The People Behind The Horses takes you behind the scenes of the equine world through in-depth interviews with the people shaping the industry. From trainers and veterinarians to breeders, riders, and entrepreneurs, discover their stories, expertise, and the unique roles they play in the lives of horses.
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Mad Barn is excited to introduce our new series, “The People Behind the Horses,” in which we highlight industry leaders who are shaping the future of equine performance and well-being.
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Tim Worden, an Equine Sports Science Consultant with a Ph.D. in Biomechanics from the University of Guelph. Dr. Worden has worked with Equestrian Canada and top FEI riders, bringing cutting-edge research, performance analytics, and evidence-based training to the world's best equine athletes.
🎙 What you’ll hear in this episode:
How biomechanics and sports science are revolutionizing equestrian training
Why small training adjustments can make a big impact in competition
The role of galloping and varied surfaces in equine fitness
The future of equestrian sports: wearable tech, data tracking & recovery strategies
How nutrition supports peak performance and longevity
Whether you’re an equestrian enthusiast, a professional rider, or someone passionate about horse care, this episode offers valuable takeaways on how science-backed methods can improve equine athleticism.
⏱Podcast Timeline
00:00 - Welcome to the Show
00:13 - Meet Dr. Tim Worden
00:44 - Dr. Worden's Journey into Sports Science
03:25 - Applying Research to Horse Training
05:30 - Trends in Show Jumping and Beyond
10:18 - The Role of Nutrition in Performance
11:52 - Future Goals and Industry Growth
14:42 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
📚 Related Resources
Interested in learning about supporting high performance horses? We have several blog articles online:
Mad Barn is proud to present the latest installment of our series, “The People Behind the Horses,” where we spotlight industry leaders shaping the future of equestrian sport and horsemanship.
In this episode, we sit down with Tik Maynard, Canadian eventer, author, and two-time Road to the Horse Colt Starting Champion. Known for his relationship-first approach to training, Tik shares his insights on connecting with horses, evolving as a horse person, and preparing for the 2025 Road to the Horse competition.
With reflections on family, mentorship, and the mental side of riding, Tik offers a grounded and thoughtful perspective that will resonate with riders at every stage of their journey.
🎙 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
What horsemanship really means and how it extends beyond riding
Tik’s approach to training and preparation for Road to the Horse 2025
The importance of community and support behind the scenes
Building confidence, staying humble, and learning from mistakes
What’s next for Tik in the arena and beyond
Whether you're a seasoned rider, a colt-starting enthusiast, or simply passionate about horse-human connection, this episode offers insights you won't want to miss.
⏱ Podcast Timeline
0:00 – Introduction & Guest Overview: Tik Maynard
1:00 – What Is a Horseman?
2:31 – The 4 Core Principles of Tik’s Training Method
10:11 – Preparing for Road to the Horse: Chicken Camp!
13:35 – Comparing Year One vs Year Two at Road to the Horse
The People Behind the Horses: With Danielle Kendall
Tuesday, September 23, 2025 • Duration 10:32
Mad Barn is proud to present the next segment of our series, “The People Behind the Horses,” where we spotlight the individuals shaping the future of equine wellness and performance.
In this episode, we sit down with Danielle Kendall, Sponsorship Director at Angelstone Events. Danielle plays a pivotal role in connecting equestrian sport with the wider community, building partnerships that allow Angelstone to grow as one of Canada’s premier horse show venues. Her work ensures that competitors, spectators, and sponsors alike enjoy an unforgettable experience while advancing the sport.
🎙 What you’ll hear in this episode:
Danielle’s background in the horse industry and how it led her to Angelstone
The skills that prepared her for a leadership role in sponsorship and event development
Why sponsorships are so critical to equestrian sport and how they support athletes and organizers
A behind-the-scenes look at daily operations at Angelstone Events
How Danielle engages sponsors to create meaningful partnerships that enhance shows
The challenges of sponsorship in a niche sport and how she overcomes them
What’s on the horizon for Angelstone and the exciting future of its tournaments
Whether you’re a competitor, a brand interested in supporting equestrian sport, or simply a fan of world-class show jumping, this episode gives you a unique look at the vital role sponsorship plays in keeping the equestrian community thriving.
⏱ Podcast Timeline
00:00 – Welcome
00:39 – Danielle’s Background in the Horse Industry
01:35 – Skills and Experiences Contributing Her Role
02:32 – What Attracted Danielle to come to Angelstone Event
03:43 – An Inside Look at the Day to Day Operations
05:00 – The Importance of Sponsorships For the Equestrian Community
06:41 – Sponsorship Engagement at Horse Show Venues
07:55 – How Danielle Navigates Challenges
The People Behind the Horses: With Rebecca Howard
Wednesday, September 10, 2025 • Duration 18:34
Mad Barn is proud to present the latest episode of our series, “The People Behind the Horses,” where we spotlight individuals helping shape the future of equestrian sport through leadership, innovation, and passion.
In this episode, we sit down with Rebecca Howard, Olympian, coach, and current Chef d’Equipe and Technical Advisor for the Canadian Eventing Team. From competing on the world stage with her longtime partner Riddle Master to guiding Canada’s top athletes today, Rebecca shares the lessons, challenges, and vision that have shaped her career in high-performance sport.
🎙 What you’ll hear in this episode:
Behind the scenes of two Olympic Games with Riddle Master
How Rebecca’s experience as an athlete influences her leadership style
Strategies for building fitness and recovery routines for elite equine athletes
Reflections on Team Canada’s performance in Paris and what’s next for 2028
Advice for developing riders stepping into high-performance programs
Whether you're an aspiring equestrian, a dedicated coach, or simply passionate about the future of equestrian sport, this episode offers insights into the evolution of Canadian eventing and what it takes to succeed at the highest level.
⏱ Podcast Timeline:
0:00 – Introduction & Guest Overview: Rebecca Howard
0:34 – Rebecca’s Role as Technical Advisor for Team Canada
1:18 – The Origin Story of Riddle Master
3:08 – Olympic Experiences: London vs Rio
4:56 – Managing Olympic-Level Fitness and Recovery
5:50 – Rebecca’s Responsibilities as Technical Advisor
7:02 – How Rebecca’s Past Shapes Her Current Role
9:34 – Key Support Initiatives for Athletes
11:45 – Reflections on the Paris Olympics Performance
13:13 – Long-Term Goals Toward Los Angeles 2028
15:02 – Fitness Strategy for Horses & Riders
16:25 – Heart Rate Monitors & Training Data
16:52 – Advice for Young Riders & Final Thoughts
📚 Related Resources:
The People Behind the Horses: With Amelia Newcomb
Wednesday, August 27, 2025 • Duration 34:50
Mad Barn is proud to present the next segment of our series, “The People Behind the Horses,” where we spotlight the individuals shaping the future of equine wellness and performance.
In this episode, we sit down with Amelia Newcomb, founder of Amelia Newcomb Dressage. Amelia has built an incredible platform that blends classical dressage with natural horsemanship principles, creating a holistic and adaptable approach to training. Her philosophy emphasizes understanding each horse as an individual and equipping riders with the tools to communicate more clearly and compassionately.
🎙 What you’ll hear in this episode:
How Amelia discovered her passion for dressage and turned it into a thriving business
The ways she is building an inclusive and supportive community within the dressage world
Why adaptability is central to her training philosophy and how it benefits every horse
Strategies for developing rider confidence and fostering better communication with horses
The role of education in shaping the future of the horse industry
How rider fitness outside of the saddle can transform performance in the arena
Amelia’s perspective on the vital connection between equine nutrition and peak performance
Whether you’re an aspiring equestrian, a professional trainer, or simply passionate about horses, this episode offers fresh perspectives on training, communication, and connection in the dressage arena.
⏱ Podcast Timeline
00:00 – Welcome
00:45 – Amelia’s Journey into Dressage and Developing Her Business
03:12 – Building an Inclusive Community in Dressage Training
06:05 – Training Philosophy: Adaptability for Every Horse
12:40 – Building Rider Confidence and Communication with Horses
18:44 – The Importance of Education in the Horse Industry
22:59 – Rider Fitness Training Outside of the Saddle
27:07 – Nutrition’s Impact on Horse Performance
The People Behind the Horses: With Dr. Jillian Johnson
Wednesday, November 5, 2025 • Duration 18:45
Mad Barn is proud to present the next segment of our series, “The People Behind the Horses,” where we spotlight the individuals helping shape the future of equine wellness and performance. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jillian Johnson, a passionate advocate for holistic horse-and-rider care, to explore how alternative therapies are transforming equine performance. With a background in chiropractic care and a deep commitment to integrative approaches, Dr. Johnson shares her journey and insights into the modalities that are making a difference for both horses and their riders.
🎙 What you’ll hear in this episode:
How Dr. Jillian Johnson launched her career in chiropractic care
How treating both horse and rider together enhances performance and strengthens the partnership between them
A look at the therapies offered at Farmhouse and how they support both horse and rider
The collaborative, multidisciplinary team behind Farmhouse and how they provide integrated care for horses and riders
Dr. Johnson’s advice for owners to recognize communication through behavior, trust their instincts, and take a proactive role in their horse’s well-being
Whether you're a competitive rider, a horse owner, or someone passionate about horse wellness, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.
⏱ Podcast Timeline
0:00 - Introduction & Guest Overview: Dr. Jillian Johnson
0:40 - How Farmhouse Chiropractic Began
1:54 - Treating Both Horse and Rider Holistically
3:20 - Connection Between Horse & Rider Imbalances
4:33 - Building a Multidisciplinary Team at Farmhouse
6:12 - How Therapies Like Laser & Shockwave Work Together
7:45 - What to Expect at Your First Horse Appointment
9:42 - Customizing Sessions Based on Horse Needs
10:57 - Importance of Stretching for Horses
12:33 - Empowering Riders to Track & Support Progress
The People Behind the Horses: With Meg Krueger and Lisa Robertson from Equestrian Canada
Wednesday, October 22, 2025 • Duration 30:46
Mad Barn is proud to present the next segment of our series, “The People Behind the Horses,” where we spotlight the individuals shaping the future of equine wellness and performance.
In this episode, we sit down with two inspiring leaders from Equestrian Canada, the national governing body for equestrian sport in Canada. Together, they share insights into the organization’s mission. From grassroots initiatives to elite competition, Equestrian Canada is at the forefront of creating a safe, sustainable, and thriving equestrian community.
🎙 What you’ll hear in this episode:
The Role Equestrian Canada Plays in Shaping Equestrian Sport and Standards Nationwide
Discover the Team Behind Equestrian Canada and Their Efforts Towards Advancing Equestrian Sport
Behind-the-scenes Insight into How Equestrian Canada Develops and Implements Initiatives
Explore Just How Much Goes into Supporting Canada’s High Performance Equestrian Athletes
An Inside Look at Equestrian Canada’s CHIP Program
What’s Next for Equestrian Canada and Their Vision for the Future of the Sport
Whether you’re a competitor, coach, or passionate horse owner, this episode offers a unique look into the people and purpose driving equestrian sport in Canada.
⏱ Podcast Timeline
00:00 – Welcome
00:38– Introduction to Equestrian Canada’s CEO, Meg Krueger, and President of the Board, Lisa Robertson
07:08 – Behind-the-Scenes of Equestrian Canada’s Team and Programs
10:02 – Initiatives and Strategies at Equestrian Canada
14:00 – Equestrian Canada’s Collaboration within the Community
16:58 – Opportunities to Support Equestrian Canada as a Community Member
23:28 – Explore What Goes Into Supporting Canada’s High Performance Equestrian Athletes
27:03 - Looking Ahead: The Future of Equestrian Canada
The People Behind the Horses: With Mike Winter
Wednesday, November 19, 2025 • Duration 29:20
Mad Barn is proud to present the next segment of our series, “The People Behind the Horses,” where we spotlight the individuals shaping the future of equine wellness and performance. In this episode, we sit down with Canadian 3-time Olympic Event Rider Mike Winter.
🎙 What you’ll hear in this episode:
Mike’s journey from his early riding years in Canada to becoming a three-time Olympic eventing athlete
The training philosophies and horsemanship principles that guide his approach to developing top-level horses
The mindset, discipline, and continuous learning required to sustain excellence at the international level
How data-driven management, nutrition, and conditioning support sound and confident equine partners
The importance of mentorship, community, and collaborative leadership within the equestrian industry
Mike’s perspective on the responsibilities of modern riders, both in the saddle and as ambassadors for the sport
Insight into the ongoing conversations around the equestrian sport's social license to operate
Whether you’re a competitor, coach, or passionate horse owner, this episode offers a unique look into the people and purpose driving equestrian sport in Canada.
⏱ Podcast Timeline
00:00 – Welcome
00:22– Introduction to Mike and His Journey to the Elite Level of Equestrian Sport
05:58 – How Mike’s Mindset and Preparation for the Major Games Have Evolved
06:12 – Mike’s Experience as a Member of Canada’s Eventing High Performance Advisory Board
11:27 – How Mike’s Experience in the European Eventing Environment Shaped His Perspective on Canada’s National Program
16:51 – Balancing Traditional Vs Innovative Training Methods
19:41 – Exploring and Improving Equestrian Sports Social License to Operate
28:23 - Looking Towards The Future
📚 Related Resources:
The People Behind the Horses: With Laura Veenstra
Friday, December 19, 2025 • Duration 30:39
Mad Barn is proud to present the next segment of our series, “The People Behind the Horses,” where we spotlight the individuals shaping the future of equine wellness and performance.
In this episode, we sit down with Laura Veenstra, a certified independent saddle fitter with over 15 years of experience working alongside veterinarians, trainers, and horse owners across Ontario. Laura shares her journey into saddle fitting, what it truly means to be independent in a field with varying standards, and why proper saddle fit is critical for both horse welfare and rider effectiveness.
🎙 What you’ll hear in this episode:
Laura’s background in the horse industry and how it led her to saddle fitting
What “independent saddle fitter” really means and why it matters
How saddle fit directly affects biomechanics, comfort, and long-term soundness
Common saddle fit issues she sees in the field and how they impact horses
Why collaboration between fitters, veterinarians, and nutritionists is essential
Whether you’re a competitive rider, trainer, or dedicated horse owner, this episode offers invaluable insight into how saddle fit plays a foundational role in keeping horses comfortable, willing, and performing at their best.
⏱ Podcast Timeline
00:00 – Welcome & Introduction
01:05 – Laura’s Background in the Horse Industry to Discovering Saddle Fitting
03:37 – What It Means to Be an Independent Saddle Fitter
07:22 – The Common Concerns and Practices of Saddle Fitting
11:14 – Signs Your Saddle Needs to be Adjusted and Industry Standards
14:14 – Myths in the Saddle Fitting Industry
17:12 – Western Saddle Fitting Vs English Saddle Fitting
22:06 – Riding Young Horses and It’s Impact on their Biomechanics
23:40 – The Process of Saddle Fitting for Horses with Kissing Spines
27:36 – The Future of Saddle Fitting
The People Behind the Horses: With HEP Insurance
Wednesday, January 14, 2026 • Duration 21:19
Mad Barn is proud to present the next segment of our series, “The People Behind the Horses,” where we spotlight the individuals shaping the future of equine care, protection, and performance.
In this episode, we sit down with Meghan Mackenzie Bell, Assistant Vice President of Sales & Business Development with Henry Equestrian Insurance Brokers. A lifelong horse lover, Meghan has built an impressive career in the horse racing industry, gaining international experience before returning to Canada to take on her role with HEP Insurance. She shares her experience and offers an inside look at how equine insurance policies are created to protect both horses and their owners.
🎙 What you’ll hear in this episode:
How Meghan’s background in the horse racing industry led her into farm and equine insurance
What goes into building insurance policies for horses and farm properties
Common misconceptions horse owners have about equine insurance
Why proper coverage is a critical part of responsible horse ownership
Whether you’re a competitive rider, trainer, or horse owner, this episode provides valuable insight into how equine insurance works and why it plays an essential role in safeguarding your horses and your investment.
⏱ Podcast Timeline
00:00 – Welcome & Introduction
00:42 – How Meghan Got Started in the Horse Industry and What Led Her to Insurance
02:50 – Most Commonly Seen Equine Insurance Coverage Plans
07:14 – What to Look for When Reviewing Your Horses’ Insurance Policy
10:24 – How Often Should You Be Reviewing Your Policy?
11:24 – Addressing Common Misconceptions About the Equine Insurance Industry
13:04 – What Information You Need on Hand When You’re Ready to Register Your Horse for Insurance
15:24 – How Closely HEP Insurance Works with Horses’ Medical Care Teams
17:04 – When to Consider Getting Farm Insurance and Why It Is So Important
19:03 – Looking Toward the Future of the Equine & Farm Insurance Industry
Want to evaluate your horse's diet? Follow this link to get connected with an equine nutritionist or explore our horse nutrition calculator: madbarn.com/analyze-diet
Mad Barn is dedicated to supporting horse owners, handlers, and practitioners through research, training, and education. Visit us to learn more at madbarn.com.
You can also find Mad Barn at:
Instagram | Facebook | TikTok — @madbarnequine
08:56 – Looking to the Future of What’s to Come for Angelstone Events
Want to evaluate your horse's diet? Follow this link to get connected with an equine nutritionist or explore our horse nutrition calculator: madbarn.com/analyze-diet
Mad Barn is dedicated to supporting horse owners, handlers, and practitioners through research, training, and education. Visit us to learn more at madbarn.com.
Want to evaluate your horse's diet? Follow this link to get connected with an equine nutritionist or explore our horse nutrition calculator: madbarn.com/analyze-diet
Mad Barn is dedicated to supporting horse owners, handlers, and practitioners through research, training, and education. Visit us to learn more at madbarn.com.
You can also find Mad Barn at: Instagram | Facebook | TikTok — @madbarnequine
13:47 - Stretching Resources & Educational Plans
14:47 - Meet the Team Behind Farmhouse Chiropractic
15:56 - Favorite Success Story with a Horse
16:33 - Advice for Proactive Horse Owners
17:12 - What’s Next for Farmhouse Chiropractic?
18:00 - Where to Find Farmhouse at World Equestrian Center
Want to evaluate your horse's diet? Follow this link to get connected with an equine nutritionist or explore our horse nutrition calculator: madbarn.com/analyze-diet
Mad Barn is dedicated to supporting horse owners, handlers, and practitioners through research, training, and education. Visit us to learn more at madbarn.com.
Want to evaluate your horse's diet? Follow this link to get connected with an equine nutritionist or explore our horse nutrition calculator: madbarn.com/analyze-diet
Mad Barn is dedicated to supporting horse owners, handlers, and practitioners through research, training, and education. Visit us to learn more at madbarn.com.
Want to evaluate your horse's diet? Follow this link to get connected with an equine nutritionist or explore our horse nutrition calculator: madbarn.com/analyze-diet
Mad Barn is dedicated to supporting horse owners, handlers, and practitioners through research, training, and education. Visit us to learn more at madbarn.com.
Want to evaluate your horse's diet? Follow this link to get connected with an equine nutritionist or explore our horse nutrition calculator: madbarn.com/analyze-diet
Mad Barn is dedicated to supporting horse owners, handlers, and practitioners through research, training, and education. Visit us to learn more at madbarn.com.
Want to evaluate your horse's diet? Follow this link to get connected with an equine nutritionist or explore our horse nutrition calculator: madbarn.com/analyze-diet
Mad Barn is dedicated to supporting horse owners, handlers, and practitioners through research, training, and education. Visit us to learn more at madbarn.com.
You can also find Mad Barn at:
Instagram | Facebook | TikTok — @madbarnequine
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