On The Rail Liz & Jenna

This episode of the On The Rail Podcast features Lori Bucholz, an AQHA Executive Committee member, who discusses her extensive involvement in the horse industry.

Lori shares her journey from a young girl passionate about horses to holding significant roles within AQHA and other committees, emphasizing animal welfare, member involvement, and governance. The conversation covers topics including the importance of every AQHA member's voice, the process of rule changes within AQHA, the responsibility towards horse welfare, and the future of digital registration. Lori's personal experiences highlight the evolution of horse showing, the significance of continued education and ethical practices in the industry, and the collective effort required to foster young and female leadership within AQHA.



00:00 Welcome to On The Rail Podcast: A Conversation with Lori Buholtz

01:41 Lori Buholtz: A Deep Dive into Her Equestrian Journey

03:02 From Amateur Competitor to AQHA Executive: Lori's Story

04:31 The Professional Side: Lori Buholtz, Parliamentarian

11:12 Navigating AQHA Governance and Member Impact

23:39 Fostering Young Leadership and Female Leaders in Equestrianism

28:17 Reflecting on the Evolution of Technology and Its Impact

28:46 Introducing RideFitLife: Tailored Fitness for Riders

29:21 Exploring the Structure and Terms of National Directors

30:08 Breaking Barriers: Women in Leadership Roles

31:26 Inside the AQHA Executive Committee: Roles and Responsibilities

32:53 2024 AQHA Convention Highlights and Digital Registration Debate

39:31 Engaging the Community: The Value of AQHA Membership and Convention Attendance

42:21 The Importance of Animal Welfare in the AQHA

53:04 Vision for the Future of AQHA and Closing Thoughts

This episode features an in-depth conversation about the 2024 APHA World Show, including insights from key figures within the American Paint Horse Association (APHA).



The discussion covers the show's schedule from June 21st through July 7th at the Will Rogers Center in Fort Worth, Texas, emphasizing its no-qualifying entry, diverse events beyond competition, and a strong focus on family involvement. The guests explore the importance of Fort Worth as a location, the broad spectrum of competitive and breeding opportunities, added money incentives, and the introduction of new classes geared towards growth areas.



A significant part of the conversation is dedicated to the innovative Intermediate Program designed to encourage wider participation by leveling the playing field for competitors. The episode also highlights the importance of APHA's corporate partnerships, particularly the new sponsorship from Boehringer Ingelheim for Intermediate division buckles. With a forthcoming focus on improving participant experience, air conditioning in the trail practice area, and a streamlined entry process, the episode provides a comprehensive overview of what to expect at the 2024 APHA World Show.



Additionally, it touches on the importance of feedback from attendees, the involvement of APHA's events team in enhancing the show experience, and the myriad of ways individuals can engage with the event beyond competition.



00:00 Welcome to the APHA World Show Special Episode!

01:02 Introducing the APHA World Show Committee Members

04:15 Deep Dive into the 2024 APHA World Show in Fort Worth

07:27 Exploring the $1.5 Million Prize Pool and New Class Additions

16:21 Feedback and Improvements for the 2024 World Show

20:23 Expanding and Simplifying the Intermediate Program

26:49 No Late Fee for Intermediate Division

27:15 Introducing RideFitLife: Tailored Fitness for Riders

27:52 Exploring the Intermediate Program

28:22 Highlighting the Youth Scholarship Program

30:56 Corporate Sponsorships and Their Impact

32:42 Setting Goals for the 2024 World Show

37:22 Improving the World Show Experience

41:14 Getting Involved: Advice for Competitors and Spectators

46:48 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

This episode of On The Rail Podcast, we get to see through the reins of Amber Duckett, an Idaho horse trainer and owner, who shares her journey from a young 4-H member to a professional trainer and owner of a successful stallion, One And Only Asset ('Marshall').



Amber's story highlights her DIY approach, the evolution of her career, and the special bond she has with Marshall, whose 'marshmallows' carry on his legacy.



In addition, we explore the recent regulatory changes by the American Paint Horse Association (APHA) and their impact on the horse community, covering the perspectives of stallion owners and enthusiasts. Discussions include the challenges and opportunities these changes present, the importance of community support, and an optimistic outlook for the future of horse competition and breeding.



00:00 Welcome to On The Rail Podcast: A Dive into DIY Horse Training and Stud Ownership

00:51 Meet Amber Duckett: A Journey from 4-H to Stud Ownership

02:04 From Oregon to Idaho: Amber's Path to Horse Training

02:58 The Art of DIY Horse Training: Passion Meets Necessity

04:30 Learning from the Best: Mentorship and Growth in Horse Training

08:10 Navigating the Horse Training Industry: Approaching Trainers for Advice

11:57 A Major Accident and Its Aftermath: Amber's Story of Recovery

29:13 Returning to the Arena: Overcoming Brain Trauma and Physical Challenges

38:56 Exploring New Horizons: Colt Starting Contest and Expanding Skills

40:50 The Horse Expo and a Surprise Proposal

43:19 RideFitLife: Tailored Fitness for Riders

45:50 The Story of Marshall: From Weanling to Stallion

01:04:49 Breeding Success and the Impact of APHA Changes

01:09:28 Reflections and Gratitude

In this engaging episode of the On The Rail Podcast, listeners are treated to an in-depth conversation with Adam and Pasley Mathis, the dynamic duo behind Mathis Show Horses.

The Mathis' discuss their evolution from horse enthusiasts to professional trainers, shedding light on their personal and professional journeys that led to their partnership and the establishment of their training facility in 2019. Key topics include their approach to horse training, emphasizing adaptability and focusing on the unique needs of each horse.

They also explore the challenges and rewards of navigating the horse show industry, particularly within Western pleasure competitions, advocating for a balance between high-level and state-level events to promote inclusivity. Moreover, the Mathis' share insights into managing a flourishing business while maintaining a healthy work-life balance, especially after the birth of their child. The episode also highlights the importance of community support, business management skills, and the role of programs like the NSBA's Tomorrow's Horseman in ensuring career stability in the equestrian industry.



Through their story, Adam and Pasley Mathis inspire with their commitment to the sport, their business, and the wider equestrian community, all while looking eagerly toward the future of Mathis Show Horses and the industry at large.



00:00 Welcome to On The Rail Podcast: Special Guests Share Their Journey

00:57 The Mathis Show Horses Story: From Humble Beginnings to Success

05:57 Pasley Mathis: A Life Shaped by Horses

08:53 Diverse Backgrounds, Shared Passion: Adam and Pasley's Unique Perspectives

13:16 Adam's Path to Professional Horse Training

27:51 Building a Life Together: From Engagement to Launching Their Own Business

36:57 The Decision to Start Mathis Show Horses: Planning and Execution

41:51 Crafting a Career Plan: Insights and Reflections

42:30 The Joys and Challenges of Running a Business with Your Spouse

46:26 Navigating Work-Life Balance in a Family Business

53:48 Training Philosophies and the State of Western Pleasure

01:12:48 Embracing Opportunities: NSBA's Tomorrow Horseman Program

01:19:41 Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations for Mathis Show Horses

In this episode of On The Rail Podcast, we dive into the ranch world, featuring an interview with Shannon Quinlan Hill, co-trainer of Hill Performance Horses in Sharpsville, Pennsylvania. Shannon shares her extensive background in the equine industry, spanning from showing hunters and cow horses to auction sale barn horses, influenced by her horse trainer and judge parents.

The conversation covers her historic win in the Open Reining at Congress with Rough And Shiny, being the first woman to accomplish this feat, and the transition from reining to ranch riding, highlighting the differences between the disciplines.

Shannon discusses the growing popularity and competitive landscape of ranch riding, touching on training methods, horse preparation for shows, and the importance of maintaining the horses' happiness and expression in their jobs. Moreover, the episode delves into the future of ranch classes, the challenges of achieving consistency in judging, and Shannon's personal goals, including obtaining her judging card and contributing more to association boards and committees.

00:00 Welcome to the World of Ranch Riding

01:08 Meet Shannon Quinlan Hill: A Trailblazer in Equine Industry

03:34 From Reining to Ranch Riding: Shannon's Journey

04:43 The Evolution and Appeal of Ranch Riding

05:40 Ranch Riding vs. Reining: Understanding the Differences

06:25 Exploring the Classes and Competitions in Ranch Riding

09:28 Transitioning to Ranch Riding: Insights and Experiences

13:22 The Growth and Popularity of Ranch Riding

18:08 The Future of Ranch Riding and Industry Insights

43:22 Shannon's Future Goals and Closing Thoughts

In the latest episode of On the Rail Podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Julie Broadway, the President of the American Horse Council, to discuss the results of the 2023 National Equine Economic Impact Study. This research highlights the equine industry's significant $177 billion contribution to the U.S. economy and its role in supporting 2.2 million jobs. However, it also points to a slight decrease in the horse population, raising questions about the industry’s future. Throughout our discussion, we looked into the importance of these findings and discussed practical strategies and policy changes that could arise from this valuable data.

 

Understanding the results of this study is crucial for all horse owners and enthusiasts. It offers insights into how the industry contributes to the economy and the challenges it faces. By informing yourselves, you can contribute to the conversation, help shape future policies, and implement practices that support the growth and sustainability of the equine industry. Don’t forget to like, share, and follow/subscribe!


American Horse Council Website - Dive deeper into the study's findings and learn how you can get involved.
2023 National Equine Economic Impact Study - Access the full report and detailed insights on the economic contributions of the equine industry.