Dear Horse World

Show jumping has a problem—and no one is talking about it. Dangerous course designs are putting horses and riders at unnecessary risk, but the industry’s resistance to change keeps real reform just out of reach. Riders are expected to “tough it out,” officials move slowly, and speaking up could mean jeopardizing sponsorships and career opportunities.

Enter Harry Charles, the 25 year-old Olympic show jumper who’s refusing to stay silent.

In this episode, Harry pulls back the curtain on what’s really happening in course design, why these risks persist, and what needs to change before more serious accidents occur. He shares firsthand insights from his own near-career-ending fall, the backlash and support he's received for speaking out, and what he believes the future of show jumping should look like. 

What You’ll Take Away from This Episode: 

• A New Awareness of Course Safety Risks – Why certain jumps are more dangerous and how they impact riders at all levels.
• Behind-the-Scenes at Elite Show Jumping – Harry’s journey from growing up in an Olympic equestrian family to competing at the highest level.
• How to Advocate for Safer Riding – Practical tips for assessing course risks and making informed decisions in competition.
• The Future of Show Jumping – What’s at stake for the sport’s longevity if safety concerns aren’t addressed.
• Why This Matters to Every Rider - Whether you’re a pro or an amateur, understanding these risks can help keep you and your horse safer. From growing up in an Olympic equestrian family to challenging long-standing traditions, Harry’s story is one of breaking barriers and pushing for progress. 

If you care about the safety, longevity, and evolution of show jumping, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Listen now and be part of the conversation that could change the sport. 

You can read the full post discussed in this episode on the Heathcroft Farm Facebook page, home of the Charles family's show jumping stables, here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15tKduLBht/ And read Harry's interview after the post with Horse and Hound here: https://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/harry-charles-call-change-after-fall-at-double-883579

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You can follow Harry's journey on social media:

📱instagram.com/harrycharles_1  📱facebook.com/harrycharlesshowjumping  🌎 www.harry-charles.com You can keep up to date with the Charles' Show Jumping stables at Heathcroft Farm: https://www.facebook.com/heathcroftfarm

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If you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and leave a review - it really helps us grow. You can also check out the rest of the series  @noellefloyd_plus  - just hit the playlist tab for more Dear Horse World episodes.

For even more expert-led workshops, in-depth courses, and exclusive lectures designed to elevate your riding and horsemanship, visit NoelleFloydPlus.com and start your 7-day FREE TRIAL today! 

NF+ brings you direct access to top equestrian professionals, training insights, and a passionate community of riders dedicated to learning and improving. 

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This episode is brought to you by Connaway & Associates Equine Insurance Services, Inc. The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance. Visit www.connaway.net to explore options, or get in touch today. 

📱 instagram.com/connawayassociates  📱 facebook.com/people/Connaway-Associates-Equine-Insurance-Services-Inc/100063556540763/

What if your horse could teach you more about yourself than any self-help book ever could? Horses have an uncanny ability to reflect our emotions, highlight our blind spots, and help us grow in ways we never imagined. But unlocking that power requires more than just skill in the saddle—it demands a willingness to look inward.

That’s where Duey Freeman comes in. 

Duey is a world-renowned therapist, educator, and equine professional who has spent decades helping people discover the life-changing lessons horses offer. As the co-founder of the Gestalt Equine Institute, he blends psychology, relational horsemanship, and a deep understanding of human development to show riders how their interactions with horses can lead to greater trust, connection, and personal breakthroughs. 

In this episode, we explore how Duey’s unique approach can help equestrians like you:

• Understand your horse’s feedback: Learn how your horse mirrors your emotions and behavior, revealing what’s holding you back.
• Build deeper trust: Use the subtle dynamics of relational horsemanship to create a bond that goes beyond training.
• Foster personal growth: Discover how your relationship with your horse can help you overcome fear, improve communication, and become more present in all areas of life.
• Navigate challenges with clarity: Gain insights into how attachment theory and Gestalt therapy can transform not just your riding but your entire perspective on partnership.

Whether you’re seeking to improve your performance, strengthen your bond, or simply find more meaning in your time with your horse, Duey’s wisdom offers a roadmap for growth—both in and out of the arena. 

This is more than a conversation about horses; it’s a conversation about life, love, and the lessons waiting in every ride.

If you’ve ever felt like your horse sees something in you that you don’t, this episode will show you how to finally understand—and transform—what they’re reflecting back.

Have you ever considered the story your saddle is telling? Throughout history, saddles have symbolized connection, partnership, and the journeys we take. But in your own rides, is your saddle telling a story of trust—or betrayal? We often assume a saddle that looks fine or feels "good enough" must be doing its job. But for countless horses, the effects of poor saddle fit are quietly devastating—causing chronic pain, behavioral issues, and eroding the trust between horse and rider. And for female riders, saddles designed for male anatomy may be holding them back in ways they don’t even realize. In this episode, Noëlle sits down with Jochen Schleese, a Certified Master Saddler and Certified Equine and Saddle Ergonomist and founder of Saddlefit 4 Life®, to uncover the hidden truths about saddle fit. With decades of expertise, Jochen has helped countless horses move pain-free and empowered riders to feel balanced, comfortable, and confident. Together, they explore how an ill-fitting saddle impacts not just the horse’s body, but also the emotional and mental connection you share. You’ll learn to spot the subtle signs of poor fit, understand the overlooked needs of female riders, and discover practical steps to assess and improve your saddle—without breaking the bank. This conversation goes beyond saddle fit. It’s about redefining partnership, choosing compassion over convenience, and showing up for your horse in the most fundamental way: by listening. If your ready to take the next step on your saddle fitting journey book a fitting online or onsite here: https://schleese.com/saddle-fit-evaluation/   Dear Horse World listeners and viewers can also sign up to receive a 5% discount off their saddle purchase via this form:  https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/61dd1e1842ca4f56a88be60e151c4512 Resources:

• Suffering in Silence: The Saddle Fit Link to Physical and Psychological Trauma in Horses by Jochen Schleese
• Explore Jochen’s work and saddle fitting resources: saddlefit4life.com

In December, a Facebook post of ours sparked a big debate: does the USA put too much emphasis on riding position? Is there room for riders to find more fluidity and freedom in their style? Today, we’re diving into those questions.

 

Your position in the saddle isn’t just about looking pretty for the judge’s panel. It’s about communication, balance, and creating harmony with your horse. But here’s the challenge—so much of what we’re taught about position can feel rigid, exclusive, or even unattainable. And for many riders, it leaves them questioning: Am I good enough? Do I fit in here?

 

You’re not alone in feeling this way, and that’s exactly why today’s episode is a must-listen.

 

We’re joined by Nicole Shahinian-Simpson, a rider who’s lived the highs and lows of equitation and show jumping at the highest levels. Nicki is one of only 11 riders in history to win both the ASPCA Maclay National Championship and the U.S. Medal Finals. She’s competed on the world stage, represented the U.S. in international competition, and has nearly 35 Grand Prix victories to her name.

 

But what sets Nicki apart isn’t just her accolades—it’s her perspective. She knows firsthand how striving for “the perfect position” can create pressure that steals your joy and confidence as a rider. And she’s here to help you rethink what good riding really looks like.

 

In this episode, Nicki dives into the realities behind position—how it impacts your horse, why the American equitation system is both a blessing and a challenge, and how to develop a functional, fluid position that works for you. She also tackles the often-unspoken topic of body image in riding: how the pressure to "look the part" can affect confidence, and why strength, individuality, and skill matter far more than fitting a specific mold.

 

Whether you’re a junior striving to meet the standard, or an amateur who just wants to ride without overthinking, Nicki’s insights will help you cut through the noise and focus on what really matters.

 

If you’ve ever felt like you don’t “fit the mold” of a polished equitation rider, or wondered if the emphasis on position is holding you back, this episode will leave you feeling empowered, seen, and ready to ride your best.

 

Because your position isn’t just about looking the part—it’s about showing up for your horse.

 

Today on Dear Horse World, we’re pulling back the curtain on one of our exclusive NF+ Office Hours sessions - where we connect our community with top experts to gain practical advice and deeper understanding.

In this recorded session, renowned horseman Tik Maynard breaks down the motivational pyramid of horses, a powerful tool to help you better connect with and understand your horse, alongside our NF+ Community Director Kylie, who is also a skilled horsemanship expert and clinical counselor.

Here’s what you’ll discover:

• The five core motivators that drive your horse’s behavior.
• Why safety always comes first and how curiosity shapes learning.
• Practical ways to use comfort, play, and food to build trust.

This is just the tip of the iceberg of all the incredible resources we have available on NF+ so if this episode resonated with you - we'd for you to discover more. 

Start your free trial of NF+ and gain access to a network of world-renowned horse experts and world-class equestrian content, designed to meet you wherever you are - no matter where in the world you’re tuning in from.

Head to noellefloydplus.com today to start your journey. 

Have you ever wondered what your horse is trying to tell you—or if they're trying to tell you anything at all? In this moving episode of No Stupid Questions, host Noelle Floyd sits down with writer, equestrian, and renowned animal communicator, Delaya Diana, to explore the mystical and transformative connection between humans and horses.

Delaya shares her journey from a strict Pentecostal upbringing to becoming a leading voice in equine spirituality, answering the kinds of questions so many horse owners wonder about:

• Why is this something I should consider?

• What does my horse truly want me to know?

• What is the most common reading?

• Can I communicate with my horse myself?

• How do I find a trustworthy animal communicator?

You’ll also learn practical tips on:

• The Power of “No”: Why it’s transformative to give your horse the freedom to say no.

• Artifacts of Connection: How keepsakes can honor your bond with your animals or loved ones.

• Listening Without Bias: Becoming the observer to better understand your horse’s needs.

• Why Mares Matter: The unique emotional and spiritual energy mares bring.

If you’ve ever wanted to connect more deeply with your horse or wondered if there’s more to their behavior than meets the eye, this episode is a must-listen.

Delaya’s insights will help you unlock new ways to communicate, trust, and connect with your equine partner.

Discover more about Delaya via her website: https://www.delayadiana.com/

 

Does the thought of goal-setting make you roll your eyes, freeze with anxiety, or shrink in self-doubt? You’re not alone.

Maybe you’re stuck in your riding, unsure how to move forward, or wondering if goals even apply to you. Perhaps the pressure to succeed makes tracking progress feel unbearable, or you’re bracing for self-criticism if you fall short. 

Here’s the truth: goal-setting isn’t easy.

It’s not just a checklist—it’s intentional work that helps you reflect, shift your mindset, and take purposeful action.

And it’s for everyone, not just competitive riders. Whether you’re riding for joy, growth, or performance, goals provide direction, build confidence, and make every ride meaningful.

Join Noëlle Floyd and Dr. Jenny Susser, an Olympic-level sport psychologist, as they tackle the mental hurdles holding you back. With actionable advice and practical tools, they’ll help you break through barriers, set goals that work, and transform how you ride and think.

What You’ll Take Away:

• Turn Fear into Focus: Get powerful strategies to manage nerves and ride with confidence.
• Set Goals Like a Pro: Learn how to create clear, achievable goals that keep you motivated and on track.
• Master Your Mindset: Discover how to stay present, block out distractions, and embrace the challenges that push you to grow.
• Ride With Purpose: Stop spinning your wheels—every ride can have meaning and direction when you know how to set the right intentions.

Take charge of your riding journey. Whether you're overcoming fear, seeking progress, or building your relationship with your horse, this episode gives you the tools to move forward with confidence and purpose. Don’t stay stuck—tune in and make every ride count. Your transformative year starts now.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Dr. Jenny’s NF+ masterclasses—How to Control Fear and Anxiety and Performing Under Pressure—are designed to take you even further. These aren’t just lessons; they’re game-changing tools to transform your mindset and unlock your full potential as a rider.

 

You can watch or listen to Dr. Jenny's TEDx Talk here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hUsITcRCm2g 

Happy Holidays from all of us at Dear Horse World.

We’re sending our heartfelt thanks to our incredible listeners for joining us on this journey throughout the year. Your support and passion for the equestrian world mean the world to us!

As a token of our appreciation, we’re thrilled to share an exclusive gift just for you: a special discount code for the NOËLLE FLOYD+ platform, because there's never been a better time to explore & learn with our platform. 

Whether you're looking to deepen your knowledge in 2025, get inspired by exclusive content, or simply connect with your passion for horses over the holidays, NF+ has something for everyone.

👉 Use code 'DHW25' at checkout to unlock your holiday discount on annual memberships (offer valid until Dec 31.)

Thank you for being part of our amazing community. We can’t wait to bring you more stories, insights, and inspiration in 2025, so make sure to hit subscribe to never miss an episode. Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a Happy New Year!

When it comes to training horses—or dogs—it’s easy to focus on surface behaviors: bucking or barking, or bolting or biting. But what if the real story lies deeper—in unmet needs, misunderstood communication, or even the emotions we bring into the equation? In this episode, we’re joined by Jerri Scherff, a trainer who doesn’t just work with animals—she transforms relationships.

Though recently making waves with her hilarious Instagram reels, she’s been known for the last decade for her thoughtful, open-minded approach to dog training. In this episode, Jerri shares the tools and insights that have helped her clients break through frustration and create lasting trust.

Here’s what you’ll discover: 

• Barrel Racing Behind the Scenes: Jerri sets the record straight on the realities of barrel racing and shares the lessons it’s taught her and her daughter.
• Dog vs. Horse Training: Surprising connections between these two worlds—and how understanding one can transform your approach to the other. 
• The Power of Empathy: Hear Jerri’s viral story about stepping in during a case of horse abuse, and how she used compassion and crisis understanding to help both the human and the horse.
• Turning Struggles into Growth: Why being “incompatible” can often offer the greatest opportunities for learning and connection.
• Jerri’s Open-Minded Approach: Practical strategies for meeting your animal’s unique needs while also managing your own emotions and expectations.

 

Whether you’re grappling with training challenges, curious about animal behavior, or just looking for inspiration, this conversation is packed with relatable stories, practical advice, and fresh perspectives. Because the best partnerships aren’t built through force or frustration—they’re forged with empathy, patience, and understanding.

 

Tune in to explore how these principles can transform your relationship with your horse, your dog, and even yourself. 

Watch Jerri’s viral video on handing abuse: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_oPAEkyHqG/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D

 

Follow Jerri on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sailorjerrithedogtrainer/

 

Do tension and resistance keep showing up—not just with your horse, but in your relationships too? Here’s the truth: it’s not about training—it’s about connection, and it starts with you. In this episode, Josh Nichol and Duey Freeman join forces to reveal the secrets to building real, lasting harmony with your horse—and share powerful insights to help you become a more effective and compassionate trainer! What You’ll Learn:

• Why tension in your horse is a clue, not a problem—and how to use it to build trust.
• How your horse reflects your emotional state and helps you heal.
• The power of presence and congruence to transform your horse’s response.
• Why safety is the foundation for breakthroughs and how clinicians can create a protected environment of learning. 
• How to lead with confidence and foster trust and growth.

Josh and Duey bring decades of experience and a unique focus on you—your challenges and the tools you need to succeed. Whether you’re a seasoned trainer or just starting, they’ll guide you to the “aha!” moments that deepen your bond with your horse and transform how you approach challenges. By the end, you’ll feel empowered to:

• Turn resistance into connection.
• Build a relationship rooted in trust and respect.
• Approach every challenge with clarity and calm.

Step into the empowered connection you’ve been searching for—Josh and Duey will show you how. Tune in now!

 

This episode was brought to you by Logan Coach Trailers, horse trailers built for today’s rider, and every mile ahead. Visit LoganCoach.com to see the difference for yourself.

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In this episode of Dear Horse World, we sit down with the legendary horseman, author, and clinician Mark Rashid to explore his groundbreaking approach to horsemanship. Rooted in kindness and inspired by the principles of Aikido, Mark’s work shows riders how to tackle challenges and evolve as partners and people.

 

Mark doesn’t just teach “fixes” for problem horses—he empowers riders to become more aware, present, and in tune with their horse’s energy. If you’ve ever felt confused, frustrated, or disconnected with your horse, this episode is for you. Mark shares transformative insights that include:

 

• Blend Don’t Battle. Mark’s Aikido-inspired approach turns resistance into harmony, so you can create a partnership where you and your horse move as one.
• Slow Down to Connect: Learn how taking your time lets you notice the small signals your horse gives—and how those moments hold the key to solving bigger problems.
• Kindness is the Core: Why a kinder, softer approach to working with horses is more than just effective—it actually feels good for both you and your horse.

 

Horsemanship isn’t about mastering techniques; it’s about mastering yourself. Mark reminds us that the journey toward better riding starts with patience, curiosity, and a willingness to listen—not just to your horse, but to your own instincts.

 

This conversation will leave you inspired to approach your horse—and your life—with more compassion, clarity, and connection. Whether you’re a lifelong rider or just starting out, Mark Rashid’s insights will give you the tools to unlock the magic of true partnership.

 

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Learn more about Mark Rashid

https://www.markrashid.com/

 

Shop Mark Rashid’s Books:

https://www.markrashid.com/shop-3

 

This episode was brought to you by Schleese. If you’re ready to take the next step on your saddle fitting journey, book your free consultation with Schleese at https://go.schleese.com/BookConsult-NoelleFloyd

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This special bonus episode of Dear Horse World brings you all the energy and insight of a live event! Recorded straight from the buzzing NF+ booth at Equine Affaire in Springfield, Massachusetts, we dive into real-life horse questions from our amazing NF+ members.

The goal? To prove that when it comes to our equine partners, there’s no such thing as a stupid question—only steps toward stronger connections and better understanding.

What to Expect

This isn’t your typical Q&A session. It’s a mix of practical advice, eye-opening insights, and relatable stories that’ll make you laugh, nod, and maybe even say, “Why didn’t I think of that?” Here’s a taste:

• Lunging Like a Pro: Struggling with a counter-bending horse? We share how to combine physical technique and mental connection to help your horse find balance and relaxation.
• Turning Pushy into Playful: Got a horse that’s a little extra? Learn how to channel that playful energy into productive, positive behavior (and still have fun).
• Patience for the Spirited Horse: Animated and impatient horses can learn patience—and we show you how, one step at a time.
• Rehabbing with a Topline: Keep your horse’s muscle and topline in check during rehab with simple, biomechanics-focused exercises.
• No More Trailer Loading Drama: Say goodbye to the struggle with a step-by-step approach that builds trust and confidence.
• Calm in Chaos: Help your horse stay focused and connected in new environments through gradual exposure and consistent positive reinforcement.

Why You’ll Love It

This episode blends casual, upbeat vibes with super-informative takeaways. Whether you’re tackling a tricky training challenge or just looking to deepen your connection with your horse, this conversation hits all the right notes. We’re diving beyond the surface to talk about the “why” behind horse behavior, training techniques, and the importance of understanding your horse’s unique needs.

Hit Play Now: Tune in to learn, laugh, and get inspired. Because in the world of horses, curiosity doesn’t just lead to answers—it leads to better partnerships.

Let’s grow together, one question at a time.

Have you ever wondered where you truly belong in the horse world—or worried that you don’t? In this episode, recorded live from Equine Affaire, Noëlle Floyd and Caroline Culbertson share their journeys of navigating uncertainty, embracing vulnerability, and building communities where riders of all backgrounds can feel at home. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How to Find Your Place: Learn how to overcome the fear of not belonging and create a community that aligns with your values and passions.
• The Courage to Be Vulnerable: Discover why admitting what you don’t know can actually open doors to deeper learning and connection.
• Embracing Change as Growth: See how stepping into the unknown—whether in the arena or in life—can lead to your biggest breakthroughs.
• Building Community Through Authenticity: Understand why letting go of perfection can help you foster meaningful relationships and create space for real progress.

If you’ve ever felt unsure of where you stand or how to move forward, this episode will leave you inspired to take ownership of your journey and find the belonging you deserve.

- 

This episode is proudly brought to you by Schleese. 

If you’re ready to take the next step on your saddle fitting journey, book your free consultation with Schleese at https://go.schleese.com/BookConsult-NoelleFloyd or visit schleese.com to learn more.

 

–

Listen to the Horse Person podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/horse-person/id1772792285

 

Join the NF+ Community:

https://noellefloydplus.com/community/channels/community_updates

 

What if your breath and energy hold the key to self-awareness, emotional healing, and a deeper bond with your horse? In this episode, yoga and neuroscience-informed breathwork expert Julia McCabe and relational horsemanship trainer Josh Nichol explore how understanding your inner world transforms your outer relationships—with horses, people, and yourself.

 

What You’ll Learn:

 

• How breathwork heals: Simple breathing techniques to release trauma, calm anxiety, and build resilience.
• What horses teach us: Why your horse reacts to your energy—not your commands—and how they reflect your inner emotional state.
• Real stories of transformation: How riders have overcome emotional blocks and found confidence through relational horsemanship and breathwork.
• Practical tools for connection: Ways to stay present, calm your energy, and create a harmonious relationship with your horse and yourself.

 

Whether you’re looking to improve your relationship with your horse or deepen your understanding of yourself, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiring stories. Discover how breathwork and horsemanship can transform the way you show up—in the saddle, in your relationships, and in life.

 

Access Julia McCabe’s Breathwork Masterclass on NF+

https://noellefloydplus.com/programs/nervous-system-reset-for-riders

 

Access Josh Nichol’s Masterclasses on NF+

https://noellefloydplus.com/authors/author-jQ9LkB2bbEE?category_id=208905

 

Get a Free 7-day Trial of NF+

https://noellefloydplus.com/join_us

 

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions on mental health, toxic relationships and emotional abuse.   When Jodie Morton set off on Australia’s National Trail, it wasn’t just about the miles—it was about making a difference. What started as a ride to raise mental health awareness quickly turned into a journey of resilience, loss, and self-discovery.

 

Inspired by the memory of two loved ones lost to depression, Jodie launched Green, Gold, and Blues to bring attention to mental health in underserved areas. Even when drought forced her to abandon the Australian trail, she didn’t stop. Instead, she took her mission to North America’s Continental Divide Trail, driven by a belief that even the hardest paths can lead somewhere meaningful.

 

In this episode, you’ll discover:

 

• Resilience in Action: Jodie’s story is a reminder that, no matter how hard things get, there’s strength to be found. Her journey may inspire you to find that extra push in your own challenges.
• A Red-Headed Mare & Unexpected Bond: Learn the unlikely story behind Jodie’s partnership with Thelma, her half-saddlebred, half-quarter horse companion—and how Thelma became the horse of a lifetime.
• The Impact One Person Can Have: Through Green, Gold, and Blues, Jodie shows how one person’s dedication can bring mental health awareness to places that need it most, turning personal pain into purpose.
• The Freeding in Letting Go: Jodie’s decision to leave a toxic relationship is a powerful reminder that sometimes, the hardest choices bring the most freedom and growth.

 

This isn’t just a story of adventure; it’s an episode packed with insights on courage, healing, and the power of self-belief. If you’ve ever struggled with grief, tough decisions, or finding strength to keep going, Jodie’s journey will inspire you to face your own path with resilience and hope.

 

Learn more about Jodie Morton and Green, Gold and Blues:

https://www.greengoldandblues.com/

 

Follow Jodie on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/greengoldandblues/?hl=en

 

Free Online Mental Health First Aid Course:

https://alison.com/tag/mental-health#google_vignette 

 

Get Metal Health Support from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – US

www.nami.org

 

Get Immediate 24/7 Support  with National Crisis Hotlines:

United States 📞 988 (available 24/7)

Canada 📞 1-833-456-4566 (available 24/7)

In this episode of No Stupid Questions (our brand new bonus episode series!) equine osteopath Jessica Van Buskirk joins Noëlle for an enlightening look at how osteopathy can transform your approach to horse health. Jessica dives into osteopathy’s unique “whole horse” approach, focused on balancing three main systems: the parietal (musculoskeletal), visceral (organs), and cranial sacral systems. By understanding these interconnected systems, horse owners can better support their horses’ natural healing and optimize health and performance. What You’ll Learn:

• The Three Pillars of Osteopathy – Jessica reveals how a healthy balance in the musculoskeletal, visceral, and cranial sacral systems supports everything from circulation to movement to mental calmness.
• Managing Muscular Imbalances – Discover how common issues, like overdeveloped hamstrings or underused glute muscles, affect performance horses and how to address these imbalances.
• The Role of Cranial Sacral Health – Jessica explains the importance of the cranial sacral system in maintaining homeostasis and vitality, underscoring its impact on circulation, energy, and recovery.
• Osteopathy vs. Chiropractic and Massage – Jessica breaks down how these therapies differ, showing why osteopathy goes beyond the musculoskeletal system to address a horse’s internal balance.
• Everyday Health Essentials – Learn how diet, proper rest, and a stress-free environment play into holistic horse care, and why these elements are vital to supporting your horse’s whole-body wellness.
• Collaborative Care for Stronger Results – Jessica emphasizes the power of working closely with vets and other professionals to create a comprehensive care plan tailored to your horse’s needs.

Packed with practical tips and insights, this episode will help you understand your horse’s body on a deeper level. Tune in to discover how osteopathy can be the answer to supporting your horse’s health, happiness, and longevity.

 

Find an osteopath near you:

International Register for Equine Osteopaths EDO ®

https://irequineosteo.org/en/registers/

 

Learn more about Jessica and Fancy Equine Services:

https://www.fancyvetservices.com/ 

 

Vluggen institute of equine osteopathy:

https://www.vluggeninstitute.com/ 

 

“I never thought I would be scared of anything, and then all of a sudden–I was. And I was embarrassed about it because my whole career kind of hinged on me being this [fearless] person.”

Niki Flundra is the equestrian world’s rock star—if rock stars were down-to-earth, humble, and as compassionate as she is.

As a rodeo rider, stunt performer, rancher, and mom of three, Niki shines both in front of the camera and behind the scenes, working with A-listers like Jennifer Lawrence, Robert Pattinson, and Amber Marshall (Heartland). 

Her horses have starred in blockbuster films like Flicka and The Revenant. But while her career seems fearless, it was motherhood that brought her the biggest challenge—and the greatest growth.

In this episode, Niki shares how becoming a mom changed her bold approach to life and revealed new layers of resilience. 

She talks about raising her three boys on their 8,000-acre ranch, where parenting and horsemanship go hand in hand, and how every day is a lesson in patience, compassion, and hard work.

You’ll also hear Niki’s top horse training tips, including her six must-have groundwork exercises, and how to start liberty riding to build trust with your horse. Plus, she opens up about overcoming personal challenges—like the harrowing time she was kicked in the face by a horse—and her philosophies for risk and recovery.

Whether you’re running a ranch, training horses, or raising a family, Niki’s journey offers a wealth of inspiration. 

Don’t miss this exciting conversation packed with Hollywood stories, heartwarming moments, and valuable life lessons.

When your horse starts limping or bucking, it’s easy to assume the problem is something visible. But what if it’s hiding deep within—buried in organs, muscle, or fascia?

Often, the real troublemakers are internal misalignments, quietly pulling on connective tissue, restricting blood flow, and crying out in ways we overlook. For countless horses, these health issues go undetected, especially when X-rays come up clean and injections fail to help. 

Their behavior gets punished instead of understood—but that changes now. In this episode, we introduce you to Dr. Connie Fancy, DVM.

With a talent for finding what’s been overlooked, Dr. Fancy uses internal ultrasounds and hands-on assessments, teaming up with equine osteopaths to tackle the root causes of horse behavior that most vets miss. 

She’s booked solid for months by desperate owners, and her discoveries are eye-opening: flipped ovaries, immobile kidneys, severe fascia pulls, and even detrimental damage from gelding scars—all hidden beneath the surface.

Noelle also digs into her own experience with Dr. Fancy, revealing the surprising findings in her own mare and gelding.

If you’ve ever been stumped by your horse’s behavior or frustrated by unexplained performance setbacks, Dr. Fancy offers a fresh approach that could change everything you thought you knew about equine health.

This episode isn’t just eye-opening—it’s the revelation your horse has been waiting for.

In this inspiring episode, Noëlle sits down with rising showjumping star Richard Vogel, whose partnership with his horse, United Touch S, captivates crowds the moment they step into the ring. Their presence, determination, and undeniable skill leave the audience in awe, wondering, “How can I create a bond like that with my horse?”

Richard shares his journey, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what makes countries like Germany excel in equestrian sports, and how a love for horses often starts at home. He gives invaluable advice for aspiring riders, reflecting on his early experiences and key lessons learned from riding for the legendary Ludger Beerbaum at just 19.

Richard opens up about forging his own path, both in riding and business, often defying conventional advice to chase his dreams. He shares essential tips for developing young horses, such as:

• Building confidence at home before stepping into the show ring.

• Recognizing when a horse is ready to move up—or when it’s time to step back.

• Why patience is everything.

• The importance of having a strong, supportive team.

Lastly, Richard offers insight into his remarkable partnership with United Touch S. He talks about the stallion's commanding presence, willingness to learn, and the challenges they’ve overcome—like managing his massive stride and balancing freedom with refinement. Richard reveals the specific exercises that helped create adjustability and fine-tune their performance.

This episode is packed with inspiration and insights for anyone eager to take calculated risks and pursue their dreams with passion. You can follow Richard on social media, along with the company which he runs in partnership with showjumper David Will, via the links below:

instagram.com/_richardvogel_ instagram.com/vw_equestrian_

To learn more about NOËLLE FLOYD and our mission, visit noellefloyd.com

Caution: Listening to this episode may change the way you think about horsemanship forever, are you ready?

In the debut episode of Dear Horse World, Noëlle is joined by Josh Nichol, renowned teacher and creator of Relational Horsemanship. Noëlle shares her journey with her rescue Appaloosa, Lady, and how Josh’s guidance helped Lady overcome aggression and resistance—not through control, but by challenging Noëlle’s ability to become vulnerable, receptive, and self-aware.

Josh introduces the powerful concept of a horse’s three needs: Mind, Space, and Pressure. The mind is key to their understanding, space is the energy and body language between you, and pressure is the ask—the invitation for your horse to yield and release. Together, these create a contract of trust, liberating your horse to feel safe, confident, and capable.

Noëlle and Josh dive deep into the critical question: Are we in the receptive state we ask of our horses? Are we present enough to observe their needs, or are we distracted by our own tension and anxieties? Josh shows how a receptive state is not just the foundation of horsemanship, but of how we show up in life.

You’ll also learn that ‘Feel’ isn’t a talent you either have or don’t have—it’s a practice. It starts with presence and awareness, being able to observe your horse’s needs in the moment, and responding with intention. Josh provides practical insights on how to guide your horse through the pressure they experience, empowering them to release that pressure and, in turn, strengthen their trust in you.

This episode will inspire you to rethink your approach to horsemanship—not just as something you do, but as a relationship you build day by day. It’s about creating the conditions where your horse feels understood, secure, and willing to take on hard things with you. It’s about leading with vulnerability, speaking to your horse’s mind, space, and pressure, and ultimately building a foundation of trust that empowers both you and your horse. Episode Highlights:

• Discover how to connect through mind, space, and pressure to create a liberated, confident horse that’s ready to take on any discipline.
• Learn how to create a receptive state within yourself, so you can show up for your horse with presence and intention.
• Explore the concept of feel—a practice of being fully present and observing your horse with all your senses.
• Get meditation tips–as little as 10 seconds–to help you stay present with your horse.
• Learn how to guide your horse through challenges, like spooking, herd boundness, or pushiness, by understanding and meeting their needs.

To get started with Josh’s video collection on Understanding Your Horse’s Needs, sign up for your NF+ membership today:

https://noellefloydplus.com/programs/collection-understanding-horse-needs-foundation