ABC’s of Horses with Christy Wood

It's a big milestone on the Big Blend Radio "ABCs of Horses" Podcast, producer Lisa D. Smith and world champion horse trainer Christy Wood have made it all the way to Z! And Z is for Zoomies, that joyful, full-speed burst of energy every horse owner loves to watch. Christy breaks down what zoomies really mean, how to tell the difference between a happy horse blowing off steam and a stressed or fea...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood explores the essential concept of yielding in horse training and why it forms the foundation of effective communication between horse and rider. Christy explains the difference between yielding and stopping, emphasizing how yielding teaches horses to move away from pressure while remaining responsive and balanc...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood explores how modern diagnostic tools like X-rays and MRIs play a vital role in understanding horse anatomy, soundness, and long-term health. Christy discusses the importance of working closely with farriers and veterinarians, especially when evaluating hoof structure, bone density, and potential hidden issues t...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood dives into the fundamentals of water training for horses, sharing practical techniques that help riders safely introduce horses to streams, ponds, and other water obstacles often encountered on the trail. From patient groundwork to building confidence step by step, Christy explains why preparation and calm lead...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood discusses common horse vices such as cribbing, weaving, pawing, pacing, and chewing. These behaviors can signal underlying issues like boredom, separation anxiety, excess energy, or dietary imbalances. Christy explains how these habits develop, why they matter for a horse’s physical and mental health, and what...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood explores mare reproductive health, focusing on the anatomy and care of the uterus and why it matters for overall equine wellness. Christy explains common reproductive considerations for mares, including cycle inconsistencies, behavioral changes, and the importance of regular grooming and hands-on inspections. T...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood tackles the essential topic of trailer breaking horses—a critical skill every horse owner should prioritize for emergencies, veterinary care, and travel. Christy shares practical techniques for helping horses feel comfortable and confident entering a trailer, emphasizing patience, positive reinforcement, and un...

In this heartfelt episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood celebrates the wisdom, experience, and enduring spirit of senior horses. These gentle teachers play an invaluable role in guiding young horses and riders alike, offering lessons in patience, resilience, and trust. Christy shares personal stories and insights into the care, health, and longevity of sen...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood explores two foundational yet complex aspects of horse behavior and training: rearing and roping. The conversation begins with an in-depth look at rearing—why horses do it, what it means, and how understanding this natural communication behavior is essential for safety and training. Christy offers practical adv...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood explores the fascinating quirks of horses—the playful, creative, and sometimes puzzling behaviors that reveal their personalities and well-being. From lips exploring the world to inventive boredom-busters, these quirks can be both entertaining and informative. Christy explains how to distinguish between harmles...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood takes us on the Chief Joseph Trail Ride—a remarkable 1,300-mile journey retracing the historic route of Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce. Spanning 13 segments over 13 years, the ride blends history, community, and adventure. Christy shares her personal experiences on the trail, preparation tips for riders and hor...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood shares the critical role of pony horses in training young horses and building rider-horse communication. You'll also hear insights on trail riding, including the famous Chief Joseph Trail Ride, plus safety tips and equipment preferences for ponying. Learn why a pony horse should be solid, confident, and turnkey...

It’s all about over fences and the Olympics in this episode of Big Blend Radio's “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast with Christy Wood. In this engaging conversation, Christy dives into the fascinating world of equestrian sports, exploring the origins of ‘over fences’ from its roots in fox hunting to its modern role in show jumping and Olympic competition. They discuss the key differences between...

From a whinny to a nicker, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC’s of Horses” equestrian podcast with Christy Wood explores "horse noises," the fascinating world of horse vocalizations and what they mean. Learn how to interpret different horse sounds, including variations in intensity and frequency. Is your horse expressing comfort, excitement, anxiety, or even attraction? Whether it's a call for...

It's all about Understanding and Caring for Mares on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood.  Hear about attitude and disposition, emotions, performance, breeding and pregnancy, hormonal health, foaling and gestation, and so much more. Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, also exhibiting in jumping and trail. She is a winner in extreme t...

It's all about Lunging Your Horse on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood. Hear about what lunging is and why it is important, lunging positions, and the best gear and equipment for lunging. Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, also exhibiting in jumping and trail. She is a winner in extreme trail obstacle challenges, and is a carded h...

It's all about Kicking and Communication on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood. Hear what makes horses kick, how to maneuver around a horse so you do not get kicked, and how to communicate whether on the ground or on horseback.  Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, also exhibiting in jumping and trail. She is a winner in extreme trai...

It's all about How to Become a Horse Show Judge on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood.  Main Points of Discussion include: - Ring stewarding - Getting your foot in the door  - References from show managers - Know the rule book for each association - Apply, get accepted, and go to a judge’s seminar   - Getting carded Christy Wood is a World Cham...

It's all about Instruction for Horses and Riders on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood. Instruction is especially important when looking at purchasing a new horse.  Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, also exhibiting in jumping and trail. She is a winner in extreme trail obstacle challenges, and is a carded horse show judge with 7 b...

It's all about Horse Hoof Care on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood.  Hear about how to clean a hoof, supplements, about shoes and shoeing, protective boots,  choosing a farrier, and more.  Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, also exhibiting in jumping and trail. She is a winner in extreme trail obstacle challenges, and is a carded...

It's all about Horse Gear and Tack on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood.  Hear about the gear differences between English and Western, and tack for Show versus Pleasure. Plus, all about clean and functional leather (not nylon), bits, spurs, pads and more. Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, also exhibiting in jumping and trail. She...

It's all about The Chief Joseph Trail Ride on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with equestrian expert Christy Wood.  Christy Wood talks about her second 13-year circuit of the Chief Joseph Trail Ride, a progressive trail ride hosted by the Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC). A portion of the ride is completed each year, with the entire sequence taking thirteen years...

It's all about foals, fillies, and colts on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood. Topics of is discussion include breeding, foal prep, birth assistance, post-birth care. Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, also exhibiting in jumping and trail. She is a winner in extreme trail obstacle challenges, and is a carded horse show judge with...

It's all about how to read and understand your horse's energy and emotions on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood. Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, also exhibiting in jumping and trail. She is a winner in extreme trail obstacle challenges, and is a carded horse show judge with 7 breed associations. Along with being an author and i...

From Hay to Carrots, it's all about the Equine Diet on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood. Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, also exhibiting in jumping and trail. She is a winner in extreme trail obstacle challenges, and is a carded horse show judge with 7 breed associations. Along with being an author and instructor, she is the o...