Taking the Reins
Hosted by Mississippi State Extension specialist and professor Clay Cavinder, Taking the Reins is a podcast for all equine enthusiasts!
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In this episode of Taking the Reins, Clay Cavinder sits down with Helen Hardy, the Manager of Youth Development at the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA). Helen shares her journey to one of the most impactful roles at AQHA and offers insight into the importance of youth programming for the future of the association and the industry as a whole. From grassroots involvement to national leadership, we explore how engaging and empowering young horsemen and horsewomen today helps shape a stronger tomorrow. Whether you're a seasoned AQHA member or just getting involved, this episode is packed with inspiration and purpose.
In this empowering episode, Dr. Lindsey Valdiviez shares her incredible journey from the world of horseback riding to becoming an internal medicine resident. Growing up showing horses and competing in equestrian at the NCAA level at Baylor, Lindsey faced many obstacles along the way—yet each challenge only fueled her determination to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor. She reflects on how the lessons she learned in the saddle—resilience, discipline, and focus—helped her conquer the tough moments in her life. If you’ve ever faced setbacks or wondered if you can truly achieve your dreams, this episode will inspire you to keep pushing forward, no matter the hurdles. Tune in for a powerful story about perseverance, grit, and the unwavering belief that your dreams are always within reach.
In this episode of Taking the Reins, we sit down with Keyton Stone of Big Ridge Performance Horses in Baldwyn, MS. Keyton shares his expert insights on the critical role a reputable horseman plays in the equine purchasing process. From avoiding scams to identifying red flags that lead to dishonest dealings, we dive deep into how to navigate the sometimes tricky world of buying horses. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the equine world, this episode provides valuable advice to help ensure your next horse purchase is a success. Tune in to learn how to make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls in the industry.
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In this episode of Taking the Reins, Clay Cavinder sits down with Cole Cameron, a nationally recognized horsemanship clinician who made waves by winning the prestigious Road to the Horse in 2021 and claiming a runner-up spot in 2023. Cole shares his insights on what truly matters when it comes to communicating with horses, emphasizing the importance of clear, consistent signals and building trust with your equine partner. He also dives deep into the psychology of teaching horses, offering a fascinating look at how understanding a horse’s mind can lead to better training and stronger connections. Whether you’re an experienced rider or just getting started, Cole’s expertise will give you new perspectives on your horsemanship journey.
Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that will help you understand not just the how, but the why behind working with horses!
In this episode of Taking the Reins, host Clay Cavinder provides a brief recap of episodes 31-40, reflecting on the key moments, insights, and progress made throughout the previous episodes. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the journey so far, as Clay delves into the highlights and takeaways from the past discussions. Additionally, Clay offers a preview of what's to come, giving listeners a glimpse into the exciting future of the podcast. Tune in for an engaging reflection and an exciting look ahead!
