The Touch of a Mustang

Shalyce Cluff

Healing Through the Wisdom Found in Nature Inspired by host Shalyce Cluff's journey with a wild Mustang mare, we explore how nature guides us to heal wounds, regulate our nervous systems, and reclaim our freedom. Featuring conversations with Mustang partners, nature-based healers, and personal stories of transformation, we dive into facing fear, navigating transitions, moving through loss, and building resilience through the wisdom of the natural world. Perfect for anyone seeking a path to true transformation. New episodes weekly.

  1. Beyond Talk Therapy--Why Horses Reach Veterans Differently with Kathleen Saucier | Episode 61

    MAR 19

    Beyond Talk Therapy--Why Horses Reach Veterans Differently with Kathleen Saucier | Episode 61

    In this episode, I talk with Kathleen Saucier, case manager and co-founder of Samson’s Strength Sustainable Veterans Project, about the work being done to support veterans through connection with horses. What started as a personal experience for Kathleen and her husband grew into something much bigger. We talk about how horses helped them navigate stress and life after service, and how that experience shaped the work they now do with other veterans. We also get into what’s really happening in these interactions. Not just that horses “help,” but why—how they influence the nervous system, increase awareness, and create opportunities to build skills for a healthier life. This conversation offers a clearer understanding of how horses can support mental health in a practical, grounded way—and why that matters for veterans working to find stability and move forward. This episode was produced in collaboration with #podcastathon where podcasters come together for a week and support a non-profit by sharing about them on their podcast. Samson's Strength Sustainable Veteran's Project is also participating in the Horses for Mental Health campaign, of which The Touch of a Mustang is also an ambassador for the organization. Connect with Kathleen: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sssvp.org Website: ⁠sssvp.org⁠ Instagram:  @samsonsstrengthveteransproject  Support the Podcast: buymeacoffee.com/thetouchofamustang https://buy.stripe.com/8x2bJ26sOgLL0TegAJ77O00 Please reach out if you are interested in being a sponsor for the podcast!

    1h 1m
  2. How to Build a Successful and Sustainable Nonprofit with Rob Harter | Episode 60

    MAR 12

    How to Build a Successful and Sustainable Nonprofit with Rob Harter | Episode 60

    Building a nonprofit often begins with a powerful sense of purpose—but turning that passion into a sustainable organization requires more than good intentions. In this episode of The Touch of a Mustang, I sit down with Rob Harter, a nonprofit executive with more than 30 years of experience building and leading social impact organizations. Rob shares what it really takes to move from an idea driven by passion to an organization capable of creating lasting impact. We talk about the common pitfalls that cause many nonprofits to struggle—from leadership blind spots to mission drift—and the practical principles that help organizations stay aligned with the work they set out to do. Rob also shares insights from decades of leadership experience, coaching leaders, and hosting the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, which reaches listeners in over 170 countries. Whether you're thinking about starting a nonprofit, already leading one, or simply passionate about creating meaningful change in the world, this conversation offers a grounded look at what it takes to build something that lasts. If you care deeply about a cause and want to see that passion translate into real-world impact, this conversation will help you think more clearly about what it takes to build something that endures. Connect with Rob! Instagram: @nonprofitleadershippodcast Facebook: @Nonprofit Leadership Podcast Linked In: @Dr. Rob Harter YouTube: @Nonprofit Leadership Podcast Support the Podcast: buymeacoffee.com/thetouchofamustang https://buy.stripe.com/8x2bJ26sOgLL0TegAJ77O00 Please reach out if you are interested in being a sponsor for the podcast!

    55 min
  3. Do Horses Really Help? What the Research Says with Leanne Nieforth | Episode 58

    FEB 26

    Do Horses Really Help? What the Research Says with Leanne Nieforth | Episode 58

    Many of us who have spent time with horses understand that our time with them changes something about us. It's difficult to describe, to explain. Often, it's referred to as magic. I sit down with Dr. Leanne Nieforth who studies this very thing, to talk about what the research says. Do horses really help people and what is it that creates the change? Leanne Nieforth is an Assistant Professor of Human-Animal Interaction at the Center for the Human-Animal Bond at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Purdue University. With a PhD in Human-Animal Interaction, a Master of Science in communication, and a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science, she has a unique interdisciplinary approach to study human-animal interactions. Her rigorous research portfolio includes both quantitative and qualitative exploration, incorporating both theoretical and empirical analyses. She has applied these analyses to multiple populations of individuals and multiple species of animals. To date, she has 29 peer-reviewed publications with additional publications under review at high impact journals. She has also written five book chapters and multiple extension publications focused on human-animal interactions. She is dedicated to researching evidence-based approaches for developing safe and effective interventions and experiences that foster mutually beneficial partnerships between humans and animals. She also has more than a decade of experience as a certified practitioner by multiple equine-assisted services organizations. Outside of work, Leanne enjoys spending time with her daughter, husband, dog and horses. Connect with Leanne! Human-Animal Partnerships and Interactions (HAPI) Lab Website: https://vet.purdue.edu/discovery/nieforth/Personal Website: www.leannenieforth.com Support the Podcast: buymeacoffee.com/thetouchofamustang

    1h 3m

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Healing Through the Wisdom Found in Nature Inspired by host Shalyce Cluff's journey with a wild Mustang mare, we explore how nature guides us to heal wounds, regulate our nervous systems, and reclaim our freedom. Featuring conversations with Mustang partners, nature-based healers, and personal stories of transformation, we dive into facing fear, navigating transitions, moving through loss, and building resilience through the wisdom of the natural world. Perfect for anyone seeking a path to true transformation. New episodes weekly.

You Might Also Like