No Stupid Questions with Laine Ashker: The Right Way to Build a Stronger, Fitter Horse and Rider

Let’s talk about the gap - the space between where you are and where you want to be in the horse world. It’s frustrating.  It’s overwhelming.  And sometimes, it feels impossible to cross.  You work hard. You love the sport. But the path to high-performance riding, a real career in horses, or even just feeling like you belong in this industry? It’s blurry. The people at the top make it look effortless, but the truth is, the real lessons happen behind closed barn doors—where most riders never get to go. That’s why we’re sitting down with Baylee McKeever, 2023 Young Rider Individual Gold Medalist with her horse Formidable, and someone who grew up inside one of the most elite programs in the world. As the daughter of Lee and Erica McKeever—two of the most respected professionals in the sport and longtime cornerstones of McLain Ward’s program—Baylee has had a front-row seat to the daily grind, discipline, and decision-making that define success at the highest level.  Now, she’s carving her own path, learning what actually separates top riders from the rest, and navigating the realities of being a young professional in an industry that doesn’t hand out freebies. In this episode, Baylee shares: A behind-the-scenes look at high-performance sport—what it’s really like growing up inside an Olympic-level program and the daily habits that separate top riders. The reality of being a young professional—balancing riding, grooming, and competition, plus the challenges no one talks about when making horses a career. How Gen Z is changing the ride—from using technology and social media to redefining career paths and success in the equestrian industry. If you’ve ever felt like you’re missing the key to performing at a higher level, this episode is for you. The answers aren’t in a rulebook. They’re in conversations like this. -------------------------------------- You can follow Baylee on social media: www.instagram.com/bayleemckeever/  www.tiktok.com/@baylee.mckeever And learn more about McLain Ward: https://www.mclainward.com/ https://www.facebook.com/mclain.ward  https://www.instagram.com/mclainward.official/  And you can follow us on instagram too! Click here 👉  instagram.com/dearhorseworld/ -------------------------------------- If you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share with those you know in the Horse World - it really helps us grow. And for even more expert-led workshops, in-depth courses, and exclusive lectures designed to elevate your riding and horsemanship, visit NoelleFloydPlus.com and use code 'DHW' for 15% off annual memberships! NF+ brings you direct access to top equestrian professionals, training insights, and a passionate community of riders dedicated to learning and improving.

The connection you’re longing for with your horse might not come from doing more—but from doing less. In this episode, Argentinian horseman Cristóbal Scarpati introduces doma india, an ancestral form of liberty training where trust, presence, and emotional clarity matter more than tools or technique.  Raised in a family of master horsemen and now teaching globally alongside his son, Perito, Cristóbal brings a rare blend of wisdom, humility, and heart to the conversation. Whether you’ve never heard of doma india or you’ve been searching for a more intuitive, soulful path with your horse, this episode will open your eyes to what’s possible—without ropes, tools, or force.  You’ll walk away with: A powerful understanding of doma india and its cultural roots Insight into how emotional regulation impacts connection Practical shifts to bring more trust and freedom into your horsemanship A deeper sense of belonging to something timeless, respectful, and real This is horsemanship as a relationship—not a method. Tune in and be inspired. Opening images credit:  @DomaIndiaScarpati  &  @RoadtotheHorseOfficial  You can follow Cristóbal on social media: instagram.com/cristobal_scarpati and learn more about Doma India Scarpati at www.scarpatihorsemanship.com/ or facebook.com/scarpatidomaindia instagram.com/scarpatidomaindia/ And you can follow us on instagram too! Click here 👉 instagram.com/dearhorseworld/ --------------------------------------  If you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and leave a review - it really helps us grow. For even more expert-led workshops, in-depth courses, and exclusive lectures designed to elevate your riding and horsemanship, visit NoelleFloydPlus.com and use code 'DHW' for 15% off annual membership. NF+ brings you direct access to top equestrian professionals, training insights, and a passionate community of riders dedicated to learning and improving.

What do horses really see when they look at us? According to Tik Maynard, it’s not just our cues or commands—it’s who we are in that moment. In this powerful episode, taken from Tik’s NF+ Masterclass Understanding Horse Behavior, he shares how our emotional state, body language, and inner awareness deeply influence how our horses respond. And the timing couldn’t be more fitting: Tik has just made history as a two-time Road to the Horse Champion. Often called the World Championship of Colt Starting, Road to the Horse is one of the most prestigious and influential events in the equestrian world. It’s not just a test of training—it’s a test of character. Competitors are given untouched colts and just a few hours to build trust, partnership, and a solid foundation, all under the watchful eye of a live audience. Past icons of the event include Stacy Westfall, Pat Parelli, Clinton Anderson, and Jonathan Field—horsemen and women who helped shape modern horsemanship as we know it. Winning once puts your name in the history books. Winning twice, back-to-back, places Tik in rare company—and proves that empathy, clarity, and feel aren’t just ideals. They’re tools for greatness. In this episode, you’ll learn how to: Build a deeper, calmer connection by understanding how your energy shapes your horse’s responses Create trust and willingness through slow, thoughtful interactions that honor your horse’s emotional state Train with patience and clarity by recognizing the stages your horse goes through when facing something new Communicate with meaning by redefining “trust” and “respect” in ways that actually make sense to your horse This episode is a powerful reflection on horsemanship and what it truly means to show up with intention, humility, and presence. Tik shares the same principles that led him to the top of Road to the Horse—not through force, but through feel. The mindset that builds trust in the round pen doesn’t stop there. It shapes how we lead, connect, and grow in every part of life. When we choose clarity over control and presence over pressure, our horses feel it—and so does everything else around us. -------------------------------------- If you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe or follow, like, and leave a review - it really helps us grow.  Don't forget to follow us over on Instagram for more insights, BTS and more 👉 instagram.com/dearhorseworld  -------------------------------------- For even more expert-led workshops, in-depth courses, and exclusive lectures designed to elevate your riding and horsemanship, visit NoelleFloydPlus.com and use code 'DHW' for 15% off annual memberships! NF+ brings you direct access to top equestrian professionals, training insights, and a passionate community of riders dedicated to learning and improving.

What does it mean to ride with honesty - not just with your hands and legs, but with your whole being? In this raw and refreshingly real conversation, legendary eventer William Fox-Pitt joins host Noelle Floyd to talk about far more than medals and milestones.  With 14 five-star wins, multiple Olympic medals, and the distinction of being the first rider in history to win five different five-stars, William is one of the most iconic horsemen of our time. But in this episode, he opens up about the moments between the headlines - the brutal fall that put him in a coma, the comeback that defied medical odds, and the inner compass that’s guided his life with horses for over four decades.  Together, they explore: The concept of congruency and why horses respond to truth in motion Why he believes simplicity is underrated, both in horses and in people The evolution of eventing and the deeper cost of chasing perfection Why some horses “just do things” for certain riders - and how to become one of them  His refreshingly honest take on legacy, aging, and letting go of the iconic identity With equal parts humility and wisdom, William reflects on the horses who made his career - and why, in the end, it was never really about the win You can follow William Fox-Pitt on social media: 📱 www.instagram.com/william.foxpitt 📱 www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100044555524188 💻 www.william-foxpitt.co.uk Learn more about Fox-Pitt Evening https://www.foxpitteventing.co.uk/ And you can follow us on instagram too! Click here 👉 www.instagram.com/dearhorseworld -------------------------------------- If you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and leave a review - it really helps us grow. You can also check out the rest of the series  @noellefloyd_plus  - just hit the playlist tab for more Dear Horse World episodes. For even more expert-led workshops, in-depth courses, and exclusive lectures designed to elevate your riding and horsemanship, visit NoelleFloydPlus.com and use code 'DHW' for 15% off annual memberships! NF+ brings you direct access to top equestrian professionals, training insights, and a passionate community of riders dedicated to learning and improving.

You train hard. You show up. You put in the miles. But when your horse runs out of steam mid-course, struggles to recover, or worse - ends up sore or injured - you start asking yourself: Am I doing this right? The reality is that most riders don’t have a real fitness plan. They either under-condition, leaving their horse weak and unprepared, or push too hard too soon, risking injury and burnout. And without clear guidance, it’s all too easy to fall into the trap of just “riding more” and hoping for the best. Laine Ashker is a five-star event rider, Grand Prix dressage competitor, and fitness expert.  She’s conditioned top-level horses across disciplines and knows exactly what it takes to build strength, stamina, and soundness—without second-guessing every ride. In this No Stupid Questions episode, you’ll learn: The biggest mistakes riders make when conditioning—and how to fix them How to tell if your horse is actually fit enough (most aren’t) The exact trot and canter sets Lainey uses to build endurance and topline How to get your horse fit—even if you don’t have hills, gallop tracks, or ideal facilities Why Warmbloods and Thoroughbreds need different approaches—and what that means for your program Whether you’re training for a competition or just want your horse to feel stronger and more balanced, this episode will give you the confidence and clarity to create a smarter, more effective fitness plan - one that protects your horse’s health while setting you both up for success. You can follow Laine Ashker on social media:  instagram.com/laineyea tiktok.com/@laineashker www.facebook.com/laineyea Or head to her website: http://laineashkereventinganddressage.com/ -------------------------------------- If you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and leave a review - it really helps us grow!   To join Laine on a guided ride - and to delve into more expert-led workshops, in-depth courses, and exclusive lectures designed to elevate your riding and horsemanship, visit NoelleFloydPlus.com and start your 7-day FREE TRIAL today!  NF+ brings you direct access to top equestrian professionals, training insights, and a passionate community of riders dedicated to learning and improving.

Winning against the odds. Every rider dreams of that breakthrough moment - the one that proves all the early mornings, setbacks, and sacrifices were worth it. For Emilie Conter, that moment came in spectacular fashion at the five-star Bainbridge Grand Prix during week nine of WEF. On International Women’s Day, Emilie didn’t just compete - she beat the best in the world, out-riding top names like Henrik von Eckermann and Harry Charles to claim her first five-star Grand Prix victory.  But this win was about more than just one round. It was the culmination of years of dedication, a deep partnership with her incredible mare Bella, and the guidance of her legendary trainer Helena Stormmans. What you’ll learn: How patience, consistency, and the right training transformed a "slow" young mare into a five-star superstar. The underrated skill that top riders rely on for success. Mental strategies to silence overthinking and step into the ring with confidence. The power of an uplifting coach (and how a bet over a horse trailer proved a horse’s potential). Inside the legendary Stephex horse empire and what it’s like growing up in a world-class equestrian business. Whether you’re an aspiring Grand Prix rider or just love hearing how patience, belief, and the right training can triumph, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and unforgettable moments.  You can follow Emilie's journey on social media:  📱instagram.com/emilie_conter  -------------------------------------- If you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and leave a review - it really helps us grow. You can also check out the rest of the series  @noellefloyd_plus  - just hit the playlist tab for more Dear Horse World episodes. For even more expert-led workshops, in-depth courses, and exclusive lectures designed to elevate your riding and horsemanship, visit NoelleFloydPlus.com and start your 7-day FREE TRIAL today! NF+ brings you direct access to top equestrian professionals, training insights, and a passionate community of riders dedicated to learning and improving. ---------------------------------------- This episode is brought to you by Connaway & Associates Equine Insurance Services, Inc. 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 to explore options, or get in touch today. 📱 instagram.com/connawayassociates  📱 www.facebook.com/people/Connaway-Associates-Equine-Insurance-Services-Inc/100063556540763/

What if the greatest horsemen weren’t defined by their techniques, but by their ability to truly understand the horse? In this episode of Dear Horse World, we pick up where we left off with Martin Black in part 2, continuing our deep dive into the philosophies of two of the most influential figures in horsemanship - Tom Dorrance and Ray Hunt. Tom, the quiet observer with an almost instinctive connection to horses, and Ray, the bold and relentless teacher, each left a lasting impact on the horse world. Through personal stories and reflections, Martin shares what made these men so extraordinary - their ability to read a horse, their understanding of feel and timing, and the lessons they left behind for future generations. But this episode isn’t just about looking back - it’s about how their wisdom continues to shape horsemanship today. From the balance between tradition and evolution to the role of mentorship and education, Martin offers invaluable insights for anyone looking to deepen their connection with horses. If you’ve ever wondered what made these legends so impactful—or how their insights can still transform the way we work with horses today—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.  To learn more from Martin Black, and access a number of links & resources, visit his website:  🌍 https://martinblack.net/ If you'd like to watch the virtual clinic referenced in this episode with Martin Black & Dr. Steve Peters - Evidence-Based Horsemanship: Timing, Rhythm and Synchrony - you can do so here: https://martinblack.net/shop/originally-aired-2-18-25-ebh-timing-rhythm-and-synchrony Or follow him on socials at: 📱 instagram.com/y6martinblack/ 📺  @MartinBlackhorsemanship  -------------------------------------------------------------- Start Your Journey with NOËLLE FLOYD+ Unlock more exclusive content, in-depth training, and behind-the-scenes insights with NOËLLE FLOYD+. Start your journey today with a free trial – join the community and elevate your equestrian knowledge! 🌍 Website: noellefloydplus.com 📲 Instagram: instagram.com/noellefloyd

Make sure you've hit subscribe to Dear Horse World, wherever you get your podcasts, so you don't miss part 2 of our conversation with Martin Black.  What if the true magic of horsemanship isn’t in perfecting techniques or equipment, but in forming a deeper, intuitive bond with your horse? In this episode, we explore how shifting from rigid methods to a relationship-driven approach can transform not only your training, but your entire partnership with your horse. We’re joined by Martin Black, a master of traditional horsemanship who blends the time-honored Vaquero methods with modern, evidence-based practices. Martin has shaped countless horses, starting 500 colts a year and learning from legends like Ray Hunt—his former father-in-law—and Tom Dorrance, the godfather of natural horsemanship. Tom’s influence on the world of horsemanship is immense, and in this episode, Martin shares how his teachings have profoundly impacted the way we communicate with horses. But this isn’t just about history—it’s about rethinking horsemanship itself. Martin reflects on a time when the lines between English and Western disciplines weren’t so clear, when instinct, intuition, and partnership mattered more than labels. What can the English world learn from the cowboys of the Idaho mountains? And what can the Western world take from the English approach? Martin’s insights will change the way you think about discipline and deepen your relationship with your horse. If you've ever felt frustrated by rigid training methods or yearned for fluidity between disciplines, this episode is the wisdom you’ve been waiting for. The book referenced at the start of this episode was Evidence-Based Horsemanship by Dr. Stephen Peters & Martin Black. To learn more from Martin Black, and access a number of links & resources, visit his website:  🌍 https://martinblack.net/ Or follow him on socials at: 📱 instagram.com/y6martinblack/ 📺  @MartinBlackhorsemanship  -------------------------------------------------------------- Start Your Journey with NOËLLE FLOYD+ Unlock more exclusive content, in-depth training, and behind-the-scenes insights with NOËLLE FLOYD+. Start your journey today with a free trial – join the community and elevate your equestrian knowledge! 🌍 Website: noellefloydplus.com 📲 Instagram: instagram.com/noellefloyd

What Is Your Horse’s Behavior Trying to Tell You? Does your horse’s behavior leave you feeling frustrated or confused? Whether they’re spooky, stubborn, reactive, or distant, every action your horse takes is trying to communicate something important. In this podcast, Josh Nichol, the founder of Relational Horsemanship, will guide you to decode those behaviors, uncover the root causes, and build a partnership rooted in trust and balance. You’ll learn how to understand your horse’s relational needs, release stored tension, and create a safe, willing connection. With Josh’s proven techniques like body mapping and energy awareness, you’ll gain the tools and confidence to turn challenges into opportunities for growth. In this podcast, you’ll discover:  What your horse’s behavior is really saying—and how to respond effectively. How to address the root causes of tension, resistance, and reactivity.  Simple, daily techniques to create trust, balance, and willingness. Imagine a horse that feels safe, willing, and eager to connect. This podcast will show you how to make that vision a reality. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, this session is your chance to unlock the partnership you’ve always wanted.  —-----------------------  Exclusive NF+ Offer: Josh Nichol’s Horsemanship Case Studies Ready to elevate your horsemanship journey? Dive into “Josh Nichol’s Horsemanship Case Studies,” an NF+ exclusive that goes beyond theory into real-world practice. In this series, witness Josh working with three distinct horse-and-rider pairs as he transforms common challenges into breakthroughs in understanding and trust. If you’re seeking a fresh, proven approach to overcome frustration and miscommunication, this case studies series is your next step. Now streaming exclusively on NF+ Plus, enjoy 25% off an annual NF+ membership with the code JOSH25 at noellefloyd.com. Embrace a new path to connection and let your horse’s true message shine through. --------------------------------------------------------------- Learn more from Josh Nichols, or follow him on socials: 🌍 Website: joshnichol.com 📺 YouTube:  @JoshNicholAHorsemansPursuit 📲 Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshnicholahorsemanspursuit/ 📲 Facebook: www.facebook.com/AHorsemansPursuit --------------------------------------------------------------- Start Your Journey with NOËLLE FLOYD+ Unlock more exclusive content, in-depth training, and behind-the-scenes insights with NOËLLE FLOYD+. Start your journey today with a free trial – join the community and elevate your equestrian knowledge!   🌍 Website: noellefloydplus.com 📲 Instagram: instagram.com/noellefloyd

Show jumping has a problem—and no one is talking about it. Dangerous course designs are putting horses and riders at unnecessary risk, but the industry’s resistance to change keeps real reform just out of reach. Riders are expected to “tough it out,” officials move slowly, and speaking up could mean jeopardizing sponsorships and career opportunities. Enter Harry Charles, the 25 year-old Olympic show jumper who’s refusing to stay silent. In this episode, Harry pulls back the curtain on what’s really happening in course design, why these risks persist, and what needs to change before more serious accidents occur. He shares firsthand insights from his own near-career-ending fall, the backlash and support he's received for speaking out, and what he believes the future of show jumping should look like.  What You’ll Take Away from This Episode:  A New Awareness of Course Safety Risks – Why certain jumps are more dangerous and how they impact riders at all levels. Behind-the-Scenes at Elite Show Jumping – Harry’s journey from growing up in an Olympic equestrian family to competing at the highest level. How to Advocate for Safer Riding – Practical tips for assessing course risks and making informed decisions in competition. The Future of Show Jumping – What’s at stake for the sport’s longevity if safety concerns aren’t addressed. Why This Matters to Every Rider - Whether you’re a pro or an amateur, understanding these risks can help keep you and your horse safer. From growing up in an Olympic equestrian family to challenging long-standing traditions, Harry’s story is one of breaking barriers and pushing for progress.  If you care about the safety, longevity, and evolution of show jumping, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Listen now and be part of the conversation that could change the sport.  You can read the full post discussed in this episode on the Heathcroft Farm Facebook page, home of the Charles family's show jumping stables, here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15tKduLBht/ And read Harry's interview after the post with Horse and Hound here: https://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/harry-charles-call-change-after-fall-at-double-883579 -------------------------------------- You can follow Harry's journey on social media: 📱instagram.com/harrycharles_1  📱facebook.com/harrycharlesshowjumping  🌎 www.harry-charles.com You can keep up to date with the Charles' Show Jumping stables at Heathcroft Farm: https://www.facebook.com/heathcroftfarm -------------------------------------- If you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and leave a review - it really helps us grow. You can also check out the rest of the series  @noellefloyd_plus  - just hit the playlist tab for more Dear Horse World episodes. For even more expert-led workshops, in-depth courses, and exclusive lectures designed to elevate your riding and horsemanship, visit NoelleFloydPlus.com and start your 7-day FREE TRIAL today!  NF+ brings you direct access to top equestrian professionals, training insights, and a passionate community of riders dedicated to learning and improving.  ---------------------------------------- This episode is brought to you by Connaway & Associates Equine Insurance Services, Inc. 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 to explore options, or get in touch today.  📱 instagram.com/connawayassociates  📱 facebook.com/people/Connaway-Associates-Equine-Insurance-Services-Inc/100063556540763/