On The Rail

Hosts Jenna and Liz tackle a variety of critical and often controversial topics within the horse showing industry. They discuss the pressures and costs associated with horse showing, touching upon the expenses reported by participants and questioning the value it brings when balanced against the emotional and financial toll. They also delve into the issues within the training industry, highlightin...

This episode meet Peter Canizzaro, a revered horse show announcer with over three decades of experience. Peter provides insight into his journey from a part-time role while juggling an education career to embracing the announcer's booth full-time, including the commitment and travel it entails. Born into a triplet set deeply rooted in the equestrian world, Peter, alongside his brothers, has na...

This episode of the On The Rail Podcast features Lori Bucholz, an AQHA Executive Committee member, who discusses her extensive involvement in the horse industry. Lori shares her journey from a young girl passionate about horses to holding significant roles within AQHA and other committees, emphasizing animal welfare, member involvement, and governance. The conversation covers topics including the...

This episode features an in-depth conversation about the 2024 APHA World Show, including insights from key figures within the American Paint Horse Association (APHA). The discussion covers the show's schedule from June 21st through July 7th at the Will Rogers Center in Fort Worth, Texas, emphasizing its no-qualifying entry, diverse events beyond competition, and a strong focus on family involv...

This episode of On The Rail Podcast, we get to see through the reins of Amber Duckett, an Idaho horse trainer and owner, who shares her journey from a young 4-H member to a professional trainer and owner of a successful stallion, One And Only Asset ('Marshall'). Amber's story highlights her DIY approach, the evolution of her career, and the special bond she has with Marshall, whose &#3...

In this engaging episode of the On The Rail Podcast, listeners are treated to an in-depth conversation with Adam and Pasley Mathis, the dynamic duo behind Mathis Show Horses. The Mathis' discuss their evolution from horse enthusiasts to professional trainers, shedding light on their personal and professional journeys that led to their partnership and the establishment of their training facilit...

In this episode of On The Rail Podcast, we dive into the ranch world, featuring an interview with Shannon Quinlan Hill, co-trainer of Hill Performance Horses in Sharpsville, Pennsylvania. Shannon shares her extensive background in the equine industry, spanning from showing hunters and cow horses to auction sale barn horses, influenced by her horse trainer and judge parents. The conversation covers...

In the latest episode of On the Rail Podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Julie Broadway, the President of the American Horse Council, to discuss the results of the 2023 National Equine Economic Impact Study. This research highlights the equine industry's significant $177 billion contribution to the U.S. economy and its role in supporting 2.2 million jobs. However, it also points...

In the latest episode of On the Rail Podcast, we chat with Jill Clark, DVM, a dedicated select amateur with a deep-rooted passion for the equine world. Jill shares her unique journey into horse showing, starting with her early roles in movies as a child that funded her first show horse. Jill discussed her significant contributions to the AQHA community through the Professional Horsemen Endowment F...

We hosted a dynamic group of assistant trainers: Coltin Crystal, Crysta Brown, Lily Zomparelli, and Dillon Holden. They shared their unique perspectives from the trenches of the horse training world, giving us a glimpse into their personal journeys, from early experiences to their current roles in shaping the future of horse training. Our guests discussed the day-to-day realities of being an assis...

We're thrilled to host Dr. Chelsea Sinclair and Susie Phillips, leading figures in the sphere of equine reproduction and breeding. They'll walk us through their early days in the industry, the evolving art of stallion management, and the intricacies of stallion ownership from economic, marketing, and mare owner perspectives. We'll also explore how they select stallion prospects, the cu...

In our latest episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with Ward Stutz and Robin Frid to look into the heart of the AQHA Animal Welfare Commission. As Director of Breed Integrity and the chair of the commission, respectively, Ward and Robin offer us a unique glimpse into their dedication to horse welfare within the industry. They shared insights on the commission's mission, its critical r...

In this On the Rail Podcast episode, we're excited to introduce Jenna McGrath, also known as The Equimist, who joins us to share her insights into animal communication. As hosts intrigued by the possibility of connecting with animals on a deeper level, we explore Jenna's journey into becoming an animal communicator. She shares with us the evolution of her abilities, the challenges she'...

Today, we have the pleasure of talking with Meghan Tierney, the driving force behind MT Company Quarter Horses in Reddick, Florida. Meghan outlines her journey from Texas and Ohio to Florida, highlighting her transition into show management and the creation of a thriving breeding program with the celebrated mare, Pretty Assets. She also discusses her innovative contributions to the Virginia Maiden...

The Boys are back! In this heartwarming Valentine's week special of On the Rail Podcast, we are thrilled to bring back another episode featuring our non-horsey partners, Jason and Lantz. Last year, they stole the hearts of many and even climbed the charts, making it one of our most memorable episodes.    This year, we took a deep dive into the ups and downs of the past year, celebrating person...

This is the one you have asked for! In this episode of On the Rail Podcast, we dive into judging with Sandy Jirkovsky (APHA Director of Judges), John Pipkin (AQHA Director of Show Officials), and Bill Kaven (NSBA Judges). This highly anticipated episode offers a spicy follow-up to our discussions on hunter under saddle and western pleasure. Our expert guests unpack the intricate processes, standar...

In this episode of On the Rail Podcast, we explore the captivating story of David Miller, a former professional horse trainer who gracefully transitioned back to being an amateur. David shares insights from his extensive background in the Quarter Horse, Paint, and USEF worlds, highlighting his achievements as a World Champion, Congress Champion, and a member of the AQHA and NSBA board of directors...

In this informative episode of On the Rail Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Steve O'Grady, a renowned veterinarian and farrier with a wealth of experience in equine podiatry. Dr. O'Grady shares his journey from farrier apprenticeship to veterinary science, highlighting his unique approach to hoof care. He discusses various hoof-related issues like managing mismatched front feet, club feet,...

Dive into the inspiring journey of Alyse Roberts in this episode of On the Rail Podcast. As the founder of Alyse Roberts Performance Horses, Alyse shares her transition from early equestrian experiences to creating a thriving training business.   We explore Alyse's dedicated path in specializing in hunter under saddle horses, providing an in-depth look at the current dynamics of this disciplin...

We have a thought-provoking conversation with renowned Western pleasure trainers, Katy Jo Zuidema and Aaron Moses. After rehashing thoughts about the recent HUS podcast with Lainie DeBoer, they dive deep into the intricacies of western pleasure training, discussing the evolution of the sport, training philosophies, and the balance between maintaining tradition and adapting to modern trends.    The...

Happy New Year from On the Rail Podcast! Kick off 2024 with inspiration and motivation in our latest episode featuring cohost Jenna Tolson and her transformative Ride Fit Life program. As we embrace new beginnings and set our resolutions, Jenna's journey from fitness reluctance to creating a successful online coaching business for equestrians is the perfect catalyst for your health and fitness...

Join us as we talk with Kathy Avolt from An Equine Production, revealing the world of horse show management. With over 20 years in the field, Kathy shares her expertise in organizing top-tier horse shows, offering key insights for both enthusiasts and industry veterans.   In this episode, explore the behind-the-scenes of horse show management, understanding the evolution and current challenges of...

Get an exclusive glimpse into the lives of those married (or almost married!) to horse trainers in this enlightening roundtable discussion. Five dynamic women share their varied experiences, from the depths of their involvement in the horse industry to the everyday realities of life alongside a trainer. They open up about the unique benefits and challenges they encounter, debunking common myths an...

Step into the world of color breed horses with Michelle Johnston in our latest episode. We shine a spotlight on the CA$H FOR COLOR Program, discussing its foundation, goals, and the significant impact it aims to make. Michelle guides us through the program's philosophy, revealing how it benefits stallion owners, breeders, and exhibitors with clear eligibility criteria.   Discover the dedicated...

Join us on On the Rail Podcast for a compelling episode featuring the return of Lainie DeBoer, a respected figure in the AQHA world. In this deep-dive discussion, we revisit the standards of Hunter Under Saddle, sparked by Lainie's insightful and viral Facebook post. We talk about her views on the myths surrounding stride length and head position, and unravel the biomechanics that might advoca...