The Groom Box: Amateur Edition

We are celebrating our first year with The Groom Box! Our first year saw 45 episodes, over 4k downloads and a lot of fun! We are Not Pros, Just Non Pros. We love chatting with new people and learning about the equine industry around us!  So! Countdown to the Number 1 listened to episode! 12. Stacy Dial: Kathy's Show Equipment 11. Allie Littlefield: Back Road Trading Company 10. Jeff Williams: Regi...

Crysta and Erin sit down with Nina Lundgren — legendary cutting horse trainer, she operates the Bonina Event Center, and has been driving force behind the Northwest cutting horse industry. Inducted into the National Cutting Horse Association Hall of Fame in 2017 as one of the few women to earn the honor, Nina shares her journey, talks about their supplement line and more!

Lisa is back to chat with us about the upcoming Washington State Quarter Horse Association horse shows The Trophy Circuit and Ranch It Up.   www.wsqha.com

Back from Spring Break and diving right in, this week we sit down with Ryen — a veteran who completed an intensive horsemanship program created specifically for those who’ve served. In just five days, he went from learning the basics to confidently working down the fence, uncovering a passion he never expected. Today, that passion fuels him five days a week. And it didn’t stop there. Ryen also dis...

Crysta and Erin chat with Stacey Colgan from Yamhill, Oregon. Stacey operates a training program, sales program and breeding program. She has about 10 foals per year from some of the top stallions in the nation. Listen in to learn about Stacey's programs and the wonderful line-up of foals she has and will have!

Learn a bit about WSQHA long time sponsor, Pilchuck Veterinary Hospital in Snohomish, WA.  Stacey also shares about her horse body clipping business. 

Listen to show manager Lisa Gardner share about Washington State Quarter Horse Association's Spring Shows coming up this month. For all show information, entries and more go to www.wsqha.com and follow WSQHA's facebook page. For show results, score sheets and more go to www.wsqharesults.com  

Crysta & Erin chat with Paige Stroud, 2025 WSQHA Pro Horsemen of the Year! Paige tells us about growing up as a horse kid, building her program, switching from All Arounders to Ranch Riders and more! Paige shares how she feels she has been an asset to the industry by having school horses and giving lessons to any age and experience of rider! We agree! 

Crysta and Erin chat about their experience at the 2026 AQHA Convention at the South Point Hotel in Las Vegas last week.

Crysta and Erin visit with Jim Edwards, an AQHA, NSBA, APHA and more carded breed judge. Jim is an AQHA-certified show manager and steward. We talk to Jim for a behind-the-scenes look at the horse show world. Jim shares insights from working countless events each year—both nationally and internationally—and discuss judging standards, show management, and what it takes to keep shows running. This e...

This week, we’re sitting down with Kristen and Niki to talk all things Spring Fling—the Paint Horse and all breed horse show coming to the Oregon Horse Center in Eugene, Oregon, March 20–22, 2026. Two clubs team up year‑round to make this one of the Pacific Northwest’s must‑attend Paint events. From Chrome Cash, Paynt points, Color Bonus and Honor Roll points to WRHA approval, Never‑Won‑a‑Buckle c...

Crysta and Erin host Rachael Pollzzie of River Run Show Pads for a behind-the-scenes look at building an equine business. Rachael shares how she started her company, the process of sourcing saddle blankets, and how she creates her signature designs. The conversation also dives into her show clothing rentals and consignment program, offering insight for riders interested in both entrepreneurship an...

Crysta and Erin visit with Sarah Donahou, Marketing Manager for Standlee Forage, to talk all things forage options. Sarah explains the differences between pelleted forage, cubed forage, treats, and other products available from Standlee, along with how they fit into modern feeding programs. We learn about the process Standlee follows to ensure the highest quality bagged forage. This episode offers...

Crysta and Erin host Kory Kumar, the APHA-elected director for Washington State, for an in-depth conversation about proposed APHA rule changes and how the rule-making process works. Kory breaks down what changes are being discussed, how members can get involved, and why these updates matter to the industry. This episode offers valuable insight for anyone wanting to better understand how decisions...

Crysta and Erin visit with Stacy Dial, owner of Kathy’s Show Equipment and Sterling Saddles, to dive into the rich history behind the iconic tack company. Stacy shares how her journey with Kathy’s began, the craftsmanship behind their saddles, halters, and their awards selection. This episode offers a fascinating look at what goes into creating top-tier show equipment for the equine industry.

Crysta and Erin visit with Judy Schomer to explore the Central Washington University Equine Science Certificate Program and what makes it such a valuable opportunity for horse enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Judy—owner and trainer of X & O Horses and Cattle—shares her experience in the equine world, the goals of the program and what this year looks like for her!

In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Williams, a longtime leader within the Washington State Quarter Horse Association. Over the years, Jeff has served in multiple roles on the board—including Vice President, where he oversaw horse shows and helped shape the association’s direction. You’ll hear the story behind the Region One Scholarship—how it began, the vision that inspired it, and the ways it...

Saddle up, because this episode is a long trot into the world of equestrian tech. We’re chatting with Patrick Husting, the creator of an app that’s been shaking up the horse world in the best possible way. Think less “dusty barn clipboard,” more “your horse life, but upgraded.” With the Equestrian App, you can track everything horse — from daily care to big milestones. And coming this month? A rev...

Crysta and Erin share a list of gift options for the horse girl (or guy). Many items are linked or featured on their Facebook page The Groom Box

Crysta and Erin chat with Hilary Harris to talk about the real adventures of hauling horses cross-country. From the unforgettable fun to unexpected breakdowns, blown tires, long hauls, and the tricks that keep the wheels turning, Hilary shares hard-earned experience and plenty of laughs. Together they prove that—chaos and all—hauling horses cross country really is fun.

In this episode, Crysta and Erin visit with Lillian Evaniew-Phelan—an accomplished horsewoman whose influence stretches across every corner of the equine industry. Lillian holds an impressive 13 judging cards, bringing deep knowledge and perspective to competitors and exhibitors alike. She competes actively in the Western Dressage Association of America as well as AQHA Ranch events, blending preci...

After a devastating trail practice accident at a horse show in 2020, Susan Miner wasn’t sure if or when she’d ever ride again. But in 2025, her determination and grit earned her the Tracy Larsen Inspirational Award at the Trophy Circuit — a powerful testament to her resilience and relentless hard work. In this episode, Susan shares her journey of recovery, the positive mindset that carried her thr...

In this episode, we ride into the unique world of equestrian mental health with pre licensed professional Maddie Davis, whose practice is rooted in understanding the minds of horse riders as one herself. While Maddie works with a range of clients, her true specialty lies in helping equestrians overcome the mental blocks that hold them back. What sets Maddie apart? She doesn’t just talk the talk—sh...

Crysta and Erin are joined by Dr. Marlene Poe of Grand Coulee Veterinary Clinic to talk all things horses — from lameness and metabolic challenges to what it’s like being an on-call show vet and endurance ride vet in rural areas. Get ready for an insightful and down-to-earth conversation packed with knowledge, stories and some laughs! 

Erin discusses the Washington State Horsemen Horse Show Division Year-End Awards, explaining how exhibitors can qualify, the history behind the program, and the significance of its perpetual trophies. She highlights the traditions, dedication, and recognition that make these awards a meaningful part of the state’s equestrian community.