Ken Ramirez: 50 Years, 500 Species, and Why Training Is as Essential as Food and Water

This Week on In Stride  Sinead Halpin-Maynard sits down with Mary Wanless to explore the physics and biomechanics beneath conventional riding wisdom, and why understanding your body at a foundational level can transform both horse and rider.Meet the Guest: Mary Wanless  Mary Wanless is a British riding coach, author, and founder of the Ride With Your Mind approach to rider biomechanics. A BSc physics graduate and British Horse Society Instructor, she has spent 40+ years uncovering the science that underlies effective riding. She is the author of the bestselling Ride With Your Mind series and runs an international coaching platform at dressagetraining.tv, working with riders from beginners to team-level competitors.In This Episode, Sinead and Mary Discuss:Why conventional riding cues like "grow tall" and "sit deep" are advanced concepts masquerading as basicsThe discovery of "bearing down," the core skill most elite riders unconsciously use but can't teachExpertise-induced amnesia and why the best riders often make the worst teachersHow the fascia connects rider and horse as one system, and why improving your position changes everything beneath youEpisode SponsorConnaway & Associates The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance.Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.Equine Emergency Vet Care Guide Created by equine veterinarian Dr. Erica Lacher, the Equine Emergency Vet Care Guide app helps horse owners recognize the signs of a true emergency, know when to call the vet, and understand what to do while help is on the way.Download from the App Store or Google Play at EquineEmergencyApp.comIn Stride Is Brought to You by Ride iQRide iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches.Members also get:Weekly live Q&As with equestrian expertsExclusive podcast episodesDressage test prep resourcesA supportive learning communityStart your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com

This Week on In Stride  Sinead Halpin-Maynard sits down with Ken Ramirez to dig into the science of positive reinforcement and what it really means to care for the animals in our lives.Meet the Guest: Ken Ramirez  Ken Ramirez is one of the world's foremost animal trainers and a leading advocate for positive reinforcement-based training. With more than 50 years of experience spanning over 500 species, Ken has served as Executive Vice President of Animal Care and Training at Chicago's Shedd Aquarium and now teaches hands-on training courses at his own ranch. A self-described "crossover trainer," he brings a rare combination of scientific rigor, real-world experience, and a non-judgmental approach to how we train and care for the animals in our lives.In This Episode, Sinead and Ken Discuss:Why behavioral training is a necessity that ranks alongside vet care, nutrition, and environment in responsible animal careThe science behind positive and negative reinforcementWhy giving animals the choice to say "no" actually produces better performanceThe Zambia conservation project where Ken rerouted an entire elephant herd away from poachers, and why it earned him a price on his headEpisode SponsorConnaway & Associates The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance.Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.In Stride Is Brought to You by Ride iQRide iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches.Members also get:Weekly live Q&As with equestrian expertsExclusive podcast episodesDressage test prep resourcesA supportive learning communityStart your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com

This Week on In Stride  Sinead Halpin-Maynard sits down with legendary horseman Buck Brannaman to dig into the philosophy behind great horsemanship, from feel and presence to discipline, partnership, and what it really means to connect with a horse.Meet the Guest: Buck Brannaman  Buck Brannaman is one of the most recognized and respected horsemen in the world. Based in Sheridan, Wyoming, he has spent over four decades traveling the country running horsemanship clinics for riders of every discipline and background. Known for his ability to transform troubled horses and help riders find a deeper connection with their animals, Buck has built a reputation that goes far beyond the horse world. He is the author of The Faraway Horses and Believe: A Horseman's Journey, served as a consultant on Robert Redford's film The Horse Whisperer, and is the subject of the acclaimed 2011 documentary Buck.In This Episode, Sinead and Buck Discuss:The difference between discipline and punishment, and why only one of them actually worksWhy feel and presence in the saddle can't be faked, bought, or replaced by equipmentHow to build genuine confidence with a horse starting from the ground upThe shift from riding 90% physical to 90% mental, and why experience is an asset in horsemanshipEpisode SponsorConnaway & Associates The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance.Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.In Stride Is Brought to You by Ride iQRide iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches.Members also get:Weekly live Q&As with equestrian expertsExclusive podcast episodesDressage test prep resourcesA supportive learning communityStart your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com

This Week on In Stride  Sinead Halpin-Maynard sits down with Amber Marshall to explore the surprising parallels between horsemanship and acting, and what it looks like when a teenage English rider finds her true home in Alberta's cowboy culture.Meet the Guest: Amber Marshall  Amber Marshall is best known for her role as Amy Fleming in Heartland, CBC's beloved drama and Canada's longest-running one-hour scripted drama, now in its 19th season. Born and raised in London, Ontario, Amber began riding at age five and started pursuing acting in theatre at eight. As a teenager, she moved to Alberta to film the pilot of Heartland and never looked back. Today, she lives on a hobby farm outside of Calgary with her husband. She is a passionate advocate for animal welfare, with a focus on fostering and spay/neuter initiatives.In This Episode, Sinead and Amber Discuss:How growing up as an English rider and transitioning into Western and cowboy culture shaped both her identity and her character of Amy Fleming over 19 seasonsThe unexpected overlap between acting and horsemanship and why the subtle body language you learn with horses translates directly to compelling performance on screenThe behind-the-scenes reality of working with horses on a TV set, from casting and sourcing animals to the concept of "actor action" (creating the illusion of training without actually training)What working ranch horses taught her about partnership, trust, and the true meaning of a horse with a jobEpisode SponsorConnaway & Associates The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance. Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.In Stride Is Brought to You by Ride iQRide iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches.Members also get:Weekly live Q&As with equestrian expertsExclusive podcast episodesDressage test prep resourcesA supportive learning communityStart your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com

This Week on In Stride Sinead Halpin-Maynard sits down with Boyd Martin for a candid conversation about the mindset, resilience, and relentless drive behind a career at the top of international eventing.Meet the Guest: Boyd Martin Boyd Martin is an Australian-born event rider who competes for the United States at the highest levels of the sport. A four-time Olympian, he has represented the U.S. at London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024. At the 5* level, Boyd has won the Kentucky Three-Day Event twice and captured the inaugural Maryland 5 Star in 2021. In 2025, he reached FEI World No. 1, the first American event rider to hold the top ranking in 21 years.In This Episode, Sinead and Boyd Discuss:The evolution of Boyd’s “champion’s mindset” and balancing authenticity with public persona on social mediaNavigating setbacks, from injuries and disappointment to tough business decisions and shifting prioritiesThe importance of building and leading a strong support team at every level of the sportHow to foster mental strength, embrace pressure, and find joy in the day-to-day journeyEpisode SponsorConnaway & Associates The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance. -  Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.In Stride Is Brought to You by Ride iQRide iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches.Members also get:Weekly live Q&As with equestrian expertsExclusive podcast episodesDressage test prep resourcesA supportive learning communityStart your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.comLooking for More?Join Boyd Martin and Natalie Hummel on May 21 at 5pm PT / 8pm ET for a free live Mid-Season Reset Webinar designed to help riders break out of pressure patterns, reset mentally and emotionally, and regain confidence before the rest of the season slips away. This powerful conversation will give athletes practical tools to navigate setbacks, recover faster after mistakes, and perform under pressure.Register here: https://championscode.us/live

This Week on In Stride Sinead Halpin-Maynard welcomes Sarah Segal to talk about her unconventional journey from New York City to the international show jumping stage, the realities of chasing opportunities in a competitive sport, and the joy found in deep partnerships with remarkable horses. Meet the Guest: Sarah Segal Sarah Segal is an accomplished international show jumper who has represented the United States in international Nations Cup competitions, including the Longines League of Nations Abu Dhabi CSIO5*. A Princeton University graduate, she has earned top results at the CSI3*, CSI5*, and Grand Prix levels throughout her career, including team gold at the North American Young Rider Championships. In addition to her competitive success, Segal has spent many years riding and training alongside Olympic medalist Chris Kappler at Chris Kappler Inc. In This Episode, Sinead and Sarah Discuss: • Navigating the path from passionate horse-crazy kid in the city to Nations Cup competitor • The logistics, stress, and excitement behind transporting horses across continents (from Miami to Abu Dhabi) • The value of building a supportive, collaborative barn culture and prioritizing top-quality horse care • Choosing substance over social media, focusing on meaningful routines, and creating opportunities at every level of the sport Episode Sponsor Connaway & Associates The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance. -  Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.  In Stride Is Brought to You by Ride iQ Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get: - Weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts - Exclusive podcast episodes - Dressage test prep resources - A supportive learning community Start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com 

Ride iQ is currently offering a special Kentucky Legacy Rate - a 20% lifetime discount on membership, available for one week only. Use code LEGACY at Ride-iQ.com to lock in your savings for as long as you remain a member. This Week on In Stride Sinead Halpin-Maynard sits down with Chris Irwin for an in-depth exploration of authentic horsemanship, the science behind equine connection, and the courage to question longstanding traditions in the horse world. Meet the Guest: Chris Irwin Chris Irwin is a renowned horseman, trainer, clinician, and author known for his innovative and compassionate approach to horsemanship. As the creator of the Mind Your Horse Method, he blends principles of psychology, communication, and equine behavior. Chris has worked with riders and trainers around the world, earning a reputation for transforming challenging horses and creating lasting change through improved understanding and trust. Through his online courses, live clinics, and educational programs, he provides riders with practical tools to develop feel, emotional awareness, and clear communication. In This Episode, Sinead and Chris Discuss: • Chris’s foundational “push, block, draw” framework for communicating with horses • Why mastering the subtle nuances of posture, intention, and presence can profoundly transform horse-human relationships • How recognizing trauma in horses can lead to genuine rehabilitation and trust • Stories from Chris’s decades-long journey from wild mustangs to international clinics • Strategies for integrating empathy, ethics, and personal growth into riding Episode Sponsor Connaway & Associates The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance. -  Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.  In Stride Is Brought to You by Ride iQ Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get: - Weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts - Exclusive podcast episodes - Dressage test prep resources - A supportive learning community Start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com

This Week on In Stride Sinead Halpin-Maynard welcomes top event rider Karen O’Neal for an honest conversation about perseverance, chasing big dreams at any age, and building a life around horses. Meet the Guest: Karen O’Neal Karen O’Neal is an accomplished event rider, trainer, and coach with well over 100 first-place victories in national and international eventing and show jumping competitions. She is a widely recognized competitor and a USEA ICP Level IV Certified instructor, known for her ability to develop both horses and riders through the levels. Through her training program, Karen focuses on producing confident, competitive horses while helping riders build strong fundamentals, effective communication, and long-term success in the sport. In This Episode, Sinead and Karen Discuss: Karen’s journey to her first Kentucky 5* at age 55, including early days riding, balancing horses with motherhood, and building her training business across the West Coast The unexpected rise of Clooney, a quirky young horse who gradually revealed his potential for the upper levels, and the power of choosing horses by intuition rather than pedigree What it takes to continue riding and competing at the highest level later in life, from embracing constant learning and coaching to prioritizing fitness and health Advice for riders whose paths aren’t linear, why it’s never too late to reach a dream, and the importance of community, adaptability, and finding fulfillment in the everyday journey with horses Episode Sponsor Connaway & Associates The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance. -  Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.  In Stride Is Brought to You by Ride iQ Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get: - Weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts - Exclusive podcast episodes - Dressage test prep resources - A supportive learning community Start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com Looking for More? Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving?  Dr. Erica Lacher’s Horse Health Essentials eight-part program is available now. -  Save 35% with code POD35 at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health. Ask An Expert is your go-to podcast for practical, real-world advice from top equestrian professionals.  -  Listen anywhere: https://pod.link/1776969830

This Week on In Stride Sinead Halpin-Maynard sits down with legendary dressage rider and coach Lendon Gray for a discussion about legacy, learning, and growing the sport for future generations. Meet the Guest: Lendon Gray Lendon Gray is an American dressage rider, instructor, and author who has had a significant impact on the sport both in competition and education. She represented the United States in international competition, competing at the 1988 Olympic Games and qualifying for the 1980 Olympic team, and has also competed at World Championships and other top events. Beyond her competitive career, she is the founder of Dressage4Kids, a nonprofit organization that provides educational and competitive opportunities for young riders while helping develop the next generation of horsemen. In This Episode, Sinead and Lendon Discuss: The extraordinary journey with Seldom Seen, a “pony” who became an icon at a time when only big, fancy imports were expected to succeed and how their remarkable partnership challenged the norms of dressage Navigating setbacks and pushback from both national and international powers as Lendon Gray paved her own path, and what it taught her about resilience and belief in the “average” horse Making the leap from rider to teacher, and the inspiration behind founding Dressage4Kids, an organization now offering a wide range of educational and competitive opportunities to young equestrians The evolution of dressage in America, why foundational horsemanship still matters, and how Lendon is preparing the next wave of trainers, professionals, and lifelong lovers of horses for success beyond the show ring Episode Sponsor Connaway & Associates The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance. -  Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.  In Stride Is Brought to You by Ride iQ Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get: - Weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts - Exclusive podcast episodes - Dressage test prep resources - A supportive learning community Start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com Looking for More? Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving?  Dr. Erica Lacher’s Horse Health Essentials eight-part program is available now. -  Save 35% with code POD35 at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health. Ask An Expert is your go-to podcast for practical, real-world advice from top equestrian professionals.  -  Listen anywhere: https://pod.link/1776969830

This Week on In Stride Sinead Halpin-Maynard welcomes top event rider and show jumper Marilyn Little for a conversation about resilience, reinvention, and pushing the boundaries at the top levels of the sport. Meet the Guest: Marilyn Little Marilyn Little is an American eventing and show jumping rider known for her success across multiple disciplines at the highest levels of the sport. She has represented the United States in international eventing competitions, including the Pan American Games, where she earned both team and individual gold medals in 2015. In addition to her achievements in eventing, Marilyn has competed successfully in international show jumping at the Grand Prix level, demonstrating her versatility and horsemanship. In This Episode, Sinead and Marilyn Discuss: Marilyn’s return to show jumping after stepping away and how a special mare named Contessa reignited her passion How growing up as a professional’s daughter informed her approach to horses, competition, and handling the intense emotions both in and out of the saddle The unique mental and emotional demands of elite sport: managing nerves, building confidence, and learning how to thrive outside your comfort zone The roadmap to LA 2028 and what’s next for Team USA show jumping, with insights into team selection and preparation for the games Episode Sponsor Connaway & Associates The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance. -  Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.  In Stride Is Brought to You by Ride iQ Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get: - Weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts - Exclusive podcast episodes- Dressage test prep resources - A supportive learning community Start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com Looking for More? Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving?  Dr. Erica Lacher’s Horse Health Essentials eight-part program is available now. -  Save 35% with code POD35 at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health. Ask An Expert is your go-to podcast for practical, real-world advice from top equestrian professionals.  -  Listen anywhere: https://pod.link/1776969830