Life at LIBERTY

The International Liberty Horse Association
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This podcast is dedicated to all things Liberty. It explores the relationship that's possible between horses and humans when each has the freedom to choose. It celebrates Liberty horses – both famous and unknown – and the lives of the people who love them. And it was created for those that ask ‘What is Liberty’ and those who dare to ask 'What’s possible through Liberty?’. Life at Liberty will leave you inspired, intrigued and eager to connect with horses on a deeper level.

  1. Road to the Liberty Festival: Candace Snow’s Inspiring Return from 40‑Year Hiatus to Champion Freestyler

    HÁ 4 DIAS

    Road to the Liberty Festival: Candace Snow’s Inspiring Return from 40‑Year Hiatus to Champion Freestyler

    In this episode of Life at Liberty, host Cinelle Claassens interviews Candice Snow, a champion freestyle performer. Candice shares her inspiring journey back to horses after nearly 40 years away, her experiences with Liberty training, and her preparations for the upcoming Invitational Freestyle. The conversation highlights the deep connection between horse and trainer, the challenges faced in training, and the joy of competing in freestyle events. Candice emphasizes that it's never too late to start competing and encourages listeners to build a connection with their horses through Liberty work. Highlights: How Candace returned to horses after nearly 40 years away Building her Liberty journey through volunteering, Mustangs, and a growing herd The story behind her championship-winning freestyle performance Preparing for the 2025 Invitational Freestyle with new challenges and creative twists Why she believes it’s never too late to start Liberty Practical advice for listeners to begin building connection with their horses Key Moments: 00:02:05 Life in Texas, balancing grandma duties and horses 00:02:49 Building a freestyle cart and the thrill of winning the championship 00:04:47 Returning to horses after decades away 00:07:36 First time witnessing Liberty with Dan James in 2012 00:09:40 From auditing clinics to champion: years of persistence 00:12:41 Finding joy in practice and connection with her horses 00:13:57 Challenges of training her insecure mare to stand independently 00:15:14 Her message: it’s never too late to begin Liberty 00:16:09 Practical first steps for Liberty beginners 00:19:55 Sneak peek: 1960s theme and surprises for the Invitational Freestyle Summaries: 00:02:05 Life in Texas, balancing grandma duties and horses. Candace shares her daily life split between watching her granddaughter three days a week and devoting the rest of her time to horses. 00:02:49 Building a freestyle cart and the thrill of winning the championship. She recalls constructing her unique cart for her horse to push, describing the pride of seeing it all work in the arena and the joy of last year’s championship win. 00:04:47 Returning to horses after decades away. Candace reflects on volunteering with therapeutic horsemanship after her children were grown, which reignited her love for horses and led her back into ownership and Liberty training. 00:07:36 First time witnessing Liberty with Dan James in 2012. She describes the awe of watching horses stand freely in the arena, realizing years later that her own horses could do the same—something her late father would have been proud of. 00:09:40 From auditing clinics to champion: years of persistence. Candace explains the long journey of hard work and setbacks that ultimately led her to become a Liberty Festival champion. 00:12:41 Finding joy in practice and connection with her horses. Her favorite moments come when things “just click,” whether riding bareback or playing at Liberty, blurring the line between practice and pure enjoyment. 00:13:57 Challenges of training her insecure mare to stand independently. She discusses her biggest training hurdle—getting her mare to stay confidently alone while sending her Mustang to perform other tasks. 00:15:14 Her message: it’s never too late to begin Liberty. Candace encourages listeners that no matter their age or experience, Liberty offers a unique and deeply rewarding connection with horses. 00:16:09 Practical first steps for Liberty beginners. She advises starting small—spending time in a round pen, moving with your horse, and observing how they respond to your body language. 00:19:55 Sneak peek: 1960s theme and surprises for the Invitational Freestyle. Candace teases her 2025 Invitational performance, hinting at a 1960s “Age of Aquarius” theme, a redesigned cart, and a special Liberty maneuver surprise.

    18min
  2. The Art of Liberty: Building Relationships and Confidence with Kathy Baar

    1 DE OUT.

    The Art of Liberty: Building Relationships and Confidence with Kathy Baar

    In this episode of Life at Liberty, host Elizabeth speaks with clinician Kathy Baar about her journey in horsemanship, the concept of liberty, and the importance of building relationships with horses. They discuss the balance between competition and liberty, the role of mentorship, and the significance of biomechanics in training. Kathy shares insights on building confidence in both horses and humans, the evolution of the Liberty Festival, and the importance of finding one's 'why' in horsemanship. The conversation culminates in a quick-fire round where Kathy shares personal anecdotes and insights.   Highlights: How Kathy developed a deeper connection with her horses through Liberty work The mental and emotional challenges of letting go of control Behind-the-scenes of preparing her 2025 Liberty Festival performance Why observation, empathy, and consistency matter more than commands Tips for Liberty enthusiasts to enhance focus, communication, and trust at home Key Moments:00:01:50 Discovering the Power of Liberty in Horse Training00:07:30 Overcoming the Challenge of Letting Go of Control00:14:20 Preparing for the 2025 Liberty Festival Performance00:22:55 Learning From Mistakes and Embracing Feedback00:30:40 Kathy’s Philosophy on Observation, Empathy, and Consistency00:38:10 Practical Tips for Liberty Enthusiasts at Home00:44:25 Closing Thoughts and Festival Preview Summaries: 00:01:50 Discovering the Power of Liberty in Horse TrainingKathy shares how she first explored Liberty work and how it transformed her understanding of connection, trust, and partnership with her horses. 00:07:30 Overcoming the Challenge of Letting Go of ControlShe explains the mental shift required to release traditional control methods, embracing patience and responsiveness instead. 00:14:20 Preparing for the 2025 Liberty Festival PerformanceKathy takes listeners behind the scenes of her choreography, music choices, and the planning process that brings her performance to life. 00:22:55 Learning From Mistakes and Embracing FeedbackShe reflects on challenges and mistakes during training, highlighting how horses provide honest guidance and opportunities to improve. 00:30:40 Kathy’s Philosophy on Observation, Empathy, and ConsistencyKathy discusses why a thoughtful, empathetic, and consistent approach is essential for building strong partnerships in Liberty work. 00:38:10 Practical Tips for Liberty Enthusiasts at HomeShe provides actionable exercises and strategies to improve timing, communication, and trust with horses in personal practice. 00:44:25 Closing Thoughts and Festival PreviewKathy leaves listeners with motivation for their own Liberty journeys and shares a preview of her upcoming 2025 Festival performance.

    47min
  3. The Most Humbling Discipline: Jessica Blair Fowlkes on Liberty Freestyle

    28 DE SET.

    The Most Humbling Discipline: Jessica Blair Fowlkes on Liberty Freestyle

    In this episode of Life at Liberty, host Cinelle Claassens interviews Jessica Blair Fowlkes, a dynamic performer in the equine industry. Jessica shares the highs, the wipeouts, and the lessons that only Liberty horses can teach. She talks about the pressure of competing in front of judges who know exactly what they’re seeing, why partnership always comes before performance, and the advice she gives every aspiring freestyle competitor.   Highlights: How Jessica discovered Liberty Freestyle and why it humbled her as a trainer The challenges she faced building trust and communication without a bridle Behind-the-scenes of choreographing her 2025 Liberty Festival Invitational Freestyle Why she believes patience, observation, and mindset are the keys to success Tips for Liberty enthusiasts to improve connection and performance at home Key Moments: 00:02:15 Discovering Liberty Freestyle and Its Humbling Nature00:08:05 Building Trust and Communication Without a Bridle00:15:42 Choreographing the Invitational Freestyle for the 2025 Liberty Festival00:25:10 Working Through Mistakes and Learning From Horses00:32:55 Jessica’s Approach to Mindset and Patience in Training00:40:30 Practical Tips for Liberty Enthusiasts at Home00:46:50 Closing Thoughts and Preview of Her Festival Performance Summaries: 00:02:15 Discovering Liberty Freestyle and Its Humbling NatureJessica shares how she first encountered Liberty Freestyle, and how the discipline immediately challenged her assumptions about control, connection, and patience. 00:08:05 Building Trust and Communication Without a BridleShe discusses the process of creating a partnership based entirely on trust, body language, and subtle cues, emphasizing how humbling it can be for even experienced trainers. 00:15:42 Choreographing the Invitational Freestyle for the 2025 Liberty FestivalJessica takes listeners behind the scenes of designing her performance, from music selection to movement planning, highlighting the creativity and attention to detail required. 00:25:10 Working Through Mistakes and Learning From HorsesShe opens up about setbacks and mistakes during training, sharing how horses provide honest feedback and force trainers to adapt and improve. 00:32:55 Jessica’s Approach to Mindset and Patience in TrainingJessica explains how a patient, observant mindset allows both horse and trainer to grow, and why mental approach is just as important as technique. 00:40:30 Practical Tips for Liberty Enthusiasts at HomeShe offers actionable guidance for listeners, including exercises and strategies to strengthen trust, timing, and connection in their own Liberty practice. 00:46:50 Closing Thoughts and Preview of Her Festival PerformanceJessica leaves listeners with inspiration for their Liberty journeys and a sneak peek at her 2025 Invitational Freestyle, encouraging persistence and curiosity.

    44min
  4. Foundations in Freedom: Dan James and Ben Atkinson on Liberty, Setbacks, and Breakthroughs

    14 DE SET.

    Foundations in Freedom: Dan James and Ben Atkinson on Liberty, Setbacks, and Breakthroughs

    In this episode of the Life at Liberty podcast, Dan James sits down with renowned Liberty performer Ben Atkinson to discuss the art of Liberty training, the challenges of performing with horses, and the upcoming Liberty Festival. They explore Ben's journey into Liberty training, the importance of foundational skills, and the mindset required for success in equine performance. The conversation also touches on the unique aspects of the Liberty Festival, the significance of perseverance in training, and the community spirit that makes the event special. Ben shares personal anecdotes and insights, emphasizing the importance of belief in oneself and the process of learning with horses. Highlights - How an Aussie and a Brit found common ground (and comedy) in Liberty - The lessons Dan and Ben learned the hard way, and how failure shaped their training - Why “Not Yet” became Ben’s life motto and a reminder for every horseman - A behind-the-scenes look at their Foundations in Freedom session coming to the 2025 Liberty Festival - The balance of faith, humility, and humor in pursuing Liberty without limits Key Moments 00:03:11 How Dan and Ben First Connected Through Liberty 00:08:47 Stories of Setbacks, Humor, and Lessons Learned 00:15:02 Ben’s Motto of “Not Yet” and What It Means for Trainers 00:22:36 The Role of Faith and Mindset in Horsemanship 00:30:49 What to Expect from Foundations in Freedom at the Liberty Festival 00:42:15 Dan and Ben on Keeping Liberty Training Fun 00:50:27 Final Thoughts on Partnership, Progress, and the Future of Liberty Chapter Summaries 00:03:11 How Dan and Ben First Connected Through Liberty Dan James and Ben Atkinson share how their paths crossed in the Liberty world and why they respect each other’s approach to training, even across different continents. 00:08:47 Stories of Setbacks, Humor, and Lessons Learned They swap candid (and hilarious) stories of things going wrong in the arena and the value of finding humor when training doesn’t go as planned. 00:15:02 Ben’s Motto of “Not Yet” and What It Means for Trainers Ben explains how “Not Yet” became a guiding phrase for him, teaching patience and persistence when progress feels out of reach. 00:22:36 The Role of Faith and Mindset in Horsemanship Both trainers open up about how faith, humility, and mental resilience shape their journey as horsemen and performers. 00:30:49 What to Expect from Foundations in Freedom at the Liberty Festival Dan and Ben give listeners a preview of the new Foundations in Freedom session debuting at the 2025 Liberty Festival, where multiple trainers will demonstrate different approaches to starting horses at Liberty. 00:42:15 Dan and Ben on Keeping Liberty Training Fun They discuss how fun, creativity, and laughter are just as important as structure and discipline in Liberty training. 00:50:27 Final Thoughts on Partnership, Progress, and the Future of Liberty

    51min
  5. Overcoming Self-Doubt at Liberty: Mirka Crew’s Road to the Festival

    4 DE SET.

    Overcoming Self-Doubt at Liberty: Mirka Crew’s Road to the Festival

    In this episode of Life at Liberty, host Cinelle Claassens interviews Mirka Crew, a competitor in the upcoming ILHA Invitational Freestyle Competition happening at the 2025 Liberty Festival in Kentucky. Mirka shares her journey from the Czech Republic to becoming a prominent figure in Liberty training, discussing her early experiences with horses, the challenges she faced, and the importance of connection in training. She emphasizes the significance of self-doubt and how overcoming it has shaped her career. Mirka also talks about her preparation for the 2025 Invitational Freestyle performance, her unique posture focus training program, and the lessons learned from past performances. The conversation highlights the accessibility of Liberty training for aspiring trainers and the special bond between trainers and Mustangs. Highlights: How a girl from the Czech Republic turned $200 and a suitcase into a U.S. horse training career The self-doubt Mirka battled and how Liberty helped her find confidence and connection What Posture Focused Training® is and why it matters for Liberty and bridleless work Behind-the-scenes of preparing for the Invitational Freestyle at the 2025 Liberty Festival Why Mirka believes mindset is the secret ingredient to success with horses Key Moments: 00:01:58 Growing Up in the Czech Republic and Discovering Horses 00:07:12 Moving to the U.S. with $200 and a Dream 00:12:36 Wrestling with Self-Doubt and Finding Confidence Through Liberty 00:18:04 Posture Focused Training® Explained—How Balance Creates Connection 00:26:51 Preparing Marvel and Trac for the Invitational Freestyle 00:34:29 Lessons Liberty Horse Enthusiasts Can Apply at Home 00:41:56 Mirka’s Mindset Advice for Competitors and Dreamers 00:48:20 Closing Thoughts and a Sneak Peek of the Liberty Festival Chapter Summaries: 00:01:58 Growing Up in the Czech Republic and Discovering Horses Mirka reflects on her early years in Prague, where she first fell in love with horses but never imagined it would lead to a professional career. 00:07:12 Moving to the U.S. with $200 and a Dream She shares the bold decision to move to America with almost nothing, and how that leap of faith set the foundation for her training journey. 00:12:36 Wrestling with Self-Doubt and Finding Confidence Through Liberty Mirka opens up about lifelong struggles with self-doubt, questioning her worth, and how Liberty training gave her a new sense of possibility. 00:18:04 Posture Focused Training® Explained—How Balance Creates Connection Mirka introduces her Posture Focused Training® method, explaining how horse balance and self-carriage improve partnership at Liberty and bridleless. 00:26:51 Preparing Marvel and Trac for the Invitational Freestyle She gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at working with her Mustangs, Marvel and Trac, ahead of the 2025 Liberty Festival Invitational Freestyle. 00:34:29 Lessons Liberty Horse Enthusiasts Can Apply at Home Mirka offers practical advice for Liberty enthusiasts of all levels, focusing on mindset shifts and small steps to build connection. 00:41:56 Mirka’s Mindset Advice for Competitors and Dreamers She shares how she encourages students through her “Sky Is Not the Limit” philosophy, reminding them to push past fear and self-doubt. 00:48:20 Closing Thoughts and a Sneak Peek of the Liberty Festival Mirka leaves listeners with encouragement for their own Liberty journeys and a teaser of what to expect in her Invitational Freestyle performance.

    44min
  6. Legacy, Liberty & Laughter: Dan James & Dan Steers on Partnership, Performance & Paying It Forward

    14 DE JUL.

    Legacy, Liberty & Laughter: Dan James & Dan Steers on Partnership, Performance & Paying It Forward

    Episode Summary: In this exciting episode, Dr. Elizabeth James is joined by both Dans of Double Dan Horsemanship—Dan James and Dan Steers—for a rare, wide-ranging conversation about their legacy, the evolution of Liberty horsemanship, and the deep bond that has fueled their partnership for nearly two decades. From the invention of the Liberty beanbag to the story behind their first horse that could sit on cue, this episode is filled with never-before-heard stories, unfiltered humor, and powerful reflections on what it means to share knowledge instead of hoard it. You’ll also get a sneak peek at what they’re bringing to the 2025 Liberty Festival, including their new "Foundations in Freedom" concept and a long-awaited return to the U.S. performance arena—together. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Liberty horsemanship, this episode will leave you inspired, entertained, and more than a little tempted to join us in Lexington this October. Highlights:       The true story behind the first-ever Liberty beanbag sit       When everything went wrong in the arena—and how humor saved the day       The evolution of Double Dan from performers to educators       Why generosity is the new competitive edge in horsemanship       What to expect from their exclusive new session at the 2025 Liberty Festival: Foundations in Freedom Key Moments   00:02:27  The Origins of Double Dan Horsemanship   00:07:34. Early Liberty Training Experiences   00:10:44. Developing Liberty Acts at El Caballo Blanco   00:15:26. Transition from Performing to Teaching Liberty   00:35:33. Foundations in Freedom at the Liberty Festival   00:47:31. Upcoming Performances and Special Guests   00:53:13. Liberty Principles in Performance Horsemanship   00:56:57. Closing Thoughts on the Double Dan Partnership Chapter Summaries The Origins of Double Dan HorsemanshipDan Steers shares how he got introduced to horses at age 14 and his early experiences with liberty training. He discusses his mentor Pete Weber and his first horse Susie, who became the foundation for his liberty work. 00:07:34 Early Liberty Training Experiences - Dan Steers recounts stories of riding his mare Susie bareback and bridleless as a young trainer, including riding to the grocery store. He shares how these experiences shaped his early confidence and skills with liberty work. 00:10:44 Developing Liberty Acts at El Caballo Blanco - The Dans discuss how they started working together at El Caballo Blanco, developing their liberty acts and stunts. They recount creating signature moves like having two horses sit on a beanbag while another jumps through. 00:15:26 Transition from Performing to Teaching Liberty - The hosts explore how Dan Steers and Dan James transitioned from performing to teaching liberty clinics. They credit Heath Harris for pushing them towards teaching and helping develop a systematic approach to liberty training. 00:35:33 Foundations in Freedom at the Liberty Festival - The hosts discuss a new session at the upcoming Liberty Festival called "Foundations in Freedom," where multiple trainers will start horses at liberty over three days, demonstrating different methods for beginners. 00:47:31 Upcoming Performances and Special Guests - The Dans discuss their upcoming performance at Quarter Horse Congress and the Liberty Festival. They express excitement about special guest Frédéric Pignon attending the festival, calling him one of the greatest liberty trainers of all time. 00:53:13 Liberty Principles in Performance Horsemanship - Dan Steers shares how he applies liberty training principles to competitive performance disciplines like reining and cow horse. He discusses finding a balance between natural horsemanship philosophy and competitive success. 00:56:57 Closing Thoughts on Double Dan Partnership - The hosts reflect on the unique and enduring partnership between Dan Steers and Dan James, praising their ability to maintain a successful business and friendship across countries and life changes over many years.

    1h
  7. Who is Steve Rother: The Liberty Trainer You Need To Know

    01/10/2024

    Who is Steve Rother: The Liberty Trainer You Need To Know

    In this episode of Life at Liberty - The Official Podcast of the International Liberty Horse Association, proudly sponsored by Brave Horse CBD, host Dan James from Double Dan Horsemanship sits down with renowned Liberty trainer, Steve Rother. Steve shares his unique journey, which began with wild BLM Mustangs and grew into a deep expertise in Liberty horsemanship. Through guidance from legends like John Lyons, Pat Parelli, and Bill Lawrence, Steve transformed from a mustang handler to one of the world's top Liberty trainers. Listen in as Dan and Steve discuss his evolution as a trainer, the impact of wild horses on his method, and his signature performances, including his famous Guaracha act. Catch Steve Rother live at the 2024 Liberty Festival, October 10th -13th at the Kentucky Horse Park!

    52min
  8. Real Talk Roundtable (Recorded at the 2023 Liberty Festival)

    12/09/2024

    Real Talk Roundtable (Recorded at the 2023 Liberty Festival)

    Looking for more than the standard interview? Ever wondered what happens when some of the world’s top horse trainers sit down for an unfiltered, candid chat? In this special episode of *Life at Liberty*, we bring you the Real Talk Roundtable from the 2023 Liberty Festival, featuring Ty Murray, Warwick Schiller, Ben Atkinson, and Georgie Atkinson. Join us as these renowned trainers dive deep into their personal journeys, training philosophies, and what fuels their passion for horses. This isn’t your average conversation—it’s raw, real, and filled with the kind of honesty that makes you feel like you’re right there with them.

    59min
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Sobre

This podcast is dedicated to all things Liberty. It explores the relationship that's possible between horses and humans when each has the freedom to choose. It celebrates Liberty horses – both famous and unknown – and the lives of the people who love them. And it was created for those that ask ‘What is Liberty’ and those who dare to ask 'What’s possible through Liberty?’. Life at Liberty will leave you inspired, intrigued and eager to connect with horses on a deeper level.

Informações

  • Criado por
    The International Liberty Horse Association
  • Anos de atividade
    2022 - 2025
  • Episódios
    16
  • Classificação
    Livre
  • Site do podcast
    Life at LIBERTY

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