The MAC Express

Michael Cruciotti
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Sports

🎙️ Welcome to The MAC Express — your fast track to everything thrilling, insightful, and unexpected in the world of show jumping and beyond. Hosted by Michael Cruciotti, this podcast dives deep into the latest equestrian competitions, spotlighting top riders, breaking down stats, and making bold predictions on who’s going clear and who’s taking the win. But The MAC Express doesn’t stop at the in-gate. We also explore the stories behind the sport—through exclusive interviews, compelling business case studies, and fascinating conversations that bridge the horse world with the real world. Whether you're a die-hard show jumping fan or just love a good story, buckle up—because this train doesn’t stop. Subscribe now and ride along with The MAC Express.

Episodes

  1. Oct 21

    Ep. 10 Kevin Babington Foundation Unveils New Ambassador Program with Shea Fennelly

    MAC Express Podcast | Riding for Kevin: A Conversation with Shea Fennelly In this episode of The MAC Express, we sit down with Shea Fennelly, the Kevin Babington Foundation's first ambassador for the newly launched Air Vest Junior Ambassador Program, an initiative dedicated to promoting rider safety and inspiring the next generation of equestrians. A junior at the University of Florida studying journalism, Shea has established herself as an accomplished competitor in the equitation ring. From participating in the 2023 Emerging Athletes Program to earning top finishes at the ESP Spring Medal Final and SFHJA Medal Final, Shea's success continued with her recent title as the 2026 NHS Region X Adult Medal Finals Champion. She was also selected as a 2026 NHS Horse Show Grant recipient. But Shea's ambitions extend beyond competition. Through the Foundation's Ride for Kevin initiative, Shea is on a mission to change perceptions about protective equipment in equestrian sport, demonstrating that wearing an air vest doesn't mean sacrificing performance, style, or success in the hunter and equitation rings. We discuss Shea's journey, her passion for rider safety, and how she plans to inspire fellow young equestrians to become advocates for positive change. Through personal outreach, conversations, and the symbolic Ride for Kevin Challenge Coin, Shea hopes to build a community of junior riders committed to making safety a priority. Join us for an inspiring conversation about leadership, horsemanship, and how one young rider is helping carry Kevin Babington's legacy forward. Interested in becoming a Ride for Kevin Junior Ambassador? Contact the Kevin Babington Foundation to connect with Shea and learn how you can get involved. Learn more: www.kbfevents.com #MACExpress #KevinBabingtonFoundation #RideForKevin #SheaFennelly #EquestrianSafety #AirVestAmbassador #ShowJumping #Equitation #RiderSafety

    Ep. 10 Kevin Babington Foundation Unveils New Ambassador Program with Shea Fennelly

  2. 10/15/2025

    Ep. 9 Second Chances and Service Dogs: The Redemption of Da'Von Patterson

    On this episode of The MAC Express, host Michael Cruciotti sits down with Da'Von Patterson, a man whose journey from a 38-year prison sentence to a life of purpose and compassion will redefine what you believe about redemption. Once incarcerated for armed robbery, Da'Von’s story took a profound turn inside the walls of the California Institute for Men, where faith, trust, and a dog named Morgan changed everything. Through Canine Support Teams’ Prison Pup Program, Da'Von discovered not only the art of training service dogs — but the power of healing, empathy, and human connection. Together, Michael and Da'Von explore the strength it takes to transform your life from the inside out, the mentors who believed when no one else would, and the lives — both human and canine — forever changed through CST’s mission. From the prison yard to a new life of service and mentorship, Da'Von’s story is a testament to what’s possible when someone — or something — refuses to give up on you.

    Ep. 9 Second Chances and Service Dogs: The Redemption of Da'Von Patterson

  3. 10/09/2025

    Ep. 8 September 25' Show Jumping Recap with Kevin Babington

    September brought the heat in the world of show jumping. From record-setting rides from World Number 1, Kent Farrington, to emotional wins, the world of show jumping saw some of its most unforgettable moments this month. And who better to break it all down than Kevin Babington himself? Recorded October 4th, 2025. This episode was recorded prior to the October world rankings came out. In this special recap episode, host Michael Cruciotti is joined by Kevin to dive into the biggest storylines from the September 2025 circuit, including: The standout performances that had the crowds roaringRising stars making their mark on the FEI stageWhat these results mean heading into the winter seasonKevin shares his signature insight — blending sharp competitive analysis with his enduring mission to improve safety and support for riders everywhere through the Kevin Babington Foundation. Whether you're in the tack or in the stands, this is the recap you don’t want to miss. 👉 Listen now and subscribe for more conversations that move the sport forward.

    Ep. 8 September 25' Show Jumping Recap with Kevin Babington

  4. 09/20/2025

    Episode 7: The Ride Back — Resilience, Recovery, and Jonathon Millar

    In this powerful episode of The MAC Express, we sit down with Canadian International Show Jumper Jonathon Millar for a heartfelt conversation about injury, recovery, and the unwavering spirit of the equestrian community. After suffering a serious injury that took him out of the ring, Jonathan shares his emotional road back to competition—highlighting the essential support he received from the Kevin Babington Foundation, Victoria McCullough, and the groundbreaking medical team at Massachusetts Eye and Ear and the Schepens Institute. Together, we explore what it means to rebuild not just as an athlete, but as a human being. This is a story about community, courage, and the quiet strength it takes to start again

    Episode 7: The Ride Back — Resilience, Recovery, and Jonathon Millar

  5. 08/29/2025

    Ep. 6 The Unbreakable Spirit: Tom Sullivan on Leadership, Courage & Overcoming Adversity

    In this powerful episode of The MAC Express, host Michael Cruciotti welcomes Tom Sullivan — athlete, recording artist, author, and advocate who has lived a life defined not by limitations, but by resilience. Blind since birth, Tom has transformed adversity into opportunity, leading with humor, courage, and a relentless belief in the human spirit. Together, Michael and Tom explore the essence of leadership, the courage it takes to risk and reinvent, and how obstacles can become stepping stones toward greatness. From life-changing encounters with icons like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., to the courage Kevin Babington embodies within the equestrian world, this conversation connects deeply to the Kevin Babington Foundation’s mission of resilience and hope. A story of perseverance, laughter, and inspiration — Tom reminds us that true leadership begins with a decision to rise, and that every human spirit carries the power to overcome.

    Ep. 6 The Unbreakable Spirit: Tom Sullivan on Leadership, Courage & Overcoming Adversity

  6. 08/18/2025

    A Champion’s Legacy – Laura Kraut on Dublin, Pressure, and Protecting the Future

    Fresh off her brilliant victory at the Dublin Horse Show, where she was the only clear round in a dramatic Grand Prix finale, Olympic gold medalist Laura Kraut joins us for a candid and inspiring conversation. In this episode, we dive into: What that Dublin win meant to her personally and professionallyThe emotions and mindset walking into the ring at that levelHow Bisquetta delivered under pressureWhy safety vests are more than just gear—and how Laura hopes to help lead the charge on rider safety for future generationsThis isn’t just an interview—it’s a glimpse into the mindset of a champion who’s still pushing boundaries and setting the standard. Whether you’re a lifelong show jumping fan or just discovering the sport, you won’t want to miss this one.

    A Champion’s Legacy – Laura Kraut on Dublin, Pressure, and Protecting the Future

  7. 08/15/2025

    Ep. 4: Conversations That Matter – Building a Brand with Soul

    In this episode of The MAC Express, we sit down with Fleur Bryan, the founder of Parkmore Supplements, for a heartfelt conversation about what it means to build a business with purpose. More than just another supplement company, Parkmore stands for clean ingredients, conscious practices, and community-driven values. Fleur shares her journey from equestrian athlete to entrepreneur, how personal experiences shaped the mission behind her brand, and why giving back—especially through partnerships like the one with the Kevin Babington Foundation—is central to everything they do. From redefining wellness in the horse world to balancing integrity and innovation, this is a conversation about more than business. It’s about legacy, leadership, and lifting others along the way. 🧠 Impact. 💡 Innovation. ❤️ Integrity. All that and more—right here on The MAC Express.

    Ep. 4: Conversations That Matter – Building a Brand with Soul

  8. 08/06/2025

    Ep. 3 The Digital Revolution is Galloping: HorseSpot and the Future of Show Jumping

    From FEI rankings shakeups to the biggest weekends in sport — we kick off this episode with a high-energy rundown of the latest Longines Top 10 and preview two massive events: the Dublin Horse Show and Major League Show Jumping in Traverse City. Who’s climbing, who’s dropping, and what it all means going into August. Then, we sit down with Michael Lenard, co-founder of HorseSpot, the fastest-growing show management platform in equestrian sport. Alongside his brother Chris, Michael is building a tech ecosystem that’s redefining how riders, fans, and organizers experience show jumping. We dig into what’s broken in traditional horse show management, why athlete discovery needs a digital stage, and how HorseSpot is becoming the game-changer the sport has needed. If you're ready to see what the future of equestrian sport looks like, saddle up—this is one you don’t want to miss.

    Ep. 3 The Digital Revolution is Galloping: HorseSpot and the Future of Show Jumping

  9. 07/29/2025

    Ep 2 – A Legacy of Leadership: Jeff Papows on Sport, Service & the Kevin Babington Foundation

    In this episode of The MAC Express, Michael sits down with Jeff Papows—Chairman of the Kevin Babington Foundation, lifelong horseman, decorated Marine, and former CEO of Lotus and WebSphere. From the boardroom to the barn, Jeff shares the story of how his love for horses shaped his second act in life and why he’s devoted his energy to supporting riders facing life-altering injuries. We dive into his career in tech, what drew him into the world of show jumping, and the deeply personal mission behind the Kevin Babington Foundation. Plus, Jeff opens up about the state of the sport, what inspires him most, and where he sees the Foundation headed next. 💬 Insightful, emotional, and full of perspective—this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. 🎧 Tune in now to hear how one leader is redefining impact in equestrian sport.

    Ep 2 – A Legacy of Leadership: Jeff Papows on Sport, Service & the Kevin Babington Foundation

  10. 07/25/2025

    🎙️ Episode 1: Protecting the Rider: A Conversation with Dr. Michele Hollis

    In our premiere episode of The MAC Express, host Michael Cruciotti sits down with Dr. Michele Hollis, advisory doctor to the Kevin Babington Foundation, to talk about the realities of spinal injuries, the evolving conversation around rider safety, and the critical role of medical insight in shaping the future of show jumping. Plus, Michael gives a preview of what’s to come on the podcast—from exclusive athlete interviews to Grand Prix previews and weekend recaps. If you love show jumping, you’re in the right place.

    🎙️ Episode 1: Protecting the Rider: A Conversation with Dr. Michele Hollis
  • 10 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

🎙️ Welcome to The MAC Express — your fast track to everything thrilling, insightful, and unexpected in the world of show jumping and beyond. Hosted by Michael Cruciotti, this podcast dives deep into the latest equestrian competitions, spotlighting top riders, breaking down stats, and making bold predictions on who’s going clear and who’s taking the win. But The MAC Express doesn’t stop at the in-gate. We also explore the stories behind the sport—through exclusive interviews, compelling business case studies, and fascinating conversations that bridge the horse world with the real world. Whether you're a die-hard show jumping fan or just love a good story, buckle up—because this train doesn’t stop. Subscribe now and ride along with The MAC Express.

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Cruciotti
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © MAC Sports International, LLC 2025
  • Show Website
    The MAC Express