The Equestrian Connection

Shortly before wehorse trainer Jessica von Bredow-Werndl won the World Cup Freestyle in Germany with a sensational score of 89.64% back in 2020, she appeared as a guest on the wehorse podcast with wehorse CEO Christian Kroeber. In this classic and translated episode, the personable dressage rider from Germany discusses the secret to her success, her journey to the top level of the sport, and the training philosophy that enables her to have her horses peak in fitness and motivation exactly when it counts. You’ll hear the crucial piece of advice a biathlete gave her and how she managed to fast-track her career, and journey of KWPN stallion "Unee” and how she managed to win this special horse over. *Please note: This episode is a translated episode from The wehorse Podcast, originally aired 2020.

Ellie Pukehika is an accomplished horse trainer based in Rotorua, New Zealand. She brings together her knowledge from the English disciplines of Show Jumping and Dressage, as well as Horsemanship, to merge the art of working with the horse and understanding the psychology of how they think and learn. Ellie has been a clinician at the 2018 Equidays, 2020 Equifest, and 2022 Equifest. These days, Ellie focuses on teaching women how to start their own horses with partnership instead of force, she’s the creator of the Atlas Massager, a Poll, TMJ, and Hyoid massager for horses using vibrational massage therapy, and she’s the host of Rongoā, a podcast on indigenous horsemanship. Connect with Ellie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elliepukehika/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellieaobrien Atlas Massager website: https://atlasequinemassager.com/

The concept of "contact" is something that stays with many riders throughout almost their entire riding lives. Unfortunately, beginners are often taught it inadequately—after all, just because the horse’s head is down doesn’t mean there is correct contact. And even once you’ve mastered it, a different horse might present new challenges by leaning on the bit, curling behind the vertical, or hollowing its back and lifting its head. In this podcast episode, Dr. Britta Schöffmann dispels common myths and clears up any confusion: she explains what the term actually means and what correct contact feels like. If you feel that the contact between you and your horse could be softer or more steady, you’ll also get plenty of tips that you can try out right away in your next riding session. Enjoy! *Please note: This episode is a translated episode from The wehorse Podcast, originally aired July 2026. podscan_65sh1pw60a4R4tpZyqp0Ua2qBJ0TJjPx

Maddie Houser is a USDF Bronze and Silver Medalist with her now retired Dutch Warmblood mare, Leah, and since 2021 has been focused on helping shed light on the versatility of the Quarter Horse and their place in the dressage ring. Maddie’s instagram account, The Blonde & The Bay, showcases her training progressions, the ups and downs of horse and farm ownership, equestrian fashion, and more. This is our third podcast interview with Maddie because we enjoy our conversations so much, and this one is no different! Connect with Maddie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theblondeandthebay_/

Anna Buffini is a professional dressage rider with accomplishments such as being a 2x World Cup finalist, 4x Senior Nations Cup Team member, 2016 U25 National Champion, and the 2014 US Young Rider Champion. Anna is such an inspiration to many riders and a role model for equestrians of all ages. This is our second podcast interview together and in this episode, we’re catching up to see what she’s up to these days and what’s changed since we last spoke four years ago. Connect with Anna: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anna_buffini/

Veronika von Rohrscheid is the creator of biotensegrative training. Her goal is to teach the horse health-promoting movement patterns and thus help it develop a competent body. In conversation with Sonja Kriegel, Veronika clarifies that she does not want to create a new riding or training method. She wants to convey an understanding of the horse's body and its movement patterns, so that every horse person can train their horse in a way that maintains its health – regardless of riding level, discipline, or competitive ambitions. Veronika describes exactly what biotensegral training is and why all horses – not just those suffering from fatigue or other ailments – can benefit from it: Issues such as a dull gait, problems with contact, lack of relaxation and suppleness, or difficulties with positioning and bending can all be explained and resolved with Veronika's approach. Look forward to many "aha!" moments in this podcast episode. *Please note: This episode is a translated episode from The wehorse Podcast, originally aired February 2026.

From the Arabian horse circuit to hunter/jumper to dressage and exercising race horses, Shelby’s practical experience with different kinds of horses has made her a well rounded horse person. On top of her practical experience, Shelby has also taken several Equine Science based courses through Guelph to work towards her Certificate of Equine Science, choosing to emphasize her studies and education on Equine Behaviour. In early 2021, Shelby received her Equine Behaviour Consultant certification from the International Association of Animal Behaviour Consultants. The understanding and correct application of equine learning theory has allowed Shelby to hone her skills as a horse person and continue modernizing her approach as a trainer, with emphasis on equine ethology and ethical practice. Shelby attributes her history with horses to shaping the hardworking, patient and driven individual she is today. Connect with Shelby: Website: https://milestoneequestrian.ca/

Susan Tenney is the founder of Elemental Acupressure, where she has trained animal professionals in Five Element Acupressure and EnergyWork™ for over three decades. Originally certified in shiatsu and acupressure at the Shiatsu Institute of San Francisco, Susan built her equine practice in Northern California before expanding into an international career that blends Classical East Asian Medicine with modern bodywork, anatomy, biomechanics, and the EnergyWork™ system she co-developed with her husband, Jonathan Cohn. Her client roster has included school horses and elite competitors alike, among them the Swiss Equestrian Teams and Gold Medal–winning teams and riders for the USET. As her practice grew, Susan began teaching across the U.S., Canada, and Europe, leading equine acupressure certification programs in several countries and teaching for internationally recognized schools such as Equinology. She is the author of Basic Acupressure for Horses, published in English and German, with her writing appearing in leading equine publications worldwide. Now based in Seattle, Susan leads the Elemental Acupressure Certification Program and a range of online trainings that draw students from more than 40 countries. She is known for making complex concepts genuinely accessible — and for the lasting impact her method has on both practitioners and the animals in their care. Connect with Susan: Website: https://elementalacupressure.com/ Free PDF: https://elementalacupressure.com/wehorse-1

Kelly Wendorf is the founder & CEO of EQUUS, an executive and personal coach, published author, spiritual mentor, and socially responsible entrepreneur. Her early experiences were vitally and deeply shaped by the natural and ancient world around her where she learned a way of listening to forces within people, nature and moments. Throughout her life she has lived and worked around the world, studying with many spiritual and Indigenous leaders in India, Africa, Indonesia and Australia. Kelly founded, edited and published Kindred magazine, an evidence-based publication that explores the social, cultural and biological underpinnings of a compassionate society. Here she spent 15 years immersed in the field of neuroscience and neuropsychology and its relationship to social justice and transformative cultural change. Kelly also authored and Edited Stories of Belonging, an anthology from authors around the world, including the often excluded Indigenous voices. Her latest book, Flying Lead Change, was released in December 2020. As the founder of EQUUS, and as an intuitive lifelong horsewoman, she also developed The EQUUS Experience® — an award-winning equine-assisted transformational learning process. Together with her team, Kelly continues to develop and grow The EQUUS Experience, Wisdom Circles, and EQUUS’s other complimentary processes that curate various awareness-based frameworks that create breakthrough learning and discovery. Connect with EQUUS: Website: equusinspired.com DIscount Code: EQUUS10KW (valid for two weeks post-publication)

Dr. Steve Peters is a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist and internationally recognized equine neuroscientist. With more than three decades of experience in brain research and clinical practice, he brings together human and equine neuroscience to support thoughtful, science-informed horsemanship. For more than a decade, Dr. Peters has presented neuroscience concepts to equestrian audiences across the United States and internationally. And in recent years, he founded Horse Brain Science Clinics, combining classroom instruction, live horse demonstrations, and equine brain dissections to provide clear, practical insight into behavior, learning, stress, and welfare. His vision is that understanding the horse’s brain is the most direct path to better communication, reduced stress, and deeper connection between horse and rider — science serving the art of horsemanship. Connect with Dr. Steve Peters: Website: https://www.horsebrainscience.info/

Shannon Beahen specializes in teaching her own consent-based approach to natural dressage and liberty, equine care and co-living, as well as the creation of species-appropriate habitats that promote dynamic movement and autonomous equine lifestyles. She is passionate about exploring and articulating the ethics of embodied horse-human relationships. And her hope is that, through teaching a deeper awareness of human-animal and human-environment relations, equestrian education ceases to be a privileged pastime that replicates outdated domination logics; and instead may just provide some of the seeds to birth a new earth. Shannon has been an Equestrian Canada certified Competition Coach since the late 90s, studying topics related to human-animal ethics, language and philosophy since 2008 (BA, MA, PhD Candidate). She holds certifications in horse-human trauma-recovery and lives on Vancouver Island where she tends acreage with her multi-species family. Connect with Shannon: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humminghorse_sb/ Website: https://www.humminghorse.com/

Elisa Walfish (also known as the Data-Driven Equestrian) is a biologist by training, host of the EquiScience Podcast, and a certified Equine Manual Therapy practitioner through Equineology (EEWB), specializing in Functional postural rehabilitation, Myofascial and nervous system relaxation and Equine sports massage. Elisa’s approach combines a scientific understanding of the body with targeted manual techniques to guide the horse towards greater comfort, balance and overall well-being. Her platform of the Data-Driven Equestrian explores the intersection of biology, physiology, and horsemanship to offer evidence-based solutions for improving the physical and mental well-being of sport horses. Through a scientific lens, Elisa aims to optimize care practices to promote not only peak performance but also longevity and happiness for the equine athlete. Connect with Elisa: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedatadriven.equestrian/ Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4ZXRgWpbKBKw36ivyJPNM3?si=6f891e4a010540ee

Franke Sloothaak is a true legend of show jumping: During his active career, he became World Champion and Olympic gold medalist, winning numerous major prizes. He trained and competed in top-level competition with more horses than almost anyone else. Today, he works behind the scenes, coaching students all over the world. In conversation with Christian Kroeber, he looks back on his career, recounting how he began teaching at the age of 15, how his time at Alwin Schockemöhle's stable shaped him, and his first appearances for the German team. What unites all the stages of his equestrian career is a keen eye for a horse's strengths and weaknesses. He discusses how seemingly minor details can be crucial and always returns to one key principle: His focus is on training horses in a way that promotes their health, improves their movement, and motivates them for long-term work with humans. An inspiring conversation full of horsemanship, about Franke's personal journey, his will to win, and current challenges in the sport. *Important to note: This podcast episode was originally recorded in German for the wehorse podcast. We used translation software to dub the episode for our English podcast, The Equestrian Connection.

Michelle Bannink is an equine behaviour and trauma specialist, operating internationally with horses and humans facing complex behavioural and emotional challenges, who are looking for ways to bring balance and joy back into their lives. In her work, Michelle became known for helping horses who were labeled as "difficult" or "dangerous" return to regulation, connection and trust. She helps horses move out of survival state, back into clarity, balance and trust. And, she helps humans become the calm, grounded presence their horse can rely on. Michelle’s work integrates a holistic view on equine behavior and communication and practical training structures. This allows horses and humans to experience real, lasting change. And creates a place where learning, connection and true partnership become possible again. Connect with Michelle: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/be_stable_educationcenter/ Website: https://www.bestable.nl/ / https://www.bestable-skandinavien.com/

Baylee Summer helps ethical horse trainers to create, launch, and sell online offers in just 4 months in her business mentorship program, “Ethical Trainer Alchemy, and she has helped dozens of trainers get their businesses off the ground and generate actual profit (instead of barely breaking even). Baylee has made it her mission to help them get booked out & well paid, so they can sustainably do the work we so desperately need—horse & human alike. I originally interviewed Baylee two years ago, on episode # 69, and today she is back to share her latest FREE offering, “How to Make Your First $5k Online,” which is a mini-course for ethical horse trainers & practitioners where they’ll get a step by step process to to take their work online, attract aligned clients, and generate thousands (even with a tiny following)—without sacrificing integrity OR client success. So, be sure to scroll down to get your free access. Connect with Baylee: FREE Mini Course: https://baylee-summer.mykajabi.com/make-your-first-5k-online Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bayleejoysummer/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/baylee.sheppard

Dr. Ben Sykes is a world leading expert on Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome and is actively changing the way we think, talk about, treat, prevent, and manage gastric ulcers in our horses. He has pioneered research on gastric ulcers with a focus on Equine Glandular Gastric Disease and is a well-recognised speaker at numerous conferences around the world on subjects relating to equine health and Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome. Dr. Sykes is also a veterinarian with over 28 years of clinical experience and is boarded with the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine. He graduated from Murdoch University in 1997 before completing an internship at Randwick Equine Centre followed by a residency in Equine Internal Medicine in Virginia, gaining his Diplomate Registration in Large Animal Internal Medicine in 2004. He then spent 7 years in Finland as head of the Equine Hospital at Helsinki University, in private practice, and as a visiting Professor in Equine Medicine and Surgery in Estonia. He has a special interest in equine gastric ulcers, with many peer-reviewed publications to his credit, including being the lead author on the 2015 European College of Equine Internal Medicine Consensus Statement on Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome in adult horses. Throughout his career Dr. Sykes has worked with a wide range of horses, focusing on high performance horses in racetrack, breeding, and sport horse settings. In this episode, we discuss - you guessed it - ulcers. Our discussion includes what they are, signs to look for, treatment, prevention, and so much more Connect with Dr. Ben Sykes: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/benjamin.sykes.5095 Email: b.sykes@protekgi.us

Rebecca Haddock is a trailblazer in equine taping, with over 30 years of hands-on experience in the horse industry. She is the Owner and President of EquiTecs Equine Technologies Institue, a Certified EEKT and EEBT practitioner, and the author of Stick With Success – Equine Functional Taping Made Simple. Rebecca is known for blending science-based expertise with ranch-tested wisdom and humor, making her teaching both practical and engaging. Her work has transformed equine wellness education, from developing the first scientifically researched equine tape to creating innovative training programs now used in over 26 countries. In this episode, we discuss what Equine Taping is, when and why to use it, how it can benefit every horse, and so much more. Connect with Rebecca: Website: https://www.equitecs.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/equi_tecs/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EquiTape

The International Equestrian Federation (FEI) has changed the so-called Blood Rule in show jumping – sparking debate throughout the equestrian world. This rule concerns how to handle situations in competitions where blood is detected on a participating horse before, during, or after a test. From the date the new regulation comes into force on January 1, 2026, horses will still be able to participate in the competition under certain circumstances despite visible blood, for example in a second round of a Grand Prix or a jump-off. What does this mean for equestrian sport? Why did the FEI General Assembly reach this voting result? And why do many experts see it as a step backward for animal welfare? In this episode, we explore these and other questions together with two insiders who both hold positions within the FEI: veterinarian Dr. Michael Köhler and judge Joachim Geilfus. They explain: • how the controversial vote came about – and why each nation only has one vote • what scenarios could arise at future competitions • what new responsibilities now lie with judges and veterinarians • why they view the rule change critically and what effects they expect An episode for anyone who wants to understand what happens behind the scenes of international sport – and what the decision means for horses, riders and trust in the sport. *Important to note: This podcast episode was originally recorded in German for the wehorse podcast. We used translation software to dub the episode for our English podcast, The Equestrian Connection.

Sabrina Hidiroglou is a Grand Prix Dressage rider and yoga teacher, helping equestrians get supple, calm, and confident - in and out of the saddle. Sabrina’s love for horses began early, and by age 8, she was taking regular dressage lessons, drawn to the precision and partnership of the sport. In 2008, Zinté F came into her life—a fiery young KWPN stallion who became her partner through every phase of her career. Around that same time, Sabrina discovered yoga. What started as a way to improve her position and confidence in the saddle quickly became a tool for navigating pressure, building strength, and staying grounded—on and off the horse. Sabrina became a certified yoga teacher in 2014 and began integrating yoga into her life as both a rider and coach. That same year, she and Zinté reached the FEI Prix St. Georges level, and now, they have competed at the Grand Prix. In 2019, Sabrina launched Yoga for Riders to support other equestrians and make it accessible for riders worldwide. Connect with Sabrina: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sabrinahidiroglou/ Website: https://www.sabrinahidiroglou.com/

Pernilla Nathan is a Sports Performance Consultant using neuropsychology and heart science to help equestrian clients get results quickly and effectively. Pernilla obtained her Master's in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2006 and continued to receive her doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University in 2010. Her expertise were in the areas of Trauma disorders, anxiety disorders, multi-cultural diversity issues, well-being, neuropsychological testing and academic testing, as well as humanistic and existential psychology. After years of working as a clinician as well as navigating a divorce, Pernilla re-evaluated her life and pivoted from psychologist to creative entrepreneurship and pioneered a new healing model in integrating peak performance psychology into her work. She began working with all types of healers and avidly studied performance psychology to implement it in her own life. That is when she bought her first horse, a dream that had seemed unattainable until then. And at that moment, she began using her voice to provide others with a blueprint to expand their potentiality as well. By using her platform and skills to empower others to connect with their greatest selves, she is an agent of change. Connect with Pernilla: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drpernillanathan/ Website: https://www.drpernillanathan.com/