Optimized Equine Podcast

In this episode of the Optimized Equine podcast, host Tamara Lee Barrett reflects on her experience attending the 5-star week at Thermal, a high-level hunter jumper show at Desert Int’l Horse Park. She shares insights about equine optimization she observed even at elite levels of competition. Key Points: Tamara emphasizes that her observations comes from a place of love for the sport, not to cast...

In this episode of the Optimized Equine Podcast, host Tamara Lee Barrett speaks with McKrell Baier, the Director of Bridge UP Giddy UP, and several students from the program. They discuss the origins of the program, its impact on the community, and the personal growth of the students involved. After meeting the students, the conversation highlights the importance of ethical horsemanship, the struc...

In this episode of the Optimized Equine Podcast , host Tamara Lee Barrett is joined by Carl Paoli, an elite gymnast, movement specialist, author, and coach. They explore the concept of 'feel' in movement, the journey of writing his book Freestyle , and the importance of deliberate practice in achieving optimal performance. The discussion also emphasizes the significance of emotional intelligence i...

In this conversation, Host Tamara Lee Barrett is joined by Trainer Dev Branham and Equine Osteopath Vanessa Helvey to discuss authenticity in equine care and training, as well as the pros and cons of social media and online resources in the equestrian world. They explore the nuances of recognizing small gains in training, the need for clear communication, and the role of feedback from horses. The...

In this episode of The Optimized Equine Podcast, Tamara Lee Barrett interviews Patrick King, a renowned horse trainer and clinician who promotes Classical Principles for Modern Riders. They discuss the concept of 'Corner Turners,’ the importance of athletic relaxation for horses and humans to become effective learners, and the horses' desire for leadership in many aspects of their lives. Patrick s...

In this episode of the Optimized Equine Podcast Tamara Lee Barrett interviews Jessica Fry, founder of Wild Hearts Equine Therapy and assistant instructor for Mark Rashid. They discuss the unique philosophy, practices, and management that makes Wild Hearts Equine Therapy so special. Jessica shares her journey in establishing the therapy center, the rehabilitation of horses and humans, and the nurtu...

In this episode of The Optimized Equine Podcast, host Tamara Lee Barrett is joined by Equine Osteopath Vanessa Helvey and Dev Branham of Devereux Sporthorses. They discuss the complexities of improving the horse's experience in the horse show world. They also explore the idea that domestic horse's CAN benefit from the competition experience when they are willing participants operating through feel...

In this episode of the Optimized Equine podcast, host Tamara Lee Barrett interviews Ezra Yoder from No Reins Performance Horses. Ezra shares his journey from growing up Amish to becoming a professional horse trainer specializing in Cowboy Mounted Shooting…which he actually competes in bridleless! He emphasizes the importance of connection between horse and rider, as well as his training philosophy...

In this episode, Tamara Lee Barrett interviews Dev Branham of Devereux Sport Horses, based out of Tomball, TX. They discuss their similar journeys in horsemanship that both began in the traditional Hunter Jumper realm. They explore the evolution of training methods, the significance of emotional awareness in horses, and the importance of true dialogue between horse and rider. Dev shares his transi...

In this conversation, Tamara Lee Barrett and Vanessa Helvey are joined by Horse Trainer and Team Roper, Jayde Slade. They explore the intricacies of horsemanship and team roping, the role of balance in horse training, and the importance of understanding the horse's perspective. While we may come from different ends of the spectrum in the horse world, this open-minded discussion leads to interestin...

In this episode, Tamara Lee Barrett and Vanessa Helvey discuss their recent clinic in Linden, Arizona, where they worked with various horses, each presenting unique challenges. They delve into case studies of an older horse with multiple issues contributing to his lameness, a "mystery horse" with physical and behavioral concerns, a reactive horse struggling with trust, and a young mare developing...

Summary In this episode of the Optimized Equine Podcast, Tamara and Vanessa discuss their processes for assessing horses, emphasizing the importance of understanding each horse's unique needs. They explore various evaluation techniques, treatment protocols, and the significance of engaging with horses to foster trust and communication. The conversation also delves into specific case studies, c...

In this episode, Tamara and Vanessa continue their discussion on teeth, jaws, bits, and headgear in horses. They explore possible culprits that can create tension in the TMJs, and what signs to look for as a horse owner that may indicate your horse has tension here. They also discuss the jaws as a representation of expression and a reflection of stress, fear and other tensions in the body. Also, h...

In this episode, Tamara and Vanessa discuss the importance of teeth and jaws in horses. Vanessa shares her experience as an osteopath and how the jaw and teeth affect the rest of the body. They also discuss good practices for horse dentistry, including using hand tools versus power tools, working ambidextrously, and being cautious with sedation. They highlight the considerations for older and youn...

In this episode, Tamara discusses her horse Barnaby and the valuable lessons he taught her. Despite facing physical challenges and a lack of a clear diagnosis, Tamara learned to trust her gut and listen to her horse. Vanessa provides insights into Barnaby's physical issues, including restrictions in his cranial and hind end structures. The post-mortem report revealed abnormalities, but a defin...

Welcome to the debut episode of "The Optimized Equine Podcast" with hosts Tamara Lee Barrett and Vanessa Helvey. In this episode, we introduce ourselves and dive into our holistic approach to equine care, focusing on the importance of meeting the needs of the whole horse—physically, mentally, and emotionally. We explore the concept of optimization, and discuss the evolution of self through the wis...