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Steve Thomas is a retired oral and maxillofacial surgeon and now the honorary huntsman for the Santa Fe Hunt in Temecula. A Missouri farm kid who rode western and coon hunted with his grandfather, he found fox hunting by accident when a Kansas neighbor turned out to be a master who'd ridden across his property for thirty years. One ride in a pickup and he was hooked. Twenty-five years of staffing later he's chaired the MFHA's Hound Show and Performance Trial Committee, hunted hounds across the US, Canada, England, Ireland and New Zealand, and turns seventy next year still called young for the sport. This is his first season with Santa Fe Hounds.

What we get into:

• How he fell into it: a Kansas neighbor, a pickup ride, and an instant hook.
• Why hounds come first: breeding to your country, biddability, and a summer teaching the puppies (Milo included) to come back to the horn.
• The misconceptions: no guns, not a blood sport, failed coyote control, all about the chase.
• Hound shows versus performance trials, and what a guest huntsman does at Belle Meade.
• Making Santa Fe Hounds a destination hunt, and keeping an aging sport alive.

Steve has hunted on three continents, but the thing that lights him up is a puppy learning where his invisible line is. He explains why he'd pick hounds over horses every time, and how a sport most people never try is as addicting as golf. There's a story about losing count of the jumps in New Zealand, a mid-hunt reprimand, and a real walkthrough for anyone wondering how you actually start.

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Jim Seilsopour, the most consistent guest of the pod, and resident fox hunter, just got back from three weeks in Israel, so this one starts on the beach at Caesarea and wanders everywhere from there.. We use all of that as a runway into thoroughbreds, off-track aftercare, the new racing league picking a fight with the Triple Crown, and what we want to build with Horse People next year.

Five things we get into:

• The new team-based racing league, started by the former Liberty Media exec behind F1's resurgence, and why splitting the sport away from the Triple Crown could hurt everyone.
• Jim's Israel riding: Arabians that stayed sound over rock and road, four-hour beach rides in and out of the Mediterranean, Druze horsemen who could flat-out ride, and a 12-year-old phenom who reminded Jim of himself at that age.
• Off-track thoroughbreds getting second lives in the hunt field, and why we both think the thoroughbred is still the most capable horse alive even as modern eventing leans warmblood and dressage-heavy.
• Keeping horses at home versus boarding them, and the connection Jim says he never appreciated until he was feeding twice a day and catching the small things before they became big ones.
• Bloodlines, live and unscripted, as we pull up Subic Boy, a new thoroughbred of the Santa Fe hunt on Equibase and trace him back through Bernardini and Seattle Slew to Secretariat

If you have ever wondered what happens to a racehorse after the track, whether a Silicon Valley playbook can be dropped onto a 150-year-old sport, or just what it feels like to gallop an Arabian along the coast where Herod built his city, this is the conversation. Two horse people talking the way horse people actually talk, following the thread wherever it goes, from a Maryland statehouse to a monastery on Mount Carmel to a cattle ranch where a horse that was running at Santa Anita three months ago is now chasing hounds.

Follow the show: @horsepeoplepodcast

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Jim Seilsopour joins Horse People as official co-host in this episode, marking the show's shift from a guest interview podcast into something bigger: a mission to attempt every discipline in the world. Jim is a lifelong horseman with deep roots in fox hunting as a member of Santa Fe Hounds, plus a background spanning polo, ranch work, and riding across the globe from Iran to Mongolia. He and Gideon have spent the last several months riding together, and this episode makes it official.

• The new format. More episodes a month, as many weekly catch-up between Gideon and Jim as possible, and a rotating focus on trying new disciplines with real coaches and guests, starting with cross country schooling.
• Cross-discipline riding builds better horsemen. Jim and Gideon trade stories from polo, fox hunting, and ranch work in Oregon and Iran, arguing that riding across disciplines, not mastering just one, is what separates a horseman from a rider.
• The Donna Brothers detour. Gideon recaps a call with the longtime NBC Sports Kentucky Derby analyst and former jockey, pulling a line that becomes a theme for the episode: the best stories come from getting people out of their head and into their heart.
• Wild stories from the saddle. Counting coup on feral dogs in Iran, getting bucked into a barbed wire fence in New Mexico, getting lifted clean out of the saddle by a champion Kazakh wrestler mid-gallop.
• What's coming next. One-day event combining dressage, show jumping, and cross country, a possible trip to Israel to ride with the Druze, and the idea of a Horse People "punch card" for trying every discipline.

By the end, it's clear this isn't a rebrand so much as a reveal of what the show was always building toward. If you've ever wondered what it takes to actually try every discipline in the horse world, or just want two horsemen talking honestly about what makes this life worth it, start here.

Donna Brothers didn't just grow up around horses, she grew up as the daughter of one of the first licensed female jockeys in the United States. From learning to ride before she could remember to becoming one of the winningest female jockeys of the late 80s and 90s, Donna's path was never a straight line.

She spent eleven years in the saddle before trading in her silks for a microphone, joining NBC Sports in 2000 and covering everything from the Kentucky Derby to dressage at the World Equestrian Games.

After 25 years as one of horse racing's most recognizable on-track voices, Donna called her final Preakness Stakes in 2025 and retired on her own terms.

• How Donna's mother became one of the first six licensed female jockeys in the US in 1968, and how a workers' comp calculation literally launched a family legacy
• The story behind her decision to retire: why she left at the top, and what it felt like to say "riders up" one last time on NBC
• The art of the post-race interview, how to keep a winning jockey in their heart instead of their head, and why she never writes out questions
• The Mind That Bird Kentucky Derby win, Calvin Burrell's raw emotion, and the Southwest New Mexico thread that connects Sunland Park to the Triple Crown
• What she thinks horse racing media gets right, what it gets wrong, and her honest advice on building a content-driven podcast

Donna Brothers has been in the sport long enough to have ridden with Mike Smith as a kid in El Paso, interviewed Jose Ortiz seconds after he beat his own brother in a Kentucky Derby photo finish, and watched an entire generation of young women grow up wanting to do what she did.

This conversation covers what 40 years in horse racing actually looks like from the inside, and why she's finally okay stepping out of the spotlight.

@donnabrothers | Subscribe and follow Horse People for more cross-discipline content and stories.

Randy Sarf is an entrepreneur, lifelong horse racing fan, and co-owner of LSU Stables. He's been going to the track since he was five years old, claimed his first horse at 18 with his bar mitzvah money, and has since built a portfolio that includes Hildebrandt's (a nearly 100-year-old ice cream company), and the Horse Whisperer Network, a media venture aimed at changing how fans experience horse racing.

He's also the host of the Horse Whisperer and Sons Podcast alongside his sons Zack and Jordan.

Key Topics Discussed:

• How Randy claimed his first horse at 18, kicked off a lifelong passion with a 50-to-1 stakes win with Quiet Ruler, and eventually went all in on ownership through LSU Stables after a health scare pushed him to rethink his career
• His bold argument that horse racing media needs to center jockeys as the athletes and stars of the sport, not horses or pedigrees, comparing jockeys like Irad Ortiz Jr. and Jose Ortiz to NBA players and ranking his top jockeys by "audibles"
• The story behind the Horse Whisperer Network and Randy's plan to compete with FanDuel, NYRA, and Fox by producing high-quality race day coverage only on the days people actually watch, with top-tier on-air talent
• How Randy sponsored jockey breeches across all three legs of the 2024 Triple Crown, turning a marketing bet into a Citi Field partnership with the New York Mets and a growth engine for Hildebrandt's
• What it takes to spot, buy, and develop a stakes-caliber horse like Farbridge, and the economics of horse ownership when you're guaranteed to lose money 80% of the time

Why You Should Listen:Randy Sarf has been in horse racing longer than most people have been alive, and he's not shy about telling you exactly what's broken and how he'd fix it. From sneaking into the winner's circle as a kid to sponsoring his way across the Triple Crown and landing an ice cream deal at Citi Field, this conversation is part masterclass in racing entrepreneurship, part blueprint for what horse racing media could look like if someone with real skin in the game got behind the mic.

Whether you're a seasoned bettor or you've never been to the track, Randy's energy and stories will make you want to go.

Find Randy and the Horse Whisperer Podcast: @thehorsewhispererpodcast on Instagram | @randysarf on Instagram

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Orchid Bertelsen spent the last 20 years building a career that took her from a law firm in DC to the Gucci sales floor, through digital marketing at Nestle, and eventually into private equity, where she now helps beauty brands grow profitably.

A first-generation Taiwanese American who grew up without a safety net, Orchid learned early that the path forward meant working harder than everyone else and getting close to the money.

After 30 years away from horses, she recently returned to the saddle at a historic equestrian club 10 minutes from her home in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, and what started as a Christmas gift of six lessons has since taken over her entire personality.

FIVE KEY INSIGHTS:

• Finding your way back: Orchid rode from 10 to 14, competed on the B circuit in Illinois and Wisconsin, then stepped away for nearly 30 years. Her return started with a walk past the Grosse Pointe Equestrian Center with her kid in a stroller and one question: "what if?"
• Horses as a forcing function for presence: Managing an oversensitive 17.3-hand horse named Bo has a way of demanding you show up fully. For someone always attached to her phone, barn time is the one place she's not.
• Building content with a system: Through Orchid in the Saddle, she applies her marketing background to create content for returning riders. Batch film on barn days, script with ChatGPT, edit ruthlessly in CapCut to 30 seconds or less, and let the data tell you what to make next.
• The gap the equestrian industry is missing: There's a disconnect between who brands design for and who's actually buying. From boot calf widths to men's sizing to grooming bags, the middle market for quality products made for real people at real price points is wide open.
• Immigrant grit and the cost of an obsession: All three voices in this conversation are first-generation Americans, and the thread connecting growing up without a safety net, building careers close to revenue, and developing a full-blown horse obsession is very real and very relatable.

Orchid Bertelsen is proof that the horse world can pull you back in no matter how long you've been gone, and that returning to the barn at 43 with a half-lease, a TikTok account, and a marketing brain is its own kind of superpower. This conversation covers everything from building a content strategy on a barn budget to the very real gap in equestrian products for adult amateurs, and why the brands that figure that out first are going to win big. If you've ever thought about coming back to horses, or wondered whether your outside career could actually make you better in the saddle, this episode is for you.

Follow Orchid: @orchidinthesaddle on TikTok and Instagram

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Susan Friedland is a former middle school English teacher turned equestrian author based outside Chicago, Illinois. She traded the classroom for the page and has since written four books, including her latest, Marguerite, Misty, and Me, a deep dive into the life of beloved children's author Marguerite Henry.

A lifelong horse-obsessed kid who grew up borrowing horses in Wayne, Illinois, Susan eventually found her way to fox hunting, polo lessons, and the wild pony swim at Chincoteague Island, all while building a writing career that blends her love of horses, history, and storytelling.

What we talked about:

• The real story behind Misty of Chincoteague: wild pony swims, saltwater cowboys, and the tiny Virginia island that inspired one of the most beloved horse books of all time
• How Marguerite Henry went from a city woman with no horse experience to the author of millions of copies across multiple languages, including a Newbery Medal winner
• What it actually takes to write a book about a beloved figure and why Susan says it's "not for the faint of heart"
• The hero's journey hiding inside every great horse story, and why that's probably why these books still hit the way they do
• Why traditional publishers keep passing on horse books, and why Susan (and the numbers) think they're wrong

Susan's story is proof that the path to your dream career doesn't have to be a straight line. It can look like a fox hunting trail through the California hills, a trip to a Virginia island, and an attic full of letters written to a pony. If you've ever felt the pull of a horse book as a kid, this one will take you right back.

Follow Susan on Instagram: @saddleseekshorses

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This episode features Danielle Henson, Sport Communications Manager at the U.S. Equestrian Federation, equestrian, Louisville native, and the person behind one of the most genuinely useful newsletters in the horse industry: CLICK HERE

She talks about what it actually takes to build a career in the horse world when you didn't grow up with industry connections, how social media in equestrian sport has transformed over the last decade, and why the best content always comes back to one thing — the horse.

Key topics we discussed:

1. Growing up 10 minutes from Churchill Downs and finding horses through 4-H and a little Arabian barn called Stonehurst Riding Club
2. The LinkedIn newsletter she started to help people find jobs in the horse world — and how it helped someone land a role at USEF
3. How social media has evolved from hashtags and Snapchat global stories to full video production departments
4. Why horse-forward, emotional content outperforms everything else
5. Her advice for breaking into the equestrian industry without a head start

Social Media Links:

• LinkedIn: Danielle Henson (search + follow her newsletter while you're there)

Horse People Podcast:

• Instagram: @horsepeoplepodcast

Subscribe to Horse People for more cross discipline content and stories.

This episode features Chloe Carabasi, a working actress, model, and social media creator who also happens to be an equestrian, former college polo player, and total horse nerd in the best way.

Joining us as co-host is former guest Jim Seilsopour.

Chloe shares her unique path from Pennsylvania hunter/jumper barns to doubling for Zendaya in major commercials, and talks about finding joy and community through horses, how equestrian skills have helped her stand out in Hollywood, and what it really takes to ride on camera at a full gallop in a ball gown.

Key topics we discussed:

1. How polo shaped Chloe’s equestrian journey from Pennsylvania to Texas to Los Angeles
2. Balancing creative ambition with competitive riding (and the budget battles that come with it)
3. The behind-the-scenes of doubling Zendaya in a high-stakes perfume commercial
4. Why learning new disciplines makes you a better horseperson and actor
5. Finding joy and play in a sport that often takes itself too seriously

Social Media Links:

• Instagram: @chloecarabasi
• TikTok: @chloecarabasi

Horse People Podcast:

• Instagram: @horsepeoplepodcast

Subscribe to Horse People wherever you listen to podcasts. And if you liked Chloe’s episode, share it with a friend who thinks horses and Hollywood don’t mix. They’re wrong

Gideon sits down with Pierce Dargan, CEO of Equine MediRecord, local Irish councillor, and deputy mayor, to talk about what it takes to digitize equine welfare compliance in a pen and paper world, how COVID flipped adoption overnight, and where AI can actually make horses safer.

Key topics discussed:

• Why Pierce ran for local politics, and what it means to shape real decisions like roads, schools, and community life.

• The early grind of building Equine MediRecord, including two years of approvals and stakeholder buy in before anyone could ditch the paper book.

• The unsexy truth of software: bugs, doubt, product fit anxiety, and the first moment someone actually paid.

• How COVID forced even the biggest holdouts online, and why that timing helped push equine compliance tech into new countries fast.

• Where AI can help next, from early lameness detection to colic alerts, plus why better data helps racing earn trust.

Bonus: Pierce’s first syndicate horse, Arthurian Fame, won the Microsoft Cup, then went on to run at Royal Ascot, which is the kind of sentence that only a few get to say aloud.

Social media links for the guest:
LinkedIn: Pierce Dargan
Instagram: @equine.medirecord

Subscribe to Horse People Podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts so you do not miss the next conversation. If you work anywhere near a barn office or a racing office, send this episode to the person still guarding the paper binder like it is a family heirloom.

Michael Iavarone’s done what most horse people only dream about, he’s won the Kentucky Derby. He’s been in this game at the highest level, from Big Brown taking him to the presipice of racing to many G1 wins, but he didn’t grow up in it.

He came from a working-class family, started out getting crushed at the betting windows, and somehow figured out how to buy the right horses at the right time.

This one’s full of wild stories, buying million-dollar horses days before a race, flying around the world to race in Hong Kong and Dubai, and the highs and heartbreaks that come with it. But what stuck with me most is how much Michael still loves the game. Even after all the pressure, all the wins, all the money spent, he’s still out there watching morning works like it’s the best part of his day.

Key Topics we discussed:

• Why Michael only buys horses that have already raced, and how that’s helped him win big

• The story behind Big Brown and how it felt to win two legs of the Triple Crown

• What it’s like to wire a million dollars for a horse just days before the Breeders’ Cup

• Why elite horses have to be mentally tough, not just talented

• How horse racing pulled him back in after he stepped away

Follow Michael on Instagram: @michael.iavarone

Subscribe and follow Horse People Podcast for more cross discipline content and stories from equestrians all around the world.

@horsepeoplepodcast

This episode is with Marissa Wells, who just became a 10-goaler in arena polo, a dream she's had since childhood. We talk about what that moment felt like, the years of consistency it took to get there, and what comes next. Marissa is great, a good friend and my first ever guest!!

We get into everything from $800 horses to bodybuilding prep to what kind of horses are actually best for arena.

Follow Marissa on[Instagram] and [Tik Tok]

Key topics we discussed:

• The moment Marissa found out she hit 10 goals and what it meant after a lifetime of dreaming about it.
• Why consistency matters more than talent at the top levels of polo.
• Her surprising take on training horses for arena versus grass.
• How bodybuilding and polo have started to overlap in her life—and why she could never do arena on prep.
• What it means to be a role model now and the advice she gives to the next generation of young girls in polo.

This episode with Jim is great, he's a one of a kind story teller with a one of a kind story and there's so much about this episode that will leave you nodding your head and thinking about the horses that changed your life.

Jim shares stories that feel more like scenes from a novel: escaping the Iranian revolution, chasing foxes in a scarlet hunt coat, and riding reindeer with native people in the Mongolian wilderness.

From Tehran to Norco to Patagonia, horses have been the throughline in his life. We talk about how deep that bond runs, what it means to ride with feeling, and why he still whispers to his mares before bed.

Key topics:

• Growing up between Iran and the US with horses always at the center
• His father's escape from revolutionary Iran on horseback with Kurdish tribals
• Building a new life in California and returning to horses through foxhunting
• Riding adventures across Mongolia, Patagonia, and beyond
• What it means to be a sensitive rider and why he always chooses mares

Follow us on Instagram @horsepeoplepodcast and hit the follow button on Spotify to make sure you don't miss the next one!

Intro:
This episode's a little different. I was at this years Breeders’ Cup. One of the biggest races in the world!! Big shoutout to the media relations team for letting me be around the barns at Del Mar. I just was walking around, casually met the folks who make the sport run every day, and had some quick, honest conversations. These are the people who muck stalls at 4:30 a.m., ride babies before the sun comes up, and know every twitch and snort of the horses they care for.

It made me think about what this podcast has become. At the core of it all is the same question: why do we love horses the way we do?

Key topics we discussed in 5 bullet points:

1. Eddie Figueroa talks about staying calm in the starting gate and yelling at jockeys when he needs to

2. Lisa Conway shares how grooming horses is like being a mechanic with a lot more emotion

3. Raul Alejandro explains how exercise riders have to know their horses and also have a mental stopwatch

4. Got to talk to Steve Asmussen, who grew up in a racing family and still believes it all comes down to love of the horse

5. What it feels like to be back behind the barns, hearing stories from the real heartbeat of horse racing

   
   

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This one is personal. I got to ride with Gianna Aycock and Colby Coltrain during the Mongol Derby, and by the first night in training camp they basically adopted me. These two became my Derby older brother and sister, gear gurus, morale squad, and a big reason I made it to the finish line.

In this episode, we finally sat down to unpack their whole journey, how Gianna went from riding anything she could as a kid in New Mexico to riding 12 horses a day prepping for the Derby, and how Colby, the ultimate jack-of-all-trades, went from college baseball to welding fences to racing ponies across Mongolia.

They're some of my favorite humans, and this conversation is everything I love about horses and horse people, real talk, good stories, and a lot of heart. We get into the nitty gritty of how they prepped for the world’s toughest horse race, what nearly broke them (and what didn’t), and why Gianna’s doing it again in 2026.

Key topics we discussed:

1. The backstory: how Gianna first fell into horses and how Colby got pulled into the world alongside her

2. Gearing up for the Derby—what equipment they optimized, what they regretted, and the art of ultra‑light packing

3. The emotional and physical highs and lows during the race: illness, navigation challenges, horse draws, and how they stuck together

4. Lessons from the trail: reading terrain, trusting horses, managing scarcity, and the power of small acts of kindness

5. How the Derby changed them: in gratitude, relationship to food, presence, mindset—and why Gianna is doing it again in 2026

   
   

This episode is with Ross Colbert, lifelong horseman, investment banker, polo junkie, and 70-year-old finisher of the Mongol Derby.

And not just any finisher. Ross crossed the line dead last. But what happened in those 10 days is the stuff you don’t hear about in the press releases. He got lost in the mountains, had his horse chased by dogs, was thrown, walked solo for miles, slept alone by a river, and still managed to roll into camp with his horse sound and his head high.

We talk about the years he spent dreaming of Mongolia, what it took to prep, what gear saved his ass (literally), and how he avoided the saddle sores that plagued most of the field. Ross also shares what it felt like to come home, how the Derby rewired his perspective on business, resilience, and what he’s still capable of. It’s one of the most honest and human accounts of the Derby you’ll hear.

Key topics we discussed in 5 bullet points:

1. Ross’s early involvement with horses, growing up on a farm, riding, polo, and how that shaped his relationship with horses and risk.

2. How the idea of doing the Mongol Derby was planted from meeting his wife, her research on Genghis Khan and the Silk Road, eloping in Mongolia, seeing the Derby, and holding that dream over the years.

3. The training and preparation: building endurance, lots of saddle time, attending a Derby boot camp, gear, avoiding saddle sores, etc.

4. The race itself: checkpoints missed, stone bruised horse, getting thrown, losing tack, walking sections, getting lost in high terrain, nights alone, mindset through setbacks.

5. The aftermath: finishing last but finishing strong, what came home with him beyond the race (resilience, optimism, what he now knows about himself and what he’s capable of), reflections on business, horses, and what’s next.

   
   

If you liked this episode, hit subscribe so you don’t miss the next wild Derby story or horse‑person journey. And if you feel moved, share it with someone who needs a boost of grit or has ever wondered what’s possible when you keep going.

Follow @horsepeoplepodcast for more cross discipline stories and content.

Intro:

Madeleine Bunbury knew what she wanted early on, and it wasn’t what anyone else expected. After bombing her high school exams and getting kicked out, she found her way to a classical art school in Florence where she trained to paint portraits, then as soon as she could started painting horses instead.

In this episode, we talk about how she went from couch-surfing in exchange for paintings to traveling the world with a homemade easel and a dream.

She paints every horse from life, often life-size, and always with the same goal: to capture something deeper than a photo ever could.

Key topics we discussed in 5 bullet points:

• The very non-linear path from failed science student to classically-trained artist living out of a suitcase and painting horses for a living.
• What “site size” painting means and why she never paints from photographs, only from horses standing right next to the canvas.
• The heartbreak and hilarity of trying to get high-strung sport horses to stand still for hours in the blazing sun.
• Her mission to document the 18 native British horse breeds before they disappear, starting with a life-size Suffolk Punch on a three-meter canvas.

• Building the dream: her plans for a studio barn where horses walk in one side and come out the other as art, surrounded by velvet drapes, Persian rugs, and dramatic lighting.

Subscribe to the Horse People Podcast for more cross-discipline content. And if you want to follow Madeleine’s adventures across the world, give her a follow: @bunbury_equine_art

Want to learn more about her exhibition in Virginia, here's the link: National Sporting Library and Museum

Intro:

Lisa Lazarus is the CEO of the Horse Racing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA). From NFL negotiations to equestrian rulebooks in Switzerland, Lisa’s career has taken her across sports, continents, and now into the heart of American horse racing reform.

We talk about what it means to rebuild trust in an industry that’s often under fire, how to change deeply embedded cultures without losing the soul of the sport, and what it actually takes to reduce fatalities by 37 percent in just three years.

Follow @horsepeoplepodcast for more cross-discipline content and stories.

Key topics we discussed in 5 bullet points:

• Lisa’s winding career path from international sports law to leading HISA

• The real metrics behind reducing equine fatalities and why transparency matters

• The cultural shift underway in horse racing and why trust is the hardest part

• Balancing federal oversight with racetrack realities across the U.S.

• Why bringing younger generations into the sport is non-negotiable

Subscribe to Horse People Podcast wherever you listen so you don’t miss the conversations that matter to the future of our industry. And if you’ve got a friend who works at a track, send them this episode.

Follow Lisa and HISA updates on their website:

https://hisaus.org/

This one’s with Sheryl Sick, the Pacific Northwest Circuit Governor for the USPA and someone I’ve always looked up to in polo. She’s got a tech sales career that funds her weekends chasing the white ball and a story that includes everything from working at a seafood cannery in Alaska to hauling her own horses 10 hours into Canada. She’s proof you can build your own way into this sport, and she’s generous about how she did it.

Key topics we got into:

• How she found polo in college and sold her graduation bike to chase the sport
• The grooming gig that earned her custom boots and a foot in the door
• Managing a full-time tech job, a polo circuit, and a herd of horses without losing her mind
• Her thoughts on growing the game, getting more kids and women in, and why arena polo’s a gateway drug
• The five Ps - preparation prevents piss poor performance.

Hit that subscribe button if you haven’t already. And if you’ve been thinking about getting back into riding or finally trying polo, take Sheryl’s advice and just start showing up.

Follow Sheryl on [Instagram]

Find more about the role at USPA [here]

This episode is so good. I sat down with Jutta Putz, a branding consultant and strategist who's carved out a niche helping equestrian businesses and startups go global. From growing up in a tiny Austrian town to building her career in Kentucky’s Thoroughbred heartland, Jutta’s story is one of persistence, clarity, and a deep love for horses. We talk about how she turned that passion into a career, and how you can too.

Key topics we discussed in 5 bullet points:

1. Why branding is more than just logos, and how clarity can make or break your horse business

2. The moment Jutta realized the Thoroughbred world was missing a huge opportunity in visibility

3. How wearable tech and AI are reshaping equine health and what’s coming by 2030

4. Personal branding for jockeys and equestrian professionals: what it really means

5. How to turn your equestrian side hustle into a full-time job with real strategy and intention

Bonus:Jutta moved from Austria to Kentucky after mailing out applications to 20 horse farms and receiving a life-changing internship from one hand-written letter.

Connect with Jutta on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jutta-putz/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juttaputz/?hl=en

Website: https://jpbrandplus.com/

Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. If you’re building something in the horse world or thinking about it, send this episode to someone who needs to hear it.

On this episode of the podcast, I have the distinct pleasure to sit down with UK stud veterinarians Kate and Tim, the husband-and-wife duo who kept horses (and wayward riders) in one piece during the 2024 Mongol Derby.

We swap memories about wild ponies, mystery meat stew, and the not so surprise reveal that Tim moonlights as a racing-pigeon enthusiast and advocate. Plus, we track their jump from globe-trotting vet work to running their own breeding farm in Newmarket.

Key topics we discussed:

1. How Kate talked Tim onto a flight to Mongolia and what shocked them most on arrival.

2. The unfiltered day-to-day of a Derby vet: twelve-hour shifts, storm chasing, and handing out time penalties with a smile.

3. Food culture on the step, including the infamous offal bowl and why Skittles sometimes save lives.

4. Life after the Derby: setting up a thoroughbred breeding business, balancing farm chores with late-night foal checks, and Tim’s first polo lesson.

5. Racing pigeons explained by a guy who owns fifty of them and still finds time to check heart rates on horses.

   
   

Follow along Tim and Kate's journey:

Facebook:@burden_lee_equine_ltd

@burden_lee_equine_ltd

Like what you heard? Hit subscribe so you never miss a barn-floor conversation; if this episode made you crave adventure, consider supporting the Mongolian charities that keep the Derby running strong.

In this episode, Gideon sits down with Holly Caccamise, editor in chief of Horse Illustrated and Young Rider magazines, and co‑host of the Horse Illustrated Podcast. Holly shares her journey from equine science to publishing, her passion for print in a digital age, tips for getting started in the horse world, and why the Mongol Derby left her in awe.

Key topics we discussed:

1. Why Holly left the lab for editorial life, and how she climbed the ladder from Thoroughbred Times to leading two beloved horse magazines.

2. The enduring power of print in the horse world and how readers, especially kids, cherish holding a magazine in their hands.

3. Horse Illustrated’s recipe for engagement: breed profiles, human‑horse stories, and “the angle” that hooks readers.

4. Practical advice for new riders, start on the ground, understand horsemanship basics, and pick a barn that fits your personality.

5. Trends in equine media: podcasts are an area of opportunity, video versions of interviews are gaining traction, and AI may not cut it for horse stories or imagery.

Bonus:Holly's favorite breed? Appaloosa mares “they just clicked with my brain.”

Social media links for the guest:

Social media links for Horse People Podcast:

Instagram: @HorsePeoplePodcast
LinkedIn: Horse People Podcast
If you love heartfelt horse stories and want a behind‑the‑scenes look at horse media, subscribe to Horse Illustrated (print or digital) and give our podcast a follow. And if you're inspired to start riding or become a writer, go check out Pony Club or reach out to your local barn, you never know where your horse journey will take you.

Follow and subscribe for more cross-discipline horse content and stories!!

This episode features Kristy Donaldson, a high-volume recruiter at Chewy by day and a full-blown horse and Breyer model enthusiast by night. Kristy’s world is a fascinating blend of real horses, collectible horses, YouTube creativity, and early morning barn rides before work. We talk about her journey into dressage, her obsession with Breyer models, and how she balances the two worlds like a pro.

Key topics we discussed in 6 bullet points:

1. The world of Breyer model horses and how Kristy grew a collection of over 300

2. The surprising resale value of rare models and the collector economy behind them

3. Starting a YouTube channel and what content horse people actually want to see

4. Riding at 6 a.m. and juggling shows with a full-time job at Chewy

5. Why horse people secretly (and not so secretly) hire other horse people

6. The misunderstood beauty and grind of dressage for adult amateurs

   
   

Bonus fact:
Kristy once scored a bullseye on her very first horseback archery attempt, combining her two passions—horses and archery—into one epic moment.

Social media links for the guest:
YouTube: Blue Eyed Breyers
Instagram: @blue_eyed_breyers and @spartographer07

Social media links for Horse People Podcast:
Instagram: @horsepeoplepodcast
LinkedIn: Horse People Podcast

Subscribe to the show and leave us a review and if you’ve got a model horse collection you’re proud of, shoot us a message—we want to hear your story.

Intro:
This episode is with Shelley Golan, a senior director at a leading fintech company, lifelong horse lover, and multi-time entrepreneur. Shelley shares her journey of reentering the horse world as an adult amateur after a long hiatus: a story that weaves through startups, motorcycles, autoimmune disease, and the pipeline of drawing horses as a kid to becoming a horse person.

It’s about choosing joy, reclaiming identity, and doing things for no other reason than because they mean something to you.

Key topics we discussed:

1. How Shelley went from urban agriculture founder to startup accelerator leader to fintech exec and why supporting founders still lights her up

2. Growing up horse-crazy in Manhattan, learning to ride in the now-closed Claremont Stables and yes, galloping through Central Park at 10 years old

3. The adult amateur’s return to riding: the courage to restart, the right trainer fit, and how motorcycles reawakened her horsemanship muscle memory

4. The unspoken barriers in lesson barns from saddle soreness to aging school horses and the case for a new model between leasing and buying

5. What it really takes (mentally, physically, emotionally) to become a stronger, more confident rider in your 30s and how intentional strength training changed her seat

   
   

   Bonus: We coin the term “horse virus” instead of “horse bug”, because, let’s be honest, it lies dormant and then flares up like clockwork

   
   

Social media links:
Instagram: @horsepeoplepodcast
LinkedIn: Shelley Golan

If you’ve ever felt the horse virus stir in your bones even a little hit that subscribe button and share this episode with someone who’s been “thinking about getting back into riding.”

In this episode of Horse People, I sit down with Scott Cieslar, founder and CEO of Mad Barn, to talk about how he's building something pretty rare in the world, a business rooted in research first. Scott is laying the groundwork for a smarter, science-backed approach to equine nutrition. We dive into everything from why salt is wildly underrated to how a simple hay test could change your horse’s health. If you care about performance, longevity, and doing right by your horse, this one’s for you.

Key topics we discussed:

• 1. Why Mad Barn is investing in foundational research instead of chasing trends
  2. Why most horse owners misunderstand hay quality, and how earlier cuts actually provide more nutrients than later ones
  3. How horses use oxygen differently, and what that means for training and recovery
  4. The role of salt, forage, and minerals in avoiding common health issues
  5. What Scott’s big-picture vision is for Mad Barn and equine nutrition worldwide

  
  

  Social media:
  Instagram: @madbarnequine
  

  
  
  Website: madbarn.com

  Subscribe to Horse People and get 5% off at Madbarn.com with code HORSEPEOPLE. Your horse could probably use some vitamins and minerals!

• 
  

In this episode of Horse People, I’m joined by Josh Edwards aka Cowboy Josh a rodeo legend, entrepreneur, dad, and 3rd place Mongol Derby finisher. We talk about what it means to hang up the saddle after a career in the arena, chase freedom on the Mongolian steppe, and keep going after hard things even when you’ve already got the belt buckles to prove yourself. From the rodeo halls of fame to a quiet moment of clarity in the middle of nowhere, Cowboy shares a raw, honest look at a life well ridden.

Oh! And how to win the derby:)

Key topics we discussed:

• What life after rodeo looks like, and why Josh says retirement came at the perfect time.

• Getting drugged up a Mongolian hill by SJO , horse in tow, tied to her saddle.

• The Mongol Derby: the heartbreak, the donkeys, the glory, and what it taught him about letting go of control.

• Why finishing third meant more than winning, and how that ride became a cornerstone of his cowboy legacy.
• The powerful role of rodeo brotherhood and the unseen emotional moments that defined the Derby for him.

Instagram: @horsepeoplepodcast

What happens to America’s wild horses after they're rounded up? Why is the politics around public lands and wild horses so heated? And what does it look like when horses are given their freedom back?

In this moving and wide-ranging episode, we sat down with Scott Beckstead, a lifelong animal advocate, law professor, and Chief Equine Program Officer at the Wild Horse Refuge the world’s largest sanctuary of its kind, spanning 30,000 acres in Northwest Colorado.

Scott walks us through:

• The daily joy (and responsibility) of overseeing 200+ wild horses living free on the range

• The legacy of Picasso - the most iconic Mustang in America - and the horses that carry his bloodline today

• How trauma shapes behavior in wild horses and what it means to let them heal on their own terms

• Why wild horses are native to North America despite what the critics say

• The controversial role of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and how Scott’s team has formed a surprising partnership to give horses a second chance

• Fertility control, land politics, and why building one refuge per state could be the game-changer we all need

🐴 Want to help? Chip in a piece of $777 to own an acre and we can become a founding donor at wildhorserefuge.org - make sure to mention "horse people podcast" when contributing!

In this heartfelt episode of Horse People, we sit down with Sam Bregman: lifelong horseman, current Bernalillo County District Attorney, and newly announced candidate for Governor of New Mexico. Sam opens up about how horses have shaped his outlook on leadership, resilience, and what truly matters in life.

From the barn to the campaign trail, Sam reflects on the powerful life lessons horses continue to teach him. He shares how their quiet wisdom has helped him navigate the messiness of both personal struggles and public service, offering moments of clarity in times of chaos.

We explore how these incredible animals ground us in the present, remind us of the world’s beauty, and teach us to find joy in simplicity — whether you're working through big decisions or just mucking a stall on a quiet morning.

Takeaways:

• Horses offer a unique lens through which to view life and leadership.

• Their presence helps us reconnect with what truly matters.

• In moments of stress or uncertainty, horses can bring clarity and calm.

• Life is complicated — horses remind us it doesn’t always have to be.

• Appreciating simple, joyful moments can be a powerful form of resilience.

  
  

Whether you’re in the arena or the governor’s office, Sam reminds us: horses don’t just carry us — they keep us grounded.

Hear more about Sam's announcement: [here]

Episode Overview

In this episode, Dr. Fred Barrelet, a retired veterinary surgeon, shares his lifelong passion for horses, spanning his early love of riding, his work in endurance events, and his remarkable experiences in Mongolia. Fred offers insights into the ever-evolving horse-human bond, the challenges facing equestrian sports today, and why placing horse welfare front and center is more important than ever.

Timeline of episode:

Fred’s Path to Equestrian Consultancy

• Veterinary background and transition to international event work

• Memorable career highlights, including involvement with royal carriages

Endurance Riding & Equestrian Evolution

• Growth and regulation in endurance competitions

• The historical importance of Newmarket for racing and breeding

The Human-Horse Bond

• 7,000 years of partnership and why it still matters

• Cultural nuances: “rough love” in Mongolia vs. Western training methods

Social License to Operate

• Increasing scrutiny of horse welfare

• Efforts to maintain public trust and ethical standards in all disciplines

Adventures in Mongolia

• Mongol Derby background and its intense demands

• Veterinary care vs. rider care: unexpected challenges

• Trust-building and cultural respect when handling Mongolian ponies

Personal Favorites & Reflections

• Why eventing stands out for Fred

• Admiration for both Thoroughbreds and heavy horse breeds

• Horses as symbols of freedom and solace

• Equestrianism is under social pressure: responsible welfare practices are key.

• Approaches to horse training vary worldwide but center on respect and trust.

• Fred’s experience highlights the importance of balancing tradition with modern standards.

• Mongolia’s horse culture offers a unique look at the tough realities—and deep loyalties—of herder life.

  
  

Notable Takeaways

• Equestrianism is under social pressure: responsible welfare practices are key.

• Approaches to horse training vary worldwide but center on respect and trust.

• Fred’s experience highlights the importance of balancing tradition with modern standards.

• Mongolia’s horse culture offers a unique look at the tough realities—and deep loyalties—of herder life.

In this engaging conversation, Fred Berry shares his journey from a tobacco farm in North Carolina to becoming a successful plaintiff's lawyer. He discusses his passion for fox hunting and the challenges he faced while participating in the Mongol Derby, a grueling endurance race across Mongolia. Fred reflects on the lessons learned from both his legal career and his experiences with horses, emphasizing the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the deep connection between humans and horses.

Takeaways

• He is a plaintiff's lawyer who thrives on challenges.
• Fox hunting has been a significant part of his life.
• The Mongol Derby was a spontaneous decision for him.
• He faced physical challenges during the Derby but persevered.
• Fred emphasizes the importance of horsemanship in the Derby.
• He reflects on the camaraderie and experiences shared during the race.
• The connection between humans and horses is profound and historical.
• Fred believes in adapting to challenges and learning from them.
• He finds joy in the simple moments spent with horses.

In this episode of The Horse People Podcast, I sit down with Tom Morgan, the visionary founder of the world-renowned Mongol Derby, often hailed as the "world's toughest horse race." We dive deep into Tom's entrepreneurial journey and how his passion for adventure and horses led to the creation of this iconic event.

Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode:

• The Birth of the Derby: How the idea came to life and the challenges of organizing a race inspired by Genghis Khan’s postal system.

• Advice for New Riders: Tom’s wisdom on preparing physically and mentally for a grueling race like the Derby.

• Behind-the-Scenes Stories: Memorable moments, unexpected challenges, and what keeps the Derby going strong.

• What’s Next for Tom: His thoughts on the future of equestrian adventure sports and his upcoming projects.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider, a budding adventurer, or just a fan of incredible stories, this episode will inspire and entertain.

Follow Tom Morgan and the Mongol Derby:

• Instagram: @mongolderby and @tom_adventurists
• Website: The Equestrianists

Connect with the Horse People Podcast:

• Instagram: @HorsePeoplePodcast

Enjoy the episode, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast wherever you listen! 🐴

In this special episode of the Horse People podcast, I take you on a journey through my experience competing in the Mongol Derby—the world’s longest and toughest horse race. From pre-race jitters to crossing the finish line, you’ll hear it all!What makes this episode truly unique is that I recorded voice notes while I was racing across the Mongolian steppe. So, not only will you get to hear how I was feeling in the moment—tired, exhilarated, sometimes overwhelmed—but you’ll also get my reflec...

Kicking off our Mongol Derby series, we chat with Scott MacGregor, the founder of Try Something New Now and The Outlier Project. Scott is a mentor and a friend of mine and while on the podcast shares many of his life philosophies that have led him to live an extraordinary life. We also chat about The Outlier Project, his innovative community pushing the boundaries of what can be done when people with common values are put together in a room. Tune in for a mix of inspiration, adventure, and en...

Episode Summary:In this enlightening episode of the Horse People Podcast, we sit down with Megan Maltenfort, Vice President of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) at Cardinal Health, a major player in the healthcare sector. Join us as we explore the intersection of sustainability, climate action, and equestrian passions.What You'll Learn:Sustainability in Healthcare: Insights into how Cardinal Health integrates sustainable practices into their operations and business strategies.Climat...

Episode Overview:In this inspiring episode of the Horse People Podcast, I sit down with Katie Wood, the dynamic entrepreneur behind The Equestrian Physio. Katie shares her journey into the world of equine physiotherapy, detailing her transition from a corporate job to pursuing her passion for horse wellness. We dive into essential training tips for your horse, the benefits of cross-training, and how you can show up as a better partner for your horse. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or ju...

In this enlightening episode of the Horse People Podcast, we dive into the essential world of equine hoof care with David Landreville and Mollie Cardigan of Hoof Builders.Explore the significance of regular hoof trimming, the advantages of keeping horses barefoot, and innovative strategies for farriers. Our guests shed light on the evolving farrier industry and how modern practices are shaping the future of hoof care.Key Topics:Importance of regular hoof maintenanceBenefits of a barefoot life...

Episode Overview:In this enriching episode of the Horse People Podcast, we sit down with the renowned horse photographer Kirstie Marie, whose work has not only captured the beauty of horses across the globe but also the unique stories each one tells. Kirstie shares her journey into the world of equine photography, her approach to capturing the true essence of horses, and valuable insights into the business side of photography.Kirstie's passion for horses and photography shines through her wor...

Better With A Buckle, founded by Susan Landau, crafts unique accessories, integrating elements like vintage western belts, stainless steel and notably, horse brasses.The brand focuses on creating pieces that tell a story, driven by curiosity and the joy of discovery. Their product range varies, featuring handcrafted pendant necklaces and buckles, each with a narrative and designed to spark conversation. Quality and creativity are at the core of their vision, aiming to produce items that owner...

Join us as we dive deep into the fascinating world of horse racing with Fred M. Kray, an expert in animal law and the author of "Broken," a compelling investigation into the life and mysterious death of Alydar, one of horse racing's most beloved thoroughbreds. In this episode, Fred shares his insights into Alydar's legacy, the intricacies of the horse racing industry, and his passionate pursuit of justice for animals.What You'll Learn:- The captivating history and achievements of Alydar- The ...

Episode #34 - Anna Hellman, the manager of Horseproperties.net shares her insights and experiences from managing the leading online marketplace dedicated to horse properties and equestrian estates. This episode offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the operations, dream houses, and successes of Horseproperties.net, alongside Anna's personal journey in the equestrian world.Discover Anna's journey into the equestrian world and the mission behind Horseproperties.net.Learn about the origi...

In our latest episode, we sit down with Josh Wamboldt, owner of Redstone Stables and Avalanche Outfitters, to navigate the intricate world of outfitting, hunting with horses, and the effects of Colorado's wolf reintroduction on locals. Josh shares his profound insights on the essentials of packing for wilderness adventures, the art of outfitting, and the complex dynamics between local communities and wildlife conservation. This conversation sheds light on the challenges and adaptations faced ...

In this interview, we explore Allie Layos' lifelong dedication to Saddlebred horses and saddle seat riding. As the Managing Editor of Saddle & Bridle Magazine, she plays a vital role in curating content for the equestrian community. We also discuss her impressive achievement of publishing three fiction books about Saddlebred horses at a remarkably young age.Allie shares her deep appreciation for Saddlebred horses, emphasizing their unique qualities and the importance of their preser...

In this episode of the Horse People Podcast, I have a very special guest who's made an indelible mark in the world of polo. Join me as I sit down with the one and only Kareem Rosser, a true legend in the sport.Episode Highlights:Kareem Rosser's Journey: Discover the inspiring story of how Kareem got involved in polo and rose to prominence in the sport.The Work to Ride Program: Learn about Kareem's involvement with the Work to Ride program and how it's changing lives through horses and educati...

In this captivating episode of the Horse People Podcast, I'm thrilled to have Lisa Diersen as my guest. Lisa is not only a dedicated horse enthusiast but also a passionate storyteller, entrepreneur, and a wild mustang evangelist. Join me as we delve into the enchanting world of horse films, where Lisa shares her profound insights and experiences.Lisa's journey and expertise in the equine world make this conversation a must-listen for all horse people. Get ready to dive into the world of...

Welcome to the Horse People Podcast! In this episode, we have a special guest, Jack LaTorre. Join us as we delve into Jack's remarkable journey as a Grand Prix dressage rider and a thriving fitness entrepreneur. We'll also explore his substantial clientele, as well as his significant presence on Instagram and TikTok.In this episode, we cover:Transitioning Paths: Discover how Jack smoothly shifted into the world of competitive horseback riding and establishing himself as reputable trainer in t...

Join us in Episode 28 of the Horse People Podcast as we delve into the world of advocacy and equine representation with a remarkable guest, Julie Broadway. In this captivating episode, we sit down with Julie Broadway, the President of the American Horse Council, to uncover the pivotal role of lobbying in the equine industry.Tune in as Julie Broadway takes us behind the scenes of how the American Horse Council passionately champions the rights and interests of horse enthusiasts. From sea...

Join me on this episode of Horse People as we delve into the captivating journey of Tammy Tappan, an equestrian artist who transitioned from the sign business to becoming a full-time artist. Tammy's passion for horses and her entrepreneurial background prepared her to take the leap into a second career as a full time artist. Discover the stories behind her equine artwork and gain inspiration from her creative process. Whether you're a horse lover or an aspiring artist, this episode is packed ...

In this episode of Horse People, we sit down with friend of the podcast, Lynn Thomas, and new guestJacque Baumer, co-founders of Horses for Mental Health, a non-profit organization that is working to expand the role horses play in mental health and personal growth to realize our vision of a world where all mental health needs are met – together.As professionals in the field of mental health, Lynn and Jacque understand the powerful impact these animals can have on our well-being. They founded ...

Get ready for a cheesy reunion in this special podcast episode as we bring together the members of the Texas A&M polo team who clinched their first championship victory five years ago. Join us as we chat with the boys about what they've been up to since graduation, where life has taken them, and how their college polo experience shaped their paths.We'll reminisce about the epic moments and unforgettable tournaments that led the team to victory and share personal anecdotes from our time to...

Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the untamed landscapes of Mongolia and beyond with Erik Cooper, founder of Erik Cooper Adventures. In this thrilling podcast, Erik shares his insights and experiences as a leading expert in horse adventure travel, delving into the incredible challenges and rewards of events like the Mongol Derby and Gaucho Derby. From riding with reindeer to hunting with golden eagles, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into the world of extreme eq...