The Groom Box: Amateur Edition

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.

Crysta and Erin chat about their Amazon storefront, where they share a curated collection of their favorite products for both horses and humans. From essential equine care items to everyday lifestyle favorites, they highlight trusted, tried-and-true recommendations that reflect their passion for quality and convenience in the barn and beyond. Crysta shares places she sources items online and aroun...

This week, we sit down with Charlotte Selby Casey—right from Crysta’s. Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Charlotte now calls the greater Austin, Texas area home. But her horse? He’s still living the Washington life. Find out how Charlotte navigates her cross-country routine—making weekend round trips that stretch her frequent flyer miles and her budget, all to stay in the saddle with MM Wh...

Grange Supply has all of your needs plus more! From feed to fencing, tack and blankets, fuel and boots, there is sure to be what you are looking for. And YES, your trailer will fit so stop by on the way to your next event or when you are in town for WSQHA’s Convention in January. Check them out at 145 NE Gilman Blvd, Issaquah, Washington 98027 Monday - Saturday.  https://grangesupply.com

We welcome our favorite paint horse power house from the North West, Kory Kumar. For APHA Kory is a WA state director as well as on the 2025 Regional Engagement Advisory Committee, The State Director Nominating Committee and chairs The Western National Task Force Show Committee. She is involved in many local and state Paint and Quarter horse clubs and associations. Kory is truly one of the best in...

Uncover the magic woven into these equestrian-designed jeans—made by rider and founder Whitney Lloyd who knows exactly what performing in the saddle demands.  You can find the jeans here at https://markwestdenim.com/  

We visit with founder and owner of Mare Magic, Robin Gorman.  Hear how Robin got her start with Solid Ideas and how it's evolved into an equine supplement power house in the North West. Not just for mares, either!

It's getting close to WSQHA's last big show of the year! We chat with Show Manager Lisa Gardner about sponsors, events and more. You can still post enter at www.wsqha.com

Clare Swanson is a fellow amateur here in the Northwest. She is a popular bander and preps a lot of horses for photoshoots and shows. Clare shares with us her favorite products for that perfect look and encourages others to learn skills such as banding and prepping horses for pictures! 

Erin Wieldraayer & Kelsey Masterson talk about the upcoming Inland Empire Buckskin Horse Association's Western States American Breed Congress! 

Jennifer Casey is a staple in the Northwest in the Breakaway Roping world. However, with her education and year spent as a Physical Therapist she has broadened into coaching women into how to have more out of their life, their competition and their day to day. Jennifer offers various levels and mode of coaching whether it's a simple email, a call or in person.  *Jennifer will be WSQHA’s featured s...

Allie Littlefield is the owner of Back Road Trading Company & Cedar Creek Tack Store. Both businesses are staples in the horse show world. Back Road is known for their incredible saddle blankets and Cedar Creek is known for their high end saddle consignments. Listen as Allie talks about the changes coming as she is now the sole owner of Back Road Trading Company!

On this episode Crysta & Erin talk about the AQHA Leveling system and how to navigate the AQHA Leveling Made Easy Booklet. 

Listen in to hear from Paje Turner, owner of Turner Performance Horses & Founder of the League of Legends Horse Sale in East Helena, MT and Heidi Smith who works for the Turner's and League Legends. These gals talk through the intensive vetting process that every horse goes through to be presented in the League of Legends Invitational Horse Sale, how to become a buyer and what to expect if you...

Toni Meacham & Anna Geddes join us to talk about the KT Ranch in Connell, WA. The KT Ranch was the 2021 AQHA Ranching Heritage Breeder of the year. They are active donors of the AQHA Youth Development Program and many other youth activities within the ranching industry. 

Hannah Carter is a Northwest Native and is now a practicing veterinarian at Mid South Equine in Texas. Hannah works in clinic and travels to some the industry's largest shows to work. 

This episode's guest is Sharon Wellmann. Sharon is an AQHA, NSBA, APHA, ABRA Judge and the ABRA President. Sharon tells us about ALL THINGS ABRA and the upcoming ABRA World Show! 2025 will be the second year having the professional show management team of Owen Farms Show Management running the show. This team of positive hard working show management staff runs the show in a timely manner with smil...

Listen in to learn all about Horse Guard, their roots in the Northwest and the vital role they play in the every day health of our horses. 

We visit with Sally Saur, WSQHA Professional Horsemen of the Year in 2024. We talk about being a Pro Horsemen, going down the road with clients, her program and more!

We visit with Patty Baker: APHA Professional Horsemen of the Year 2024. We learn about her background, her program, everything leading up to becoming the Pro Horsemen of the Year! 

We visit with Tamara Jameson and Andrea Ortt about horse showing in Canada, USA and being Amateurs!