HorseGrooms

Epizodes

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  008 Leadership, Systems, and Horsemanship: How Kristen Chandler Keeps 79 Horses and a Team Running Smoothly 16.09.2026 56min

  Kristen's path into management started with a lifelong love of horses. Growing up in 4-H and grooming her own horse, she learned early that hard work, humility, asking questions, and continuing to learn can open doors in the horse industry. She went on to manage several equestrian businesses, including Backcountry, where she helped grow an operation from around 20 horses to approximately 50 during her time there.In this episode of the HorseGrooms Podcast, Kristen gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to manage a complex equestrian operation. From her color-coded whiteboard and detailed spreadsheets to daily morning rounds and carefully planned turnout schedules, organization is at the center of everything she does.But systems are only part of the story. Kristen believes strongly in communication and teamwork. She makes a point of supporting her grooms, creating an environment where employees can speak up about mistakes, concerns, or new ideas without being afraid of getting in trouble. For Kristen, a good workplace means giving people the tools they need to succeed while making sure everyone understands that they are working toward the same goal: happy, healthy horses and a successful team.With 14 grooms representing multiple nationalities, Kristen also discusses hiring, staff turnover, housing, night check, onboarding new employees, and how she works to make sure her team has the support they need. She explains why three people working together for night check provides valuable checks and balances and how shared responsibilities help prevent things from falling through the cracks.The conversation also dives deeply into horse care. Kristen shares why her morning rounds are so important, why knowing what is "normal" for each horse can help catch small problems early, and why something as simple as regularly running your hands over a horse's legs can make a major difference. She also talks about grooming, bathing, turnout, feeding routines, and the importance of returning to basic horsemanship rather than rushing through the fundamentals.At the heart of the episode is an important message for the entire industry: good management and good horsemanship go hand in hand. When people communicate, understand their responsibilities, take pride in their work, and have systems that support them, the entire operation benefits — especially the horses.This episode is for grooms, but it is especially valuable for riders, trainers, barn owners, and managers who are responsible for teams and large horse operations.In This EpisodeHow Kristen went from growing up in 4-H and grooming her own horse to managing large-scale equestrian operationsHow she organizes 79 horses, multiple trainers, riders, grooms, veterinary and farrier care, show schedules, and travelWhy communication, delegation, and teamwork are essential to keeping a large barn running smoothlyHow strong horse-care routines and basic horsemanship help catch small problems before they become bigger onesHow Kristen creates a positive workplace where grooms can take pride in their work, communicate openly, and feel supportedConnect with Kristen & Oakland StablesOakland StablesKristen recommends reaching out through Oakland Stables on Instagram. Send them a DM for questions about the operation, employment opportunities, or getting in touch with the team.📸 InstagramOakland StablesConnect with HorseGrooms🌐 Website⁠https://horsegrooms.com⁠📘 Facebook⁠https://www.facebook.com/horsegrooms⁠📸 Instagram⁠https://www.instagram.com/horse.grooms/⁠🎵 TikTok⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@horse.grooms⁠▶️ YouTube⁠https://www.youtube.com/@HorseGrooms🎧 Follow HorseGrooms for interviews with the world's leading professional grooms, behind-the-scenes stories from international competitions, horse care education, career advice, and practical insights from experienced professionals across the equestrian industry.
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  007 What Equestrian Employers Can Do to Build Stronger Teams and Keep Good Grooms - With Ippos Pro Consulting 09.09.2026 41min

  Natalia Zoi has worked as a professional groom in top European show jumping stables and for top trainers in the harness racing industry in the United States. Throughout her career, she has seen how communication, leadership, and workplace structure can influence not only employees but also the success of an entire equestrian business.While working full-time as a groom, Natalia earned her MBA and surveyed 354 equine professionals about their experiences in the industry. That research, combined with her own experience, led her to launch Ippos Pro Consulting, a company that helps equestrian employers build stronger teams, improve communication, and reduce staff turnover.In this episode of the HorseGrooms Podcast, Natalia explains why employers and employees often want the same things but experience very different pressures. Ippos Pro works with both sides to identify where communication or management may be breaking down and helps businesses put practical systems in place before small problems become bigger ones, or resignations.Natalia also explains what working with Ippos Pro actually looks like, from talking separately with employers and employees to regular check-ins and ongoing support. Much of the process can be done remotely, making this type of support accessible to equestrian businesses in different locations.The conversation explores staff retention, leadership, career development for grooms, and an important idea for our industry: supporting employees and running a successful equestrian business are not competing goals. Stronger teams can mean greater consistency for the horses, better staff retention, and a stronger, more sustainable business.This is an episode for grooms, but especially for riders, trainers, barn owners, and managers who employ them. If you know an equestrian employer who could benefit from this conversation, please share the episode with them.Why employers and employees often want the same things but see the business from different perspectivesHow Ippos Pro Consulting helps equestrian employers strengthen communication and retain good staffWhy regular employee check-ins can address small problems before they become bigger onesWhat Natalia's survey of 354 equine professionals revealed about working in the horse industryWhat strong equestrian leaders do differentlyWhy staff turnover is a business issue, not just an employee issueHow better structure and communication can create more consistency in horse careWhy career development can help good grooms stay engaged and build longer careersWhat working with Ippos Pro actually looks like and how equestrian employers can get startedIppos Pro Consultinghttps://ippospro.com/Email: [email protected] can also be found on Instagram and Facebook at Ippos Pro Consulting, where she shares insights on equine business management, workplace communication, and improving the employee experience within the horse industry.📘 FacebookIppos Pro Consulting Ltdhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590291580553📸 InstagramIppos Pro Consulting@ippospro🌐 Websitehttps://horsegrooms.com📘 Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/horsegrooms📸 Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/horse.grooms/🎵 TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@horse.grooms▶️ YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@HorseGrooms🎧 Follow HorseGrooms for interviews with the world's leading professional grooms, behind-the-scenes stories from international competitions, horse care education, career advice, and practical insights from experienced professionals across the equestrian industry.reIn This EpisodeConnect with NataliaConnect with HorseGrooms
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  006 Horse Care Has No Borders: Sofia Viola on Spruce Meadows, Ventago, and Grooming Across Cultures 02.09.2026 57min

  Maria Sofia Viola has built an international career as a professional show jumping groom, caring for elite horses across continents as part of Saudi Olympic rider Abdulrahman Al-Rajhi’s team. Fresh off a major win with Ventago at Spruce Meadows in Canada, she joins The HorseGrooms Podcast to share what goes into preparing a horse for top-level competition and what life looks like behind the scenes when your work takes you around the world.In this episode, Sofia talks about the routines behind Ventago’s Spruce Meadows victory, how she adapts her care to the individual horse, and what she has learned from working and traveling in very different countries and cultures. She also shares her experiences living and working in the Middle East, how climate and local conditions can influence horse care, and why respect and adaptability are so important when working internationally.The conversation also explores one of the special things about horse sport: the way it brings people together. Grooms, riders, and team members from different countries, languages, and backgrounds often work side by side with one shared focus: the horse. Sofia reflects on the friendships she has built through the sport and why horses can create common ground between people who may otherwise have very different lives.Whether you are an aspiring groom, an experienced equestrian professional, or simply interested in international horse sport, this episode offers a practical and personal look at horse care, travel, teamwork, and the people behind the horses.In This EpisodeSofia Viola’s journey to becoming an international show jumping groomThe horse care and routines behind Ventago’s Spruce Meadows victoryHow Sofia adapts her care to the individual horseCaring for horses while traveling internationallyLife and horse care in the Middle EastAdapting to different countries, cultures, climates, and working environmentsWhy respect and adaptability matter when working internationallyHow horses bring together people from different cultures and backgroundsWhy sharing knowledge and supporting fellow grooms benefits the professionConnect with Sofia ViolaInstagram @mrsfvlSofia shares behind-the-scenes moments from international competitions, daily stable life, horse care, and her work with elite show jumping horses.Connect with HorseGrooms🌐 Website https://horsegrooms.com📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/horsegrooms📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/horse.grooms/🎵 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@horse.grooms▶️ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HorseGrooms🎧 Follow HorseGrooms for conversations about horse care, the grooming profession, international competition, career development, and the people behind the horses.
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  005 How FLAIR® Nasal Strips Help Horses Breathe: Dr. Jim Chiapetta Explains the Science 26.08.2026 57min

  This episode is sponsored by Achieve Equine.Veterinarian, researcher, entrepreneur, and Achieve Equine founder Jim Chiapetta joins the HorseGrooms Podcast to take a deep dive into one of the most important—and often overlooked—parts of the equine athlete: the respiratory system. Jim explains how horses breathe during exercise, why horses are obligate nasal breathers, and how the respiratory system can become a limiting factor in performance.In this episode, Jim explains the science behind FLAIR® Equine Nasal Strips, including how they support the soft tissues of the nasal passages and reduce the effort required to bring air into the lungs. He also discusses proper application, respiratory load, and what research has shown about the use of the Strips during hard work.Jim and Dinette also discuss exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH), why a horse does not necessarily need to have a visible nosebleed to have bleeding in the lungs, and the role that exercise intensity and respiratory pressure can play.From the mechanics of a horse taking in roughly 1,500 liters of air per minute during intense exercise to the energy required simply to breathe, this conversation gives grooms a fascinating look at the physiology behind equine performance and why paying attention to breathing matters.How the equine respiratory system works during exercise and why oxygen is essential to every athletic systemWhy horses are obligate nasal breathers and how the nasal passages respond to the enormous demands of exerciseThe science behind FLAIR® Equine Nasal Strips, proper application, and how they can reduce respiratory effortExercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH), nosebleeds, and the pressures placed on the lungs during intense exerciseRespiratory load, energy expenditure, and what research has shown about how FLAIR Strips may help horses work more efficientlyThe following products, equipment, and topics were specifically discussed during the interview:FLAIR® Equine Nasal StripsAchieve EquineEquine bootsLeg wrapsLasixRespiratory monitoring and research equipmentJim explains that FLAIR Strips are designed to support the soft tissue behind the nostrils rather than physically pulling the nostrils open. He recommends careful application, including cleaning the nose and positioning the edge of the Strip approximately two finger widths above the nostrils.The conversation also explores the difference between reducing respiratory resistance and increasing oxygen intake. According to Jim, the Strips allow the horse to take in the same amount of oxygen while doing so with less work.Jim also discusses his work developing equine products through Achieve Equine, drawing on his background as a veterinarian and his experience developing human medical devices.FLAIR® is offering HorseGrooms Podcast listeners 20% off FLAIR Equine Nasal Strips. Use code HORSEGROOM20 at checkout to save on your order. This offer is valid for one use per customer.Visit https://flairstrips.com to shop and redeem the offer. Terms and conditions may apply.🌐 Websitehttps://horsegrooms.com📘 Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/horsegrooms📸 Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/horse.grooms/🎵 TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@horse.grooms▶️ YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@HorseGrooms🎧 Follow HorseGrooms for interviews with the world's top professional grooms, behind-the-scenes stories from international competitions, horse care education, and practical tips from industry experts.🌐 Websitehttps://flairstrips.com💼 LinkedIn — Jim Chiapettahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jimchiapetta/📸 Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/flairstrips/📘 Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/FLAIRStrips🎵 TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@flairstrips▶️ YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@flairstripsIn This EpisodeProducts MentionedExclusive Discount for HorseGrooms Podcast ListenersConnect with HorseGroomsConnect with FLAIR® Equine Nasal Strips
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  004 Lou Beudin: Preparing Out of the Blue SCF for the World Championships in Aachen 19.08.2026 27min

  French groom Lou Beudin has spent the past nine years working alongside Katie Dinan and her team, building her career from local riding schools and national shows to the biggest stages in international show jumping. Now based between New York and Florida, Lou shares what it takes to care for top-level horses, travel internationally, and be part of a successful team.In this episode, Lou takes us behind the scenes of life as a professional groom, from understanding each horse's individual personality and maintaining consistent routines to preparing Out of the Blue SCF for the World Championships in Aachen. She explains why she believes simple, consistent horse care is often the best approach, how she manages recovery after big classes, and what it means to build a strong connection with the horses in her care.Lou also shares honest advice for aspiring grooms, including why you should take opportunities, ask questions, look after yourself during demanding show seasons, and remember that communication and respect are essential to a successful team.In This EpisodeLou’s journey from France to a nine-year career with Katie DinanBuilding trust and understanding each horse’s individual personalityDaily routines at home and maintaining consistency at international showsPreparing Out of the Blue SCF for the World Championships in AachenSimple, effective horse care: leg care, icing, wrapping, and recovery routinesProducts Mentioned🛒 HorseGrooms Amazon Storefront:http://www.amazon.com/shop/horse.groomsThe following products and equipment were specifically discussed during the interview:Centurion blanketCenturion foot padCenturion neck pieceIce bootsMagnetic therapyLeg wrapsClaySpaMassage toolsHorsery horse monitoring camera systemLou explains that her recovery approach is always tailored to the individual horse, using tools like icing, spa sessions, wrapping, clay, and therapy as needed rather than following a fixed routine. She also highlights the use of the Centurion system after hard work and during shows to support recovery and performance.Connect with HorseGrooms🌐 Websitehttps://horsegrooms.com📘 Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/horsegrooms📸 Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/horse.grooms/🎵 TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@horse.grooms▶️ YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@HorseGrooms🎧 Follow HorseGrooms for interviews with the world's top professional grooms, behind-the-scenes stories from international competitions, horse care education, and practical tips from industry experts.
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  003 Mental Health in the Horse World: Why Speaking Up Matters - With Sonja Ochadlik 13.08.2026 33min

  American show jumper Sonya Chadlick opens up about mental health in the equestrian industry following the loss of a fellow horseman and the passing of her sister, Gina. Drawing from her own experiences with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and OCD, Sonya shares an honest conversation about asking for help, breaking the stigma around mental health, and why no one should have to struggle alone.She also discusses the unique pressures faced by riders, grooms, and horse care professionals, the importance of creating supportive workplaces, and how simple acts of kindness, communication, and understanding can make a life-changing difference.Whether you're a groom, rider, trainer, barn manager, or anyone involved in the horse industry, this episode is a powerful reminder that mental health matters just as much as physical health and that reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.Sonya's personal journey with depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and finding the right supportHow losing her sister and the recent loss of fellow horseman Shane inspired her to speak openly about mental healthWhy vulnerability, communication, and checking in on friends can save livesThe unique mental health challenges facing riders, grooms, and horse care professionalsCreating healthier workplaces through compassion, adequate rest, fair working conditions, and supportive teamsInstagram: @sonyachadlick🌐 Website https://horsegrooms.com📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/horsegrooms📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/horse.grooms/🎵 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@horse.grooms▶️ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HorseGrooms🎧 Follow HorseGrooms for interviews with the world's top professional grooms, behind-the-scenes stories from international competitions, horse care education, career advice, and practical tips from experienced professionals across the equestrian industry. Join the monthly newsletter: https://horsegrooms.com/subscribe
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  002 What Excellence Looks Like Behind the Scenes at the Highest Level With Denise Moriarty 06.08.2026 1h 1min

  What does it really take to groom at the highest level of international show jumping?In this episode of the HorseGrooms Podcast, Dinette Neuteboom sits down with Denise Moriarty, longtime groom for Olympic show jumper Kent Farrington, for an in-depth conversation about the systems, routines, and horsemanship behind one of the world's top show jumping stables.Originally from Ireland, Denise shares how she built a career that has taken her around the world, why she's remained with Kent Farrington for more than 14 years, and the importance of communication, consistency, and teamwork in producing happy horses and championship performances.From feeding routines and daily barn management to grooming techniques, skincare, travel preparation, therapy equipment, saddle fit, and digital record keeping, Denise offers practical advice that every groom, rider, and horse owner can apply.The following products and brands were discussed during this episode:https://www.amazon.com/shop/horse.groomsHead & Shoulders ShampooJohnson's Baby ShampooNivea CreamBaby OilCurry CombEquiFit Horse SocksBeet Pulp MashProbiotic & Prebiotic SupplementsSanta Fe Coat SpraySports Innovations Magnetic BlanketResponse Systems Magnetic Foot PadsHofMag PEMF System🌐 Website ⁠https://horsegrooms.com⁠📘 Facebook ⁠https://www.facebook.com/horsegrooms⁠📸 Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/horse.grooms/⁠🎵 TikTok ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@horse.grooms⁠▶️ YouTube⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@HorseGrooms⁠🎧 Follow HorseGrooms for interviews with the world's top professional grooms, behind-the-scenes stories from international competitions, horse care education, and practical tips from industry experts.
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  001 Sue Schlegel on Why Great Horse Care Doesn't Have to Be Complicated 03.08.2026 19min

  For decades, Sue Schlegel has been one of the most respected names in the show jumping world. As a longtime groom for Beezie Madden and John Madden, Sue has cared for some of the sport's greatest horses while helping build one of the most successful teams in international show jumping.In this episode, Sue shares how she got her start in horses, what it's really like working behind the scenes at the highest levels of the sport, and why keeping things simple is often the best approach to horse care. From daily routines and travel management to tack cleaning and career advice, this conversation is packed with practical knowledge for every groom, rider, and horse owner.Whether you're an aspiring professional groom or simply love learning from the best, this episode offers decades of experience from one of the industry's true legends.Sue's journey into professional groomingWorking with Beezie Madden and John MaddenDaily barn routines and horse managementWhy simple horse care often works bestTravel tips for trucking and international flightsSkin care and bathing routinesLeg care, icing, wrapping, and recoveryPreparing horses for competitionTack cleaning techniques and favorite productsAdvice for young grooms entering the industryWhat makes a great professional groomBuilding long-term relationships in top barnsCareer highlights and favorite memoriesThe following products were specifically discussed during the interview:Back on Track wrapsIce bootsMagnetic blanketGastroGardBelvoir Glycerin Saddle SoapLexol Leather Conditioner (liquid)SpongeWarm waterWater heater (for warming tack-cleaning water)🌐 Website https://horsegrooms.com📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/horsegrooms📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/horse.grooms/🎵 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@horse.grooms▶️ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HorseGrooms🎧 Follow HorseGrooms for interviews with the world's top professional grooms, behind-the-scenes stories from international competitions, horse care education, and practical tips from industry experts.
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  003A With Olympic Groom Margo Thomas 28.05.2023 44min

  Olympic groom Margo Thomas on what her days look like when the team is at home or showing on the road, her approach to leg and skin care, and her advice for aspiring professional horse grooms.
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  002A Ringmaster Pedro on attitude and support 18.04.2023 24min

  Ringmaster Pedro (Cebulka) shares his perspective on giving back to a sport you love and fostering good mental attitudes in ourselves and new grooms. He also talks about how we can create an industry that allows for long, happy, and healthy grooming careers.
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  001A Lenore Brown of Wellington International on supporting each other 18.04.2023 40min

  Lenore Brown, former groom and current Director of Sponsorship for Wellington International, gets honest about the challenges and opportunities faced in the grooming industry, advocating for your well-being and career development, and the unexpected skills you hone while grooming.