108. Back in the Saddle: Navigating the Show Pen After a Break
108. Back in the Saddle: Navigating the Show Pen After a Break  
Podcast: On The Rail
Published On: Mon Sep 02 2024
Description: In this episode of the On The Rail Podcast, we announce the latest giveaway winner and get into an insightful conversation with three women - Sue, Katy, and Sierra - about their unique journeys in the horse showing world. Sue shares her experience of starting with horses in her thirties, Katy discusses coming back to riding after nearly 20 years, and Sierra talks about fulfilling her lifelong dream of riding in her late twenties. They explore the challenges, learning curves, and rewards of entering or re-entering the horse show pen as adults. The discussion covers topics such as finding the right trainer, dealing with costs, adjusting to industry trends, and the importance of being present with their horses. The episode wraps up with advice for those considering taking a break from showing and for those starting later in life. 00:00 Welcome and Giveaway Announcement 01:25 Introducing Today's Topic: Adult Beginners in Horse Shows 02:16 Sue's Journey: Starting with Horses in Her 30s 03:30 Katy's Story: Returning to Horses After a Long Break 06:04 Sierra's Experience: Pursuing a Lifelong Dream as an Adult 10:19 Challenges and Triumphs in the Show Pen 18:04 Finding the Right Trainer and Barn 34:48 Overcoming Self-Doubt in the Show Pen 36:17 First National Show Experience 36:52 Comparing Yourself to Others 39:01 Adjusting to Industry Trends and Norms 42:54 Surprising Aspects of the Horse Show World 47:19 The Rising Costs of Competing 52:43 The Therapeutic Value of Horses 01:01:38 Advice for Taking a Break from Showing 01:05:36 Starting Later in Life and Final Thoughts