Not Just A Pony Ride

HETRA
  • 5.0 (28)
  • Non-Profit
  • Updated Semimonthly

Ever wanted to know more about Equine-Assisted Services (EAS) and Therapies? Join us as we explore the industry. Hear valuable education for instructors & therapists, insight into business strategies, and all the reasons why horses are so impactful for our mental & physical health. This podcast is presented by Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy (HETRA), with over 35 years of experience in the EAS industry. Get all of our resources here: https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

  1. 10h ago

    157. A New Chapter: Welcoming Emma

    Change is in the air, and we couldn't be more excited! In this episode, we are pulling back the curtain to introduce the newest voice behind the mic. Join us as we officially welcome Emma to the team as our new podcast host!We sit down with Emma to talk about her background, her passion for Equine-Assisted Services (EAS), and what she is most looking forward to bringing to the show. Whether you are an industry professional, a dedicated volunteer, or a long-time listener, tune in to help us give Emma a warm welcome to the community!Follow us on social and plug in here: https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/...

    18 min

  2. May 22

    156. EAS & Research: Better Together

    In this episode we sit down with a powerhouse panel of researchers and practitioners to talk about a groundbreaking, high risk study breaking down the silos in Equine-Assisted Services (EAS). Funded by the Horses and Humans Research Foundation (HHRF), this study is the very first to measure real time neurophysiological brain activity in children with autism while on horseback, while simultaneously tracking the physiology of both the horse and the horse leader. Our guests discuss the incredible value of participatory research, how data driven outcomes are reshaping everyday center programming, and why "humble curiosity" is the secret sauce to successful academic and practitioner partnerships. 🎙️ Meet the Guests Tamara Merritt – Director of Program Innovation and Research at Hearts and Horses (Loveland, CO) Dr. Corey Smith – Associate Professor at Baylor University specializing in neurophysiological monitoring Dr. Claire Thomas-Pino – Senior Lecturer at Hartpury University (UK), Chair of the HHRF Scientific Advisory Council, and HHRF Board Director In this Episode We Cover: - Overcoming Funding Barriers for "High Risk" Innovative Science - From the Lab to the Arena: What Sparks a Researcher's Passion for EAS? - Building a Cross Disciplinary "Dream Team" - Why Having a Dedicated Research Coordinator Matters - Global Research Guidelines & Validating Practitioner Experience -When Research is a Gamble: Staying Open to Unexpected Data - Advice for Centers and Researchers Looking to Connect and Collaborate -Research Informed Programming - Translating Academic Data into Functional Center Resources - Why You Don't Need a Medical Degree to Stay Curious 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned HETRA Website: https://hetra.org HETRA Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/notjustaponyride Funding & Support: https://www.horsesandhumans.org Hearts and Horses Programming & Manuals: Check out the Education tab on https://www.heartsandhorses.org

    55 min

  3. May 8

    155. Navigating a Wait List of Participants

    Waitlists are common in EAS programs—but are they always being defined and managed effectively? In this episode, we dive into one of the most important (and often frustrating) operational topics for centers: the waitlist. At HETRA, someone is not considered officially on the waitlist until all required paperwork is complete and they have been evaluated by staff. That means they are truly ready to begin programming as soon as an appropriate opening becomes available. We discuss why this distinction matters and how separating general inquiries from those ready to get on the schedule can create a more accurate picture of demand. We also cover practical strategies for keeping your waitlist organized, including systems for tracking readiness, participant needs, scheduling preferences, and priority placement.  Learn how to think creatively about offering meaningful opportunities while participants wait for their ideal program opening. Whether it’s alternate services, short-term options, or different program formats, there are ways to continue serving participants instead of letting them sit stagnant on a list. In This Episode, We Answer: What truly constitutes being “on the waitlist”?How does HETRA define waitlist status?What is the difference between an inquiry and a “ready to be scheduled” participant?How can you provide value while someone waits for a program opening?What systems help keep a waitlist organized and actionable?Who should take priority when openings become available? HETRA Participant Inquiry Form:  https://form.jotform.com/242865356075161 More on Our Evaluation Process at HETRA:  Episode #153 - What Goes Into a Thorough Participant Evaluation? https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/notjustaponyride/episodes/153---Replay--What-Goes-Into-Thorough-Participant-Evaluation-e3h30jd/a-acibs2v Get help with organizing your waitlist - www.equi-force.com Learn more about Killian Insurance Agency and what Jon can do for you here: https://farmequineinsurance.com/

    35 min

  4. Apr 10

    154. Scheduled “Ground Week”: Perspectives from a New Routine at HETRA

    Don't be afraid to try new things!  This week on the podcast we are talking about a new policy we implemented at HETRA - scheduled "ground weeks".  During this week, all participants who participate in a mounted program move to ground based activities for the week. This gives our horses a break and our participants new opportunities to grow in their skills.   Listen in to hear how we implemented this new routine and what fun, different things our instructors and therapists were up to during this week!  Follow us on social and plug in here:  https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks Learn more about Killian Insurance Agency and what Jon can do for you here: https://farmequineinsurance.com/

    22 min

  5. Mar 28

    153.  Replay:  What Goes Into Thorough Participant Evaluation? 

    We’re bringing back one of our favorite “oldie but goodie” episodes—because the topic is that important. Thoughtful, thorough evaluation of incoming participants is a cornerstone of success in equine-assisted services, not only for the individuals we serve, but for our instructors, volunteers, and horses, too.  In this replay, Edye Godden, OTR/L, HPCS, PATH Intl. CTRI and CEO of HETRA, shares her perspective on why evaluations are such a critical piece of the puzzle and breaks down the most common barriers that prevent programs from doing them well. From time constraints to uncertainty about what to look for, we explore what might be getting in the way—and how improving this process can lead to safer, more effective, and more impactful sessions for everyone involved. Check out all of education HETRA University here, including our disability education offerings! www.HETRAUniversity.org Learn more about Killian Insurance Agency and what Jon can do for you here: https://farmequineinsurance.com/

    22 min

  6. Mar 21

    152. Five Things Every EAS Professional Should Know About Seizures

    Seizures are more common than many people realize—and in equine-assisted services, being prepared can make all the difference. In this episode, we break down five essential things every EAS professional should understand about seizures, from recognition to response, so you can create a safer, more confident environment for your participants, staff, and horses. Learn more details about Seizures and how they impact us in the EAS industry in the webinar:  “Understanding Seizures: Balancing Safety with Inclusivity”. https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/offers/rsL2VZTL/checkout Learn more about Killian Insurance Agency and what Jon can do for you here: https://farmequineinsurance.com/

    12 min

  7. Mar 13

    151. When the Stars Align:  Thoughts on Research, Education and Real Experiences

    In this episode, we welcome back Edye Godden to reflect on two recent events that sparked important conversations in the EAS industry: the Horses and Humans Research Foundation Conference and HETRA University Live. We discovered that themes from both events aligned—showing that new research is beginning to support the real-world experiences and educational approaches many programs are already implementing.We also share how attending conferences like these continues to shape our thinking at HETRA, including a few policy updates prompted by ongoing learning and a commitment to evolving with best practices in the field. Learn more about Killian Insurance Agency and what Jon can do for you here: https://farmequineinsurance.com/

    27 min

  8. Feb 27

    150. The Next Generation of EAS Leaders: What do they want?

    In this episode, we welcome back Jeff Arnold, Founder of Leadership Adventures, for a powerful conversation about what it really takes to build the next generation of leaders in the EAS industry.  Expect to here more on: When we talk about “next generation leaders,” we’re talking about all of us.  What the Next Generation of EAL Leaders Actually Wants After surveying and working with more than 60 centers, Jeff and his team have identified clear patterns in what emerging leaders are looking for: Clear expectations (at both the big-picture and daily-task level)Coaching and developmental feedbackDefined growth paths and career planningAuthentic community and collaborationCuriosity builds engagement. Judgment shuts it down. Staying Resilient Leadership in a Changing World. With leadership transitions happening across 20-, 30-, and 40-year-old centers, resilience isn’t optional—it’s essential. Resources: The EAL Community of Practice Jeff shares more about the growing EAL Community of Practice, an online professional space designed for collaboration, CEUs, shared learning, and authentic dialogue across methodologies. Learn more at:   equineassistedlearning.org 2026 EAL Summit – Learn. Share. Lead. The next EAL Summit will take place in November 2026 in the Western Pennsylvania mountains. Abstract submissions are open now through mid-to-late March. More details:  equineassistedlearning.org Listen to the NJAPR episode 87 with Jeff here:  https://open.spotify.com/episode/1jzeTIwz1WIFKQ4bZoxyFA?si=Rmi3hLc3Qjyr4NSr14CcwA Join us for HETRA University Live online or in person March 6-7:   https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HULStridesForward

    39 min
See All (164)

5
out of 5
28 Ratings

About

Ever wanted to know more about Equine-Assisted Services (EAS) and Therapies? Join us as we explore the industry. Hear valuable education for instructors & therapists, insight into business strategies, and all the reasons why horses are so impactful for our mental & physical health. This podcast is presented by Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy (HETRA), with over 35 years of experience in the EAS industry. Get all of our resources here: https://notjustaponyride.my.canva.site/linkinbio

Information

  • Creator
    HETRA
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    164
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © HETRA
  • Show Website
    Not Just A Pony Ride

You Might Also Like