Advertise on podcast: Horsemanship Unlocked

In this episode, we explore the distinction between compliance and willingness in the horse–human relationship. Here we discuss learned helplessness, latency and behavioral enthusiasm, stress physiology, emotional engagement during training, and what willingness may look like behaviorally. Outward obedience does not always reflect the horse’s internal emotional experience and invites listeners to observe training interactions with greater curiosity and nuance.Sources & Further ReadingsLearned Helplessness & Animal BehaviorSeligman, M. E. P. (1972). Learned helplessness. Annual Review of Medicine, 23, 407–412. Hall, C., Goodwin, D., Heleski, C., Randle, H., & Waran, N. (2008). Is there evidence of learned helplessness in horses? Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, 11(3), 249–266. Stress Physiology & WelfareChristensen, J. W., et al. (2006). Effects of training methods on stress responses in horses. Physiology & Behavior, 89(4), 489–497. von Lewinski, M., et al. (2013). Cortisol release, heart rate, and behavior during horse training. Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 8(6), 401–407. Equitation Science & Learning TheoryMcGreevy, P. D., & McLean, A. N. (2010). Equitation Science. Wiley-Blackwell. McLean, A. N., & McGreevy, P. D. (2007). The role of learning theory in equitation. Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 2(4), 108–118. Positive Engagement & Human InteractionSankey, C., et al. (2010). Positive interactions lead to lasting positive memories in horses. Animal Behaviour, 79(4), 869–875.

This episode explores how trust is shaped through predictability, consistency, and emotional regulation, drawing from both equine behavior research and human relationship psychology. Sources and Further Readings Equine Behavior & Predictability Hausberger, M., Roche, H., Henry, S., & Visser, E. K. (2008).A review of the human–horse relationship. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 109(1), 1–24.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2007.04.015 Sankey, C., Richard-Yris, M. A., Henry, S., Fureix, C., & Hausberger, M. (2010).Positive interactions lead to lasting positive memories in horses. Animal Behaviour, 79(4), 869–875.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anbehav.2009.12.037 Stress, Learning, and Consistency McGreevy, P. D., & McLean, A. N. (2007).Roles of learning theory in equitation. Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 2(4), 108–118. McLean, A. N. (2005).The positive aspects of correct negative reinforcement. Anthrozoös, 18(3), 245–254. Schmidt, A., et al. (2010).Cortisol release, heart rate, and heart rate variability in horses. Hormones and Behavior, 57(3), 319–325. Emotional Regulation & Relationship Psychology Gross, J. J. (1998).The emerging field of emotion regulation. Review of General Psychology, 2(3), 271–299. Gottman, J. M. (1999).The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work.(Concept of repair attempts and relationship stability) Siegel, D. J. (2012).The Developing Mind.(Relational regulation and interpersonal neurobiology) Learning & Behavior Interpretation Fureix, C., & Meagher, R. K. (2015).What can inactivity (in horses) tell us about welfare? Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 171, 8–20.

This episode explores the concept of ownership and partnership through both equine science and human relationship psychology, examining how power, dependency, and learning shape the horse-human relationship. Sources & Further Readings Equine Behavior & Welfare Hausberger, M., Roche, H., Henry, S., & Visser, E. K. (2008).A review of the human–horse relationship. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 109(1), 1–24.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2007.04.015 Sankey, C., Richard-Yris, M. A., Henry, S., Fureix, C., Nassur, F., & Hausberger, M. (2010). Reinforcement as a mediator of the perception of humans by horses. Animal Cognition, 13(5), 753–764.https://doi.org/10.1007/s10071-010-0326-9 Fureix, C., & Meagher, R. K. (2015).What can inactivity (in horses) tell us about welfare? Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 171, 8–20.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2015.08.016 Stress & Physiological Indicators Visser, E. K., et al. (2002).Heart rate and heart rate variability during a novel object test and handling in young horses. Physiology & Behavior, 76(2), 289–296. Schmidt, A., et al. (2010).Cortisol release, heart rate, and heart rate variability in horses. Hormones and Behavior, 57(3), 319–325. Learning Theory & Training McLean, A. N., & McGreevy, P. D. (2010).Ethology and learning theory in horse training. In Equitation Science. McGreevy, P., & McLean, A. (2007).Roles of learning theory in equitation. Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 2(4), 108–118. Human Relationship Psychology Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000).Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68–78.(Discusses autonomy, competence, and relatedness in relationships) Mikulincer, M., & Shaver, P. R. (2007).Attachment in Adulthood: Structure, Dynamics, and Change.(Explores security, responsiveness, and relational safety)

In this episode, Veronica explores the definition of "horsemanship". What is the historical definition versus the definition given by industry traditions? How much of defining horsemanship is relationship based versus skill based? Have we drifted from its original meaning and can we circle it back? Just another topic to question on the "Question Everything" Equestrian Podcast. Sources and Further Readings Historical Foundations Xenophon. (c. 350 BCE/1925). On horsemanship. (E. C. Marchant, Trans.). Harvard University Press. (Original work written ca. 350 BCE). — Early instructional text emphasizing gentle handling, trust, and partnership even within a military context. Equine Science & Learning Theory McGreevy, P. D., & McLean, A. N. (2007). Roles of learning theory and ethology in equitation. Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 2(4), 108–118. — Discusses how misunderstanding learning theory contributes to conflict behaviors in horses. McLean, A. N., & Christensen, J. W. (2017). The application of learning theory in horse training. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 190, 18–27. — Explains pressure-release training, reinforcement, and the ethical implications of correct timing and consistency. Sankey, C., Henry, S., André, N., Richard-Yris, M.-A., & Hausberger, M. (2010). Do horses have a concept of person? Behavioural Processes, 86(2), 153–157. — Demonstrates that horses recognize and differentiate humans based on previous interactions. Sankey, C., Henry, S., Clouard, C., Richard-Yris, M.-A., & Hausberger, M. (2011). Asymmetry of behavioral responses to a human: Discrimination and memory of individuals in horses. Animal Cognition, 14, 339–347. — Shows horses remember positive vs. negative handling experiences. Hausberger, M., Roche, H., Henry, S., & Visser, E. K. (2008). A review of the human–horse relationship. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 109(1), 1–24. — Comprehensive review of how handling styles shape equine stress and behavior.Fureix, C., & Meagher, R. K. (2015). What can inactivity (and depression-like states) tell us about welfare in domestic horses? Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 171, 8–20. — Links behavioral shutdown and learned helplessness to welfare concerns. Psychology of Healthy vs. Unhealthy Relationships Bowlby, J. (1988). A secure base: Parent-child attachment and healthy human development. Basic Books. — Foundational attachment theory explaining trust, safety, and emotional security in relationships. Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000). The “what” and “why” of goal pursuits: Human needs and self-determination of behavior. Psychological Inquiry, 11(4), 227–268. — Self-Determination Theory: autonomy, competence, and relatedness as pillars of healthy relationships. Baumeister, R. F., & Leary, M. R. (1995). The need to belong: Desire for interpersonal attachments as a fundamental human motivation. Psychological Bulletin, 117(3), 497–529. — Explores connection and belonging as central to well-being. Ethical Framing of Horsemanship International Society for Equitation Science (ISES). (2018). First principles of horse training. — Evidence-based guidelines for ethical, science-informed training practices.

Welcome to Horsemanship Unlocked's Question Everything: Equestrian Podcast. In this trailer, meet Veronica and explore her journey from traditional horsemanship to science-based training. This podcast looks at horse training, behavior, and welfare through curiosity, observation, and better questions, inviting thoughtful, nonjudgmental conversations about the horse-human relationship.

The patriarchy not only takes form in politics but also in the horse world. Big name trainers are predominantly men while mostly women occupy facilities at the local level. Even in equestrian circus arts women are capped at their physical strength while men have no limits. As a cis woman who rode in jeans and performed "masculine" tricks, here are some of my stories and some ideas to fight the patriarchy in the horse industry. Support women in business; vets, farriers, trainers, etc., don't give a hoot about the gender role traditions, and create a safe space for our allies. Love, your female knight.

Riding and training horses with passionate people is all fun until you have to sit in the office and catch up on bookkeeping and contracts. Barn families are personal connections are what we live for but business is business and managing friendships and financial agreements can be a balancing act within itself. Join Veronica as she shares tips and stories about keeping organized, maintaining boundaries and values, and noting the red flags in the equine entertainment industry.

Fabulous equestrian and my personal assistant trainer for summer camps, Danielle Laszcwski is here to give us the ins and outs of attending a collegiate equine management program. From dorm life, to chores, classes, teams, and training, Danielle found great value in her education. Currently out in the workforce, she has tips and advice for anyone looking into equine science and management programs.

There are many schools of thought based around how long and how hard we should work our horses. Many of those schools of thought are outdated and old school. Seeing horsemanship with discernment can provoke change in an individual and an individual can provoke change in the collective. This is what we call evolution and progression. If not the old ways, than what? Using scientific data from animal psychological studies and experience from professionals I stand behind and witness amazing results with keeping sessions short, simple, and sweet. Ideally 20 minutes 4 times a week. Check out the cited information on physical and mental capabilities of horses to support this. Oh yeah and come to summer camp! Summer Camp https://flyingcolorstrapeze.com/equestrian-trick-riding Patreon https://patreon.com/horsemanshipunlocked?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Physical Research https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0737080606816679 Mental Research https://www.equitationscience.com/ises-training-principles Spiritual Research https://beyondthedreamhorse.com/

This week we have an exciting behind the scenes interview with Renaissance Festival jouster, Sir Thomas Buckley. Join us as we discuss the job requirements, daily routines, and horsemanship practices of a traveling joust troupe.

We get into equestrian sports from the love of the horse. When does love of the sport overpower the love of the horse? When you see a beautiful flower, do you pick it or water it and provide what it needs to grow? Attitude and perspective in horsemanship can change just about everything. It's not about what you're doing but how you're doing it. Intention ripples through everything; your horses, your students, and your inner peace. Ask yourself why you're here and what you bring to the animals, art, sport, or industry.

Running a boarding stable is not for the weak. An around the clock job catering to the needs of both humans and horses takes organization, discipline, business skills, leadership, and compassion... to name a few. Join me in a chat with barn manager and eventing trainer, Lindsay Barrack, as she gives us tips and secrets from her experience of running Mahan Farm, a 113 acre facility in Tallahassee, FL. www.mahanfarm.com

In this podcast episode I share some stories, tips, and experiences throughout my years of hauling horses across the country. From emergency kits, stress reduction, to booking overnight stops, here are some of my hard earned life lessons from a decade of living and traveling on the road with horses.

Have you ever wondered what it is like to work on a ranch out west? The days are as long as the trails you blaze but the sights and the sounds of nature make it all worth it. Join me as I interview KT Schramm on her adventures as a ranch wrangler. Starting as an English rider in the midwest, KT shares the insights and secrets of working at dude ranches. Oh, and did I mention that she has beautiful photos to prove it! Check out her photography business at www.theframedequestrian.com

What are the standards for horse training? Who oversees putting them together? In this free market economy, anyone can say or produce anything, and that’s precisely what has been going on. We may be driven by results, but at what costs was it to get there? Horses cannot speak to us, but if you pay close enough attention and listen you may start to question what you hear. Using scientific based methodology there is a “Why” behind the “How”. Based on psychology, cognition, and ethology these formulas are based on measurable and replicable studies straight from the horse. Veronica goes through the ISES’s “First Principles of Horse Training” giving examples of the material.     ISES Website https://www.equitationscience.com/