. Aly’s determination to live her "horse girl" dreams shines through as she discusses her continued success in the show ring after becoming a mom. We chat about the ups and downs of juggling family life with training and competing, sharing our own experiences and tips for making it all work. Aly's passion and resilience serve as a reminder that it’s possible to pursue your dreams while embracing the beautiful chaos of motherhood. As we wrap up, we celebrate the journey of finding balance in our lives, and Aly leaves us with words of encouragement for fellow riders navigating similar paths. Tune in for this uplifting conversation filled with inspiration, laughter, and the reminder that being a mom and a dedicated equestrian can go hand in hand!  Memory Hill Stables : GoFund Me Watch

Hi everyone! In this episode, I sit down with my amazing co-host Alexis for the first time in two months, and there's so much to catch up on! Alexis has recently welcomed her beautiful baby into the world, and I couldn’t be happier for her. We dive into her journey of adapting to motherhood while juggling her passion for horses. As we chat, Alexis shares her highs and lows from these past couple of months, and I’m in awe of her strength and resilience. It’s a heartfelt reminder of how valuable our friendship is, especially as we’ve been through so much together since our college days. We also tackle the realities of horse ownership and how we manage our responsibilities as riders. From discussing who pays for vet bills to how we approach our finances within our families, our honest conversation highlights the behind-the-scenes of balancing horses with life’s demands. We even dig into the topic of insurance and why it’s essential for our furry friends. I can’t help but share a funny yet relatable experience of feeling “horsesick” after focusing so much on caring for others—something that makes me appreciate our equestrian lifestyle even more. Alexis talks about how her life choices have changed since becoming a mom and how she’s finding her way back to her passion for riding. As we wrap up, we encourage all of you to subscribe and join us for more genuine discussions about balancing adult life and our love for horses. This episode is filled with friendship, laughter, and some real talk about navigating our unique journeys. We hope you'll join us on this ride! Kiss Of Gold Watch here

In this engaging episode of the podcast, Kelly and I interview Alison Courtney, an accomplished equestrian trainer and coach. Alison shares her unique approach to working with adult amateur riders while helping them navigate their budgets effectively. She emphasizes the importance of setting realistic goals that align with one's financial situation and encourages an open-minded attitude when working with green horses. Alison's journey in the equestrian world is truly inspiring. She talks about her upbringing in Georgia, her dual pursuit of a degree in occupational therapy, and how her passion for teaching blossomed through mentorship and varied experiences in the industry. We loved hearing her heartwarming stories, especially about her special horse, Chinook, and the meaningful lessons he taught her. As we dive deeper into the conversation, Alison provides valuable insights into the trainer-client relationship. She stresses the importance of trust and finding a trainer who genuinely has your best interests at heart. We discuss the balance between pushing oneself and ensuring safety, particularly when managing anxiety around competitions. What stood out to me was Alison's perspective on setting short-term goals to help riders focus on what they can control, rather than succumbing to the pressures of competition. It's all about embracing each rider's unique journey and recognizing the challenges that everyone faces. I'm excited for you all to join us in this episode! Whether you're an adult amateur rider or simply passionate about horses, Alison's insights are a wonderful reminder of the brilliance of the equestrian journey and the importance of supportive mentorship. We hope you find her advice as motivating as we did! Watch Here