Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 40, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with Olissio Zoppe, founder, director, and performer in Cirque Ma’Ceo.

To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Angela (Angie) Alspaugh, Executive Director of Easy R Equine Rescue, about Jake, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Barn Banter Episode 40 Sponsor: 4CYTE

Interpath Global, the makers of 4CYTE Epiitalis® Forte for horses is a revolution in joint care. Epiitalis® is their patented ingredient which is scientifically proven to enhance joint health in horses. Supported by world-class research, it is easily digestible and readily absorbed into the body.

How 4CYTE supports your horse:

◆ Supports normal joint function, mobility, and flexibility
◆ Helps maintain the health and resiliency of joints and connective tissue
◆ Supports normal recovery capacity post-work
◆ Aids with maintaining healthy cartilage development
◆ May help address occasional gait irregularity and unwillingness to travel forward
◆ Supports normal movement patterns
◆ Helps maintain career longevity and competitive edge
◆ Eases joint stiffness due to normal daily exercise and activity
◆ Supports ability to meet performance demands

An innovative approach to joint health made possible through research, dedication, and continued improvement. Now available through Allivet, Amazon, Chewy, Smart Equine and Tractor Supply.

Learn more about 4CYTE here.

Olissio Zoppe, Founder, Director, and Performer in Cirque Ma’Ceo

Photo by Stunning Steeds Photography

Cirque Ma’Ceo’s Creator and Director, Olissio Zoppe, hails from a rich Italian line of eighth and ninth generation bareback riders and equestrian performers, the Zoppes and the Zamperlas. He has been performing since the age of four. Olissio is one of the most well-rounded equestrian performers to grace the stage today. Throughout his varied experiences, he has mastered the arts of liberty, dressage, cossack riding, Roman riding, and the rare and dangerous art of bareback riding.

Cirque Ma’Ceo is an emotionally charging, up-close and personal, luxurious experience. The custom-designed Italian Big Top theater features brand-new, state of the art seating. The world of Ma’Ceo is proud to showcase mesmerizing acrobatic feats, aerial dancing, and exotic horses.

Find tickets for upcoming tour dates for Cirque Ma’Ceo February — through April, in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Madison Wisconsin’s Midwest Horse Fair — here.

◆ Cirque Ma’Ceo Website
◆ Follow Cirque Ma’Ceo on Instagram
◆ Follow Cirque Ma’Ceo on Facebook

Adoptable Horse of the Month, Jake

Photo courtesy Easy R Equine Rescue

Jake is quite the horse! He came to Easy R in November 2024 when a small long-standing rescue close in the Texas Panhandle. He was one of the last two horses left at the rescue.

A young Gypsy Vanner cross, Jake is a large, stout guy. He is friendly, curious, and is called an “overgrown toddler” by his foster mom. He is always into something; his personality is as large as he is.

The heartbreaking part of his story is that, even though he was trained under saddle several years ago, he has already developed Degenerative Suspensory Ligament Desmitis (DSLD). At this point, it’s just in his back legs and the condition is not causing him any lameness. However, riding him would be unsafe for both Jake and a rider. Easy R is saddened by this because he has so much potential.

Of course, Jake is totally OK with just being an incredibly handsome yard ornament who loves his food and playing (a little hard sometimes) with his horse friends. His future adoptive parents will have to establish firm but fair boundaries with him so he doesn’t use his size and enthusiasm to push limits. He is ready to provide lots of laughs and eye rolls to his future family.

Learn more about Jake here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 40, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 40: Sponsored by 4CYTE appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 39, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with Linda Nelson, a relatable adult amateur who returned to riding after a 30-year hiatus.

To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Carrie Wood, executive director of Kentucky Equine Adoption Center about Cyclone, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Linda Nelson

Barn Banter episode 39 guest, Linda Nelson. Photo by Josa Comstock Photography

Linda Nelson is a recently retired teacher who found her way back into the saddle after a 30-year hiatus. She has been tracking each ride since April 2022 with a convenient riding app and then online journaling. Her goal is to assess progress and remember the fun as she learns the art of dressage on a leased Lipizzan.

Adoptable Horse of the Month, Cyclone

Cyclone. Photo courtesy Kentucky Equine Adoption Center

Meet Cyclone, a charming filly rescued from the feral herds of eastern Kentucky. She is just beginning her training, but she already shows a big personality and a zest for life, especially when food is involved!

Though still young, Cyclone is already proving to be a willing and engaged partner. She ties well, picks up her feet, and has been excellent for our farrier. She also enjoys a rinse with the hose and accepts fly spray and fly masks without issue.

Cyclone is gaited but has also trotted and cantered freely in the field, and her trainer can encourage either direction. With her intelligence, energy, and eagerness to learn, Cyclone has a bright future ahead and is ready to grow alongside the right person.

Learn more about Cyclone here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 39, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 39 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 38, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with Raquel Lynn—equestrian blogger, entrepreneur, and former co-host of Barn Banter.

To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Maya Proulx, founder and executive director of Hope’s Legacy Equine Rescue, Inc.,  about Uncle Timmy, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Susan’s Equine Affaire booth.

Raquel Lynn, Equestrian Blogger and Entrepreneur

Raquel Lynn with her daughter, London, and her Paint mare, Fira.

Raquel Lynn lives in an equestrian neighborhood in Los Angeles with her husband Adam, daughter London, Paint mare Fira, Mango the Pomeranian, and six Silkie chickens. She runs two blogs: Stable Style and Horses & Heels. When she’s not riding through the hills, she’s sharing barn tours on Stable Style or packing up candles.

With an eye for design and a passion for candles, Raquel launched the Stable Style home collection in 2020. The collection includes luxurious candles with beautiful ombre painted jars, wooden wicks, thoughtful packaging and scrumptious scents. Named after the barn, but meant to be enjoyed at home, these candles make perfect gifts for equestrians.

Raquel also enjoys freelancing for a handful of popular equine magazines, including Horse Illustrated. She is the author of Stable Style: Barn Inspiration for All Equestrians (2020) and Stable Style Volume II (2024), both available on Amazon or stablestyle.shop.

◆ Follow Stable Style on Instagram
◆ Follow Horses & Heels on Instagram

Adoptable Horse of the Month, Uncle Timmy

Uncle Timmy. Photo courtesy Hope’s Legacy Equine Rescue, Inc.

Uncle Timmy is a 3-year-old Thoroughbred gelding who raced three times, most recently September 2024. He came to Hope’s Legacy through a seizure as a stallion and was castrated mid-September 2025. He is good for the vet and farrier, and relatively easy to handle. It is believed he has not been restarted under saddle, but there are no known physical limitations so Uncle Timmy is available as a training project with an experienced rider.

Learn more about Uncle Timmy here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 38, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 38 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 37, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with Coagi Long, president and owner of Equine Affaire.

To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Simon d’Unienville of Healing Heroes Through Horsemanship about Win Often (“Whinny”), Sweetheart, and Virulente (FR) (“Violet”), this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horses.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Coagi Long, President & Owner of Equine Affaire

Barn Banter episode 37 guest Coagi Long.

Coagi Long, president and owner of Equine Affaire, Inc. has more than 20 years of experience with the company in a variety of areas. She joined Equine Affaire in 2003 as a member of the marketing department, where she facilitated numerous promotional projects. She also served as Program Director, and Vice President & Executive Producer between 2006 and 2018.

Coagi now manages the production elements of each event, supervises the day-to-day operations of Equine Affaire, Inc., organizes the extensive program of clinics, seminars, and demonstrations, and coordinates the Fantasia performers and production for each Equine Affaire.

Coagi graduated summa cum laude from the University of Findlay, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree with a dual major in marketing and equestrian studies and a minor in operations and logistics management. With a love for riding and training since her early childhood, she has primarily concentrated on dressage and hunt seat. While at Findlay, she earned several awards, including three consecutive Intercollegiate Hunt Seat National Championship titles and 2003 Intercollegiate Dressage Association Reserve National Champion. Coagi is a member of the United States Dressage Federation and the United States Equestrian Federation. She continues to pursue her competitive career in dressage and trains Warmbloods at her farm in West Mansfield, Ohio.

◆ The Equine Affaire Website
◆ Follow Equine Affaire on Facebook
◆ Follow Equine Affaire on Instagram

Adoptable Horse of the Month from Healing Heroes Through Horsemanship

Win Often (“Whinny”)

Win Often (“Whinny”). Photo courtesy Healing Heroes Through Horsemanship

After 12 starts on the track, with an impressive 9 podium finishes, Whinny retired to a well-earned second career as a broodmare. Now, after raising several lovely foals, this striking and intelligent mare is back under saddle and easing into light work in both English and western tack. She’s the type who knows her job and prefers to take things at her own pace.

Whinny is happiest in a quiet, consistent environment with minimal fuss — enjoying the simple things like turnout time with friends and leisurely trail rides with a calm rider she trusts. She’s not one for endless drilling or pampering sessions, but she appreciates calm, kind handling and clear boundaries.

Her ideal home is one where she can live outdoors most of the time, whether in a small herd or larger group pasture, with someone who values companionship over performance. She would make a wonderful pasture partner, light trail companion, or gentle riding horse for an experienced novice to intermediate who appreciates a mare with personality.

Learn more about Win Often (“Whinny”) here.

Sweetheart

Sweetheart. Photo courtesy Healing Heroes Through Horsemanship

Sweetheart is a 2018 mare whose name truly says it all. After just three starts on the track, it was clear that racing wasn’t her calling. But with her excellent bloodlines and kind temperament, she transitioned naturally into a successful broodmare career, raising three beautiful foals.

Now back under saddle, Sweetheart is showing a willing attitude and a calm, steady nature as she begins her retraining in both English and western tack. She takes each new experience in stride and continues to grow in confidence with consistent handling and patient guidance.

With her conformation, elegant movement, and easygoing disposition, Sweetheart has the potential to shine in a variety of disciplines, whether that’s hunter/jumper, English or western pleasure, trail or more.

True to her name, she’s gentle, level-headed, and a pleasure to have in the barn. She gets along well in a herd, stands quietly for the vet and farrier, and enjoys attention without being pushy. Sweetheart is the kind of mare who makes every day a little brighter — soft-natured, willing, and ready to make someone very happy in her next chapter.

Learn more about Sweetheart here.

Virulente (FR) (“Violet”)

Virulente (FR) (“Violet”). Photo courtesy Healing Heroes Through Horsemanship

Violet is a 2019 mare with an impressive international background and all the elegance you’d expect from her Irish lineage. Born, raised, and started under saddle in France, she showed early talent on the track, earning five in-the-money finishes in just nine starts and breaking her maiden with a win before being imported to California.

After retiring from racing, Violet produced two lovely foals and is now beginning her transition back under saddle. Though still early in her retraining, she’s already showing glimpses of natural balance, scope, and athleticism that suggest real promise for a future in eventing or other sport horse disciplines.

Violet combines refined conformation with a smart, forward-thinking temperament. She’s curious, willing, and enjoys having a job, making her a rewarding prospect for someone who appreciates a talented mare with both class and character.

With her strong European bloodlines, quality movement, and eager attitude, Violet is poised to make an exceptional partner for an experienced rider looking to develop a versatile and athletic prospect.

Learn more about Virulente (FR) (“Violet”) here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 37, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 37 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 36, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with Gideon Kotkowski of Horse People Podcast. Plus, tune in as they talk with sponsored guest Jackie Jolie of EquiSol.

To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Amanda Tucker of New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program about Dennison Girls (AKA Denise), this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Gideon Kotkowski of Horse People Podcast

Barn Banter episode 36 guest Gideon Kotkowski.

Gideon Kotkowski is the host of the Horse People Podcast, where he explores cross-discipline stories from the equestrian world. From authors to entrepreneurs, artists to farriers, veterinarians to professional athletes, his conversations highlight the passion, grit, and creativity that connect everyday horse people. The show resonates with anyone who believes that horses shape not only how we ride, but also how we live.

Gideon’s own background began in polo, where he developed a deep respect for the partnership between horse and rider. That foundation carried him into the Mongol Derby—the world’s longest and toughest horse race—where he tested his horsemanship and endurance across the vast steppes of Mongolia. He finished among the top competitors and was awarded the coveted Spirit of the Derby, the highest honor given to a rider.

When not in the saddle or behind the microphone, Gideon works in the tech industry, helping companies measure, report, and reduce their carbon emissions.

◆ Listen to Horse People Podcast on Apple Podcasts
◆ Listen to Horse People Podcast on Spotify
◆ Follow Horse People Podcast on Instagram

Sponsored Guest: Jackie Jolie of EquiSol

Jackie Jolie of EquiSol.

Meet Jackie Jolie, whose lifelong dedication to animals, especially horses, led her to a distinguished career in equine and canine bodywork. With a Bachelor’s in Equine Health and Rehabilitation, Jackie’s 15-year journey has been shaped by her belief in natural healing processes. Her personal turning point came in 2018 after a diagnosis of Lyme disease, which she overcame through natural treatments and learning all about quantum healing through light, water, and magnetism. Getting certified in Quantum Biology to be able to learn on a deeper level along with using red and infrared light therapy during her recovery led her to a bigger mission. This experience, along with her professional observations, inspired the creation of EquiSol and DogSol: red/infrared light therapy blankets for animals. Jackie’s vision for EquiSol transcends animal healthcare; it’s about enlightening others on the transformative effects of light on overall wellness.

◆ EquiSol Website
◆ Follow EquiSol on Facebook
◆ Follow EquiSol on Instagram

Adoptable Horse of the Month, Dennison Girls (AKA Denise)

Dennison Girls AKA Denise. Photo courtesy New Vocations

Meet Dennison Girls (AKA Denise) a 4-year-old off-the-track Thoroughbred mare. Located in Lexington, Ky., Denise is available for adoption for a non-riding second career as a part of New Vocations’ Pasture Potatoes program for companion Thoroughbreds.

Denise leads well in a plain halter and lead rope. She is forward-thinking while leading, but listens very well to correction and will happily follow us around on a loopy lead. She would prefer to walk over logs and bridges, but is not pushy when asked to stand still, either.

Denise is happiest outside with her friends. She is quiet in her stall but can get antsy in the crossties. Like many former racehorses, Denise does well being groomed tied to the wall of her stall.

Denise is barefoot and eats our normal grain ration. She lives outside full-time in a herd of mares and is very easy to manage.

Learn more about Denise here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 36, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 36 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 35, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with Alyssa Mathews, filmmaker and equestrian YouTuber.

To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Allison Moorehead, volunteer at Horses and Hound Rescue Foundation, about Dawson City, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Alyssa Mathews, Filmmaker and Equestrian YouTuber

Barn Banter episode 35 guest Alyssa Mathews.

Alyssa Mathews is an award-winning filmmaker, equestrian YouTuber, and founder of DiscoverTheHorse—an equine adventure series and breed education project documenting her Quest to ride every horse breed. She has ridden 150 breeds and traveled to 30 countries—so far. Her videos give viewers a chance to ride along, learn what makes each breed special, and discover horses they might not have known about. In 2021, Horse Illustrated recognized her as a “Female Equine Industry Trailblazer.” Her mission is to share horses with others and inspire people to chase their dreams. All videos are available for free on the DiscoverTheHorse YouTube channel.

◆ The DiscoverTheHorse Website
◆ Subscribe to DiscoverTheHorse on YouTube
◆ Follow DiscoverTheHorse on Instagram
◆ Follow DiscoverTheHorse on Facebook

Adoptable Horse of the Month, Dawson City

Photo courtesy Horse and Hound Rescue Foundation

Dawson City is a tall, handsome gelding who knows how to turn heads. With four white feet and a bold, thick blaze, he’s sure to catch everyone’s eye with his striking good looks. Responsibly retired and sound, Dawson is ready for his next chapter.

In the pasture, he’s friendly and easy to catch, but don’t be fooled—Dawson knows he’s hot stuff and holds the top spot in the pecking order. He’s confident and charismatic, making him a standout both in looks and personality.

After some well-deserved downtime, Dawson will be evaluated to see what direction he’s best suited for. He’s waiting to meet his next admirer!

Learn more about Dawson City here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 35, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 35 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 34, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with Solange Ellis, creator and coach of the Stable Riding System and LAB.

To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Amanda Stevens of the Humane Society of North Texas about Jenny, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Solange Ellis, Creator and Coach of the Stable Riding System and LAB

Barn Banter episode 34 guest Solange Ellis.

Solange has been professionally teaching riders and horses for 25 years. Her diverse riding and training experiences lets her teach like no one else. Riders come from all over the country to ride and train with her on horseback and in her custom Rider LAB, including eight Mongolian Derby riders and two Gaucho Derby riders, all of whom went on to complete the world’s longest horse races.

Teaching various different types of riders has shown her what all riders have in common. They all want to be stable on the horse’s back. Stable Riding is designed to keep the rider stable on the horse’s back, using physics and gravity to align both their skeletons so that the horse can move forward freely. Stable Riding is not specific to a riding discipline or horse breed but works in all real-world situations.

Historically, we have burdened horses with the responsibility of our safety. When the rider is unstable and lacks confidence, it affects the overall mental and physical well-being of the horse. If we want to help the horses, we have to help the riders. Solange’s goal is to bring stability to anyone who ever sits on a horse, regardless of their age, athleticism, experience or goals.

• Stable Riding Website
• Follow Stable Riding on Facebook
• Follow Stable Riding on Instagram
• Follow Stable Riding on TikTok

Adoptable Horse of the Month, Jenny

Photo courtesy Humane Society of North Texas

Meet Jenny! This 20-year-old Arabian/Saddlebred cross mare is as sweet as she is beautiful. Jenny is seeking a new home as a companion horse. She has foundered in the past and as a result, she requires turnout on a dry lot or with a grazing muzzle if on lower quality grass. She also requires meds in the form of Prascend and Equioxx to keep her comfortable. This amazing girl deserves a happy home where she can retire and get all the love and attention she deserves.

Jenny is 14.3 hands tall.

This horse is up-to-date on shots, Coggins, dental care, farrier care, and is microchipped.

Learn more about Jenny here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 34, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 34 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 33, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with Sarah Boudreau, a writer, artist, and Chincoteague Pony enthusiast.

To end the episode, Holly chats with the Hooved Animal Humane Society about William, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Sarah Boudreau, Author and Chincoteague Pony Historian

Barn Banter episode 33 guest Sarah Boudreau.

Sarah Boudreau is a writer, artist, and Chincoteague Pony historian. She manages the Chincoteague Pony History project, which she calls a passion of love. Through this project, she endeavors to tell the story of the Chincoteague Pony breed. She also creates and sells art through her business, Chincoteague Pony Art. Her new book, Before Misty: Early Chincoteague Pony History, is now available.

• Sarah’s Website
• Purchase Before Misty: Early Chincoteague Pony History
• Chincoteague Pony History Website
• Follow Chincoteague Pony Art on Facebook
• Shop Sarah’s art on Etsy

Adoptable Horse of the Month, William

Photo courtesy Hooved Animal Humane Society

As of 2025, William is 19 years old and has returned to Hooved Animal Humane Society in Woodstock, Ill., where he was born all those years ago. He is a beautiful bay Saddlebred cross gelding with a rich past as a competitive endurance horse. After some time as a pasture pal, we’ve discovered that with regular care, William is light-riding, sound, and ready to work!

Under saddle, William is incredibly attentive and eager to please, always looking to his handler for guidance and confidence. He thrives in environments where his handler is calm and consistent and quickly builds trust with those who give him clear direction. William is a versatile horse, comfortable living in either a pasture setting or a stall with a run-out, but most of all, he would love to have a gelding friend to enjoy companionship with. He does well with both the vet and farrier and is a reliable and loving partner.

Are you looking for an affectionate, hard-working, and loyal horse? William is ready to share his heart and talents with the right person and create many wonderful memories together.

Learn more about William here. 

In addition to Barn Banter episode 33, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 33 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 32, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with David O’Connor, Olympic gold medalist and US Equestrian Chief of Sport.

To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with HAPI Trails Horse Rescue about Rawhide, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.

Click here to listen on mobile.

David O’Connor, Olympic Gold Medalist & US Equestrian Chief of Sport

Barn Banter episode 32 guest David O’Connor.

David O’Connor represented the USA for 20 years as an athlete, earning individual gold and team bronze medals in eventing at the 2000 Sydney Summer Olympics and a team silver medal at the 1996 Atlanta Summer Olympics. O’Connor joined the US Equestrian Federation team in his current role as Chief of Sport in October 2022.

With US Equestrian, O’Connor is responsible for working with the executive team on the overall international and national sport support of the Strategic Plan initiatives including sport integrity, education, and equine and human safety and welfare. Additionally, he provides oversight of the international and national sport operations, ensuring that the sport department’s short-term and long-term strategic plans align with US Equestrian’s priorities. He also focuses on strengthening relationships with stakeholder groups, such as the USOPC, FEI, and USEF’s Recognized Affiliates.

Adoptable Horse of the Month, Rawhide

Photo courtesy HAPI Trails Horse Rescue

Meet this stunning Paint Horse mare (registered with the American Paint Horse Association) from HAPI Trails Horse Rescue in Driggs, Idaho. Rawhide is as unique as they come! With one striking blue eye, one brown, and a gorgeous “cat track” chestnut-and-white Paint coat, she’s nothing short of magical.

Though arthritis in her knee makes her a companion horse, Rawhide is a companion like no other. Imagine being greeted by her every day—talk about a mood booster!

Rawhide’s history might be a mystery, but HAPI Trails knows this girl is a delight to be around. Once caught she leads well, and genuinely enjoys your company when you’re in her space.

If you’re looking for a breathtaking pasture buddy with a personality to match, this dragon of a mare is ready to bring a little enchantment to your life!

Learn more about Rawhide here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 32, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 32 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 31, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated Editor In Chief Holly Caccamise chat with horseman Tik Maynard, fresh off his repeat win of Road to the Horse. To end the episode, Susan and Holly chat with Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary about Nash, this month’s ASPCA Right Horse adoptable horse.

Click here to listen on mobile.

Tik Maynard, Horseman & 2025 Road to the Horse Champion

Barn Banter episode 31 guest Tik Maynard.

Tik Maynard spent much of his twenties competing full time in the sport of Modern Pentathlon (running, swimming, shooting, fencing, show jumping). He was on the Canadian National Team and won the National Championships twice, and he competed at multiple World Cups, World Championships, and at the 2007 Pan-Am Games in Rio de Janeiro. Maynard has evented at the Advanced level and been Long-Listed and Short-Listed for the Canadian National Three-Day Event Team. He won the Freestyle twice at the Thoroughbred Makeover (2015, 2018) and judged it once (2017). Maynard won the Road to the Horse World Championship of Colt Starting in 2024 and 2025. He travels year-round, teaching clinics in the United States, Canada, England, and Scotland, and is an online instructor for The Horseman’s University and the NOËLLE FLOYD Equestrian Masterclass. He is a regular guest on podcasts and a contributor to many equestrian magazines and online news sources. He is the author of In the Middle Are the Horsemen and Starting in the Middle. Maynard lives with his wife Sinead, a top American eventer, and their two children in Citra, Fla., where they run Copperline Farm.

• Copperline Equestrian Website
• Follow Tik on Instagram
• Follow Tik on Facebook
• Buy Starting in the Middle from Trafalgar Square Books
• Buy In the Middle Are the Horsemen from Trafalgar Square Books

Adoptable Horse of the Month, Nash

Photo courtesy Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary

From Serenity Oaks Equine Sanctuary in Plymouth, Mich., Nash is a big, beautiful Thoroughbred gelding who makes the most perfect companion horse. He loves hanging out 24/7 in the pasture with his buddies, where he is lower in the herd and always respectful to his friends. Due to an old injury, he is companion only. Nash is not spooky and loves one-on-one attention. He has a huge personality and is an easy keeper.

Nash is up to date with vetting, dental and farrier.

Learn more about Nash here.

In addition to Barn Banter episode 31, you can check out all previous episodes of Horse Illustrated’s podcasts here.

The post Barn Banter – Episode 31 appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.