Taking the Reins with Clay Cavinder

Clay Cavinder
  • 4.8 (24)
  • Education
  • Updated Bimonthly

Most people, at one time or another, have dreamed of owning, riding, or enjoying horses in some capacity. Many who do experience the joys of being around horses will agree horses have a way of bringing a calm to their lives. Taking the Reins podcast is an enjoyable way to discover the impact horses have on the people who love them. In this podcast, listeners will learn about all things equine while listening to engaging experiences of other horse enthusiasts along the way. If you are a horse owner or simply enjoy the nostalgia that horses bring to our lives, this podcast is for you! Join us as we explore all that horses have to offer and learn from some of the best horsemen and women in the equine industry.

  1. Judges, Jokes, and Judging Myths with Jonathan Meilleur and Mark Russell

    Jun 5

    Judges, Jokes, and Judging Myths with Jonathan Meilleur and Mark Russell

    In this episode of Taking the Reins, Clay sits down with Jonathan Meilleur and Mark Russell to pull back the curtain on horse show judging. From hilarious moments in the ring to common misconceptions horsemen have about judges, this conversation delivers laughs, honesty, and real insight. The guys share stories from their judging experiences, explain what they’re actually looking for when horses enter the ring, and clear up myths that just won’t die in the horse world. Whether you show, judge, train, or just love good horse stories, this episode offers an entertaining and eye-opening look at how decisions are made—and why they’re not always what people think. Funny, informative, and refreshingly real—this one might change how you watch the next class.

    47 min
  2. Building Something that Lasts: Khari Randolph and the Mississippi Ranch Horse Association

    May 1

    Building Something that Lasts: Khari Randolph and the Mississippi Ranch Horse Association

    In this episode of Taking the Reins, Clay sits down with close friend and horseman Khari Randolph, the founder of the Mississippi Ranch Horse Association. Together, they dive into what it really takes to create new opportunities in the horse industry and how thinking outside the box can open doors for the next generation of horsemen and horsewomen. Khari shares the story behind starting the Mississippi Ranch Horse Association, the challenges and wins along the way, and how the organization has grown to support ranch horse competition and community across the state. The conversation also explores the past, present, and future of ranch horse events in Mississippi—and where the industry is headed. Whether you’re looking for a pathway into the horse business, interested in ranch horse competition, or simply enjoy hearing real stories from people building something meaningful from the ground up, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and a forward-looking perspective on the horse world. Facebook: Mississippi Ranch Horse Association

    1h 2m
  3. Mindset, Grit, and Raising a Horse-crazy Kid with former MLB pitcher Roy Oswalt

    Apr 3

    Mindset, Grit, and Raising a Horse-crazy Kid with former MLB pitcher Roy Oswalt

    In this episode of Taking the Reins, Clay sits down with former Major League Baseball star Roy Oswalt — known for his fierce competitive spirit, calm command on the mound, and career spent performing under pressure. But today, Roy isn’t just talking baseball — he’s diving into life after the big leagues and his role as a supportive dad to a horse-obsessed daughter. Together, we explore: The mindset required to perform under intense pressure Handling nerves and failure — whether you’re pitching under stadium lights or showing horses The transition from professional athlete to the normal world How to support a child’s passion without taking over The surprising parallels between riding horses and elite athletic performance Whether you’re a rider, athlete, parent, or competitive soul, this conversation is packed with humor, perspective, and wisdom. Tune in — and take the reins.

    1h 2m
  4. Inside Equine Nutrition: Sales, Science, and Service with Sara Holt

    Mar 6

    Inside Equine Nutrition: Sales, Science, and Service with Sara Holt

    In this episode, Clay sits down with Sara Holt, an equine feed sales representative for Nutrena Feeds, to talk all things horse nutrition, customer relationships, and the real-world challenges of feeding performance horses. Sara shares her journey into the equine feed industry, what it’s like working in the field with horse owners and barns every day, and how she helps clients choose the right feed for their program. Whether you're managing a large facility or just want to better understand what’s going in your horse’s feed bucket, Sara offers practical insights that will help you make more informed decisions. Contact Sara at sara_holt@cargill.com Nutrenaworld.com Proelitehorsefeed.com

    47 min
  5. The Business of Going Global: Inside Equiflight with Katie Schroeder

    Feb 6

    The Business of Going Global: Inside Equiflight with Katie Schroeder

    In this episode of Taking the Reins, Clay Cavinder sits down with Katie Schroeder, owner of Equiflight, a premier international horse transport company. Katie takes us behind the scenes of what it really takes to move horses across the globe—by air. From health certifications to flight logistics and in-flight horse care, she shares the fascinating details of an often-overlooked corner of the equine industry. But the conversation goes well beyond horse travel. Katie also opens up about the grit and perseverance it takes to run a successful business, how she built Equiflight from the ground up, and the life lessons she’s learned along the way. Whether you're an equestrian, entrepreneur, or just love a good story about passion and persistence, this episode has something for you.

    41 min
  6. True Grit and Good Horsemanship with Texas Cowboy Hall of Famer Craig Cameron

    Jan 2

    True Grit and Good Horsemanship with Texas Cowboy Hall of Famer Craig Cameron

    In this episode of Taking the Reins with Clay Cavinder, we're joined by none other than Craig Cameron – renowned horseman, clinician, and Texas Cowboy Hall of Famer. Craig shares the story of his journey through the world of horses, from his early cowboy beginnings to becoming one of the most respected voices in horsemanship today. We dive into his philosophy on truly communicating with horses, what it takes to be an effective teacher in the saddle, and the timeless values that define the cowboy way of life. It’s a conversation full of insight, grit, and passion – straight from one of the greats. Saddle up and enjoy the ride!

    36 min
  7. TTR the Recap 5!

    12/19/2025

    TTR the Recap 5!

    In this milestone recap episode, Clay takes a reflective ride through episodes 42 to 50 of Taking the Reins. From world-class horsemen and savvy industry pros to inspiring personal journeys and cutting-edge science, this recap is packed with highlights, lessons, and behind-the-scenes insights. Whether you're new to the show or a longtime listener, this episode is your perfect catch-up and reminder of just how many directions a life with horses can take you. Revisit standout moments with guests like Cole Cameron, Dr. Marty Adams, and Lindsey Valdiviez. Hear how buying the right horse, chasing big dreams, and even detouring off-course can all lead to something greater. Plus, Clay reflects on the impact these conversations have had on him—and what’s ahead for the podcast. Saddle up for a powerful roundup of stories, wisdom, and purpose-driven horsemanship!

    19 min
  8. Policy, Passion, and Perspective with Cliff Williamson

    12/05/2025

    Policy, Passion, and Perspective with Cliff Williamson

    In our 50th episode of Taking the Reins, Clay Cavinder is joined by Cliff Williamson — a lifelong horseman, global thinker, and seasoned advocate for the livestock industry. From growing up on a Hunter/Jumper and Foxhunter operation in Virginia to serving in the Peace Corps in Nicaragua, Cliff brings a worldly, boots-on-the-ground perspective that blends horsemanship with policy expertise. Now working in legislative and regulatory affairs with the American Horse Council, Cliff dives into the critical issues shaping the future of the equine industry. 💡 In this episode: 🌍 Hear how exporting livestock, foaling out 30+ mares a year, and navigating international regulations have shaped Cliff’s journey. 📊 Learn surprising stats about the horse industry’s economic footprint. ⚖️ Understand what horse owners need to know about current legislative and regulatory challenges. From barn aisles to global perspective, this conversation connects the everyday horse world with the big-picture forces driving it forward. If you care about the future of the horse industry — this is one episode you can’t afford to miss.

    56 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
24 Ratings

About

Most people, at one time or another, have dreamed of owning, riding, or enjoying horses in some capacity. Many who do experience the joys of being around horses will agree horses have a way of bringing a calm to their lives. Taking the Reins podcast is an enjoyable way to discover the impact horses have on the people who love them. In this podcast, listeners will learn about all things equine while listening to engaging experiences of other horse enthusiasts along the way. If you are a horse owner or simply enjoy the nostalgia that horses bring to our lives, this podcast is for you! Join us as we explore all that horses have to offer and learn from some of the best horsemen and women in the equine industry.

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