Not Just A Pony Ride

We are adding tools to our instructor toolbox today with another installation of Understanding Diagnoses. This episode is a little different, we aren’t going to talk about a specific diagnosis but rather something that we see most commonly as part of neurodivergent diagnoses. Stimming. Stimming is short hand for “self-stimulating” – it’s a natural and instinctive behavior that people engage in to...

In this episode of Not Just A Pony Ride , we are pulling back the curtain on our biggest and most anticipated event of the year! We sit down with Noah and Kalynn for an exclusive, inside look at everything Blue Jeans & Dreams . Whether you are a HETRA supporter or a fellow therapeutic riding center looking for ideas for your own event, this episode is packed with value. Join us as we talk abou...

Change is in the air, and we couldn't be more excited! In this episode, we are pulling back the curtain to introduce the newest voice behind the mic. Join us as we officially welcome Emma to the team as our new podcast host! We sit down with Emma to talk about her background, her passion for Equine-Assisted Services (EAS), and what she is most looking forward to bringing to the show. Whether y...

In this episode we sit down with a powerhouse panel of researchers and practitioners to talk about a groundbreaking, high risk study breaking down the silos in Equine-Assisted Services (EAS). Funded by the Horses and Humans Research Foundation (HHRF), this study is the very first to measure real time neurophysiological brain activity in children with autism while on horseback, while simultaneously...

Waitlists are common in EAS programs—but are they always being defined and managed effectively? In this episode, we dive into one of the most important (and often frustrating) operational topics for centers: the waitlist. At HETRA, someone is not considered officially on the waitlist until all required paperwork is complete and they have been evaluated by staff. That means they are truly ready to...

Don't be afraid to try new things!  This week on the podcast we are talking about a new policy we implemented at HETRA - scheduled "ground weeks".  During this week, all participants who participate in a mounted program move to ground based activities for the week. This gives our horses a break and our participants new opportunities to grow in their skills.   Listen in to hear how we...

We’re bringing back one of our favorite “oldie but goodie” episodes—because the topic is that important. Thoughtful, thorough evaluation of incoming participants is a cornerstone of success in equine-assisted services, not only for the individuals we serve, but for our instructors, volunteers, and horses, too.  In this replay, Edye Godden, OTR/L, HPCS, PATH Intl. CTRI and CEO of HETRA, shares her...

Seizures are more common than many people realize—and in equine-assisted services, being prepared can make all the difference. In this episode, we break down five essential things every EAS professional should understand about seizures, from recognition to response, so you can create a safer, more confident environment for your participants, staff, and horses. Learn more details about Seizures and...

In this episode, we welcome back Edye Godden to reflect on two recent events that sparked important conversations in the EAS industry: the Horses and Humans Research Foundation Conference and HETRA University Live. We discovered that themes from both events aligned—showing that new research is beginning to support the real-world experiences and educational approaches many programs are already impl...

In this episode, we welcome back Jeff Arnold, Founder of Leadership Adventures, for a powerful conversation about what it really takes to build the next generation of leaders in the EAS industry.  Expect to here more on: When we talk about “next generation leaders,” we’re talking about all of us.   What the Next Generation of EAL Leaders Actually Wants After surveying and working with more than 60...

In equine-assisted services, our horses make everything possible—but funding their care can be one of the biggest ongoing challenges programs face.  In this episode, Edye Godden CEO of HETRA shares practical, sustainable ways to fund the horses who serve our participants, including campaigns and sponsorship models that are impactful without placing constant demands on staff time.  A highlight of t...

Are you asking all the right questions when it comes to coverage for your EAS centers?  Don't get caught in a loop hole without coverage! Jonathan Killian with Killian Insurance Agency is back on the podcast to help us understand this complex topic.  Jon is sharing what he's learned and trends he has noticed since he started specializing in coverage for equine assisted services.  Tune in t...

n this episode, Shelby and Kaiti unpack a realization that genuinely surprised them. Of all the education we have provided recently around equine welfare, we assumed the biggest hurdle would be whether people wanted to make changes and what changes to make. What we discovered instead was something very different — and much heavier. Most people do want to improve welfare practices, but feel stuck b...

In this episode we walk through the Seizure Disclosure Form and policies used at HETRA, explaining not just what we ask, but why it matters.  This conversation is designed to support transparency, safety, and collaboration. We talk through how seizure information helps staff make informed decisions that protect participants, horses, and everyone involved—without creating unnecessary barriers to pa...

The first installment of a quarterly check in with HHRF!  We’re joined by HHRF CEO, Pebbles Turbeville and 3 members of the HHRF community: Jo, Justin and Elizabeth.  This episode is an honest exploration of how research, lived experience, and open-minded dialogue can (and should) coexist. We talk about the tension many of us feel between “this is how I’ve always done it” and “what if there’s more...

What would you tell yourself if you could go back to your earliest days as an executive director? In this episode, Edye Godden—CEO of HETRA and a leader in equine-assisted services for over 30 years—shares five lessons she wishes she’d known sooner. Drawing from her experience, Edye offers grounded, honest insight for executive directors, program leaders, and emerging nonprofit professionals. Edye...

In the replay of this popular episode,  HETRA CEO Edye Godden is sharing with us how HETRA manages a healthy work culture. Tune in for real-world tools and reflections to help you lead with intention and keep what matters most at the center. Hear what tools we have used for staff development too!: Clifton Strengths Finder  Gretchen Rubin’s ‘Four Tendencies’ Quiz:   https://gretchenrubin.com/quiz/t...

  In this episode, we dive into the fascinating concept of anticipatory balance —the body’s ability to predict movement before it happens. It’s a skill that both humans and horses rely on constantly, and in Equine-Assisted Services, it becomes a crucial part of safety, function, and performance. We explore how anticipatory balance develops, how it keeps us from getting injured, and what happens wh...

In this new series of short episodes - we hear from Edye Godden, OT, CTRI & HETRA’s CEO, for a candid conversation about language, ethics, and professionalism in EAS.  Too often, well-intended phrases or flashy-looking credentials can blur lines, misrepresent our field, and ultimately undermine the work we’re all here to do. This episode digs into some big topics, including:  Language matters—...

In this episode, we dive into one of the most versatile tools in our program—the Equicizer, our mechanical horse who works just as hard as our live herd. Whether he’s helping participants who aren’t quite ready for a live horse or being your ambassador at a marketing event, the Equicizer plays a vital role the sustainability of our center.  Join us as we break down 10 ways we utilize our “EQ”  to...

Live from the PATH Intl. International Conference – Denver, CO! I n this special episode recorded live in front of a studio audience, we dive into a lively and thought-provoking group discussion on one of the most frequently debated topics in equine-assisted services: How do we define a “balanced rider,” and what impact does that definition have on setting equine weight limits? Join us as a panel...

In this episode, Kaiti Otte, OTD, OTR/L, PATH Intl. CTRI, builds on a topic recently explored in our Neurodivergent Mini Course —understanding how the vestibular system and gravitational insecurity can impact our participants’ experience. The question came up in our live office hours discussion that was part of the live course course.   Join us for the mini course at any time if you want to better...

In this episode, we’re joined by Rachel Elder, PATH Intl. CTRI, CHA IRD, and Program Director at Agape in Cicero, Indiana, to explore the inner workings and far-reaching influence of Agape’s programs. Rachel shares insights into how Agape’s hippotherapy program operates through a unique hospital partnership, the interconnected nature of their equine-assisted services, and the organization’s legacy...

On this episode we are honoring World Mental Health Day.  The overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. I’m honored to share the work that HETRA does through our mental health services partnering with horses and on this episode to help spread the word is mental health therapist Ke...

You have identified a potential horse for your program and you’re ready to go take a look.  What you do at this initial visit is a pivotal part of setting your new herd members up for success.  What do you do while you’re there? How do you do a thorough investigation of their behaviors and medical status? Join us to hear how we do it at HETRA including some policies that we have that help save tim...