Horse Talk by the Horse Review

About Horse Talk by the Horse Review

Horse Talk is a Podcast brought to you by The Horse Review. It is where leaders and professionals in the Equine Industry gather to discuss everything horse related to: Horse Training, Rider Fitness, Horse Health, Management, Equestrian and Rider Performance, Nutrition, Rehabbing and Recovering from Injuries, Competitions, Events, the Equestrian Lifestyle, Equine Businesses and Brands, and overall life with horses.

Publisher

Lauren Abbott

Category

health & fitness · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

22 Sept 2023

Latest episode

1 May 2026

Latest episodes

40 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   1 May 2026

   Supporting Women's Brain Health, Longevity & Stress Resilience through horses

   Horse Talk: Equestrian Women's Brain Health, Longevity, and a New Community from The Horse Review Host Lauren Abbott of The Horse Review shares midweek updates on new content testing across print, digital, and podcasts, and announces a deeper focus on equestrian women's brain health and longevity; especially ages 35+ navigating perimenopause, stress, and changing lifestyles. She says the community is asking for science-backed research and case studies on how riding supports nervous system regulation, stress resilience, neuroplasticity, and potentially delays cognitive decline. Abbott connects the topic to her mother's catastrophic brain stem stroke and her father's dementia and stroke, noting women's increased insulin resistance during hormonal decline and stroke risk factors like diabetes. She cites a study of adults 65+ where eight weeks of riding improved brainwave output and memory more than traditional exercise. She invites listeners to join a free biweekly newsletter and optional subscription for full studies and expert interviews, with upcoming neurologist-led podcast episodes. To join the Equestrian Brain Health and Longevity newsletter opt-in here: https://shorturl.at/yVTMb 00:00 Welcome to Horse Talk 00:34 New Content Direction 03:20 Midlife Equestrian Reality 07:30 Why Brain Health Matters 14:02 Science Behind Riding 17:36 Women Wellness Mission 18:49 Join the Community 24:03 Premium Research Access 25:06 Upcoming Neurology Series 26:14 Final Encouragement

2. 

   4 Mar 2026

   Equestrian Health & Fitness: Rider Wellness, Mobility, and Strength for Better Riding

   In this episode of Horse Talk, host Lauren Abbott explores equestrian health and fitness for riders, with a special focus on women aged 35 to 65. Are you prioritizing your own wellness as much as your horse's performance? Lauren breaks down proven strategies to enhance rider mobility, strength, and overall well-being, covering effective off-the-horse exercises, resistance and strength training, injury prevention, and daily routines to help equestrians build a healthier, more resilient body for riding. Whether you're looking to improve your flexibility, reduce aches and pains, or develop functional fitness to stay active in the saddle, this episode is your comprehensive guide to equestrian wellness. Lauren shares her personal journey of balancing life as a lifelong equestrian, a working professional, and a mother, while emphasizing the critical role of functional movement and strength training in maintaining mobility and preventing injuries. From tight hips to frozen shoulders, she discusses common physical challenges equestrians face and offers practical tips to overcome them. Key Topics Covered: ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="1">Riders as Athletes (Start: 0:00) ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="1">Why riding alone isn't enough to condition our bodies. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="2">The World Health Organization's findings on physical activity and longevity. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="2">The Modern Equestrian's Lifestyle (Start: 5:30) ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="1">Balancing work, family, and horse life. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="2">The challenges of staying active in a sedentary culture. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="3">The Importance of Mobility and Strength (Start: 15:45) ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="1">Common mobility issues for equestrians: tight hips, frozen shoulders, and lower back pain. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="2">How mobility impacts riding performance and injury prevention. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="4">Strength Training for Equestrians (Start: 30:20) ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="1">Why resistance training is essential for women aged 35-65. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="2">The connection between muscle mass, bone health, and longevity. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="5">Practical Tips for Daily Movement (Start: 45:10) ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="1">Simple exercises to improve hip and shoulder mobility. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="2">How to incorporate strength training into a busy schedule. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="6">Mindset Shifts Around Fitness (Start: 55:00) ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="1">Moving beyond diet culture and cardio obsession. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="2">Focusing on functional movement for a longer, healthier life in the saddle. Resources Mentioned: Exercises for Equestrians: ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="1">90/90 Hip Transitions ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="2">Wall Sits ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="3">Open Book Rotations ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="4">Glute Bridges ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="5">Resistance Band Workouts Organizations & Studies Referenced: ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="1">World Health Organization (WHO) ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="2">American Heart Association ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="3">National Strength and Conditioning Association Recommended Tools: ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" style="text-align: start;" value="1">XDDIAS Adjustable Dumbbell Set ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 list-none" style="text-align: start;" value="2"> ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="1">Features: Adjustable weights ranging from 10 to 55 lbs, compact design, anti-slip metal handle, and a 10-lock system for safety. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="2">Why It's Great for Equestrians: This set allows for progressive strength training, which is essential for maintaining muscle mass and improving stability. The compact design is perfect for home gyms. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" style="text-align: start;" value="2">Resistance Bands ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 list-none" style="text-align: start;" value="3"> ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="1">Features: Lightweight, portable, and versatile for various exercises targeting mobility and strength. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="2">Why It's Great for Equestrians: Ideal for improving hip and shoulder mobility, which are common problem areas for riders. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" style="text-align: start;" value="3">Foam Rollers ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 list-none" style="text-align: start;" value="4"> ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="1">Features: Helps release muscle tension and improve flexibility. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="2">Why It's Great for Equestrians: Aids in recovery and reduces stiffness in key areas like the lower back and hips. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" style="text-align: start;" value="4">Yoga & Pilates Mat and Equipment ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 list-none" style="text-align: start;" value="5"> ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="1">Features: Non-slip surface for stability during exercises. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="2">Why It's Great for Equestrians: Perfect for stretching routines and core-strengthening exercises. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" style="text-align: start;" value="5">Adjustable Weight Bench ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 list-none" style="text-align: start;" value="6"> ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="1">Features: Multi-position settings for a variety of strength training exercises. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="2">Why It's Great for Equestrians: Supports a range of movements to build core and upper body strength, crucial for maintaining balance in the saddle. These tools can be integrated into a weekly routine to complement riding and barn chores, ensuring a well-rounded approach to equestrian fitness. Let me know if you'd like more details or additional recommendations! Takeaways: ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="1">Movement alone isn't enough—strength and mobility are key to staying healthy and riding well. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="2">Investing in your physical health now will add years to your life and your time in the saddle. ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="3">Functional training doesn't have to be time-consuming—20-30 minutes a few times a week can make a big difference. Connect with Us: ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="1">Website: www.thehorsereview.com ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="2">Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, Youtube ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="3">Email: labbott@thehorsereview.com ol]:!pb-0 [&>ol]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0" value="3">Subscribe: Monthly Premium Content

3. 

   24 Feb 2026

   SafeSport in Equestrian Sport: The Red Flags We Ignore & Why Barn Culture Still Protects the Wrong People

   Insights Into Equine Law: Safe Sport and the Future of Equestrian Governance For many within the equestrian community, the mention of "Safe Sport" elicits a complex reaction: confusion regarding its scope, concern over its implementation, and fear of its power. Yet, despite the rumors and anxiety that often circulate in barns and showgrounds, the entity remains a permanent and powerful fixture in the landscape of Olympic sports. To demystify this regulatory body, it is essential to turn to legal experts who navigate its intricacies daily. Kimbrell Hines, equine attorney with Turkel Cuva Barrios Guerra Law, offers a critical perspective on the U.S. Center for SafeSport. Through her work, Hines positions herself not just as a lawyer, but as an educator, helping equine professionals and amateurs alike understand the shifting sands of compliance, liability, and procedural fairness in the horse industry. The Origins and Mandate of Authority Understanding Safe Sport requires looking back at the legislative machinery that built it. It is not merely a club rule or a federation guideline; it is a federal mandate. "Safe Sport is really unique in a lot of ways," Hines explains. "It did originate from a law that Congress had passed in 2017. Congress passed the Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse in Safe Sport Authorization Act. And that act basically created Safe Sport as we know it." This distinction is vital for equestrians to grasp. The Center operates as a private organization but wields authority granted by the federal government. "It's kind of unique because it is this private, non-profit entity," Hines notes. "It's not a government agency, but it has a lot of authority, and... some very serious authority that regulates horse people, professionals, owners, competitors, and definitely has some very serious consequences, despite it not being a government entity." The creation of the Center was "created from a reactive position," largely in response to the systemic failures seen in other sports, most notably the abuse scandals within USA Gymnastics. The goal was to address power imbalances and misconduct that traditional self-governance in sport had failed to stop. The Educational Component: Beyond Punishment While the disciplinary actions of Safe Sport often dominate the headlines, the system was designed with a dual purpose: to punish misconduct and to prevent it through education. Hines emphasizes that this educational aspect is the cornerstone of long-term cultural change in the sport. "It's not just for protecting athletes after something has happened, but there's a huge educational component to hopefully prevent those things from happening," Hines says. This prevention strategy relies on informing all parties of the boundaries. "So not only do coaches and trainers and those who are involved with athletes know what is and is not tolerated, but also athletes themselves, by taking advantage of Safe Sport education, one can learn what should and should not be happening." Friction with Equestrian Culture Despite the clear mandate, the application of Safe Sport rules within the equestrian world has generated significant friction. The equestrian lifestyle differs fundamentally from other Olympic disciplines. The sport involves an animal partner, requiring long hours, travel, and a blur between professional and personal time that doesn't exist in sports like swimming or tennis. Hines acknowledges this industry-specific tension. "I hear a lot of complaints about USEF or Safe Sport not being, I guess you could say, applicable to equestrian sport, or having these really overreaching, or what's seen as burdensome rules and regulations," she says. "Nobody else has an animal partner. There's no other sport that is similar." Hines states that following SafeSport regulations are a non-negotiable requirement for any sport aiming to maintain its Olympic status. She suggests that equestrian participants view these rules as the necessary price of admission, and accept that certain requirements will not align perfectly with the unique nature of working with horses. The Controversy: Adult Disputes and Jurisdiction One of the most contentious aspects of Safe Sport in recent years has been the expansion of its scope. Originally conceived primarily to protect minors, the regulations encompass all participants, leading to complex situations involving adults. "We are talking about Safe Sport, which is a very large entity that regulates a lot of sports. And of all ages, adults and minors," Hines states. The concern among many equestrians is that the system is being weaponized for personal grievances rather than safety. "I think one of the critiques that we see on the equestrian side, or at least a concern, is that what originated primarily with the focus of protecting minors is now sometimes being seen as this kind of quasi-judicial, dispute resolution process between adults in certain instances," Hines explains. This perception of "mission creep" contributes to the anxiety professionals feel, fearing that a barn dispute could escalate into a SafeSport investigation. Navigating Due Process and Legal Risks Perhaps the most critical area where Hines offers expert guidance is in the legal handling of a Safe Sport investigation. The process differs significantly from a criminal or civil court trial, and misunderstanding these differences can be catastrophic for involved individuals. "Even if it's not needed... keeping in mind with a Safe Sport proceeding is that it usually involves sexual misconduct or a minor. So, both of those things can have criminal repercussions," Hines warns. A common mistake is treating an investigation casually or attempting to "explain away" the situation without legal counsel. Hines strongly advises against this. "Bringing in counsel as soon as possible is always a good idea." The danger lies in the lack of confidentiality and the potential for self-incrimination. "And what you say in a proceeding, while... there are some confidentiality... that file is not confidential. It could definitely be used against you in a criminal proceeding," she notes. Furthermore, the accused is often operating with limited information during the investigation phase. "You don't have all of the evidence either, you know? You're at the mercy of what Safe Sport shares with you. You don't know what everyone else said. This isn't a trial, at that investigation stage." Consequently, Hines advocates for a strategy of caution and silence until counsel is retained. "Sometimes, it's better to just say a little less and consult with counsel, because you don't know where this is gonna go." The Big Picture: Why Integrity Matters Despite the fears and the friction, Hines urges the equestrian community not to disengage. Ignoring the reality of Safe Sport does not make the regulations disappear; it only leaves the sport vulnerable. "Sometimes people hear Safe Sport rule violations, and they kind of start tuning out, that this doesn't pertain to them. But I think we all need to be tuning in a lot more about what is happening, because these entities have huge impacts on our sport," she asserts. The ultimate goal for the industry should be a system that is robust, fair, and effective. A fair system protects the innocent and ensures that the guilty are punished appropriately. "We want a system that ultimately is fair. We want a system that is effective," Hines states. "We want a system that is diligent in making these determinations so that the penalties can be as appropriate as possible, which means, really severe and harsh penalties for really severe misconduct." When the integrity of the process is questioned, everyone loses—victims, the accused, and the sport itself. "Anytime the integrity of Safe Sport or the system is questioned or compromised, I think we're kind of back at the beginning, where nobody's better off. Our alleged, our victims, our accusers aren't better off, no matter what happens." Conclusion Safe Sport serves as a mirror to the equestrian world, reflecting both its commitment to welfare and its struggle with modern regulation. As an expert in the field, Kimbrell Hines underscores that the path forward is not through resistance, but through education and legal awareness. "It does affect all of us, even if you're not the person who's ever involved. We need to be extremely concerned about protecting our fellow competitors, our children, our trainers," she says. The reality is that Safe Sport is here to stay. It governs everything from shooting and tennis to diving and dressage. For the equestrian community, the responsibility now lies in understanding the rules, protecting oneself through proper education, legal channels, and advocating for a system that maintains high standards of integrity. "The public perception of us as a sport, a threat to one of us is a threat to all of us, and we want to continue uplifting our sport, horses, horse industry," Hines concludes. "Safe Sport, whether you like it or not, it's part of our future."

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

2,785

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

4.6 / 5

9 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 62 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

70

Social presence

0

YouTube

68

Engagement

71

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Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.