The Magic of Horsecraft ... AND LIFE!

Resilience, Horsecraft, and Hope. Stories to remind you ANYTHING is possible and you can do it too.
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The Magic Of Horsecraft … AND LIFE! Where horsemanship meets resilience. I grew up steeped in Horsecraft, the daughter of an equine veterinarian and a lifelong competitor in the sport. For a long time it looked like I’d been dipped in the “magic sauce” at birth. But as a coach, I hit a wall: I couldn’t reliably transmit that 'magic' to devoted adult amateurs, the beautiful “muggles” of the horse world, no matter how hard they tried. Then life took my magic away. Bankruptcy. Divorce. Homelessness. Breast cancer. Chemo, radiation. Lockdowns. Isolation. I went from 'Magician' to 'Muggle' ... and had to find my way back, day by day. This podcast is a series of conversations with riders, coaches, healers, and everyday humans who’ve had to begin again, metabolize fear, and rebuild trust, with horses and with themselves. We talk about what creates real safety, real connection, and the kind of “feel” you can’t fake. And if you want to go deeper: in real life, I help horse lovers develop heart-forward Horsecraft and practical nervous-system tools (including HeartMath) through clinics, courses, and online offerings, so you can build a relationship with your horse based on mutual respect and mutual benefit. Never holler woah in a tight spot! Take a chance, Paige xoxox P.S. ANYTHING is possible (together!) themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com

  1. 08/02/2025

    Begin and Begin Again – Day One Dispatch

    I’m currently on an impromptu HorseCraft™ road tour—part healing journey, part mobile classroom, part storytelling experiment. I set out with no fixed agenda, just a deep call to reconnect with horses, people, and the magic that happens when we show up with curiosity and heart. What follows is a series of daily dispatches from the road—some messy, some magical—all real. Here’s where it began: 🐎 Begin and Begin Again – Day One Dispatch From Callander Bay to Shannon McManus-Becvar’s in Pembroke I didn’t post on day one because—well—I was too busy beginning! The kind of beginning that isn’t tidy. The kind that comes with overflowing bags, goodbye hugs you wish had lasted longer, and a truck that may or may not have been loaded with more faith than planning. I left Callander with a full heart, a half-charged phone, and a strong cup of coffee, and headed east on a route that curved through familiar roads and new versions of me. First stop: Shannon McManus-Becvar’s Silver Tree Stables in Pembroke, Ontario - not for a clinic, but for a deep exhale and a meeting of minds. We sat down for lunch at the sweetest little spot and talked about where this work is headed, how we age and evolve alongside our horses, and what we really need to begin again in our bodies and belief systems. From that meeting, a future clinic was born—one that will welcome riders starting over, navigating fear, or rebuilding the feel and confidence that make riding magical again. 📻 Roadside Reflections – Audio Notes + Journals I’ve been recording short reflections and roadside epiphanies as I go—raw, unedited, and voice-noted in real time. I’m now on Day 5, playing catch-up on uploads, but I’ll be posting the early days in batches so you can follow the story in real time—or time-shifted like a good podcast binge. 🧭 How I’m Sharing the Journey To keep this easy and low-edit while I’m on the road, I’ve decided to post updates and audio dispatches publicly here, on my regular Substack. Subscribers will still get some extra context and reflections later on (maybe even a curated series once I’m home), but I want this leg of the journey to be open to all. If something here resonates, feel free to share or subscribe. You’ll be helping me keep this dream moving down the road—one story, one horse, one cup of coffee at a time. Take a chance,PaigeThe Magic of HorseCraft™ – Inspiration. Direction. Connection. P.S. ANYTHING is possible (together!) Learn more and get in touch at: www.themagicofhorsecraft.com https://www.facebook.com/themagicofhorsecraft/ https://www.instagram.com/themagicofhorsecraft/ https://www.youtube.com/@themagicofhorsecraft Download our freebie - Our #1 Tip to build trust with your horse: https://gift.themagicofhorsecraft.com Sign up for our course: https://learn.themagicofhorsecraft.com #clinics #onlinecourses #horsecraft #HeartMath #horsemanship #change #ChrisIrwin #onlinehorsemanshipcourses #themagicofhorsecraft #themagicofhorsecraftandlife #horses #horse #love #equestrian #horsesofinstagram #equestrianstyle #equestrianlife #western #eventing #anythingispossible #resilience #connection #horsehumanconnection #empathy #wholistichorsemanships #headup #joy #hope #fear #confidence Enjoy the first leg of my journey and some sounds from the road on Day 1 of a 12 day trip from Callander Ontario, to New Hampshire, and back again, with some unexpected stops along the way …. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe

  2. 06/07/2025

    Sometimes It Takes a Kick in The Guts

    **Summary:** - Join Paige from the Magic of Horse Craft and her friend Kate, a firefighter, as they recount a life-changing incident. - An unforeseen horse kick led to a medical emergency and a surprise cancer diagnosis. - Discover how this event taught valuable lessons in awareness and proactive health advocacy. - Learn about recognizing distress signs, being present, and embracing resilience. - Explore the journey of recovery, the importance of community support, and insights into horsemanship. - Hear how adversity led to unexpected blessings and a renewed outlook on life. - Engage with ideas on living in solutions and nurturing connections with horses and people. 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 01:11 The Life-Changing Incident 04:39 Signs and Symptoms of Internal Injuries 08:31 Recovery and Silver Linings 21:04 Reflecting on the Incident 21:44 Understanding Horse Behavior 25:15 Lessons in Horsemanship 29:00 Moving Forward with Resilience Hey there, horse lovers and fellow seekers of resilience! I've had a whirlwind of experiences recently that I'd love to share with you. Join me for a discussion with my friend, Kate. This one is about courage, unexpected turns, and finding silver linings when life gives you a proverbial kick in the gut—or, in my case, a very literal one. **A Life-Changing Incident** It all started on what seemed like an ordinary day in March 2025. I found myself in an unfortunate encounter with a horse, leading to an emergency helicopter ride and a splenectomy. My incredible friend Kate was there, her quick actions likely saving my life. What could have been just a terrifying experience turned into a life-altering reality when doctors discovered a cancer metastasis on my spine during the scans. **Looking for the Silver Linings** While this news was initially daunting, I chose to view it as a gift. Without the incident, the cancer might have remained hidden until it was too late. It was a reminder of the importance of staying aware and advocating for oneself even in the chaos. Thanks to Kate's persistence and the medical team's diligence, we uncovered something critical in time to act. **Embracing Lessons in Horsemanship and Life** In dealing with this and reflecting with Kate, I've learned valuable lessons not just about resilience, but also about horsemanship. Paying attention to a horse’s signals and being present can prevent accidents and improve our bond with these generous animals. These principles apply to life—staying conscious and engaged can help us manage the unexpected twists that come our way. **Moving Forward with Newfound Strength** This journey has taught me that resilience isn't just about bouncing back—it's about how we choose to grow from our experiences. I’m grateful for this second chance and for the lessons on embracing life's solutions rather than its problems. I’d love for you to join our community on the Magic of Horse Craft. Let’s keep learning and growing together. Remember, anything is possible, and we don't have to face life's challenges alone. Take a chance, Paige xoxox P.S. ANYTHING is possible (together!) Learn more and get in touch at: www.themagicofhorsecraft.com https://www.facebook.com/themagicofhorsecraft/ https://www.instagram.com/themagicofhorsecraft/ https://www.youtube.com/@themagicofhorsecraf t Download our freebie - Our #1 Tip to build trust with your horse: https://gift.themagicofhorsecraft.com Sign up for our course: https://learn.themagicofhorsecraft.com #horsecraft #horsemanship #themagicofhorsecraft #horsecraft101 #love #themagicofhorsecraftandlife #HeartMath #horses #horse #love #horsemanship #equestrian #resilience #courage #equestrianlife #clinics #reframing #mistakes #learning #goodjudgement #feel This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe

  3. 01/19/2025

    Unapologetic S.H.I.T. Disturber Shelby Dennis:

    Welcome to another exciting journey into the world of Horsecraft, where we unravel traditional notions of horse training and dive deep into innovative approaches that defy conventional wisdom. This time, we're inspired by the outspoken Shelby Dennis, who challenges norms and encourages a fresh perspective on equine interaction. Meet Shelby Dennis: Modern-Day Viking of Horsecraft Shelby Dennis is a horse trainer and behaviorist used to causing a maelstrom of heated reactions to her posts. Turns out, she can stand a good old fashioned troll-fest. But, that’s NOT her intention. If you aren’t familiar with her, you can find her posts here. At a time when our social license to operate in the world of horse sport is under fire and our traditional training methods based on pressure and release and Dominance Theory are being challenged, examples of change are needed. And while our governing bodies of sport are theoretically there to protect horses from our human ambition, Shelby is unafraid to show them unequivocally that they are failing. Here are some examples of her posts. How do they make you feel? Shelby likes to remind us that how we react to these things we have normalized for so long, says more about us … than it does about her. Twenty eight year old Shelby and others of her generation are taking us old folks to task. Times have changed. We don’t need horses for war and work anymore. It is time to evolve Horsecraft and Shelby stands as a beacon of change in the equestrian world, known for her unyielding belief in scientifically backed horse training methods. Far from the confines of dominance theory, Shelby's approach is rooted in understanding, empathy, and redefining leadership. Shelby entered the horse world through traditional breed circuits, immersed in methods that often prioritized control rather than understanding. Her transformative journey began when she moved her Arabian horse to a barn where horses roamed freely, a change that led to astonishing behavioral improvements. This sparked her curiosity and led her to explore equine behavior and physiology more deeply. Debunking Dominance: A New Paradigm A crucial part of Shelby’s narrative is the debunking of dominance theory—a concept initially derived from flawed wolf studies. Shelby explains how dominance is often misinterpreted as a fight for status, when it’s rather a quest for harmony and resource management among horses. This theory permeates traditional training methods, creating adversarial relationships that belie the horse's true nature. Shelby advocates for an equitation style focused on partnership and understanding rather than command and control. Her methods emphasize mutual respect and positive reinforcement, reshaping how we view leadership in the barn. The Science of Change: Positive Reinforcement Shelby is a staunch advocate for positive reinforcement, a training approach that encourages rewarding desired behaviors rather than punishing undesired ones. This method not only fosters a better relationship between horse and rider but also nurtures a positive learning environment for the horse. The key is timing and consistency—hallmarks of good training regardless of the specific methods used. Through courses and personal experiences, Shelby underscores the importance of adapting our training tools to the needs of our horses rather than adhering to rigid, outdated frameworks. She challenges the notion that harsher tools provide better control, instead focusing on how understanding a horse’s emotional state and needs can lead to safer, more effective interactions. Personal Growth and Societal Impact At the heart of Shelby’s philosophy is personal growth for both trainer and horse. She encourages fellow equestrians to cultivate self-assurance and seek community support, helping one another navigate the complex emotions and challenges that arise from questioning longstanding traditions. By doing so, we can build a compassionate community focused on the well-being of the horse. Conclusion: A Call to Rethink Shelby Dennis and others like her, are not just changing how we train horses—she’s redefining our relationship with them. Her narrative invites us to embrace the unknown, challenge the status quo, and become advocates for ethical horse welfare. As the world of equine sports faces scrutiny, adopting a more empathetic approach may be the key to not only preserving but enhancing our beloved practices. Join us as we follow Shelby Dennis and others in reshaping the world of horse training. Let’s move forward together and see what is possible. Take a chance, Paige Lockton P.S. ANYTHING is possible (together!) Learn more and get in touch at: www.themagicofhorsecraft.com https://www.facebook.com/themagicofhorsecraft/ https://www.instagram.com/themagicofhorsecraft/ https://www.youtube.com/@themagicofhorsecraft Download our freebie - Our #1 Tip to build trust with your horse: https://gift.themagicofhorsecraft.com Sign up for our course: https://learn.themagicofhorsecraft.com 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:00 Meet Shelby: A New Approach to Horse Training 05:10 Challenges and Criticisms in the Horse World 17:56 Personal Experiences and Paradigm Shifts 34:05 Debunking Dominance Theory 44:41 Understanding the Impact of Forced Training 45:01 Redefining Leadership in Horse Training 46:25 Transitioning to Gentler Equipment 47:18 Addressing Emotional Regulation in Horses 47:45 Practical Solutions for Handling Difficult Horses 55:19 The Importance of Nuance in Horse Training 01:02:52 Reinforcing Positive Behaviors 01:04:49 The Science Behind Punishment and Reinforcement 01:08:32 Applying Positive Reinforcement Techniques 01:14:15 Self-Validation and Confidence in Horsemanship This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe

  4. 01/10/2025

    What The Doctor WOULD have Ordered ...

    What follows was one of a series of Facebook Posts written while floating in my childhood friend Nona’s hot tub, when her family offered me the Zen-like space of their Collingwood Home for a Christmas retreat with a new love. The Magic of Horsecraft ... AND life! is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. I feel like I channeled something worth capturing, while I was floating and flirting with Facebook; something worth spreading beyound the realm of its birthplace in the tub. So, I recorded them and uploaded them here, for spreading with love. Let me know your thoughts on this little series and a glimpse into my life outside of the stable. Enjoy the photos and let me know your thoughts! Jan 3rd, 2025, Collingwood, Ontario My time in the Bell-Morrow Spa is coming to an end. It was exactly what the Doctor would have ordered ... if he knew his ass from his elbow, that is! Most don't.Thankfully, some of us DO. Nona Morrow sure does! If I had to single out the one thing that I am most grateful for, that was most influential in 2024, it was the back-and-forth voice bombs (voice messages that deliver truth bombs) between my childhood friend, Nona and I.Together, we untangled so many of the knots we unconsciously tied ourselves in, when we believed and lived by the programming of our era. The Good Girl SyndromeThe Perfectionism ParadoxPeople Pleasers Not-So-Anonymous (Pick me! Pick me!)Co-dependence Is The Way (and Passive Aggressiveness Is The Key)Self-Sabotage Your Way To Mediocrity! Become SOME of What You COULD Have Been, To Be Who You THINK They Need You To Be!Trust Your Nervous System Response to Threat and Your Previous Experience, Then Let The Mayor of Thinkytown Solve Everything and Run The Show. Because That ALWAYS Works!Depleting Ourselves in Service of Others Is A Badge Of Honour If It's Not Working, Just Try HarderBut For The Sake Of All Things Holy, Please Don't Be Yourself Out-loud! Keep THAT S.H.I.T. For Your Family And Loved Ones I am here to say, after considerable study and debate ...Hogwash!I don't know about YOU, but these programs haven't worked out so well for me. How about you? Maybe I will just go around not giving a toss, and just being me at my shiniest I can manage moment by moment? And yes, that will vary.But what if we do the work?What IF we LOOK at the things that bring us pleasure? What if we eat, taste, touch, smell, hear, learn, and immerse ourselves in things that bring us back to love?Will YOU do it?I wonder how THAT will turn out for you?Keep me posted.I am evolving as fast as I can. Friends like Nona help. Nona's best advice to me ..."Come from a place of Love, Paigey-Poo!You CAN. There is ALWAYS a way. We are always either coming from a place of love ...... or of fear.Check in.Which is it?Get curious. Find a space for love in the rough and tangled bits. Find where you are holding judgement. Soften. Find where you see that in yourself and love yourself anyway. Replace it with what you WANT to feel, then move forward from this newly illuminated vantange point.Sigh ...Nona would say [quothe I, from her hot tub] … Do WHATEVER it takes to replenish your soul, your energy, your vibe, your space, your way of being. Do the things that light you up. Operate from there, as much as humanly possible, from one moment to the next. Steer back to love and non-judgment as necessary. Expect it to be necessary. You are NOT alone. Nona would say, from 4 AM in this very hot tub ... Never forget, Paigey-Poo! You ARE love! Take a chance,Paige Lockton xoxox The Magic of Horsecraft P.S. ANYTHING is possible (together!) Learn more and get in touch at: www.themagicofhorsecraft.com https://www.facebook.com/themagicofhorsecraft/ https://www.instagram.com/themagicofhorsecraft/ https://www.youtube.com/@themagicofhorsecraft Download our freebie - Our #1 Tip to build trust with your horse: https://gift.themagicofhorsecraft.com Sign up for our course: https://learn.themagicofhorsecraft.com #horsecraft #horsemanship #themagicofhorsecraft #themagicofhorsecraftandlife #HeartMath #horses #horse #love #horsemanship #equestrian #resilience #courage #equestrianlife #westernpleasure #western #westernlife #eventing #whatittakes #hope #courage #connection #horsehumanlove #horsewhisperer #healer #healing #vulnerability #riding #confidence #equine #trust #horsetraining #communication #animalcommunicator#perspective#newyear2025#youareloved The Magic of Horsecraft ... AND life! is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe

  5. 01/08/2025

    Embracing Change in Horsecraft:

    Welcome to a safe and thoughtful space for a dynamic debate with someone who challenges the status quo: Shelby Dennis. In this discussion, we dive into the power of questioning long-held beliefs and the courage to embrace scientific perspectives, even when they disrupt traditional views in horsecraft. CHALLENGING TRADITION: NAVIGATING THE EVOLUTION OF HORSECRAFT Join me as I engage in a dynamic discussion with Shelby Dennis—a young, fearless voice in the world of horse training. Unapologetically science-driven, Shelby is changing the narrative around traditional horse-training methods like dominance theory. The Magic of Horsecraft ... AND life! is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. We’ll explore the distinction between shame and guilt in behavior modification and venture into the importance of evolving alongside new evidence. Don't miss this chance to question everything you thought you knew. Join us on January 14th for a safe, spirited debate! If you are a horse lover and you don't yet know Shelby Dennis, may I respectfully suggest that you should. If you already know her, chances are you have an opinion. Chances are, it's a STRONG one, too! Shelby Dennis is unapologetically ruffling feathers in the horse world, sharing images of horses in ALL equestrian disciplines displaying stress behaviours and top riders being rewarded at FEI events for things we SAY we don't want to see in horse sport. People go CRAZY on her site, which hosts consistent posts about Shelby's own past mistakes, and scientifically-backed training methods that have broadened her horizons with horses and led to greater peace. People her age are turning the horse world I grew up in, on it's head! They are doing things we never DREAMED of! Together we will look at the evolution of Horsecraft and discuss the science of CHANGE, as well as and the importance of avoiding the chasm of SHAME when leading others to new understandings they haven't seen modeled. Register to join us. Questions will be moderated at the end of our discussion. Who Is Shelby Dennis, from Milestone Equestrian? Shelby Dennis stands out for not shying away from the backlash her opinions generate. Rooted in science and education, Shelby’s views on horses and leadership challenge the dominance theory many of us grew up accepting. Her unapologetic stance may unsettle those accustomed to traditional methods, yet it serves as a beacon for those ready to explore the new frontier of horse behavior and training. Shame Versus Guilt in Behavioral Change A key element of our conversation revolves around understanding the emotional barriers to change, particularly the difference between shame and guilt. Shame suggests a flawed self, whereas guilt acknowledges a misstep, allowing for personal growth. This distinction becomes crucial as we reconsider outdated concepts and adapt to evolving knowledge, rather than clinging to defensive postures. The Chasm of Shame and Evolution The journey across the metaphorical chasm of shame involves a willingness to step off the comfort platform, acknowledging past actions and embracing new methods. Those with a strong sense of self-worth can traverse this path confidently, evolving and inspiring others, while those less secure may retreat in fear. This metaphor highlights the importance of community and resilience in fostering personal and collective growth. Bridging the Gap in Natural Horsemanship Some natural horsemanship techniques have faced scrutiny under new scientific understanding, prompting reevaluation of these methods. Through learning about nervous system responses and alternative approaches, people like Shelby emphasize the importance of not alienating latecomers to these newfound insights. We must extend a hand and guide others through this transition, ensuring a collective evolution in how we interact with horses. An Invitation to Engage I am eager for you to engage with Shelby Dennis on this journey. With her robust understanding of behavior and her fearless advocacy for scientific principles, Shelby invites us to question and learn. Join us for an opportunity to discuss and debate, where all voices are welcomed and respected. As horse sports face increased scrutiny and demands for change, let's stand together on the side of progress. Let's evolve with compassion and an open mind, ensuring a future where horses and their well-being remain central. Your participation and voice are crucial in this transformative discussion. Embrace the chance to challenge, learn, and grow alongside Shelby Dennis and our community. Details Tuesday Jan 14th at 9AM PST - 12PM EST https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/rm-XXvyQTPC8MMeWoI6FFw The Magic of Horsecraft ... AND life! is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe

  6. 12/24/2024

    A Thousand First Dates

    Today, I am going to share a little bit of what it's like to be the squirrel that is my head, and why loving me is having A Thousand First Dates. It is as bare-naked as I have been, full of shares of difficult lessons, and the great possibilities there are for Christmas Miracles in the Every Day. May the Holidays bring you the peace you seek and deserve, and know something deeply - anything IS possible! I am living breathing proof … The New Year will see more interviews with Animal Communicators and Humans Who Push Past Possible. We will continue to explore what it looks like to develop the ingredients needed to make Magic in the tack … AND out of it! Follow me as I explore the Evolution of Horsecraft, R+ training, Liberty Work, and combine it with HeartMath and Holistic Health Practices for Horse Lovers. Have your say … See below for my Wish List For Podcast Guests in 2025 and cast your vote for both content AND length. Let me know who else should go on the list - reply below! Also on the list for 2025 are some NEW WAYS to learn with me - yes, I am making it more accessible! Paige in Your Pocket This has been SO much fun with my beta testers in 2024! Basically, you have me as a coach ‘in your pocket’ 24/7 with asynchronous coaching via WhatsApp. Personalized Paige-Style-Voice-Bombs when you need them most! Hybrid Online/In person Clinics Intimate groups of six get together for 4 weeks of preparatory programming before the 2-Day transformational clinic that changes your life and your relationship with horses. I lay the foundation for using HeartMath tools in your horse training, and meet you where you are at. Together, we practice in-hand, in class, and under tack, in small group and 1:1 Sessions. After the clinic, we wrap up with a Webinar for Q&A and integration. MAGIC! Contact me for details. Until then … Enjoy this little musical offering, that inspired A Thousand First Dates May glad tidings, family, food, friendship, and warmth, surround YOU this Holiday Season. Take a chance, Paige xoxox ANYTHING is possible (together!) * Check out our course https://learn.themagicofhorsecraft.com * Try our free training: https://gift.themagicofhorsecraft.com * Read my Blog or Listen to My Podcast at The Magic of Horsecraft * Find out more about me on my website at: https://themagicofhorsecraft.com/ * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wilde_paige/ and: https://www.instagram.com/themagicofhorsecraft/ * https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089462483278 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe

  7. 11/15/2024

    ZEN COWBOY

    ZEN COWBOY: THE EVOLUTION OF HORSECRAFT AND DEBUNKING DOMINANCE THEORYJoin Justin Dunn and I for a deep dive into all things Cowboy and Zen.Wait! WHAAAAAT? Do those things even go together???Yes, they do. But who’d a thunk it? Not THIS cowgirl! Turns out, I have been waiting my whole life for this interview, I just didn’t know it yet.Join me for a chat with Justin Dunn - or 'The Zen Cowboy' as I have dubbed him - owner/operator/founder of The American Mustang School located in Aberdeen, North Carolina.There, Justin works exclusively with American Mustangs and veterans, military, first responders and youth therapy programs. He also provides online and in-person training for people to develop a closer relationship with their horses and help resolve behavioral problems. Check out: https://www.justindunnhorsemanship.com/ for his services. Finding Justin Dunn The Algorithm Gods dropped Justin into my unsuspecting lap with THIS video on The Law of Transmutation of Energy. I was just scrolling along, minding my own business, when THIS guy pops up - wearing jeans and a baseball cap in the middle of his North Carolina tackroom full of Western saddles - and starts talking about ascending to a higher level of consciousness. I stopped scrolling and listened. What I heard blew my mind and opened my heart - there WAS hope! I KNEW it! "Hang in there, Daddy - turns out, cowboys are allowed to be soft!” If you have listened for long, you will know my Dad and I have a bit of a back-and-forth on the usefulness of these new-fangled ways of being I am most interested in exploring. Listen in, to find out why I, as the direct descendant of a stringy little cowboy known as Toughy Lockton, have a vested interest in hearing THIS cowboy speak to his strengths … or rather, to his softness.We will debunk some myths about what it means to be a cowboy these days ... and look at how that ties in with the recent de-bunking of Dominance Theory. Here are a few Justin Dunn quotes to wet your appetite and prime you to retain as much as possible: * On Horsemanship and what he most wants to share: * “Horsemanship is the study of self.” * On judging others and yourself: * “Judging others is judging yourself.” * On why we tend to use force: * “Where intellect ends, violence begins.” * On doing things differently, and softer than others around him: * “When they would get hard … I would get real soft.” * “Then your out there by yourself.” * On The Law of Polarity: * “It’s the same thing - just different degrees.” Look for Justin’s book: Music To My Ears What Justin shared in this interview was music to my ears! And, if you know me well, you’ll know that music is very important to me. I incorporate it into my riding, my lessons, my clinics, and just generally whatever I can. This interview was no different! Justin and I began getting to know each other through music and began our interview with a song. I asked which song he would choose to best represent himself in this moment. He shared The Cowboy Song by Thin Lizzy. I chose Savage Daughter. I have included tow VERY different versions of that one! At the end of our conversation we shared what we were grateful for, and on that note, I will share one more song that most reflects how I felt; Rachel Platten’s Better Place. I am insanely lucky and very grateful to be able to do what I do, and so appreciative of my parents, and of my life with horses, and of humans like Justin, who allow me to spread the Magic of Horsecraft - you all help make the world a better place. You can enjoy our playlist HERE: Your Feedback on a Future Long Format Podcast This interview felt like a river flowing quickly over some deep waters. Justin and I want to take deeper dives into some of the pools we skimmed over, and have a slower, meandering trip down the river of Horsecraft. Want to join us? * Who is in for a re-visit with the Zen Cowboy and for deep dive podcasts that run around 3 hours in length? Leave us your thoughts and questions. * What do you want to hear more of? We’ll plan accordingly and let you know we’re getting back together, so you can shape our conversation and join us! Your Support Makes A Difference You can help me afford to keep doing this in a few easy ways - first and foremost - Caring is sharing! Or is it the other way around? Doesn’t matter -SHARE! SHARE! SHARE! If you want to see a change in the horse industry we need to band together in numbers, and I need viewers by the thousands to attract the support I need to go to the next level … and get this show on the road! You can make a difference, easy peasy, by sharing! And, if you can, become a a paid subscriber and you could make the difference between having things like a car with working door handles … (true story) Do what you can to spread the love - every little bit helps and is appreciated! Take a chance, Paige Lockton P.S. ANYTHING is possible (together!) Learn more and get in touch at: www.themagicofhorsecraft.com https://www.facebook.com/themagicofhorsecraft/ https://www.instagram.com/themagicofhorsecraft/ https://www.youtube.com/@themagicofhorsecraft Download our freebie - Our #1 Tip to build trust with your horse: https://gift.themagicofhorsecraft.com Sign up for our course: https://learn.themagicofhorsecraft.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe

  8. 11/13/2024

    The Gift of Unexpected Free Time and Taking The Backroads

    Navigating Free Time: Breathwork, Horses, and Authenticity Join me on a drive through Northern Ontario as I share unexpected free moments, teaching experiences, and reflections on authenticity with horses. I dive into breathwork practices, my challenges with work-life balance, and the importance of creating safe and open learning environments. Learn about my journey towards authenticity in my barn, the value of non-critical spaces, and the science behind nervous system regulation in both humans and horses. Connect with me through What’s App on a monthly basis for ‘Classic Paige Voice Bombs’ – asynchronous coaching in your pocket 24/7. Learn how fun and fluidity can transform your interactions with horses. Take a chance, Paige Lockton P.S. ANYTHING is possible (together!) Learn more and get in touch at: www.themagicofhorsecraft.com https://www.facebook.com/themagicofhorsecraft/ https://www.instagram.com/themagicofhorsecraft/ https://www.youtube.com/@themagicofhorsecraft Download our freebie - Our #1 Tip to build trust with your horse: https://gift.themagicofhorsecraft.com Sign up for our course: https://learn.themagicofhorsecraft.com 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:36 Welcome to The Magic of Horsecraft 01:32 A Journey Through Northern Ontario 03:47 Breathing Exercises and Rhythm 05:08 The Irony of Teaching Authenticity 06:28 Creating Safe Spaces 10:10 Expanding the Herd with Caution 11:57 Voice Bombs and WhatsApp Coaching 13:14 The Science Behind the Magic 14:44 Upcoming Exciting Clinics 18:53 The Evolution of Horsecraft 20:15 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com/subscribe

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About

The Magic Of Horsecraft … AND LIFE! Where horsemanship meets resilience. I grew up steeped in Horsecraft, the daughter of an equine veterinarian and a lifelong competitor in the sport. For a long time it looked like I’d been dipped in the “magic sauce” at birth. But as a coach, I hit a wall: I couldn’t reliably transmit that 'magic' to devoted adult amateurs, the beautiful “muggles” of the horse world, no matter how hard they tried. Then life took my magic away. Bankruptcy. Divorce. Homelessness. Breast cancer. Chemo, radiation. Lockdowns. Isolation. I went from 'Magician' to 'Muggle' ... and had to find my way back, day by day. This podcast is a series of conversations with riders, coaches, healers, and everyday humans who’ve had to begin again, metabolize fear, and rebuild trust, with horses and with themselves. We talk about what creates real safety, real connection, and the kind of “feel” you can’t fake. And if you want to go deeper: in real life, I help horse lovers develop heart-forward Horsecraft and practical nervous-system tools (including HeartMath) through clinics, courses, and online offerings, so you can build a relationship with your horse based on mutual respect and mutual benefit. Never holler woah in a tight spot! Take a chance, Paige xoxox P.S. ANYTHING is possible (together!) themagicofhorsecraft.substack.com

Information

  • Creator
    Resilience, Horsecraft, and Hope. Stories to remind you ANYTHING is possible and you can do it too.
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    38
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Paige Lockton
  • Show Website
    The Magic of Horsecraft ... AND LIFE!