ABC’s of Horses with Christy Wood

Big Blend Radio Network
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Pets & Animals
  • Monthly

From A to Z, this Big Blend Radio equestrian podcast features world champion horse trainer Christy Wood who discusses the world of horses and shares expert knowledge on horse care, riding, and showmanship. New episodes air every second Saturday at 4pm PST / 7pm EST.

  1. Oct 10

    Budget: The Real Cost of Buying and Owning a Horse

    B is for Budget! In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC’s of Horses" Podcast, world champion horse trainer Christy Wood gives an honest look at what it really costs to own a horse, and why planning ahead keeps a dream from turning into overwhelm. Christy starts with the horse itself and why the price depends on what you plan to do with it, then moves on to where your horse will live: zoning and subdivision rules, boarding stables, box stalls and turnout time, and why you should find out how a horse has been living before you bring it home. She also shares tips for shopping smart for tack, including trying used saddles on your own horse and checking used bridles for dry, cracked leather. From there, Christy digs into the ongoing expenses: blankets and shelter for winter, hay prices and buying once a year to lock in quality, switching feed gradually to protect a delicate digestive system, supplements, yearly vet checks, worming, teeth floating, farrier visits every six to seven weeks, and why a trailer is a security blanket in an emergency. Christy offers ballpark examples, but her advice is to research your own area and your own riding goals. Whether you’re dreaming of your first horse or already caring for one, this episode will help you plan ahead and avoid being caught off guard. Next month, Christy and Lisa turn to holiday shopping with a giving heart for horse lovers. 🔗 EXPLORE MORE 📚 Connect with Christy: https://wdnhorse.com/  🎧 ABC’s of Horses Podcast (the full A to Z): https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/abcs-of-horses-podcast  📖 ABC’s of Horses Magazine: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/abcs-of-horses-magazine  ❓ Ask Christy a question: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/contact-us

  2. Sep 12

    Chief Joseph Trail Ride 2026: Christy Wood and Stephanie Callahan Clark

    In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" podcast, World Champion horse trainer Christy Wood is joined by fellow rider Stephanie Callahan Clark for their annual look at the Chief Joseph Trail Ride — a thirteen-year progressive journey on horseback retracing the Nez Perce National Historic Trail across Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana.  They cover this year's route, wildlife encounters, camp community, horse safety, and why living off-the-grid on the trail is part of the adventure — plus a look ahead to 2027, the 150th anniversary of Chief Joseph's flight. 🔗 EXPLORE MORE 🐴 Learn more about the Chief Joseph Trail Ride: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/the-chief-joseph-trail-ride  📚 Connect with Christy & get her books: https://wdnhorse.com/  🏇 Chief Joseph Trail Ride nonprofit: https://chiefjosephtrailride.org/  🎧 Listen to more episodes of the ABC's of Horses Podcast: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/abcs-of-horses-podcast  📖Check out the ABC's of Horses Podcast Magazine: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/abcs-of-horses-magazine

  3. Aug 8

    Understanding Horse Action & Agility

    In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, World Champion horse trainer Christy Wood kicks off Volume 2 with the letter A, exploring Action & Agility and what these qualities reveal about a horse's movement, balance, conformation, and athletic ability. Christy explains why observing a horse in motion is so important—whether you're evaluating a horse before purchase, watching it move freely, observing it on the lunge line, or seeing it under saddle. She discusses how proper conformation, alignment, hoof placement, balance, and physical structure all contribute to a horse's ability to move efficiently and stay sound. The conversation also explores the importance of “form to function” and choosing a horse that matches its intended purpose and the rider's needs. A horse suited for trail riding may have different athletic requirements than one destined for jumping, racing, rodeo, or other demanding disciplines. Christy also shares insights into evaluating horses remotely through video and why having a trained eye can make a difference when purchasing a horse. 🔗 EXPLORE MORE 📖 Check out Volume 1 of the ABC's of Horses Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ABCS-OF-HORSES/  📚 Connect with Christy & get her books: http://wdnhorse.com  🎧 Listen to more episodes of the ABC's of Horses Podcast: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com/

  4. Jul 11

    Getting to Know Horse Expert Christy Wood: An A–Z Journey Through the World of Horses

    Celebrate a Big Blend Radio milestone! We have officially wrapped up Volume 1 of the ABCs of Horses digital podcast magazine, completing the entire alphabet from A to Z!   To mark the occasion, host/producer Lisa sits down with resident equestrian expert and Christy Wood—world champion horse trainer, author, horse show judge—for a fun, insightful "getting to know you" interview.  Before Christy hits the historic Chief Joseph Trail Ride again, we look back at the highlights of Volume 1 (from Appaloosas to the Zoomies!) and put her in the hot seat with 10 fun questions. Discover her ultimate spirit animal, her dream weekend getaway, what she wants in her ultimate horse barn, and why she absolutely bans onions from her dinner plate!  📖 Read & Listen to Volume 1: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ABCS-OF-HORSES/  📚 Connect with Christy & get her books: http://wdnhorse.com  🎙️Subscribe to the Podcast from your favorite platform: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com/

  5. Jun 13

    Understanding Horse Zoomies

    It's a big milestone on the Big Blend Radio "ABCs of Horses" Podcast, producer Lisa D. Smith and world champion horse trainer Christy Wood have made it all the way to Z! And Z is for Zoomies, that joyful, full-speed burst of energy every horse owner loves to watch. Christy breaks down what zoomies really mean, how to tell the difference between a happy horse blowing off steam and a stressed or fearful one, and why your horse needs plenty of safe space to really run, stop, and roll.  She also covers the role of diet and exercise in managing your horse's energy, how to read body language (especially that tail!), and why you should never try to ride out a bucking or rearing horse — let them get it out of their system first. Plus, toys and enrichment: does your horse want a ball to play with?  This wraps up over two years of the "ABCs of Horses" — but don't worry, Lisa and Christy aren't done! Next month, they kick off round two with a special "Get to Know Christy" episode that reflects over all the equestrian lessons learned in the series. Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, extreme trail obstacle champion, author, instructor, and owner of Wood N Horse Training Stables in Three Rivers, California. Learn more: https://wdnhorse.com/  🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com  📖 Check out the NEW ABC'S of Horses Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ABCS-OF-HORSES/

  6. May 9

    The Art of Yielding in Horse Training

    In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood explores the essential concept of yielding in horse training and why it forms the foundation of effective communication between horse and rider. Christy explains the difference between yielding and stopping, emphasizing how yielding teaches horses to move away from pressure while remaining responsive and balanced. The conversation covers groundwork techniques, yielding under saddle, and how these skills support safety, trust, and harmony in all riding disciplines—from trail riding to dressage. You will also learn why patience, compassion, and clear communication are critical in helping horses understand yielding cues and develop confidence. Whether working on leg yielding, obstacle navigation, or everyday handling, this episode highlights how yielding creates a stronger partnership between horse and rider. Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, extreme trail obstacle champion, author, instructor, and owner of Wood N Horse Training Stables in Three Rivers, California. Learn more: https://wdnhorse.com/  🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com  📖 Check out the NEW ABC'S of Horses Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ABCS-OF-HORSES/

  7. Apr 11

    Unlocking Horse Health: The Power of X-Rays and Modern Diagnostics

    In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood explores how modern diagnostic tools like X-rays and MRIs play a vital role in understanding horse anatomy, soundness, and long-term health. Christy discusses the importance of working closely with farriers and veterinarians, especially when evaluating hoof structure, bone density, and potential hidden issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. The conversation also dives into the critical steps of buying a horse, including pre-purchase exams, remote video evaluations, and knowing your purpose before making a purchase. Hear valuable insights into how technology is transforming horse care and purchasing decisions, helping owners make informed, responsible choices that support equine welfare and performance. Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, extreme trail obstacle champion, author, instructor, and owner of Wood N Horse Training Stables in Three Rivers, California. Learn more: https://wdnhorse.com/  📖 Check out the NEW ABC'S of Horses Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ABCS-OF-HORSES/  🎧Listen to more episodes: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com/

  8. Mar 14

    Water Training for Horses: Safety and Trail Riding Skills

    In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood dives into the fundamentals of water training for horses, sharing practical techniques that help riders safely introduce horses to streams, ponds, and other water obstacles often encountered on the trail. From patient groundwork to building confidence step by step, Christy explains why preparation and calm leadership are key when teaching horses to approach and cross water. She also discusses safety considerations for riders, the benefits of using experienced pony horses during training, and creative ways to help horses gain confidence around natural obstacles. Whether you're preparing for trail riding adventures or simply strengthening your horse’s trust and responsiveness, this episode offers valuable guidance for improving horsemanship and keeping both horse and rider safe. 🔗 EXPLORE MORE 📖 Check out the NEW ABC'S of Horses Digital Podcast Magazine: 👉 https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ABCS-OF-HORSES/  📰 Subscribe FREE to the NEW ABC's of Horses Podcast & Magazine Substack Channel👉 https://bigblendabcshorses.substack.com/  Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, extreme trail obstacle champion, author, instructor, and owner of Wood N Horse Training Stables in Three Rivers, California. Learn more: https://wdnhorse.com/  🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com/

See All (35)

About

From A to Z, this Big Blend Radio equestrian podcast features world champion horse trainer Christy Wood who discusses the world of horses and shares expert knowledge on horse care, riding, and showmanship. New episodes air every second Saturday at 4pm PST / 7pm EST.

Information

You Might Also Like