One-on-One with Foundations Certification Graduate, Paige Whittaker

In this week's episode, I am joined by Nikki Eggert, owner and operator of Never Stop Believing Performance Horses based out of Sauk Rapids, MN. Nikki is a recent graduate of our ⁠Foundations Certification Program⁠ and a true example of how self-image and belief can transform your life and horsemanship.Nikki shares her journey through the Certification Program — a process she describes as “truly life changing.” We talk about the mindset shifts, faith, and daily habits that helped her reshape her confidence, grow her business, and strengthen her connection with her horses.Her approach to horsemanship blends solid fundamentals with a focus on self-talk, goal setting, and mental preparation — building both better horses and stronger riders.Learn more about Nikki's journey and program: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/certification/nikki-eggert

In this week's episode, I am joined by Paige Whittaker, who is a recent graduate of our Foundations Certification Program. When I first met Paige at a clinic in Quinton, VA, it was clear she was a student of the game. She didn’t just show up to improve her horsemanship—she showed up with a desire to grow in every area of her life.Over the past few years, Paige has continued to invest in herself and her program, staying committed to the process and consistently applying what she’s learned. Watching her evolution—as both a person and a professional—has truly been a privilege.Paige is the owner and operator of Still Ridge Farm, a two-generation, family-oriented facility nestled on 37 scenic acres in the heart of Hanover County, Virginia. Still Ridge Farm offers a wide range of services—from equine training and boarding to lessons and camps—all designed to enrich the lives of both animals and people as partnerships are built and strengthened with confidence.Learn more about Paige's journey and program: philhaugenhorsemanship.com/certification/paige-whittaker

The power of committing to the process cannot be overstated. In horsemanship and in life, we’re often conditioned to look for quick results—but the most meaningful transformations are the product of committing to a long-term process. In this episode, I'm sharing an exciting announcement about the launch of our Foundations & Colt Starting Certification Programs—a new opportunity designed to give trainers a framework to commit to their personal and professional growth. Tune in as I share an inside perspective on the transformations I've seen from our first two graduates of the program, as well as some exciting growth moments from our fall clinic season.

In this episode, I talk about a saying I’ve carried with me for many years — never give up and you’ll never fail. It’s a reminder that as long as I keep moving forward, I’m never truly failing. Join me as I share a few thoughts on faith, persistence, and the importance of letting yourself and your horse take risks and make mistakes. The only way to build confidence is to stay in the fight and give yourself the opportunity to learn through trying.

In this episode, I am joined by professional barrel racer and 2025 National Finals Rodeo qualifier, Katie Scott, as she shares her journey from multi-event cowgirl to first-time NFR qualifier. Katie unpacks her life and career leading up to her 2025 WPRA season, as well as the guiding principles that kept her focused, patient, and present when it mattered most.

The changing of seasons always brings about a period of reflection for me. We are entering into a busy fall season both personally and professionally, and while it's easy to look at my calendar and feel overwhelmed, I have to remind myself that being busy is a blessing.In this episode, I'm sharing some reflections from our first clinic of the fall season, some lessons and 'ah-ha' moments gleaned from this experience, and some perspective shifts I am leaning into as we enter into the last quarter of the year. This episode is full of faith, personal growth, and words of encouragement to carry you through this month.

In this week’s episode, I share some reflections from my recent trip to the Riata Buckle roping and how shifting my self image played a key role in my performance. Even without as many competitive runs this year, I’ve learned how powerful it is to mentally rehearse and prepare myself to compete at a high level. I’ll talk about the areas of personal development I’ve been focused on, how I’ve worked to get in the zone, and ways you can replicate a competition environment in your own mind to build confidence and consistency—no matter where you’re at in your training journey.Episode Resources:Learn more about the stallions and training programs mentioned in this episode at eliasonperformancehorses.com.

In this episode, I’m talking about the growing shortage of colt starters in our industry and why it matters for horse owners, breeders, and trainers alike. As more colts are being bred and fewer people are starting them, the demand for skilled colt starters has never been higher. I share some of my thoughts on where the opportunities are heading for those willing to put in the work, along with what I’ve seen in my colt starting mentorships—the transformations that happen when trainers are given the time, support, and real-world experience to do it right. Whether you’re raising colts, riding young horses, or looking at this as a career path, this is an important conversation about the future of horsemanship.

In this episode, I share some thoughts sparked by watching the Pendleton Roundup this week—one of the most unique rodeos out there with its grass arena. What stood out to me was how some riders’ performances looked just as solid on grass as they would in dirt. That kind of consistency doesn’t come by accident. It’s the result of a heightened awareness of horsemanship. In this segment, I share tips for developing better awareness as a rider, improving your balance and timing, and why those fundamentals matter no matter what setting you’re in.

"I’m so far ahead with this horse" - said no one, ever. The truth is, none of us feel 100% “ready” all the time—whether it’s bringing a horse to a clinic, entering a competition, or even stepping into a new opportunity in life. In this episode, I share why confidence isn’t about waiting until everything feels perfect, but about being willing to step outside your comfort zone and learn in the process. I’ll talk about some of the common concerns I hear from trainers, how I’ve experienced the same doubts myself, and why the very thing that makes you nervous is often the exact thing you need to grow.