Horse Show Bestie

If you’ve ever walked out of the pen like “that felt SO good” and then looked at your score like 🤨 …this one’s for you.We sat down with Don Beard (aka a real judge) and got into what’s actually happening on the other side of the clipboard.We’re talking:what the scores meanwhy “pretty” doesn’t always mean effectivewhat judges are actually rewarding vs what riders think they’re rewardingand yes… why that run you loved maybe didn’t mark like you expectedWe also get into the bigger picture stuff:how patterns are selected, how ranch + pleasure horses have evolved, and what it actually takes to make it in this industry without losing your standards (or your mind).It’s honest, theres no shortage of hot takes, and very much a “listen before your next horse show” situation.

Alright bestie, this episode is one of those “wait… why are we not doing this already?” conversations 👀We sat down with David Reichert, the founder of UDJC, and got into some real talk about what’s actually broken in the American horse show industry… and more importantly, what we can do about it.If you’ve felt like showing has gotten too expensive, too exclusive, or just straight up disconnected from what riders actually need to grow… you’re gonna feel very seen in this one.Also… quick warning 😅David is a little spicy. He does not sugarcoat, and he’s definitely not trying to win a popularity contest.But honestly? That’s kind of the point.His blunt, say-it-like-it-is approach is exactly why he’s able to call out the real problems in the industry without dancing around them. And more importantly, it’s why he’s actually doing something about it instead of just talking in circles.So if you like your conversations honest, a little bold, and actually productive… you’re gonna appreciate this one.🎧 Episode OverviewDavid breaks down how UDJC is flipping the script on traditional horse showing by focusing on affordability, accessibility, and actual community (not just saying the word “community” and doing nothing with it 🙃).We get into:Why the current system is pricing people outHow judging has gotten way too complicated (and honestly… not that helpful)What the European club model is doing rightAnd how we can rebuild the sport from the ground up instead of waiting for the top to fix itIt’s practical, a little spicy, and very much a “let’s rethink everything” kind of episode.What You Can Do (Yes, You)This isn’t just a “cool ideas” episode. There are real ways to take action:Go volunteer or support a local show or clubStart asking for better judging feedback (and normalize it)Support and promote smaller, community-based eventsStop waiting for the industry to change and start contributing to it🔗 Resources + Guest LinksUDJC: https://udjc.orgNAC Equine Services: https://nac-equine-services.comFacebook: https://facebook.com/nacequineservicesIf you’ve been feeling frustrated with the industry lately, this episode is going to feel like a deep exhale… and also a bit of a kick in the pants in the best way.Because the takeaway is pretty simple:no one is coming to fix this for us… but we can fix it ourselves.

In this episode, Scott Cooper and Crysta Brown share their insights on horse training, trail riding, and the importance of confidence and trust in horsemanship. They discuss practical tips, personal experiences, and the mental aspects of developing a strong rider-horse relationship. Scott Cooper shares his journey of recovery, community involvement, and the importance of honesty and diversity in the horse industry. Crysta Brown explores how to stay connected without a horse, the value of community, and strategies for engaging younger generations.

Bestie… the duo is BACK.Crysta and Scott are finally back on the mic together.They get into what has been going on lately, from changes in the industry to the reality of making decisions for your horse when it actually matters. Not in a heavy way, just real talk about the stuff you are probably already thinking about but maybe not saying out loud.There is also some Sun Circuit talk, a little people watching energy, and a reminder that the horse show world is just as much about who you are around as what class you are in.Overall it feels like a catch up with people who get it. Go listen, then text your bestie because you will definitely have something to say 👀🐎

Bestie, today’s episode is a little different and kind of wild. Scott starts off by sharing the story of a ski accident he had recently that left him with some pretty serious injuries and a long road to recovery. He talks through what happened, what the recovery process has looked like so far, and how moments like that really make you think about the risks we take in both skiing and riding.From there, the conversation shifts into something a lot of horse people can relate to… injuries and the comeback that follows. Scott brings on guest Jessi Lueth who has gone through her own injury and recovery journey, and they talk about the mental side of getting back on your feet, leaning on the people around you, and finding the grit to keep going. It’s a really honest conversation about resilience, setbacks, and the kind of support that makes a comeback possible. 💛

Let’s be for real when was the last time you spent as much time (or money) on your own body as you do on your horse’s chiro, massage, and vet bills? 💅In this episode, we’re sitting down with the queen of rider wellness, Dr. Kari, to talk about why your physical therapy era is actually the secret to leveling up your performance in the ring. We’re deep-diving into the "why" behind common positioning struggles and how your own biomechanics are basically the remote control for how your horse moves.We’re breaking down those "why can't I just do it?" moments and how PT can fix the stuff your trainer keeps yelling at you about.Dr. Kari calls us out on taking responsibility for your own fitness makes you a better partner for your horse (because they shouldn't have to carry our crookedness, tbh). No gatekeeping here! You’ll get actual tips you can add to your pre-ride routine so you’re not stiff as a board when you mount up.If you’ve been feeling a little "off" in the saddle or you’re rready to optimize for your upcoming show season, this episode is your sign to start prioritizing you. Your horse (and your scores) will thank you. 🦄✨Check out our first sponsor!! Nac Equine Services!

🚨 BIG GUEST ENERGY ALERT 🚨This week we’re sitting down with Katie Van Slyke and let’s just say… the HorseTok is about to eat this one UP.We talk about the breeding barn, stallion ownership realities, social media chaos, and why local horse shows are the backbone of the horse world. Katie keeps it real-real about what’s working, what’s broken, and what she's doing to facilitate a glow-up in the industry (looking at you, accessibility 👀).If you care about young horse sales, AQHA, grassroots shows, content creation, or just love hearing people talk business + horses, this episode is for you.✨ Expect:• “Bring back the local show” • Honest convo about the young horse market• Social media… but make it horse industry• Mentorship, community, and making newcomers feel welcome• A day-in-the-life of one of the biggest names in the gameKatie doesn’t just talk the talk — she’s focused on giving back, running a breeding program, owning stallions, and showing up online without losing her mind (mostly).#HorseShowBesties #KatieVanSlyke #AQHA #HorseIndustry #EquestrianLifestyle #HorseGirlEnergy #LocalShowsMatter #BreedingTalk #HorsePodcast

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. J, Horse Show Therapist as she sits down hosts Scott Cooper and Crysta Brown and makes them rethink their life choices (but in a productive way).We talk about goal setting without emotionally damaging yourself, what does it look like to set a goal that isn't outcome based, and focusing on what brings us joy and not just everything that sucks right now.We also get into the very real stuff: unrealistic timelines, comparison spirals, financial anxiety, and that constant feeling of “I should be doing more.” Dr. J breaks down why accepting your starting point isn’t settling, why flexibility is a skill, and how chasing tiny wins keeps you from rage-quitting a sport that already costs too much.If you’re trying to build a winning mindset while also enjoying the ride (or at least not dissociating in the warm-up), this episode is a grounded reminder that progress is messy, flow state is worth chasing, and the joy is usually in the process, the people, and the moments when everything briefly clicks.

Grab your coffee and your emotional support animal, besties. This episode is a real one, made for anyone whose perfectly planned goal did not happen.Scott and Crysta talk about what it feels like to do the work, set the goal, and still come up short. We get real about failure, disappointment, and the weird emotional hangover that follows when your expectations do not match reality. Then we talk about what comes next, how to pivot, reset, and keep moving without losing your love for the sport.Along the way, Scott admits to choosing a Palm Springs weekend over a riding lesson, because life outside the barn matters too. Crysta shares an update on young Ricky Bobby, including farrier compliments that absolutely count as wins.We also dive into the exhausting reality of chasing horse lameness. The vet visits, the waiting, the mental and emotional toll, and how quickly your confidence and plans can unravel when your horse is not quite right.From there, the conversation opens into mental health. Managing anxiety, processing disappointment, and learning how to sit with both gratitude and grief at the same time. Horse showing is full of highs and lows, and everyone rides them, even when it looks perfect from the outside.If you have ever left a show questioning everything, feeling burned out, or wondering how to pivot when the goal does not work out, this episode is for you.If you'd like to consult with Crysta on your equestrian journey, check out CBhorsemanship.com and book a Confidential Call with Crysta to discuss your goals.

The besties are back and skipping the highlight reel in favor of honest horse show life. In this episode, Scott and Crysta catch up after the holiday break, swap stories from recent shows and clinics, and chat about what they actually want from their horse lives in the year ahead.We talk goals without the grind, ambition without burnout, and why fun might be the underrated tool you are overlooking.The conversation also dips into some of the bigger topics buzzing around the industry right now including rule change discussions, walk trot accessibility, and why online conversations can help or completely derail progress.In this episode, we cover:Setting realistic horse show goals that still excite youWhy community, clinics, and learning from others actually matterBalancing competition with genuinely enjoying your horseWalk trot classes and accessibility in today’s horse industryPartnerships, balance, and asking for what you want in and out of the show penEqual parts horse show strategy, industry perspective, and bestie to bestie encouragement. If you have ever felt stuck between pushing harder and enjoying the ride, press play. This episode might be the permission slip you did not know you needed. 💅🐎

WARNING: This episode has curse words that are unbleepedIf you’ve ever side-eyed a forced holiday party, felt weird pressure to buy “the perfect gift,” or secretly thought December might be the best time to buy a horse… this episode is for you.Crysta Brown and Scott Cooper settle in after a few to many cold ones for an honest, unfiltered conversation that starts with Christmas chaos and somehow (very naturally) lands in the heart of what really matters in the horse world.Scott proudly claims his role as the resident Christmas Grinch, calling out the consumerism, the early decorations, and the pressure to perform holiday cheer. Crysta shares her own creative holiday hacks, from thoughtful gifts to custom wrapping paper, and reflects on past Christmases where meaning mattered more than money.From there, the conversation shifts barn-side.They break down why December is actually a smart time to buy horses, how breeders and trainers are navigating year-end realities, and why proven stallions still matter when it comes to long-term success. They also get real about the social dynamics of horse shows, the emotional toll of the industry, and how generosity and community are what keep people going when inspiration feels thin.This episode is equal parts horse business talk, life perspective, and that reassuring reminder that you’re not the only one craving simpler traditions, better boundaries, and a more supportive horse community.If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the season or the industry, this one will feel like a deep breath and a reminder that you’re not alone.In This Episode, We Talk AboutWhy Scott is unapologetically a Christmas GrinchThe pressure of gift giving and why it drains the joy out of the holidaysThoughtful gifts, thrifted wins, and meaningful traditionsWhy December can be prime time for buying horsesBreeding strategy, proven stallions, and smart long-term planningThe social side of horse shows (the good, the awkward, and the hard)Why community, generosity, and connection matter more than ribbonsFinding balance between horses, business, and real lifeGiving back to create a healthier, more inclusive horse world

Grab your coffee (or your boxed wine), because this episode is a real one. We’re joined by Ali Hubbell, host of the Kanter Kulture Podcast, for a wide-ranging, no-fluff conversation about what it actually feels like to exist in the modern horse world.We talk all things horsey social media and Ali shares behind-the-scenes insight on how her content looks SO good.Then we go deeper: bullying, barn drama, gatekeeping, and how so many riders quietly fall out of love with horses before finding their way back. We unpack realistic goal-setting, ethics in competition, and the complicated relationship between prestige, participation, and recognition at horse shows.From amateur rules and age divisions to the financial realities trainers and exhibitors are navigating right now, this episode asks the questions a lot of people are thinking—but few say out loud. We wrap with big ideas about honor codes, fundraising, and how we might actually support the horse community instead of just talking about it.If you’ve ever thought “there has to be a better way”—this one’s for you.

This week, Scott and Crysta are jumping right into all the things winter time... blanketing, burnout, budget bling, and why sometimes the best thing you can do for your horse (and yourself!) is take a dang break.We talk about the infamous blanketing debate—when to blanket, why we blanket, and why it make the internet insane every winter. Then we pivot into the weirdness of having no real “show season” anymore and why the lack of downtime is contributing to burnout for both trainers and exhibitors.Scotts asks Crysta how to use color theory to pick show clothes that flatter you and your horse AND how to pull the blue ribbons without needing a second mortgage because show outfits shouldn't be exclusionary or stressful.Through it all, we circle back to what makes the horse world great: community, support, and remembering that horse show life isn’t your whole personality (even if it feels like it).If you need a little reminder to breathe, take a break, and still slay in the arena on a budget... let us be your horse show bestie.

This episode is full of insider scoop and inspiration! Scott Cooper and Crysta Brown chat with Helen Hardy, AQHA’s Manager of Youth Development, about her journey in the horse world and how she’s shaping programs to help young equestrians thrive. They dive into the challenges youth face, the importance of belonging, and what it really takes to keep young riders engaged as they transition into adulthood.Helen shares how AQHA is bridging that gap with programs like AQHLead, recognition awards, and the Emerging Leader Award, while emphasizing hands-on experience, inclusivity, and community support. Along the way, the hosts laugh about youth show fashion throwbacks, the realities of adult financial independence, and the ways investing in young adult programs makes a real difference for the industry. If you want to know what AQHA is doing for the next generation of riders, this episode is your must-listen.

This week your horse show besties sit down with Maddie Munn to chat all about moving from Florida to Northern Ireland, European reining, and her brand-new auction platform 5 Star Equine. Crysta and Maddie talk shared NI experiences, from weather shocks to the realities of horse ownership. Of course we get into our usual barn aisle banter—Thanksgiving traditions, gas station snacks, community support, long-distance friendships, and navigating the pressures of showing. Plus, a look at how Western disciplines are evolving and what the future of international competition could look like. Grab your dirty soda and come hang out with your horse show besties.WARNING: There are curse words that are unbleeped in today's episode

Get ready, horse girls (and boys), because this episode is pure equestrian tea! 💁‍♀️🐴✨ Scott Cooper and Crysta Brown sit down with the fabulous Shannon Watters, a total powerhouse in the Paint and Quarter Horse world. From her early days as a youth competitor to becoming a successful trainer and World Show standout, Shannon takes us on her journey—complete with big wins, behind-the-scenes moments, and all the juicy gossip.The trio chats all things presentation (because yes, your vibe does matter in the show pen), the magic of consistent training, and how sales and marketing play into building a thriving horse career. This episode dives into the heart of horse training: understanding each horse’s unique strengths, keeping communication honest and positive with clients, and navigating the ups and downs of being part of such a public, tight-knit community. Shannon gets real about challenges, the incredible support she’s received, and what it’s like transitioning between associations—all while celebrating the joy of living in this vibrant, horse-loving world.