The Dressage Radio Show

This month, Aviva and Stephany interview Noel Williams of Noel Williams Dressage, based in Maryland. They catch up with what has been going on with each other – Mary Wanless, Maui and an exciting trip coming up (or going down centerline!) for Stephany, and a bittersweet sharing for Aviva. In the Ask the L, they discuss what is needed to have a successful move from Training to First Levels – thanks to Deana for the question!The daughter of George and Roberta Williams, Noel Williams grew up around classical and high performance dressage. Noel has been riding and competing all of her life with an Olympic Dream at heart. Noel is a USEF “R” Dressage Judge, and is currently in the USEF “r” DSHB Judge’s Program. She has trained and competed numerous horses from young horses to FEI Grand Prix.Noel is a USDF Bronze, Silver and Gold Medalist. A member of the 2007 NAJYRC Silver Medal team (Region 2), and the 2005 USEF Junior Dressage Team Championships Gold Medal, Noel was also the 2005 USEF Junior Dressage National Champion on the Hanoverian stallion Pik L.Noel aspires to continue her career on the international stage and to represent Team USA in competition. Noel's greatest passion is starting and developing young horses, especially stallions, to campaign them through the CDI levels.In the interview, Aviva and Stephany get the benefit of Noel’s super humor, her history of riding and her boundless enthusiasm for our sport. It was great getting to know her and her belief system, and we wish her all the best!Take a listen!If you like what we are doing, remember to hit the LIKE button, share with your friends and make sure to subscribe!Our Sponsors this month is KPP Elevate and Tribute Equine Nutrition! Does your performance horse have sore, stiff muscles? Does he lack energy or tire quickly during exercise? Does his competition schedule require travel? Studies show that horses in regular training and those with limited access to pasture often require additional vitamin E. They also show that horses being trailered even short distances can face immunity challenges. Elevate® natural vitamin E can help. A research-proven, powerful antioxidant, Elevate maintains healthy muscle, nerve, and immune functions. It does this by delivering a highly bioavailable source of natural vitamin E that is preferentially absorbed and retained in a horse’s tissues. For more information, visit KPPusa.com or call 859-873-2974.Let’s be honest—no two dressage horses are the same. So it's no surprise their nutrition needs will differ. Tribute Equine Nutrition’s equine nutrition specialists can help you create personalized feeding plans based on your horse and your goals—from building topline and strength to supporting soundness and longevity. Their feeds are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, made in their own ionophore-free facilities, and are fixed formulas you can trust—so your horse gets consistent nutrition, every ride, every test. And if you’re new to Tribute, your first bag is free, so you can try it with confidence! Take the stress out of feeding your dressage partner. Visit tributeequinenutrition.com to get started and let them know Dressage Today sent you.Connect with the Hosts: Email Aviva Nebesky ([email protected]) | Email Stephany Fish Crossman ([email protected])Connect with the Show: Website (DressageToday.com) | Socials (@DressageToday) Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | PinterestGuest: Noel Williams of Noel Williams DressageOur Sponsors this month: KPP and their product Elevate® & Tribute Equine Nutrition

Reese and Megan sit down with newly minted FEI 3★ judge Susanne Hamilton to talk about her journey through the Fédération Équestre Internationale system and what it truly takes to reach this prestigious level. Next, Reese and Megan chat with Aoife Leggett about her work in high performance coaching and breathwork. Aoife breaks down how riders can better manage pressure, regulate their nervous system, and improve performance in and out of the show ring. GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 789:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Aoife Leggett - Website | InstagramGuest: Susanne Hamilton - Website | Facebook | InstagramBook Club: How to Ride the Horse You thought you Bought by Anne BuchananDressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, & DressageToday+ !

Amy Ekelman, Senior Education Administrative & Programs Coordinator at the USDF, shares the latest news from USDF and highlights educational opportunities. USDF Gold Medal trainer Shannon Warner to talks about heading west for a winter season of training and competition in California. The Dressage Foundation's Judith Noone Volunteer Award recipient Anne Sushko, shares her experiences in the dressage community and what this recognition means to her.GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 788:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Amy Ekelman, USDF r. Education Administrative & Programs Coordinator - FacebookGuest: Shannon Warner - Facebook Guest: Anne Sushko - Facebook Book Club: How to Ride the Horse You thought you Bought by Anne BuchananDressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, & Horse Radio Network!

This episode dives into the California dressage scene!We chat with Ashlyn De Groot Dodge about being selected for the Dr. Ulf & Eva Möller Young Horse Symposium and riding her amazing horse Odessa, sharing her experience and key takeaways. Next, McKenzie Milburn talks about her experiences at the symposium and the 2026 USEF Dressage Training Series – West Coast in Del Mar, CA, giving insight into high-level competition and training. Finally, we hear from a high-performance rider Rebecca Rigdon on organizing, riding, and everything involved in the Young Horse Symposium, offering a behind-the-scenes look at being super woman!GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 788:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Ashlyn De Groot Dodge - Facebook | InstagramGuest: Mckenzie Milborn - Facebook | InstagramGuest: Rebecca Rigdon- Website | FacebookBook Club: How to Ride the Horse You thought you Bought by Anne BuchananDressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, DressageToday+, & USRider!

In this month’s episode, Stephany and Aviva interview their first Hometown Hero, Anne Mouen Stahl. With more than forty years of experience teaching both amateur and professional riders, Anne has come to appreciate the profound importance of establishing a strong, reliable foundation in every rider’s training. She has been fortunate to train horses and riders through every level of dressage, from Training Level to Grand Prix. This breadth of experience has given her a deep understanding of how to guide riders in the correct execution of dressage exercises as they advance—from the early education of the young horse to the refined work required of the elite dressage athlete.Anne has a wide background of Dressage education, from riding at Morven Park International Equestrian Center after college to working with various trainers at Tempel Lippizans to her favorite mentor Juan Matute, and has a deep love of bringing horses of all types along, whether they were the typical or atypical horse for Dressage. She uses a progressive, gymnastic approach to developing the dressage horse allows riders to gain a clear and lasting understanding of the fundamental principles of training under her careful systematic training.We enjoyed getting to know Anne, and we thank Nancy Gilby for submitting her as her hero!Connect with the Hosts: Email Aviva Nebesky ([email protected]) | Email Stephany Fish Crossman ([email protected])Connect with the Show: Website (DressageToday.com) | Socials (@DressageToday) Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | PinterestGuest: Anne Mouen Stahl, Rosehill DressageLink: Video Subscription SiteLink: Kentucky Performance ProductsOur Sponsor this month: KPP and their product Elevate®Mentioned in this episode:Tribute Equine Nutritionhttps://www.tributeequinenutrition.com/

Reese & Megan bring you three thoughtful and inspiring conversations from across the dressage community — from goal-setting and mindset, to perseverance, to top-level competition success.Reese and Megan kick things off with Ruth Hogan Poulsen, creator of The Dressage Rider’s Journal 2026. Ruth shares the inspiration behind the journal, how riders can use reflection and intention to support their training, and why mindset and consistency are just as important as time in the saddle. A great conversation for riders at every level looking to be more thoughtful and purposeful in their training year.Next, we sit down with Carly, who shares her personal journey in the dressage industry and what perseverance has meant throughout her career. Based in Boston, Massachusetts, Carly runs her own farm and training program and talks candidly about the challenges, growth, and determination it takes to build something of your own — and keep going when the path isn’t easy.We wrap up the episode with Meagan Davis, who reflects on her incredible Florida season with her homebred partner Toronto Lightfoot. Meagan shares highlights from the season, what went into their preparation, and what it means to see long-term development pay off in the show ring. An inspiring look at partnership, patience, and performance at the top level.GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 787:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Ruth Holgen Paulson - Book | FacebookGuest: Carly Collari - Website | Facebook | InstagramGuest: Meagan Davis - Website | Facebook | InstagramBook Club: How to Ride the Horse You thought you Bought by Anne BuchananDressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, & Horse Radio Network!

Reese and Megan kick off the show with a Florida season update and a conversation with Genay Vaughn to talk about her and Gino’s personal-best performances in the CDI 5*. Genay shares insight into their preparation, mindset, and what it means to achieve top results at the highest level of the sport. Reese and Megan chat with Hannah Irons about her experience riding in the FEI Trainers Conference at High Meadow Farm, led by Olympic gold medalist Heike Kemmer and renowned judge Christof Umbach. Hannah reflects on the education, atmosphere, and value of learning from world-class horsemen. Hannah also recapped the wildly successful master class featuring dressage legends Kyra Kyrklund, Catherine Dufour, and Jan Brink. They discuss key takeaways, rider impact, and what made this educational event such a standout.GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 786:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Genay Vaughn: Website | Facebook | InstagramGuest: Hannah Irons: Website | Facebook | InstagramBook Club: How to Ride the Horse You thought you Bought by Anne BuchananDressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, & My New Horse.Advertise on Horse Radio Network Podcasts!

This month, we are bringing back an older interview from Stephanie Ruff and Aviva, where they interviewed Chelsey Canedy. The reason we are revisiting this interview is that Chelsey has a new book out, and we are looking forward to getting her BACK on the podcast to talk to us about her latest book. We thought it would be great for people to hear her original story so they could be up to date when we interview her later this year. Whether you heard it on the original interview or this is your first time hearing about Chelsey, we hope you enjoy this podcast! As always, if you enjoy the content we put out, please subscribe, hit the like button and share with your friends!We have received a few more L questions, but please keep them coming! You can submit L questions to Stephany or Aviva at any of their social media handles listed below!Dressage Today S7 E1 Show Notes:Connect with the Hosts: Email Aviva Nebesky ([email protected]) | Email Stephany Fish Crossman ([email protected]) | Plus, look them both up on Facebook!Connect with the Show: Website (DressageToday.com) | Socials (@DressageToday) Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | PinterestGuest: Chelsey CanedyLink: TDF AuctionLink: Video Subscription SiteToday's Episode Brought to You By: Equestrian+Mentioned in this episode:Tribute Equine Nutritionhttps://www.tributeequinenutrition.com/

We chat with FEI trainer Jordan LaPlaca about the importance of mental health, balance, and physical strength for riders, and how prioritizing the human side of the partnership can improve performance, confidence, and longevity in the sport. The conversation highlights how rider wellness directly affects the horse and why caring for the rider should be viewed as essential, not optional.GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 785:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Jordan LaPlaca | FacebookGuest: Mackenzie Peer | Facebook | InstagramBook Club: How to Ride the Horse You thought you Bought by Anne BuchananDressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, USRider Equestrian Motor PlanAdvertise on Horse Radio Network Podcasts!

The episode begins with highlights from the USDF Book Club panel, where Reese and Megan sat with author, Beth Baumert of When Two Minds Meet: The Mental Dynamics of Dressage. Together, they explore the powerful role of mindset, communication, and partnership in dressage — and what it truly means when horse and rider come together as one. Megan and Reese catch up with USDF President Kevin Reinig, who shares insights from the convention and offers a look ahead at what’s coming for USDF in 2026 and beyond, including key initiatives and future direction for the organization. To wrap up the episode, Reese and Megan sit down with Dr. Jane Manfredi for an important conversation inspired by her talk about endocrine disease and the equine athlete at the USDF Convention. Dr. Manfredi breaks down how hormonal health impacts performance, longevity, and overall well-being, offering valuable insights for riders, trainers, and owners alike. This episode brings together education, leadership, and horse health — all from the heart of the USDF Convention.Tune in and enjoy the ride with us!GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 784:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: USDF President Kevin Reinig | FacebookGuest: Dr. Jane ManfrediBook Club: Begin and Begin Again by Denny EmersonBonus Book: How Two Minds Meet: The Mental Dynamics of Dressage - Beth BaumertDressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, Chewy!Advertise on Horse Radio Network Podcasts!

This month is a little different for a couple of reasons – first, we do not have Ask the L question for the first time in a long time! Please, loyal listeners, send us your burning questions about showing, your tests, a specific movement or anything else that Aviva can answer in that segment!We introduce our new segment, Hometown Heroes – we are interested in hearing form our listeners about people in their world that have been a positive influence In their dressage journey. Even if they are not typical dressage people, send us your favorite hometown hero. We will select some of our favorites across 2026 and interview them!Aviva tells us all about her 5 day whirlwind tour of Israel, from the riders and horses to the amazing landscapes and the food – oh my goodness, the food! You can practically taste it through the recording!Stephany recaps her time at USDF Convention, including some potential rule changes that might affect you (we will know more after January!). We talk about the purpose and importance of Convention, reasons to go, and why it may be changing in the future.All in all, it is great to catch up with the ladies, and we encourage you to have a listen!As always, LIKE, share and subscribe to our podcast! We love hearing from our listeners, so here is how to get in touch...Dressage Today S6 E13 Show Notes:Connect with the Hosts: Email Aviva Nebesky ([email protected]) | Email Stephany Fish Crossman ([email protected]) | Plus, look them both up on Facebook!Connect with the Show: Website (DressageToday.com) | Socials (@DressageToday) Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | PinterestLink: TDF AuctionLink: Video Subscription SiteToday's Episode Brought to You By: Equestrian+

Reese and Megan dive into two inspiring conversations you won’t want to miss!  First, they sit down with author and dressage expert Beth Baumert to explore her book How Two Minds Meet: The Mental Dynamics of Dressage. Beth shares powerful insights on the rider–horse connection, mental clarity in the saddle, and how thoughtful communication creates harmony in training. Her perspective brings a whole new dimension to the dressage partnership.  Then, the conversation shifts to elite competitor Kristina Harrison, who joins the show to talk about her unforgettable experience riding in the first-ever U.S. Open for the sport of Dressage. Kristina walks us through the atmosphere, the pressure, the preparation, and what it meant to represent the sport on such an incredible stage.  It’s an episode full of inspiration, education, and stories that celebrate the heart of dressage.Tune in and enjoy the ride with us!GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 783:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Beth Baumert - Facebook Guest: Kristina Harrison Website |   Facebook  | InstagramBook Club: Begin and Begin Again by Denny EmersonBonus Book: How Two Minds Meet: The Mental Dynamics of Dressage - Beth BaumertDressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, Chewy!Advertise on Horse Radio Network Podcasts!

We kick things off with Marie Medosi, who shares her incredible experience riding with Carl Hester at the Harvest Dressage Masterclass held recently at Galway Downs. Next, we dive into a roundtable discussion with Lauren Chumley and Michael Bragdell, exploring insights on young horse development and training the next generation of trainers!GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 782:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Marie Medosi | Facebook | Website | InstagramGuest: Lauren Chumley - Website | Facebook | InstagramGuest: Michael Bragdell | Website | FacebookBook Club: Begin and Begin Again by Denny EmersonBonus Book: How Two Minds Meet: The Mental Dynamics of Dressage - Beth BaumertDressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, Chewy!Advertise on Horse Radio Network Podcasts!

It’s November, the month to be thankful. Aviva and Stephany open the podcast with the things that they are thankful for in their worlds. In the Ask the L segment, Aviva talks about the 2x coefficient on the tests, where it shows up, why it shows up and what it should tell you! In this month’s episode, Aviva and Stephany speak with Jenny and Sara from The Dressage Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, tax-exempt organization, whose mission is to cultivate and provide financial support for the advancement of dressage in the United States. Jenny and Sara tell us how they each started with TDF, and the background of TDF as an organization. We learn about all sorts of fascinating programs available to riders of all ages and levels, and how passionate TDF is about helping the sport of Dressage continue to bloom and flourish. Jenny and Sara tell us how to go about looking at the various grants, applying for them and how the grants have made many people’s horse dreams come true! We also get information on how to give back to TDF, with the various ways to donate. It was a terrific interview with Jenny and Sara, and their enthusiasm for helping Dressage riders of all levels was contagious! Take a listen, you might find yourself applying for a grant!As a side note – we did not get to share the big news about TDF’s upcoming online Auction, which starts November 23rd and runs through December 7th. There are over 170 items for auction, from custom riding boots, clothing, lessons with various people, clinics, horse goods, books and more! To give you an extra little boost to check it out, both Aviva and Stephany donated services to support TDF – go check it out and put a bid on something today! To check out the TDF Auction: http://www.32auctions.com/TDFAuction2025Dressage Today S6 E12 Show Notes:Connect with the Hosts: Email Aviva Nebesky ([email protected]) | Email Stephany Fish Crossman ([email protected])Connect with the Show: Website (DressageToday.com) | Socials (@DressageToday) Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | PinterestLink: TDF AuctionLink: Video Subscription SiteToday's Episode Brought to You By: Equestrian+

The Dressage Radio Show – All Things US Dressage Finals!  It’s that exciting time of year — the US Dressage Finals are here! Reese and Megan dive into all things Finals with a great lineup of guests.  First, they chat with USDF President Kevin Reinig, who shares insights on this year’s event and the continued growth of dressage nationwide.  Then, Lauren Chumley joins the conversation to talk about her incredibly successful show — both for herself and her team. She shares her approach, highlights, and what makes the Finals so special.  Finally, Adult Amateur Mila Perry tells the inspiring story of her first-ever Finals experience, competing at Training & First Levels and becoming a Champion!Whether you’re headed to the show grounds or following from home, this episode captures the excitement, dedication, and community that make US Dressage Finals unforgettable. Tune in for motivation, stories, and insights from riders at every level!GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 781:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Mila Perry - FacebookGuest: Lauren Chumley - Website | Facebook | Instagram Guest: Kevin Reinig - Website | Facebook Book Club:  Begin and Begin Again by Denny Emerson Bonus Book: How Two Minds Meet: The Mental Dynamics of Dressage - Beth BaumertDressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, Chewy, and USRider!Photo credit: Mila Perry

Roz Kinstler, Chair of the USDF Youth Programs Committee and Region 2 Representative to the USDF FEI Junior/Young Rider Committee, discusses the growth of youth programs and the importance of mentorship in developing future dressage riders. Next, Bailey Cook, USDF Faculty Member and leader at Megan’s recent Teaching Seminar, shares her perspective on instructor education and the value of building strong teaching foundations within the sport.  Finally, Ashley Rand-Torres introduces her exciting new equestrian apparel line, Macha Sports, and talks about designing functional, stylish clothing that meets the needs of today’s riders.GUESTS AND LINKS DRESSAGE EPISODE 780:Co-Hosts: Reese Koffler-Stanfield and Megan McIssac | Instagram | FacebookGuest: Roz KinstlerGuest: Bailey Cook - Website | FacebookGuest: Ashley Rand-Torres - Website | Facebook | InstagramBook Club:  Begin and Begin Again by Denny Emerson Dressage Radio Show: Website | FacebookPlease visit our sponsors, who make all this possible: Kentucky Performance Products, Chewy, and USRider!