Sarah Tubman: Bridging the Gap Between Grassroots and Elite Dressage

This Week on In Stride Sinead Halpin-Maynard sits down with Olympic legend Robert Dover for a behind-the-scenes look at life at the pinnacle of equestrian sport, and the lessons learned both in and out of the arena. Meet the Guest: Robert Dover Robert Dover is a six-time Olympic medalist and one of the most influential figures in American dressage, known for his success as both a competitor and coach on the international stage. He represented the United States at six consecutive Olympic Games, earning team bronze medals each time, along with strong results at World Equestrian Games and other international competitions. Following his competitive career, Robert served as chef d’équipe for the U.S. Dressage Team, helping guide American riders in major international championships. Based in Florida, he continues to coach riders of all levels and is widely respected for his expertise and lasting impact on the sport. In This Episode, Sinead and Robert Discuss: • Robert’s journey through a multi-faceted career, from competing at six Olympic Games and winning multiple U.S. national championships to his work in radio and television • How his early experiences shaped his passion for horses and set him on the path to international success • The biggest challenges facing dressage today, including declining participation, rising costs, and the urgent need to bring joy and inclusivity back to the show ring • His commitment to giving back, including the creation of the American Dressage Mentoring Program and decades of work with the Equestrian Aid Foundation 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 is joined by international dressage rider Sarah Tubman for a candid conversation uncovering the realities, challenges, and joys of a life devoted to horses.  Meet the Guest: Sarah Tubman  Sarah Tubman is an international Grand Prix dressage rider and Pan American Games medalist known for her success representing the United States on the global stage. Her achievements include individual gold and team silver at the 2019 Pan American Games in Lima, along with numerous top finishes at international competitions. Based in California and Florida, Sarah runs her own training business, where she develops horses and coaches riders of all levels. She is widely respected for her horsemanship and dedication to producing horses through the levels, as well as her commitment to supporting the next generation of riders.  In This Episode, Sarah and Sinead Discuss:    • The shifting landscape of dressage and what it means for accessibility and the next generation of riders   • Sarah’s journey from living in a tent to afford lessons, to building a thriving business and becoming a top-level competitor   • How Sarah balances the pursuit of Olympic dreams with the realities of horse sales, business, and major life changes   • The power of mentorship, resilience, and genuine connection in the equestrian world   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 is joined by dressage rider and trainer Andrea Woodard to learn about her remarkable journey from Denmark’s rigorous Master Rider program to building a successful training business in Wellington, Florida. Meet the Guest: Andrea Woodard Andrea Woodard is a Danish-trained dressage rider and trainer based in Wellington, Florida. She earned her Master Rider certification through the Danish Equestrian Federation after completing the country’s intensive apprenticeship program and went on to work at Helgstrand Dressage in Denmark. Andrea now runs Woodard Dressage, where she trains riders and develops horses for competition and sale. She is widely recognized for her work in para dressage, including coaching Paralympic gold medalist Roxanne Trunnell and helping guide multiple horse-and-rider partnerships to success at the highest levels of the sport.  In This Episode, Andrea and Sinead Discuss: • Andrea’s path through Denmark’s demanding Master Rider education system • What it was like starting over in the U.S. and building a business in Wellington • How she became involved in para dressage and helped develop Paralympic medal-winning partnerships • The mindset, persistence, and work ethic required to succeed at the highest levels of dressage 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 is joined by Olympic show jumper Peter Wylde to learn about his journey and the insights he’s gained from decades competing and coaching at the highest level.  Meet the Guest: Peter Wylde  Peter Wylde is an Olympic gold medal–winning American show jumper known for both his international competitive success and his influential coaching career. His achievements include team gold at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, individual bronze at the 2002 World Equestrian Games, and both team and individual silver medals at the 1999 Pan American Games. Today, Peter is a sought-after trainer and coach, working with riders across disciplines, including Olympian Boyd Martin and members of the U.S. Eventing Team.   In This Episode, Peter and Sinead Discuss:    • His experience competing as a young rider at a time when it wasn’t common for boys to ride  • Where his appreciation and instinct for coaching came from  • The qualities he believes define a truly successful horse and rider   • How show jumping in eventing and the overall style of riding has evolved over the years    Episode Sponsor EquiHealth App Keep your horse’s training, health records, and goals organized in one place. -  Visit https://www.equihealth.net/ to learn more. 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 is joined by horsemanship trainer Daniel Dauphin to talk about his unconventional path in the horse world and his approach to training, problem-solving, and horsemanship.   Meet the Guest: Daniel Dauphin  Daniel Dauphin is a seasoned horsemanship trainer with decades of experience helping riders and horses of all levels build safer, smarter, and more confident partnerships. He’s widely respected for his deep knowledge of horse behavior and tack, particularly bits and their function, and has worked with thousands of horses and handlers across disciplines. Daniel also hosts the popular podcast Adult Onset Horsemanship, where he shares candid, real-world conversations with respected experts on training, communication, and living well with horses.  In This Episode, Daniel and Sinead Discuss:    • How Daniel got his start with horses and carved out his own path in the industry  • What most riders misunderstand about bits and how they truly affect the horse  • Why developing feel and awareness of where your horse’s feet are matters at every level  • His approach to starting colts and working with problem horses and why it’s so effective  Episode Sponsor EquiHealth App Keep your horse’s training, health records, and goals organized in one place. -  Visit https://www.equihealth.net/ to learn more. 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 is joined by international sports commentator John Kyle for a behind-the-scenes look at life behind the microphone.   Meet the Guest: John Kyle  John Kyle is an international sports commentator whose storytelling and insightful analysis have made him a familiar presence in the equestrian world. He has served as an equestrian commentator at four Summer Olympic Games, including London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024, and has also taken his craft to the Winter Olympic stage at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics and the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Known for blending deep technical knowledge with engaging narrative, John brings clarity and context to eventing and high-performance sport for audiences around the world.  In This Episode, John and Sinead Discuss:    • His role at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics and what it entails  • How his path into commentary unfolded and opportunities opened along the way  • Learning to blend research and knowledge with pace and cadence on air  • The responsibility that comes with representing and shaping the narrative of the sport of eventing    Episode Sponsor EquiHealth App Keep your horse’s training, health records, and goals organized in one place. -  Visit https://www.equihealth.net/ to learn more. 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 episode of Equestrian Mastermind is sponsored by VetCS. VetCS is an equine veterinarian–founded company creating science-backed hemp products for everything from joint support to calming solutions for stressful situations. Their clean, consistent formulas are made by horse people who truly understand horses. Visit https://vetcs.com/pages/in-stride to purchase and use code InStride20 for 20% off.    This is Season 3, Episode 4 of Equestrian Mastermind, featuring world-class riders Phillip Dutton, Tik Maynard, Will Coleman, and Michael Pollard, guided by transformational life coach Natalie Hummel.  In this episode, the group reflects on the idea of legacy and how it shows up in the way they train, compete, and respond when things get hard. They explore what each of them wants their legacy to be, whether their day-to-day choices align with that vision, and what can get in the way of contributing to the sport in the way they truly want to.  Throughout the episode, they discuss:  • What legacy really means and how it ties everything together  • What the sport has given them, and what they feel called to give back  • Why reflection and perspective are essential for knowing if you’re on the right path  • How their daily actions either support or drift away from the values and legacy they hope to leave  Join Natalie, Tik, Michael, Phillip, and Will for the final episode of the season as they bring the conversation full circle and tie everything together.  Equestrian Mastermind  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 playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.     If you want to give it a try, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com⁠.     Want to hear more from Natalie Hummel? Through her Limitless Academy, Natalie offers an 11-month journey designed to help riders reset, rewire, and rise into their full potential by combining nervous system science with elite-level performance coaching. Follow Natalie on social media @nataliehummelcoaching Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.     Ask An Expert is your go-to podcast for practical, real-world advice from top equestrian professionals. From improving your riding to mastering everyday horse care, our experts break it all down. Listen wherever you get your podcasts: https://pod.link/1776969830 

This Week on In Stride    Sinead Halpin-Maynard is joined by Irish event rider and sport horse sales professional Lee Maher to talk about finding his own path in the horse world and building a successful sales program.Meet the Guest: Lee Maher  Lee Maher is an Irish event rider and co-founder of EquiSales International. He has competed through the upper levels of eventing, including a top-10 finish in a CCI2*-L and a 7th-place result in a CCI2*-S at Mill Spring International Horse Park in 2025. While Lee brings extensive competition experience to his work, his true specialty lies in sport horse sales, where he focuses on giving horses a solid foundation and matching them with riders who are the right long-term fit. He works alongside his husband, Chris Talley, and they split their time between Ocala, FL and Charlottesville, VA.  In This Episode, Lee and Sinead Discuss:    • Taking the leap from Ireland to the U.S. and building a career without a traditional background  • The principles behind his sales program and why honesty and fit matter more than fast results  • What it’s like building a business with your spouse and navigating work, life, and time off  • Putting horse welfare first while managing expectations in sales and competition  Episode Sponsor EquiHealth App Keep your horse’s training, health records, and goals organized in one place. -  Visit https://www.equihealth.net/ to learn more. 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 episode of Equestrian Mastermind is sponsored by VetCS. VetCS is an equine veterinarian–founded company creating science-backed hemp products for everything from joint support to calming solutions for stressful situations. Their clean, consistent formulas are made by horse people who truly understand horses. Visit https://vetcs.com/pages/in-stride to purchase and use code InStride20 for 20% off.    This is Season 3, Episode 3 of Equestrian Mastermind, featuring world-class riders Phillip Dutton, Tik Maynard, Will Coleman, and Michael Pollard, guided by transformational life coach Natalie Hummel.  In this episode, the group dives into what becomes possible when there’s enough capacity to access a true flow state. They explore how an optimally regulated nervous system allows flow, and what may be blocking it from getting there. Throughout the episode, they discuss:  • moments when performance felt effortless, and times when everything felt forced and the flow state disappeared • What blocks the nervous system from finding presence and peak performance • A process for returning to presence and peak performance when it feels out of reach Join Natalie, Tik, Michael, Phillip, and Will for a candid conversation on flow, presence, and peak performance under pressure.   Equestrian Mastermind  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 playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable.     If you want to give it a try, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at ⁠Ride-iQ.com⁠⁠.     Want to hear more from Natalie Hummel? Through her ⁠Limitless Academy⁠, Natalie offers an 11-month journey designed to help riders reset, rewire, and rise into their full potential by combining nervous system science with elite-level performance coaching. Follow Natalie on social media ⁠@nataliehummelcoachingWant straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.     Ask An Expert is your go-to podcast for practical, real-world advice from top equestrian professionals. From improving your riding to mastering everyday horse care, our experts break it all down. Listen wherever you get your podcasts: https://pod.link/1776969830 

This Week on In Stride    Sinead is joined by horsemanship trainer Chelsea Canedy to talk about finding purpose, connection, and fulfillment in the horse world.  Meet the Guest: Chelsea Canedy  Chelsea Canedy is known for blending traditional training methods with natural horsemanship, including groundwork, liberty work, and R+ training. Her background in social service and meditation practice informs her practical, relationship-focused approach to improving performance with horses and riders. She is the author of Finding Purpose, has created several Equestrian Masterclasses with Noëlle Floyd, and is a sought-after podcast guest, clinician, and presenter at festivals and expos across the country. Chelsea is based in Wales, Maine, at Unexpected Farm, and spends her winters in Ocala, Florida.  In This Episode, Chelsea and Sinead Discuss:    • Letting go of a single goal and allowing space to explore other paths in the industry  • How blending liberty work, dressage, and jumping creates deeper understanding and connection  • Why teaching a horse “tricks” can improve confidence, relaxation, and postural control  • What horses need from people right now, and why slowing down and seeing them as individuals matters  Episode Sponsors VetCS VetCS is an equine veterinarian–founded company creating science-backed hemp products for joint support, calming, and overall wellness. -  Visit https://vetcs.com/pages/in-stride and use code InStride20 for 20% off. EquiHealth App Keep your horse’s training, health records, and goals organized in one place.-  Visit https://www.equihealth.net/ to learn more. The Equestrian College Advisor Navigate the college search with confidence and find the right fit for academics and riding. -  Learn more at equestriancollegeadvisor.com 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