Broke Horse Moms

In this episode, I’m joined by Beth Sheely, head coach of the Virginia Tech Equestrian Team, to break down what collegiate club teams really look like and why they might be the best-kept secret for riders who want to continue in college.We talk about everything from how these teams are structured and funded to what coaches are actually looking for, plus real, actionable ways to start exploring options for your rider.We cover:What a collegiate club team is and how it differs from NCAA/NCEAHow IHSA works and why catch riding mattersCosts, funding, and scholarship realitiesWhat coaches look for beyond talentTime commitment and what “student-athlete” really means in this sportConfidence, nerves, and the role of sports psychologyHow fear develops and how to prevent itWhat parents often get wrong (and how to better support their riders)How to start exploring college riding programsWhen to begin the process (timeline for high school riders)Resources MentionedCollege Riding ExplorationEquestrian Talent Search (ETS Clinics): https://rideincollege.com/equestrian-talent-searchTournament of Champions Series: https://rideincollege.com/tournament-of-championsOrganizations & CompetitionIHSA (Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association): https://www.ihsainc.com/NCEA (National Collegiate Equestrian Association): https://collegiateequestrian.com/NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association): https://www.ncaa.org/Virginia Tech EquestrianVT Equestrian Team: https://vatechequestrian.weebly.com/VT Equestrian Team on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/virginiatechequestrianVT Animal Science (Equine Program): https://www.apsc.vt.edu/Broke Horse MomsJoin the newsletter https://www.brokehorsemoms.com/newsletter2026 Planning Workbook: https://www.brokehorsemoms.com/2026Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brokehorsemoms

One of the biggest lessons many of us learn in the horse world is that you can’t navigate it alone.In this episode, Angie shares why building a “horse mom village” is one of the most important things you can do—not just for your rider, but for your sanity as a parent trying to figure out a sport you didn’t grow up in.From the horse mom bestie who helps you talk through barn drama, to the barn family who helps with logistics, to the horse dad who brings perspective when your nerves take over, Angie walks through the seven types of people every horse mom needs in her corner.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, unsure, or like you’re the only one trying to figure this world out, this episode is for you.In this episode, we cover:Why horse moms often rely too heavily on trainers for supportThe importance of building your own support systemThe 7 types of people every horse mom needs in her villageHow other parents can help you see your rider more clearlyWhy connecting with other horse families changes the entire experienceSimple ways to start building your barn communityResources MentionedJoin the BHM newsletter: https://www.brokehorsemoms.com/newsletter2026 Planning Workbook: https://www.brokehorsemoms.com/2026Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/brokehorsemomsHuge thanks to Steve Woodward, The Podcasting Editor, for his masterful post-production and helping make this episode sound its best.

What exactly is a local show association and why does it matter?In this episode, I’m joined by Kelly Gannon, adult amateur rider and volunteer of the Central Virginia Show Jumping Association (CVSJA), to talk about how local horse shows actually run, from costs and volunteers to why they’re critical for young riders and adult amateurs alike.We cover:Local vs rated horse showsWhat kids learn beyond ribbonsThe real costs behind running a showWhy volunteer support mattersWhat happens if grassroots associations disappearIf you’re a non-horsey horse mom trying to understand the ecosystem you just joined… his one’s for you.Resources MentionedCVSJAhttps://www.cvsja.org/ https://www.instagram.com/cvsjashows/ Broke Horse MomsJoin the BHM newsletter: https://www.brokehorsemoms.com/newsletter Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brokehorsemoms

Winter showed up loud this year with ice, school closures, frozen buckets, and barns that don’t care about the weather forecast.In this episode, Angie shares what’s actually helping her family get through an extended stretch of freezing temperatures, from the clothes that make barn life bearable to the small comforts that keep everyone’s spirits intact.This isn’t a sponsored gear roundup or a “do it perfectly” episode, it’s a real look at how Broke Horse Moms survive winter when the horses still need care, the kids still need encouragement, and you’re just trying not to lose feeling in your toes.In this episode, we cover:The winter clothing that’s earning its keep at the barnWhy gas station hot chocolate is sometimes the answerThings that matter more than you expect when it’s icy (looking at you, low gears and manure)Community-tested winter survival tips from other horse momsLessons WE can teach our kids when the rings are frozen overIf you’re cold, tired, and still showing up, this one’s for you.Helpful links & resources:Broke Horse Moms newsletter: brokhorsemoms.com/newsletterNewsletter archives (in case you sign up AFTER we send the email with links): https://brokehorsemoms.kit.com/profilehttps://www.instagram.com/brokehorsemoms/Have a winter survival tip or story? DM me or send an email - I’d love to share it in a future episode.

Buying a horse can feel like the most exciting and terrifying decision you’ll ever make as a horse mom. In this episode, Angie shares the real-life considerations that went into buying her daughter’s horse and the questions every family should ask before making the leap.Whether you’re leasing, half-leasing, riding lesson horses, or just starting to wonder what’s next, this conversation is for moms navigating big decisions without a horse background or unlimited resources.What We Cover in This EpisodeHow to know when riding has moved beyond “just a phase”The difference between emotional readiness and financial readinessWhy leasing first can be helpful, but isn’t the only pathWhat parents often underestimate about horse ownershipHow to evaluate fit between horse, rider, trainer, and barnWhy “waiting” can sometimes be the smartest decisionWhat surprised Angie most after buying a horseHelpful Resources Mentioned📝 Broke Horse Moms Planning WorkbookA practical tool to help you think through goals, logistics, schedules, and finances before making big horse-related decisions.👉 https://www.brokehorsemoms.com/2026☕ Support the PodcastIf this episode helped you feel more grounded or less alone, you can support the show with a small contribution. Every bit helps keep Broke Horse Moms going.👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/brokehorsemomsA Friendly ReminderThere is no “right” timeline for buying a horse. Leasing longer, waiting another season, or deciding not to buy at all doesn’t mean you’re less committed. It means you’re making thoughtful decisions for your family.If you loved this episode, please consider following the show, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with another horse mom who’s quietly doing the same mental math right now. 🐎💙

Before the braids, before the entries, before the credit card panic...there’s planning...hopefully.In this episode of Broke Horse Moms, Angie sits down with her daughter Chloe for an unfiltered planning conversation using the 2026 Broke Horse Moms Planning Workbook. Together, they reflect on 2025, set rider goals, set MOM goals, choose shows with intention, and define a couple of mom boundaries around time, money, and energy.This isn’t a “perfect plan” episode. It’s a practical, honest look at how horse families can plan a season together, without turning it into pressure, guilt, or a contract written in pencil and stress.You’ll hear how they:Reflect on what mattered in 2025 (the highs and the lows)Let the rider lead goal-setting without mom editing the answersCreate a realistic show wish list (and talk about the why)Do a reality check on time, budget, and family capacityPrepare for trainer conversations before show season startsDefine wins that aren’t tied to ribbonsIf you’ve ever thought, “I just want to feel a little more organized this year,” this episode and the workbook are for you.👉 Download the free 2026 Broke Horse Moms Planning Workbook at brokehorsemoms.com/2026

Episode SummaryIt’s that time of year — show season is winding down, leases are ending, and a LOT of families start wondering… Is it time to switch barns?In this episode, Angie cracks open one of the spiciest topics in the horse world: when, why, and how to switch barns without burning every bridge in sight.And yes — before hitting record, she even texted Chloe’s trainer to ask, “Should I even talk about this??” The trainer’s answer: “We can talk tonight… just keep it focused.”So we did. And here it is.Quick Favor? ⭐️If you love this podcast, the easiest free way to support it is by leaving a rating or review:How to Leave a Review on Apple PodcastsOpen Apple PodcastsSearch for and/or tap the show name (Broke Horse Moms)Scroll past the episodes to Ratings & ReviewsTap ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Tap Write a Review and leave a note!How to Rate on SpotifyGo to the main Broke Horse Moms show pageTap the About tabTap the ⭐️ rating and select your stars — done!Want to Support the Show?If you’d like to help keep this podcast running and support this Broke Horse Mom you can make a small contribution at:👉 https://brokehorsemoms.com/shavingsEpisode HighlightsWhy so many families switch barns at the end of show seasonThe most common reasons people leave a barn (horses, money, goals, program fit, vibes)Why switching barns feels so emotional and personal for both parents and trainersAngie’s own experiences with two previous barn switches — one easy, one gut-wrenchingHow to leave a barn gracefully (honesty, kindness, communication)What to say, and what not to say, when making the transitionHow to avoid switching prematurely by choosing the right type of program from the startKey questions to ask yourself about goals, budget, horse needs, and your kid’s riding pathLinks MentionedSupport the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/bhmYouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@brokehorsemomsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/brokehorsemoms/Broke Horse Moms Newsletter: https://brokehorsemoms.com/newsletterThanks for Being Here 🤍If you enjoyed this conversation or it helped you feel less alone in your horse mom journey, share it with a fellow barn mom or tag me on IG. You’re part of this herd, and I’m so grateful you’re here.Trot on, friend. 🐴

In this episode of Broke Horse Moms, Angie sits down with Piper Klemm, publisher of The Plaid Horse, co-author of the Show Strides series, and one of the most trusted voices in equestrian education.Together, they break down two of the biggest topics in the horse world: affordability and accessibility. What do those words actually mean? How do families realistically navigate a sport known for being intimidating, financially and culturally? And where can moms find options even when the “traditional” paths feel out of reach?The importance of having a 'teacher' in your trainerPiper's thoughts on how to make a sustainable living in this sportWhether you’re brand new to riding or knee-deep in breeches and lesson schedules, this conversation will help you understand how to create opportunity for your kid, without losing your mind or your entire savings.Plus, a Trainer Truth Bomb every new horse parent needs to hear.Resources + Links:The Plaid Horse: theplaidhorse.comShow Strides book series: https://amzn.to/480z37l (affiliate)Follow Piper: https://www.instagram.com/piperklemmphd/Follow The Plaid Horse Magazine: https://www.instagram.com/theplaidhorsemag/

It’s that time of year again — when the wish lists start rolling in and you realize your rider “needs” new breeches, a heated vest, and possibly an entire LeMieux set. Don’t worry, I’ve got you.In this episode, I’m breaking down our 2025 Holiday Gift Guide EARLY so that you have a list of items to hand out and choose from yourself. From fun rider finds and practical mom must-haves to gifts that will make your trainer actually smile, this guide keeps it real, affordable-ish, and useful.Plus, I’ll share a little mom math on why buying the bigger-ticket horse things now actually saves you money later and a behind-the-scenes update on how you can support Broke Horse Moms so we grow to better support you. Featured Brands & Links(Find full details and discount codes in the newsletter!)SmartPak Equine: brokehorsemoms.com/smartequine - Get $20 off your first orderFree Ride Equestrian: shopfre.com/bhm or use code BHM at checkout for 10% offArmor Equestrian: Horseshoe earrings, stencils, glitter, candles, and more - Use code BHM for 15% offGet the Full 2025 Holiday Gift GuideSubscribe to the newsletter and get the complete list (with links + codes!) sent right to your inbox the day this episode drops OR embedded in the welcome email if you're taking your sweet ole time:👉 brokehorsemoms.com/newsletter☕ Support the ShowIf something in this episode made you laugh, helped you save, or made you feel a little less alone in this horse-crazy life, you can support the show for the cost of a bag of shavings:👉 brokehorsemoms.com/shavings🐴 Connect with Broke Horse MomsWebsite: brokehorsemoms.comInstagram: @brokehorsemomsYouTube: Broke Horse Moms

What happens when your kid’s dream of riding in college actually comes true? In this episode, Angie sits down with Elizabeth Howell, marketing and media expert, lifelong horse lover, and proud mom of an NCAA equestrian, to unpack what it really looks like when your family’s years of early mornings, long show days, and endless barn bills finally pay off.Elizabeth shares her daughter Samantha’s journey from pony kid to Division I athlete, including how they navigated the financial reality of competitive riding, what it took to earn scholarship money, and what life is like on a collegiate equestrian team. Spoiler: the recognition and opportunities NCAA riders get might surprise you.Whether your child is just starting lessons or already dreaming of riding under stadium lights, this episode offers hope, honesty, and hard-earned insight from a mom who’s been there.In This Episode:How Elizabeth and her family juggled multiple jobs to keep their daughter in the saddleThe process that led to 66% of Samantha’s college tuition being covered through scholarshipsWhy NCAA equestrian matters for visibility and respect within college sportsHow being a horse mom opened unexpected career doors for ElizabethWhat moms should know early on if their kid might want to ride in collegeAbout Elizabeth HowellElizabeth is the founder of Howell Media and a marketing and media strategist who helps entrepreneurs and executives leverage LinkedIn and podcast guesting to grow their visibility. Before building her business, she spent nearly two decades supporting her daughter’s equestrian career, from braiding horses at 2 a.m. and managing horse shows to running her own mobile equestrian gift store, She Rides I Pay. Elizabeth has also worked with top equestrian media brands and helped NCAA Equestrian build its early social media and sponsorship programs.Links & Resourceshttps://collegiateequestrian.com/https://collegiateequestrian.com/sports/2020/7/10/recruiting%20101.aspxhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/euh24/🧡 Stay in the HerdIf this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share it with your favorite barn mom, or leave a review letting us know what part of Elizabeth’s story hit home.https://brokehorsemoms.com/https://www.instagram.com/brokehorsemoms/https://www.youtube.com/@brokehorsemoms